The newly renovated State Opera House

I’ve had the chance to visit the interior of the State Opera House shortly after it reopened after long years of renovation works. The interior is just magnificent. I’ve always felt overwhelmed by the style and grandeur of the building, and I wasn’t disappointed. I love the colours, the smells, the amazing Neo-Renaissance design and ornaments. Visiting the building is like a time travel to the late 1800’s.

I’d highly recommend to buy a ticket for an evening performance or to buy a ticket to visit the Opera – there are guided tours in English every day at 1.30 PM, 3.00 PM and 4.30 PM. Private tours are also available, please let me know if you’re interested, I’m happy to include the Opera visit in a driving or walking tour.

Entrance to St. Stephen’s Basilica – What to Know Before You Visit

St Stephen’s Basilica entrance fee often comes as a surprise to visitors who expect free access to one of Budapest’s most famous churches, visiting the interior of St. Stephen’s Basilica is a highlight for many travellers to Budapest.

For many years, visitors could step inside the Basilica by leaving a small donation at the entrance. Today, tourists are asked to purchase a ticket to visit the interior, while the church continues to function as an active place of worship.

Tickets and practical information

Tickets are available at the ticket office located to the right of the Basilica, and prices may change from year to year. For the most accurate and up-to-date information about current ticket prices, opening hours, and special visits, it’s always best to check the official website of St. Stephen’s Basilica before your visit.

Church services and special occasions

Please note that church services, weddings, and religious events take priority. During these times, visitor access may be limited to certain areas, or the Basilica may be temporarily closed to tourists altogether.

This is part of what makes the building special: it is not only one of Budapest’s most impressive landmarks, but also a living, functioning church.

Visiting as part of a guided tour

St. Stephen’s Basilica is often included in Budapest walking and driving tours, and an interior visit can also be arranged when timing allows. Visiting with a guide helps you navigate practical details while also understanding the history, symbolism, and stories behind what you see.

Budapest Museums: György Ráth Villa

The György Ráth Villa Museum is one of Budapest’s most inspiring small museums, especially for visitors interested in Art Nouveau, interior design, and applied arts. I once brought a group of interior design students from the United States here as part of a private Art Nouveau walking tour, and the villa turned out to be one of the highlights of their visit.

The former home of György Ráth — first director general of the Museum of Applied Arts — feels less like a traditional museum and more like a carefully preserved private residence. The exhibition showcases around 600 pieces representing all branches of applied arts, including:

  • furniture

  • jewellery

  • Zsolnay ceramics

  • Tiffany glassware

  • paintings and sculptures

The collection beautifully illustrates the international influences present in Hungarian Art Nouveau at the turn of the 20th century. British, Austrian, and French styles appear alongside Oriental influences and Transylvanian roots, creating a uniquely Hungarian artistic language.

Practical information – György Ráth Villa museum

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and can easily be combined with a walk through City Park or nearby Art Nouveau sites.

I often recommend the György Ráth Villa as an extra stop on custom Budapest walking tours, especially for art lovers, designers, and travellers interested in architecture and interiors.