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Budapest: Through the Lens

Budapest, the enchanting capital of Hungary, is a must-visit destination for travel photographers seeking to capture the perfect blend of historical charm and modern elegance. The city is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Danube” for its stunning architecture, picturesque riverfront, and vibrant culture. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best photo locations in Budapest, including Saint Matthias Church, Fisherman’s Bastion, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Chain Bridge. Additionally, we’ll share essential photography tips and travel advice for US visitors to make your trip to Budapest an unforgettable experience.

I have recently added a gallery for my Budapest images, and also intermixing some of those images throughout this article. I hope you enjoy them!


Saint Matthias Church

Located in the heart of the Buda Castle District, Saint Matthias Church (officially called the Church of Our Lady) is a stunning example of Gothic and Baroque architecture that dates back to the 14th century. The church’s colorful, diamond-patterned roof and intricately carved exterior make it a must-see for photographers.

Best Time to Photograph: To capture the perfect shot, visit during the golden hour, which occurs shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The warm, soft light creates a magical atmosphere, accentuating the church’s intricate details.

Photography Tips: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the church’s full grandeur, and consider a tripod for long exposure shots in the dimly lit interior. If you can’t use a tripod, you may want to pack a Platypod, which is a great alternative to carrying a tripod and is not prohibited from use in places (as tripods often are). If you’re interested in capturing the church’s impressive organ, attend a free organ concert during your visit.

Sunrise at Saint Matthias
Sunrise HDR image at Saint Matthias Church, Budapest, Hungary

Fisherman’s Bastion

Overlooking the Danube River and offering a panoramic view of the Pest side, Fisherman’s Bastion is a neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque terrace built in the late 19th century. Its fairytale-like towers, white stone walls, and sweeping staircases make it an ideal backdrop for unforgettable photos.

Best Time to Photograph: Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting conditions, or at night for a unique view of the illuminated cityscape.

Photography Tips: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive terrace, and experiment with different perspectives to create a unique composition. Don’t forget to capture the iconic view of the Hungarian Parliament from the upper terrace.

Fisherman's Bastion I
Looking down Fisherman’s Bastion in the Castle Hill distict of Budapest

St. Stephen’s Basilica

Named after Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church in Budapest and an architectural masterpiece. Its neo-Classical façade and 96-meter-high dome make it an iconic symbol of the city and a popular photography spot.

Best Time to Photograph: Visit during the golden hour to capture the exterior in warm, soft light. For interior shots, attend a guided tour to gain access to the ornate interior and stunning frescoes.

Photography Tips: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the basilica’s vast interior, and use a tripod for long exposure shots in low light. Don’t miss the opportunity to photograph the panoramic view from the dome’s observation deck, which offers a 360-degree view of the city.

An image of the Dome and ceiling of St. Stephen's Basilica in Budapest taken straight up at the center of the dome from multiple exposures and merged into HDR
An image of the Dome and ceiling of St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest taken straight up at the center of the dome from multiple exposures and merged into HDR

Chain Bridge

The iconic Chain Bridge, or Széchenyi Lánchíd, is a suspension bridge that spans the Danube River, connecting Buda and Pest. Completed in 1849, it is a symbol of Budapest’s unity and an excellent spot for photographers to capture the city’s essence.

Best Time to Photograph: Sunrise and sunset offer the most picturesque lighting conditions, while nighttime photography showcases the illuminated bridge against the city’s skyline.

Photography Tips: Use a tripod for steady long exposure shots, and experiment with different focal lengths to capture both the bridge’s details and its full length. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare and enhance the colors of the sky and water. Also, experiment with long-exposure shots, capturing the light trails of the cars and traffic.

Chain Bridge Traffic Long Exposure Image
Long exposure Image of traffic exiting the Chain Bridge at night

Tips for Photographers

  • Research ahead: Familiarize yourself with the locations, their opening hours, and any photography restrictions before your visit.
  • Dress for the weather: Budapest experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, so pack appropriate clothing and gear to stay comfortable during your shoots. I have been there in the summer when it was over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees celsius)!
  • Be respectful: Some locations, such as St. Stephen’s Basilica, have specific rules regarding photography. Always follow these rules and be respectful of the local culture. When photographing in a house of worship, ensure that you are not disrupting anyone.
  • Backup your photos: Bring extra memory cards and a portable hard drive to ensure you don’t lose any precious moments. I personally use (and recommend) LaCie Rugged Drives to make sure that nothing goes wrong on the road.
  • Travel insurance: Make sure to purchase travel insurance that covers your photography equipment in case of theft or damage.

Tips for US Travelers

  • Currency: Hungary’s currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). It’s a good idea to carry cash for small purchases, as not all establishments accept credit cards. At the time of this post, $1 USD equals 344.13 HUF.
  • Language: While many locals speak English, it’s helpful to learn a few basic Hungarian phrases to make your interactions more enjoyable.
  • Transportation: Budapest has an efficient and affordable public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro. Purchase a Budapest Travel Card for unlimited travel during your stay.
  • Tipping: In Hungary, it’s customary to tip around 10% at restaurants and for services. Be sure to tip in cash, as many places don’t allow tipping on credit cards.
  • Power adapters: Hungary uses Type C and Type F outlets, which are different from the US’s Type A and Type B. Bring a universal power adapter to charge your devices. Ensure that they are rated for 220v as in most of Europe, Americans may need a voltage converter, better safe than sorry!

Wrapping it up: Budapest, Hungary, is a photographer’s dream, offering a wealth of stunning locations to explore and capture. By visiting the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as Saint Matthias Church, Fisherman’s Bastion, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Chain Bridge, and the Danube Riverfront, you’re guaranteed to leave with a collection of captivating images that tell the story of this enchanting city. Keep our photography tips and travel advice in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Happy shooting!

Through the Lens” is a series of posts I am writing about my favorite locations around the world to visit and photograph. Intermixing location information with my photos and links for more information on the locations for a travel photographer.


Image Locations

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Check out the Gallery for more images from Budapest and the rest of my travels There are also a number of prints for sale on my shop.

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