St. Stephen’s Basilica

Saint Stephen's Basilica
Saint Stephen’s Basilica

The most impressive and beautiful church in Budapest is the St. Stephens Basilica. It is located in the center of Budapest, so it is a must-see for everyone coming to the Hungarian capital.

St. Stephens Basilica was constructed in 1851, and the last stone was laid down in 1905. During the 54 years the construction lasted, the two main architects died, and they could only finish the church with the guidance of a third architect. The design of the church changed a couple of times, meaning the final result differed quite much from what it was originally meant to look like. If you are interested in knowing more about the construction process of the church, there is a small exhibition inside the church where you can see pictures and original drawings.

Visiting the church

If you want to visit the church (which you absolutely should), it is open to tourists from 9.00 – 17.00 every day (normally), but during church services, it is very limited how much you see the church. There are services every evening at 18.00, which you can visit if you want some rest and focus on the creator of everything. You are not allowed to enter in a mini skirt or with singlets, so you better dress up a bit before arriving at the church.

Entrance fee

It was free to enter the basilica for a long time, but that has changed. The entrance fees are currently the following:

Church onlyPanorama terrace/treasuryCombined
Adults200032004500
Pensioner150027004000
Student/Kid150027004000
Children (under six)freefreefree

On a sunny day, you could also enjoy the beautiful panorama from the church dome. This is open every day from 10.00-16.30, and during the main season until 18.30 in the evening.

Throughout the entire year organ and classical concerts are arranged in the St. Stephens Basilica. Information about such shows can usually be found at the entrance of the church.

St. Stephens Basilica information

Tlf: (00-36)-1-269-18-49
1051 Budapest, Szent István tér

St. Stephens Basilica pictures

St Istvan Bazilika
St Stephens Basilica, in Hungarian, Szent Istvan bazilika
Interior of the church
Interior of the church
St Stephens Basilica
St Stephens Basilica