St. Stephen's Basilica

Religious spot

★ 4.8 (27K+ reviews) • 31K+ booked

Nestled in the heart of Budapest, St. Stephen's Basilica is a breathtaking masterpiece of neoclassical architecture with Baroque touches, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its grandeur. Named after Stephen I, the first King of Hungary, this magnificent Roman Catholic edifice stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural splendor. More than just a place of worship, St. Stephen's Basilica is a cultural and historical landmark that captivates visitors with its stunning design and spiritual significance. This iconic basilica offers a glimpse into Hungary's spiritual and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the vibrant tapestry of Budapest.

Budapest, Szent István tér 1, 1051 Hungary

Overview

Things to do

Hotels

4.8 /5

27K+ reviews

Read all reviews

Nik ***************************

1 Jul

I’m really glad I booked this excursion through Klook! I received the final confirmation a day before the trip, which gave me peace of mind. Mitch, our guide and driver, was fantastic. He picked us up directly from our accommodation, and the minivan was very comfortable. Since it was a small group, we all agreed to visit Budapest first, as it was farther away. It turned out to be a great decision—we had plenty of time to enjoy both Budapest and Bratislava without feeling rushed. Mitch was a safe and friendly driver, and he kept us well taken care of with bottled water and snacks throughout the journey. Highly recommended for a smooth and enjoyable day trip!

Kwok *****

30 Jun

Easy to use, wonderful view and experience, good service

Klook 用戶

30 Jun

The itinerary is very rich, but there is no guide! ! Those who want to listen to the guide can pay attention~ The interior of the cruise ship is decorated in traditional European style, which is very clean and comfortable overall; enjoy traditional Hungarian food and appreciate traditional Hungarian dance💃🕺 Very good👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 But you have to eat lunch, watch the show + pay attention to the scenery outside the window, take pictures at the same time, it's really busy😅

趙 **

26 Jun

I highly recommend it! The sunset time is very late in the summer. If you choose the 8:30 show, it may not be completely dark when it ends. I recommend choosing the 10:00 show.

lee ****

24 Jun

This is a must-do tour when visiting Budapest. We attended the 9:30 show, which was perfect in the summer. The whole city was glittering by the river, which was very charming.

lee ****

24 Jun

Although the ticket price seems a bit expensive at first glance, it is about the same price as the official website, and the entry is fast and convenient with no time limit. There are many pools, but unfortunately the large outdoor pool is under renovation. The private room is great, very private, and it is safe to lock your things in it.

Wu *******

24 Jun

You must take a cruise when you go to Budapest. The night is really beautiful. The time for the cruise on 6/16 was 20:30. I suggest taking a later cruise, because it was still bright when I uploaded at 20:30. I didn’t see the night view until I was about to get off the boat. Then I had to get off the boat. In summer, it might be more appropriate to take a cruise at 21:00 or later.

Norzaidah ********

22 Jun

Attila was punctual and very accommodating as we lost our way. he waited patiently and gave us time to catch our breath before we are ready for the photoshoot. Attila is a very professional photographer that respect his clients’ culture and values as he asked in advance our level of comfort on how we wish our photos to be taken. He helped us who are noob at modelling and how to pose for the pictures. I’m very grateful to Attila for capturing my family’s photo as we celebrate our 20th anniversary and I would like to strongly recommend those who wish to have a family photos to be taken by a photographer in Budapest to hire Attila as their photographer. Trust me, you will never regret it. Thank you so much Attila for your superb service. Love to see the beautiful Budapest through your lens.

Buda Castle

31K+ visitors

Parliament Building

31K+ visitors

Cat Museum Budapest

31K+ visitors

Szechenyi Thermal Bath

31K+ visitors

Dohány Street Synagogue

31K+ visitors

Hungarian State Opera House

31K+ visitors

Fisherman's Bastion

31K+ visitors

Gellert Thermal Baths and Swimming Pool

31K+ visitors

What is the best time to visit St. Stephen's Basilica in Budapest?

How can I get to St. Stephen's Basilica in Budapest?

Is there an entrance fee for St. Stephen's Basilica in Budapest?

What are the best times to visit St. Stephen's Basilica to avoid crowds?

What photography tips do you have for visiting St. Stephen's Basilica in Budapest?

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

The Dome

Prepare to be awestruck as you ascend to the dome of St. Stephen's Basilica, one of Budapest's most iconic vantage points. Whether you choose the elevator or the invigorating climb of 364 steps, the reward is a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. From this towering structure, the skyline of Budapest unfolds in all its glory, offering a perspective that is both humbling and inspiring. Don't forget your camera—this is a moment you'll want to capture forever!

The Interior

Step inside St. Stephen's Basilica and immerse yourself in a world of artistic splendor. The interior is a masterpiece, adorned with intricate mosaics, statues, and paintings by celebrated artists such as Gyula Benczúr and Károly Lotz. The sanctuary vault and the dome's interior are particularly captivating, with their rich depictions of religious themes that invite contemplation and admiration. Every corner of this sacred space tells a story, making it a must-see for art lovers and spiritual seekers alike.

The Reliquary

Discover a piece of history within the walls of St. Stephen's Basilica at the reliquary, home to the mummified right hand of St. Stephen. This revered relic is a magnet for pilgrims and history enthusiasts, offering a tangible connection to Hungary's first king and the nation's rich past. As you stand before this sacred artifact, you'll feel the weight of centuries of devotion and the enduring legacy of a revered leader. It's a profound experience that adds depth to any visit to the basilica.

Cultural and Historical Significance

St. Stephen's Basilica stands as a testament to Hungary's rich spiritual and historical tapestry. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site Buffer Zone landmark, it has witnessed the ebb and flow of history, including the ravages of World War II. Today, it continues to serve as a co-cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Esztergom-Budapest, embodying the resilience and dedication of its creators. Once a site for animal fights in the 18th century, it has transformed into a beacon of spiritual power, completed in 1905 after overcoming numerous challenges, including the collapse of a dome.

Architectural Marvel

St. Stephen's Basilica is a masterpiece of architectural evolution, initially designed by József Hild in a neoclassical style and later enhanced by Miklós Ybl with neo-Renaissance elements. Its construction, spanning over five decades, was completed in 1905, and its height matches that of the Hungarian Parliament Building, symbolizing equality in spiritual and governmental power. The basilica's Neo-Classical design features a Greek cross ground plan, with a facade and interior adorned with sculptures crafted from over 50 types of marble, showcasing the artistry of numerous sculptors.

Explore more on Klook

Top attractions in Budapest

Top destinations in Hungary

1 Budapest

St. Stephen's Basilica