Hungarian State Opera Budapest
A Neo-Renaissance architectural gem, the Hungarian State Opera House offers world-class opera and ballet in a breathtakingly opulent setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the magic of live performance
Hungarian State Opera Budapest
Best Time
Experience the magic of live performance

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Neo-Renaissance architectural gem, the Hungarian State Opera House offers world-class opera and ballet in a breathtakingly opulent setting.
"The Hungarian State Opera House is an absolute must-see, with an interior that will leave you speechless!"
🎟️ Book Box Seats Early
Box seats offer a unique perspective but sell out fast. Book well in advance for the best selection.
👗 Smart Casual is Key
Dress respectfully; avoid jeans and flip-flops. Smart casual or business casual is generally appropriate.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Auditorium
Main Hall
Marvel at the opulent Neo-Renaissance interior, adorned with frescoes, gilded stucco, and plush red seating. A true feast for the eyes!
Composer Statues
Exterior Facade
Admire the statues of renowned composers like Mozart and Beethoven adorning the building's elegant facade.

Guided Tours
Throughout the Opera House
Explore the history and architecture of this magnificent building with a guided tour, even if you don't attend a performance.
Planning Your Visit
Book Opera Tickets in Advance
Dress Code Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Box Seats Early
Box seats offer a unique perspective but sell out fast. Book well in advance for the best selection.
👗 Smart Casual is Key
Dress respectfully; avoid jeans and flip-flops. Smart casual or business casual is generally appropriate.
🚶♀️ Consider Standing Tickets
For budget-conscious travelers, standing tickets offer an affordable way to experience a show.
📱 Use TicketSwap App
For last-minute tickets, try the TicketSwap app for resold tickets. Be quick!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Box Seats Early
Box seats offer a unique perspective but sell out fast. Book well in advance for the best selection.
👗 Smart Casual is Key
Dress respectfully; avoid jeans and flip-flops. Smart casual or business casual is generally appropriate.
🚶♀️ Consider Standing Tickets
For budget-conscious travelers, standing tickets offer an affordable way to experience a show.
📱 Use TicketSwap App
For last-minute tickets, try the TicketSwap app for resold tickets. Be quick!
📸 Guided Tours Available
If no performance fits your schedule, take a guided tour to see the stunning interior.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hungarian State Opera House for its breathtaking Neo-Renaissance architecture and opulent interior, calling it a must-see in Budapest. Performances are generally well-received, though some find ticket prices for prime seats to be high. The guided tours are also highly recommended for those who can't attend a show.
"I visited for a guided tour and this place is stunning! The guides were great and the mini performance at the end was outstanding. There are no toilets available for use before the tour so you have to wait until after."
Anony M
"Amazing place. Magnificent both inside and outside.
Really liked sound here. Enjoyed the best opera in my life.
Unfortunately that was terribly hot on the top balconies, but that’s what you have to face while visiting such a historic place.
I wish the prices in the bar where lower, but nobody forbids you bringing your own water."
Dzmitry Ulezla
"What a stunning building, left completely untouched by the bombs of the world wars. Even if you don't like opera, the tour is informative and lets you see inside its stunning interiors from painted ceilings, ornate handcrafted hardwood fixtures and and abundance of different marble to the exquisite auditorium and massive stage. The tour ends with an short performance which I really enjoyed."
Gary Clarke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hungarian State Opera House is centrally located on Andrássy Avenue. You can easily reach it via public transport, including metro line M1 (Opera station) or various bus and tram lines. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, the Opera House is very well-connected by public transport. The closest metro station is Opera on the M1 line, which is just a short walk away. Several bus and tram routes also stop nearby.
For convenience and to avoid parking hassles, public transport is highly recommended. The M1 metro line is particularly direct. If you're coming from further afield, consider a taxi or ride-share for door-to-door service.
Parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. While there might be some street parking or nearby garages, it's generally advisable to use public transport or a taxi to reach the Opera House.
Depending on your starting point, yes! It's a pleasant walk from many central Budapest attractions, including St. Stephen's Basilica and the Parliament Building, especially if you enjoy exploring the city on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Hungarian State Opera website, or in person at the box office. For last-minute deals, check the TicketSwap app or inquire at the box office on the day of the performance.
Ticket prices vary significantly based on the performance, seating location, and demand. Expect to pay more for prime seats like boxes, while standing tickets are the most affordable option.
Generally, student discounts are not available for international students in the EU. However, it's always worth checking the official website or inquiring at the box office for any special promotions.
While there's no strict dress code, smart casual or business casual is recommended. Avoid jeans and overly casual wear. Aim for an outfit that respects the venue's elegance.
It's possible to find last-minute tickets, especially standing room tickets, by visiting the box office on the day of the performance. However, popular shows often sell out in advance.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Photography is generally permitted in the public areas and auditorium for personal use, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork and not disturb performers. Check specific venue rules upon arrival.
Yes, guided tours are offered daily, allowing you to explore the stunning architecture and learn about the history of the Hungarian State Opera House, even if you're not attending a performance.
The 'best' seats depend on your preference and budget. Boxes on the second floor offer magnificent views, while orchestra seats provide a good perspective. Standing room is the most economical.
Performance lengths vary. Full operas can be quite long, sometimes up to five hours, while ballets or shorter concerts are typically shorter. Check the specific show's duration when booking.
Yes, there is a coat check service available at the Hungarian State Opera House, which is convenient for storing outerwear, especially during colder months.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Opera House typically has a bar or lounge area where you can purchase drinks and light snacks during intermissions. For full meals, there are numerous restaurants and cafes located nearby on Andrássy Avenue.
Andrássy Avenue and its side streets offer a wide array of dining options, from traditional Hungarian cuisine to international fare. Many cafes and bistros are perfect for a pre- or post-opera meal.
The New York Cafe is renowned for its stunning interior, often called one of the most beautiful cafes in the world. However, be prepared for long queues and higher prices; many suggest visiting for a coffee or tea rather than a full meal.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the auditorium. You can purchase refreshments during intermissions from the venue's concessions.
Near the Opera, you'll find traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash, lángos, and chimney cake, alongside international cuisine. Many places offer a good selection for a pre-theatre dinner.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand auditorium with its ornate ceiling and chandeliers is a prime photo spot. The exterior facade, especially with the composer statues, also makes for impressive shots.
Professional photography or videography for commercial purposes usually requires special permission. For personal snapshots, standard rules apply, often prohibiting flash.
The exterior looks beautiful at any time, but golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer stunning light. For the interior, daytime tours might offer better natural light if allowed.
Yes, flash photography and video recording are almost always prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. Always check the specific rules posted at the venue.
Given the often dim lighting, use a higher ISO and a wider aperture if your camera allows. A tripod might be helpful, but check if they are permitted. Many modern phone cameras perform well in low light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Alternatively, a guided tour provides a captivating way for families to explore the Opera House's stunning architecture and history without the duration of a performance. It’s a visually engaging activity that can spark curiosity in young minds.
💰 Budget Travelers
Keep an eye on the TicketSwap app for potential resale tickets at a lower price. If a performance is out of budget, a guided tour offers an excellent and more economical way to explore the opera house's stunning architecture.
✨ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Complement your visit with a romantic dinner at one of the many restaurants on Andrássy Avenue. During the day, a guided tour offers a shared cultural exploration of the building's breathtaking beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Grandeur
Many visitors are captivated by the opulent design and recommend taking a guided tour to fully absorb the history and artistry. Even without attending a show, the building itself is a significant cultural attraction.
Attending a Performance
For a more budget-friendly option, standing tickets are available and offer a chance to witness a performance. While there's no strict dress code, aiming for smart casual or business casual is recommended to match the venue's elegance.
Beyond the Performance: Guided Tours
Guides often share captivating anecdotes, making the experience both educational and engaging. It's an excellent way to appreciate the venue's splendor and cultural significance in Budapest.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit