Looking for one of Budapest’s coolest neighbourhoods? Then head to Bartók Béla Boulevard on the Buda side! Bartók Béla Boulevard is one of the capital’s most vibrant and popular boulevards, full of trendy restaurants, super cafés, exciting bars and art galleries. Take a walk between Kosztolányi Dezső Square and Szent Gellért Square and discover the best spots!
A cultural paradise is waiting for you here!
Bartók Béla Boulevard is one of the locals’ favourite neighbourhoods — it is especially popular among food enthusiasts and culture lovers. No wonder, as there are numerous galleries, antique shops and design boutiques on the boulevard.
At Gárdonyi Square, for example, there is the B32 Gallery and Cultural Space, a permanent venue for exhibitions, theatre performances, concerts and other cultural events. In the Godot Gallery and the Faur Zsófi Gallery you can see contemporary art exhibitions. This boulevard is also home to one of the country’s legendary magic shops: the Figaro Magic Shop has been home to new and professional magicians since 1969.
Have a cup of coffee or a drink!
Bartók Béla Boulevard is full of cosy cafés and bars, so you will definitely find a place you like.
- If literary cafés are your thing, then you should definitely head to the bookstore-like Kelet Coffee House, or the historic Hadik Coffee House. In the 20th century, the greatest authors of Hungarian literature visited the Hadik, and considered it almost their home.
- If you want to experience the special atmosphere of a ruin pub, you should try Szatyor Bar or Béla Bar.
- If you prefer the contemporary trend, you should check out the new-wave Mitzi or the Palack Wine Bar offering wine specialities.
Schedule your lunch here!
Bartók is a true gastronomic highlight: you can taste the cuisine of many nations here. Try the Spanish tapas at La Nube, the Polish delicacies at Gdansk, the Neapolitan pizzas at MOTO Pizza, the Vietnamese flavours at Caphe by Hai Nam, the Mexican dishes at Arriba Taqueria, the Hawaiian dishes at Ono Poké Bowl, the Middle Eastern delicacies at Hummusbar or the Austrian pastries at Császármorzsa.
Bartók Béla Boulevard is not just a place for lunch or dinner, as it offers several places where you can enjoy brilliant breakfast as well. Bartók reggel.délben.este restaurant serves delicious brunch, while you can get amazing bagels at Wömbat. And if you’re in the mood for just a little pastry, head to the Pékműhely selling artisan products or the Arán Bakery where pastries are prepared based on Irish recipes.
Check out the architectural wonders along the way!
Bartók Béla Boulevard offers not only cultural and gastronomic experiences, but also beautiful architectural masterpieces. That’s why you should definitely walk along the boulevard. While you’re walking, don’t forget to look up, as real treasures are hiding in the facades of the buildings. It is even worth going underground, as the Szent Gellért Square metro station has won several international architecture awards.
On the surface, along the road, you will find old mansions, many of which have Art Nouveau features. The Hadik House on Gárdonyi Square with its eclectic facade is exceptionally remarkable. Several famous Hungarian writers and artists lived and worked in the building during the 20th century. You should also visit the Gellért Hotel on Szent Gellért Square and the ornamental fountain in front of it. The impressive hotel has played a major role in the life of the capital for over 100 years. Although the hotel is under renovation right now, the Gellért Thermal Bath is still open to the public. Refresh in the spa’s thermal pools and enjoy some relaxing moments!
Take a rest at Lake Feneketlen!
Bartók Béla Boulevard still has surprises, as it is also home to a lovely little green oasis. The area around Lake Feneketlen is ideal for a rest in nature during sightseeing: the park has a playground, a jogging track, outdoor gym equipment and a lake that evokes fairytales. Not to mention the nearby Buda Park open-air stage (Budai Parkszínpad) and Este11, the perfect venue for tasting the best of Hungarian alcoholic drinks.