The Hungarian State Opera House in Budapest
- Lindsey Markwood
- Dec 16, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 27
The Hungarian State Opera House, known locally as Magyar Állami Operaház, is simply beautiful. Since Budapest is a premier embarkation and disembarkation port for Danube River cruises, this architectural masterpiece is the perfect addition to your pre- or post-cruise itinerary. Designed by architect Miklós Ybl and opened in 1884 during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, it was built to showcase the true cultural sophistication of Budapest. While the building was not permitted to be larger than the grand opera house in Vienna, there were no rules stating it could not be more beautiful.
Before stepping inside, take a look at the building’s exterior. The façade is decorated with statues of Hungary’s greatest composers, such as Franz Liszt and Ferenc Erkel.
Interior and Golden Auditorium
Stepping into the auditorium is nothing short of breathtaking. If you do not have tickets to a performance, you can visit here on one of the formal tours. The auditorium is shaped like a horseshoe. It rivals the grandeur of Europe’s most famous opera houses, including La Scala in Milan and the Palais Garnier in Paris. 15 pounds of gold can be found in the auditorium. For acoustics, it is considered one of the best in the world.
The Painted Ceiling and Famous Chandelier
Make sure to look up. The ceiling was painted by Károly Lotz. It is titled The Apotheosis of Music. As you look up you will see figures from Greek mythology. This includes Apollo, who is the god of music, well as other characters that symbolize various musical disciplines. The huge chandelier is lowered twice a year manually for cleaning. It can take 20 minutes to have it lowered and 40 minutes to bring it back up. While it originally used gas, it is now electric.
During the Opera House's recent five-year refurbishment, one of the best additions was the translation screens added to the backs of the chairs. I love this as it makes it more accessible for international travelers.
How to Experience the Hungarian State Opera House
Taking a Formal Guided Tour
If you do not have tickets to a performance, you can visit the building on one of the formal tours, which are offered in multiple languages, including English. At the end of the guided tour I was on, we were treated to a small sample of the Opera, which made a great conclusion. It was simply wonderful. It was just enough of a taste that I wanted to come back and watch a performance. FYI: I highly recommend getting tickets in advance as they can sell out in the busy months for the tour.
Attending a Live Performance
As part of a broader Budapest itinerary, the Opera House fits seamlessly alongside other cultural landmarks, such as the Franz Liszt Academy of Music and the Museum of Fine Arts. For art and music-loving travelers, I can create themed itineraries that weave these sites together, providing a comprehensive look at the city’s artistic soul.
Exploring Andrássy Avenue and Beyond
The Hungarian State Opera is located on Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This iconic boulevard is also home to many luxury boutiques which are great for window shopping or to bring home a gift for yourself as well as embassies, and other architectural gems. It is also directly across the street from the W Budapest. As a note: I stayed here during my pre-Danube river cruise and enjoyed both the hotel and location.
So how do you get here? For clients staying in central Budapest, the Opera House is easily accessible by foot or public transportation. The nearby M1 metro line (the oldest in continental Europe) has a stop literally steps from the entrance.
Getting tickets to an opera performance in advance is highly recommended. There are also limited day-of tickets. Those tickets are for standing room only. If you book far enough out, you can also rent out an entire Royal Box for your traveling party. If you are unable to attend a performance, take a tour. Tours are offered in multiple languages including English.
Ready to plan your Budapest getaway?
Are you ready for your next river cruise or land based vacation that includes a stop in Budapest? I would love to help. Click below to schedule a consultation.
