As one of the most picturesque cities in Europe, it’s no wonder that there are plenty of beautiful Instagram spots in Budapest. And we have put together this list of 17 of the best photography spots in Budapest to help inspire your creativity.
If you’re looking for a European city break to add to your bucket list, Budapest should be at the top of your list. It may be underrated compared to the likes of Prague, London, or Paris; however, that’s what makes it so appealing.
There’s so much to discover in the Hungarian capital that you could easily spend a week here and not get bored. And with awe-inspiring architecture and romantic viewpoints, as well as hip urban enclaves, the opportunities for Budapest photography are endless.
So with all that out of the way, let’s jump into what you came here for. Here are 17 Instagram spots in Budapest for unique and creative photos.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase a product through these links, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. And we can continue bringing you free tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates – you are awesome, and we thank you!
- 17 Unique Instagram Spots in Budapest
- 1. The Fisherman’s Bastion
- 2. Staircase at Fishermans Bastion
- 3. Lookout Point at Fishermans Bastion
- 4. Balcony Viewpoint at Fishermans Bastion
- 5. Arches at the Fishermans Bastion
- 6. Matthius Church
- 7. Bridges in Budapest
- 8. The Chain Bridge
- 9. Liberty Bridge
- 10. Margaret Bridge
- 11. Gellért Hill
- 12. Thermal Baths
- 13. Budapest Ruin Bars
- 14. Hungarian Parliament Building
- 15. Vajdahuyad Castle
- 16. Night Photography in Budapest
- 17. Street Photography in Budapest
- Responsible Photography in Budapest
- The Most Instagrammable Hotels in Budapest
- Enjoy these Instagram Spots in Budapest!
17 Unique Instagram Spots in Budapest
From medieval architecture and ancient castles to stunning viewpoints of the city, here are our 17 favourite photo spots in Budapest.
1. The Fisherman’s Bastion
The Fishermans Bastion is possibly the most popular thing to do in Budapest. And certainly one of the most photographed landmarks in the city, so it makes sense to kick off our Budapest photography spots here.
With its fairy tale towers and panoramic views, it’s easy to see why it’s a dream for photographers. The jaw-dropping fortress resembles the Walt Disney logo, only more enchanting.
I’d gladly say the Fishermans Bastion is our favourite spot in the city. We loved it so much we visited twice over our four days in Budapest.
A grand white-stone staircase leads visitors up to the fortification which is a photo opportunity of its own. However, there are several instagrammable viewpoints and archways within the complex that I will list below.
- Best Time to Shoot – The best time to visit for clear shots is early in the morning around sunrise. You’ll avoid the crowds, and get that magical golden hour glow.
- Entrance Fee: Free
Save Money with a Budapest Card
Are you going to be visiting all of the cities top attractions and taking full advantage of the public transport network? If yes, you should consider purchasing a Budapest Card in advance.
2. Staircase at Fishermans Bastion
One of our favourite angles at the Fishermans Bastion is on the staircase leading up to the fortress. With the ornate bastions, towering spire, and iron lamp posts in the background, it creates a beautiful scene.
3. Lookout Point at Fishermans Bastion
To capture this angle, we walked behind the small cafe located to the right of the previous staircase. The lookout point allows sweeping views of the city, but we loved this backdrop with the tower and a glimpse of Matthias Church. We took this shot just before sunset.
4. Balcony Viewpoint at Fishermans Bastion
We love this magical photo our friends @twoticketstoanywhere created at Fishermans Bastion. As you can see, on a clear morning, you’ll get entirely different sunrise conditions from when we went. See how the weather can change the mood of a photo completely?
Related Read
5. Arches at the Fishermans Bastion
The iconic arches at Fishermans Bastion are one of the most Instagrammed spots in Budapest. With that perfect framing of the parliament building, it’s not too difficult to see why.
We couldn’t have created anything this beautiful due to the fog, but our friends @twoticketstoanywhere pulled it out of the bag once again.
6. Matthius Church
In front of the Fishermans Bastion lay another architectural gem in Budapest – the equally beautiful and Instagram-worthy Matthias Church.
Historically, the roman catholic church has served as a coronation church to Hungarian Kings. Today its impressive facade is one of the most instagrammable spots in Budapest
There are several vantage points around the fortress where you can snap a nice photo of the church. You’ll find the angle pictured below, at the lookout point behind the small cafe I mentioned earlier.
7. Bridges in Budapest
Eight bridges span the Danube River linking Buda and Pest. Not only are they a vital part of the cities transport infrastructure, but most are popular tourist attractions as well.
When it comes to Budapest photography, everybody wants to sho0t at the cities collection of iconic bridges. Each bridge has a totally unique character and style, inspiring a different vibe to your photo.
One thing they have in common, however, is they are all worthy of a spot on your Instagram feed.
8. The Chain Bridge
The Chain Bridge is an iconic and striking landmark connecting Buda and Pest. It was a foggy day when we created these photos, and we love the mysterious mood looming over the bridge.
- Best Time to Shoot – It’s not particularly busy here, you can sho0t at any time. This spot is also beautiful at night when the Chain Bridge completely lights up.
- Entrance Fee: Free
9. Liberty Bridge
We loved getting creative and putting our spin on these famous Instagram spots in Budapest. Our favourite content is probably this moving gif we created on Liberty Bridge.
By using a long exposure and keeping very, very still, we were able to capture the tram in motion while keeping us in focus. We created the GIF using 3 still photos and Photoshop.
10. Margaret Bridge
Finally, on our list of instagrammable bridges, we have Margaret Bridge. This bridge connects Buda with Margaret Island – the most popular park area in Budapest.
- Best Time to Shoot – I recommend going around sunset. You get a cracking view over the river, with the Parliament building on one side and the castle complex on the other..
- Entrance Fee: Free
11. Gellért Hill
When it comes to viewpoint photography in Budapest, you don’t want to miss Gellert Hill. It’s the highest point in the city, giving unrivalled views of the cityscape below. You will see all the cities iconic landmarks including the Danube, the Liberty Bridge, the Chain Bridge, the Parliament Building and the Budapest eye.
We strategically planned our visit so that we would get to the top shortly before sunset. This way we could watch the sunset and experience the city lights by night at the same time. Watching the view transform from cotton candy skies to a sea of twinkling lights was a highlight of our time in Budapest.
Reaching the top of the hill involves a moderate 20-30 minute hike. It’s certainly a workout, though nothing too challenging. Thankfully there’s a cafe at the top that cold beer or water which we were grateful for after the climb. But if you don’t fancy the exercise, you can take the bus instead.
- Best Time to Shoot – Before sunset to experience daytime and nighttime views.
- Entrance Fee: Free
12. Thermal Baths
Budapest’s thermal baths have formed a part of the local culture for centuries, and to visit the city without experiencing one is quite honestly, scandalous. Not only that but the heritage design and decor of the thermal baths make them some of the most photogenic spots in the city.
The history behind the thermal baths and bathing culture stems back to Roman times. They discovered that the waters from localised thermal springs were rich in dissolved minerals and proved to be beneficial for relaxation and medicinal purposes.
Szechenyi Thermal Bath is one of the most popular Budapest Instagram spots. After all, it’s one of the largest bath complexes in Europe boasting 21 pools.
Personally, however, we preferred Gellert Spa, with ith its roman style columns and mosaiced walls.
- Best Time to Sho0t – We recommend getting there early on a weekday, they open from 6am.
- Entrance Fee – 6300 HUF weekday 6600 HUF weekend – prices include locker
13. Budapest Ruin Bars
If you’re looking for fun and quirky photography spots in Budapest, you needn’t look any further than the infamous ruin bars. A far cry from the fairy-tale castles and romantic viewpoints you’ll find in the rest of the city, but make for an epic photo all the same.
So what are ruin bars? Budapest’s ruin bars are pretty much what they say on the tin – Quirky, creative, and artsy bars set within the ruins of abandoned buildings. There’s nothing at all fancy about drinking at these bars. They’re rough and ready, but manage to pull it off with their eccentric hipster vibe.
The most famous ruin bar and arguably the most instagrammable is Szimpla Kert. A twisted wonderland of mismatched furniture and psychedelic decor. Come during the day to snap some creative photos, and again at night for a wild party atmosphere.
- Best Time to Shoot – The morning, this place gets busy from lunchtime onwards.
14. Hungarian Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is easily one of the most impressive structures in Budapest. Sat upon the Danube river, its sheer size and magnificence is mind-blowing. It has been the largest building in Hungary since its completion in 1902.
To get a shot with the whole building (as seen below), you must make your way across the river to the Buda side near “Batthyany ter” Metro Station. The best time to shoot is just before sunset when the sun casts a golden glow on the white facade.
15. Vajdahuyad Castle
Next up, we have one of the most underrated Instagram spots in Budapest. Again, Vajdanhuyad Castle looks like a scene straight out of a fairy tale.
The amalgamation of Gothic-Renaissance and Baroque architecture creates a mysterious and almost eerie scene. Ironically, legend has it that this Budapest hidden gem once imprisoned Count Dracula.
Despite its spooky history, the castle conjures up all the romantic vibes. On the two occasions we visited, there were several wedding photoshoots taking place.
We took the photo below around the back of the castle, within the City Park. As you can see, Budapest is a beautiful European city to visit during winter.
- Best Time to Shoot – Arrive early to beat the crowds.
16. Night Photography in Budapest
If you enjoy night photography, you will be in your element in Budapest. The city is just as beautiful at night as it is during the day, with all the significant landmarks illuminating in bright lights.
The best part about sho0ting at night is that you don’t have to worry too much about crowds. If you’re a beginner, it’s worth checking out this article for tips on photographing at night.
17. Street Photography in Budapest
While Budapest might not be as popular as the likes of Berlin for street photography, you can certainly capture some dynamic shots if you’re in the right place at the right time.
For the best street photography, I suggest heading to the uber-cool Jewish district, where there’s quirky cafes, street art, and urban edge aplenty. Otherwise, the tramlines always make for some edgy street shots.
Just be sure to check out some of the best travel photography tips & take note of our responsible photography section below, and you’re good to go.
Related Read
Responsible Photography in Budapest
Often when you travel, you see things that completely blow your mind, It’s natural to want to take photos. However, please keep in mind the following basic rules of street photography:
- Respect historical and memorial sights
- Don’t climb on sacred buildings or structures
- Take care of your safety at all times
- Do it for the ‘gram does not apply if it seems unsafe in any way
- Be friendly – A smile goes a long way
- Respect the privacy of your subjects
- If somebody is irritated by the camera, put it away.
- If you’re asked to delete an image, do so.
- Check out our guide on responsible travel
Save Time and Book a Tour
For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on Get Your Guide:
The Most Instagrammable Hotels in Budapest
Unsurprisingly, there is no shortage of accommodation options in Budapest. You can click the link below to search for hundreds of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the area.
But while we are on the topic of Instagram spots in Budapest, I thought it would be a good idea to share some of the more photogenic hotels in the city.
If you’ve not booked your accommodation already, you’re definitely going to want to check these out.
Alternatively, you may look at staying nearby, in which case you can compare hotels in Budapest here. Or use the Map below to see all your options:
Booking.com
Enjoy these Instagram Spots in Budapest!
Well, that concludes our list of Instagrammable Spots in Budapest. We hope you enjoy this beautiful city.
If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below. We love hearing from you!
Stay Adevnturous & Happy Travels.
More of Budapest
Planning a trip around Budapest? Check out our Hungry series for more travel tips and advice.
PIN IT FOR LATER
8 Magical Things to Do in Budapest in Winter | Our Next Adventure
Tuesday 5th of May 2020
[…] Castle District for your own impromptu photoshoot. Fisherman’s Bastion is home to many of the most Instagrammable locations in Budapest. In winter there will be much fewer people around than on a sunny, summer day, and it will still be […]