Don't miss: Budapest 100

Get behind the doors of Hungary's most beautiful and otherwise off-limits buildings during a celebration of the structures that are at least a century old.

By National Geographic Traveller (UK)
Published 25 Mar 2016, 08:00 GMT, Updated 7 Jul 2021, 12:07 BST

Giant illuminated 'Budapest' sign at Heroes Square, Budapest.

Photograph by Getty Images

Explore more than 60 buildings around the city centre in an 'open house' event that allows access to institutions, houses, schools and offices otherwise closed to the public. First launched in 2011, this festival of voyeurism has fast gathered pace, and is one of Europe's liveliest architecture events, opening the doors on buildings that have reached 100 years old.

Regulars on the programme include the theatrically imposing villa of renowned Hungarian set decorator, József Romvári; a 1920s fashion mall on Rákóczi Street; and a near-derelict apartment building on Práter Street where movies will be screened, including a 'slice of life' documentary by local filmmakers about its inimitable residents.

You can pre-book free guided tours with the Hungarian Contemporary Architecture Centre — some of which are in English — but independent visitors are equally welcome.

April is also Spring Festival season: a month-long programme of lavish ballet, opera and concert productions, major art exhibitions, street carnivals and more.

Budapest 100 (16-17 April)
Budapest Spring Festival (8-24 April)

Published in the April 2016 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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