At Fisherman’s Bastion (Halászbástya), the most captivating sights of Budapest come into view.
From this vantage point, you can see the majestic Hungarian Parliament, the four primary bridges of Budapest, Gellert Hill, Margaret Island, and the charming urban scenery of Pest. It's at this spot where your affection for Budapest truly blossoms.
The elaborate Fisherman’s Bastion structure is composed of two terraces, constructed in the late 1800s in Neo-Romanesque and Gothic Revival design by the renowned Hungarian architect, Frigyes Schulek.
Frigyes exhibited exceptional skill in designing Fisherman’s Bastion, which has now become one of Budapest’s most frequented attractions. Its popularity is easily comprehensible.
The lower terrace boasts a magnificent staircase leading gracefully towards the upper bastions. Meanwhile, the upper terrace houses viewing platforms that offer unobstructed panoramas of Pest as well as the seven stone towers.
For photography enthusiasts, this is where the most iconic images of Budapest can be captured. Many photographers aim their lenses through the archways towards the Parliament building below or position themselves at the edge of the bastion with the Parliament building as a backdrop.
Basic Information
Location: Castle Hill is situated in Budapest.
Operating Hours: The upper terrace is accessible from 9 am to 7 pm, while the site remains open 24/7.
Admission: The entrance fee is HUF 1,000; however, it is free during non-ticketed hours, which are from 9 am to 7 pm.
Recommended Time For Visit: It is recommended to visit during the summer months, particularly to witness the sunrise.
Directions to Fisherman’s Bastion
The famous Fisherman’s Bastion is situated in Buda, bordering the Castle District.
There are several available routes to reach Fisherman’s Bastion, and depending on your starting point, the journey should not exceed 30 minutes.
Public Transportation
It is advisable to opt for the Metro M2 line to Batthyány ter (accessible from Astoria, Deak Ferenc Ter, or Kossuth Lajos Ter stations), situated along the Danube River on the Buda side.
Upon arriving at Batthyány ter, you can choose to take one of the various paths leading up to the castle - a notable recommendation is Franklin Street, offering breathtaking views of Parliament and a brief stroll beneath the castle walls. Alternatively, the most commonly utilized route involves proceeding through Iskola and Donati street, eventually ascending the stairs to Fisherman’s Bastion.
This transportation method is particularly ideal for individuals planning to visit Fisherman’s Bastion for sunrise photography.
Walking
If you're interested in burning some calories (especially after eating in Budapest), then walking is a fantastic approach to reach Fisherman's Bastion.
Starting from the heart of Pest, it's a simple stroll - just cross the Danube via either Chain or Elizabeth bridge, then gradually ascend the numerous pathways to the castle district from Clark Adam Ter. The recommended path involves going up Hunyadi Janos street, followed by climbing Jezsuita lepsco stairs until you arrive at the Bastion.
For those departing from Szell Kalman Square, a straightforward 10-minute walk up Ostrom street leads you to the historic Vienna Gate, then proceed along Fortuna street towards Fisherman's Bastion.
Tickets
Fisherman's Bastion entrance passes cost HUF 1,000 per person (€3.4) and are available for purchase at the ticket counter or the ticket vending machine located across from Matthias. Payment can be made with cash (in HUF or EUR) or via debit or credit cards.
Visitors can access the ticketed upper terraces of Fisherman's Bastion from 9 am to 7 pm daily; however, it is important to remember that outside of these operational hours, the upper terrace is freely accessible.
If you are interested in catching the sunrise or experiencing the vistas during the evening, entry to the upper terrace is complimentary. Simply enter through the open gates and relish the panoramas of Budapest from the elevated platform.
Top Photography Spots at Fisherman’s Bastion
For those interested in capturing stunning photos at Fisherman’s Bastion, several prime locations stand out for the perfect shot.
The Stairs: Experience the classic shot by walking down the stairs at sunrise. Make sure to take the shot from the left set of stairs.
Overlooking Parliament: Capture a classic shot by photographing through the archways of the Bastion. Located opposite the rear of Matthias, above the grand stairs.
On The Edge: Situate yourself on the edge of the left viewpoint during sunrise, overlooking Parliament. This photo can be taken from the spot mentioned above. Similarly, this shot can be recreated on the right viewpoint, providing a view of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Just remember to exercise caution as the ledge might be slippery!
The Turrets: Opt for a simple shot of the exquisite turret, gazing back over the Bastion from the upper terrace on the right-hand side.
Having visited Fisherman’s Bastion in various weather conditions, it is evident that sunrise during the summer months (May to October) is the ideal time. During this period, the sun ascends above Parliament, enhancing the composition for the aforementioned shots.
Alternatively, if you are there during winter and it snows, head straight to the Bastion - the views will be breathtaking.
Fisherman's Bastion - Budapest Travel Guide
Video by The Touring Teacher
Discover more of Buda
The Old Town of Buda holds a special place in our hearts, and strolling through it ranks among the top activities in Budapest. Following your visit to Fisherman’s Bastion, there are several other attractions worth exploring in the Castle District:
Stroll Through the Picturesque Castle District
Apart from Fisherman’s Bastion, the medieval allure, cobblestone pathways, and colorful buildings of the Castle District remain some of Budapest’s hidden gems. We recommend wandering through the meandering streets and alleys around Disz Ter and Becsi Kapu Ter. Noteworthy roads include Uri, Táncsics Mihály, Fortuna, and Országház.
To satisfy your coffee (and pastry) cravings, make sure to drop by 4 Minutes, known as the premier cafe in the vicinity.
With its stunning architecture, rich heritage, and welcoming atmosphere, Budapest promises to leave a lasting impression on every traveler. So, whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to explore more, Budapest will continue to captivate your heart and inspire your wanderlust.
