Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament is one of the most spectacular buildings in Europe, a vast neo-Gothic palace bristling with spires and pinnacles along the Danube bank in Budapest, crowned by a great central dome. Part of the UNESCO Danube riverscape, its lavish interiors of gold, marble and stained glass, and the Hungarian crown jewels beneath the dome, are seen on a guided tour.

What you actually see

• The riverfront facade - the vast neo-Gothic frontage best seen from across the Danube.
• The dome hall and crown jewels - the great hall holding the Holy Crown of Hungary.
• The grand staircase - the gilded ceremonial stairway and halls.
• The night view - the building floodlit and mirrored in the river.

When to go

Year-round; the interior is seen only on a guided tour, so book ahead as it sells out. The exterior is stunning by day from the Buda bank and floodlit at night.

Honest expectations

The interior is seen only on a timed guided tour that books up and is busy, so reserve early. Tours are relatively short. The exterior, especially from across the river or at night, is free and unforgettable.

Nearby

The Danube promenade, St Stephen's Basilica and the Shoes on the Danube memorial are nearby.