Fisherman's Bastion Guide
Panoramic Perfection: Capture Breathtaking Views from Fisherman's Bastion Guide
Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya) is one of Budapest's most iconic landmarks, offering stunning panoramic views of the city, including the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Danube River, and Margaret Island. This fairytale-like structure, with its neo-Romanesque architecture and seven turrets, is a must-see for any visitor to Budapest. Built between 1895 and 1902, Fisherman's Bastion was designed by Frigyes Schulek as part of the city's millennium celebrations. While it appears to be a defensive structure, it was primarily built for decorative purposes, providing a scenic viewpoint for the city. The seven turrets represent the seven Magyar tribes that settled in the Carpathian Basin in the 9th century. The name "Fisherman's Bastion" comes from the fishermen's guild that was responsible for defending this section of the castle walls in the Middle Ages. Visitors can explore the Fisherman's Bastion's terraces and admire the breathtaking views. Climb the towers for even more spectacular perspectives (some towers require a small fee). The Matthias Church, a stunning Gothic church, is located right next to the Bastion and is well worth a visit. Several cafes and restaurants are located within the Bastion area, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery while savoring Hungarian cuisine and pastries.
Transportation
You can reach Fisherman's Bastion by taking bus 16 or 16A to Szentháromság tér. Alternatively, you can take the funicular up to the Castle District and walk from there. The nearest metro station is Batthyány tér (M2 line), from where you can take bus 194 to the Castle District.
Opening Hours
The Bastion itself is open 24/7, but access to the upper towers may have specific hours and fees.
Ticket Price
Access to the lower terraces of the Bastion is free. There is a fee to enter the upper towers.