{"id":5364,"date":"2018-05-07T12:59:25","date_gmt":"2018-05-07T12:59:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lovefromhungary.com\/fr\/margaret-island\/"},"modified":"2026-01-16T10:23:44","modified_gmt":"2026-01-16T10:23:44","slug":"margaret-island","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lovefromhungary.com\/fr\/margaret-island\/","title":{"rendered":"Margaret Island \u2013 Budapest\u2019s Favourite Summer Escape"},"content":{"rendered":"

Right in the middle of the Danube lies Margaret Island<\/span><\/span><\/strong>, the largest and most beloved green space in Budapest. Today it\u2019s a peaceful park, but its past is anything but ordinary.<\/p>\n

This island was once home to medieval monasteries, a place of isolation for lepers, and later the refuge of Princess Margaret, who gave up her royal life to live here in devotion. These layers of history add a quiet depth to a place that locals now treasure simply for its beauty and calm.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s no surprise that Margaret Island is a firm favourite among Budapesters. I usually avoid comparing places, but if I had to explain it to first-time visitors, I\u2019d say it\u2019s our very own Central Park \u2014 greener, calmer, and surrounded by water.<\/p>\n

Why it\u2019s not always on my tours (but often recommended)<\/h3>\n

Margaret Island isn\u2019t usually included in my standard tours<\/a>, simply because it\u2019s a bit of a walk from the historic city centre. That said, whenever we do<\/em> include it \u2014 as part of a customised walking or driving itinerary \u2014 guests always love it. It feels like discovering a different side of Budapest: quieter, more local, and very much off the beaten path.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s why I especially recommend visiting in late spring and summer<\/strong>, when the gardens are in full bloom and the island truly comes alive.<\/p>\n

The best way to explore Margaret Island<\/h3>\n

One of my favourite ways to discover the island is by renting one of the special group bicycles that can seat up to six people. It\u2019s fun, relaxed, and perfect for covering more ground without rushing.<\/p>\n

I suggest starting at the southern end<\/strong> and making your way north. Along the way, don\u2019t miss:<\/p>\n