Budapest consistently ranks as one of the worlds most visited and highly rated cities. People come for the baths, the castle and the ruin bars, amongst many other things. And yet when I think of Budapest and my many visits, one resounding thing springs to mind. How the city looked and changed as the sun set behind the Buda Hills, and the city was lit from beneath not from above. It inspired Budapest at night: photos of a city.
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Sunset
Some of my favourite photos of the city were taken at this time, and I’m compelled to share them with you. My favourite place to view the setting sun is undoubtedly Gellert Hill, which rises from the Danube, 145 metres above the city. Its commanding position is perfect and therefore the sunsets are as close to the same, occuring in a location where the sea or ocean are never seen.
The city is known for its fiery skies and therefore Buda Castle’s elevated position is ideal for watching that beautiful orb sink. However I’m a big fan of getting a height advantage for golden hour and the towers of Budapest’s two main churches, the Matthias Church and St Istvans Basilica, provided that perfectly. The first of the photos here are from atop the 364 steps of St Istvan’s Basilicas Cupola, with the other two coming from the Matthias Church. If you have the leg and will power, they are perfect for catching some of the city’s most breathtaking views.
Budapest at Night photos
As daylight fades, most great cities take on a new lease of life and Budapest is no exception. Budapest at night is gorgeous too, when most of its main attractions are illuminated. The Parliament once again proves to be ace in the pack. The bridges, particularly Chain Bridge is an awesome night time sight too, as are the city’s churches. In conclusion, I’ve compiled a collection of night shots from the city below.
Of course Budapest’s wonders are not limited to its sunsets and night lights. Its a vast city of culture, history and great activities above all.
For the full lowdown on these experiences, then my blog The Ultimate Guide to Budapest, is where you should be off to next.
18 responses
Fabulous morning pictures!
Maybe this one 🤦🏻‍♂️. No it’s here too.
Oh yes, sometimes comments disappear, do not know why.
Lovely pictures.
Thank you.
Fabulous morning photos! I hope this comment does not disappear again …
Got you. Had you one disappear before. Sorry about that. Thank you appreciate the compliment
Wonderful captures! Reminded me of my visit to this beautiful city. Certainly one of the jewels of Europe.
Thank you. It certainly is a beautiful place. Thanks for taking the time to look
Stunning photos! 🙂
Thanks so much Lynette.
That sad lump of snow, hahahaha. Budapest looks gorgeous at night!
I came ready for a winter wonderland and that’s what I got. I was a little disappointed. Plus my carry on weighed a ton
Gorgeous! I admire your industry in climbing alllll those stairs to all those towers, John! The views are totally worth it, though I hope the stairs were well lit for your descent. Must have been, as you’re still with us. I’ll be sure to get a fit bit before I visit 🙂
I do like my stairs. I have to say the stairs from Gellert weren’t too well lit so I got out of there fastest. It was more of a challenge to tie all this together. I’m looking forward to a more low key blog next. The city was bigger than I thought. Thanks for taking the time to read
You got some wonderful photos here. it’s such a picturesque city and I’m long overdue a return!
Thanks Jason. Its centre is quite a masterpiece of architecture. I get the good fortune of seeing it every year now.
Definitely a perk of having family over there!