With International Museum Day coming up on May 18th, Budapest’s wealth of traditional to avant-garde museums makes Hungary’s capital ideal for every kind of traveler looking to broaden their horizons. Per Virtuoso data, Hungary is rapidly growing as a popular vacation destination for international travelers, boasting a 143% increase in bookings from 2024. On top of this, historical and cultural tourism remain strong drivers in travelers’ decision-making, making Budapest the ideal destination for culturally oriented travelers.
3 iconic museums in Budapest for International Museum Day:
- Hungarian National Museum: Established in 1802, the Hungarian National Museum houses some of the country’s most important collections. Behind the museum’s neoclassical façade lie treasures of Hungary’s storied past, ranging from the Hungarian Coronation Mantle to 14th-century paintings. Museumgoers can learn about Hungary’s lengthy history, stepping through the Kingdom of Hungary and into the country’s Soviet occupation.
- Aquincum Museum and Archeological Park: Before the Kingdom of Hungary, most of the country formed part of the Roman province of Pannonia. This museum exhibition takes visitors back in time, showcasing the ruins of Aquincus, the Roman capital of Lower Pannonia, and the city that became Budapest. Here, visitors can see the original foundations of Hungary’s capital, with remnants dating back over 2000 years.
- Hungarian National Gallery: Housed within the Buda Castle complex, the Hungarian National Gallery is home to one of the most important collections of Hungarian art, spanning from Medieval works to contemporary pieces. With over 6,000 paintings, 2,100 sculptures, 11,000 drawings, and 5,000 prints, museumgoers can spend the whole day observing historical masterpieces. The museum also features a terrace around the building’s dome, providing incomparable views of Budapest.
2 avant-garde museums in Budapest for International Museum Day:
- Budapest Pinball Museum: At this one-of-a-kind museum, 130+ colorful pinball machines light up the room to tell the story of a pastime nearing extinction. Visitors can explore history through these “time capsules” and play on one-of-a-kind machines that are sure to bring some nostalgia. Reminiscent of old arcades, museumgoers can spend the day playing on one of the best collections of pinball machines from all over the world, making this a great way to take in a different side of history beyond the manicured walls of a cathedral or gallery.
- Museum of Sweets & Selfies: This locally owned sweet spot sets the stage for the perfect selfie! At this trendy museum, visitors can make their way through colorful showrooms for the perfect photo opportunity. Lay down on a bed of sprinkles or swing on a strawberry wrecking ball; with two stories packed with kitschy props, the Instagram moment possibilities are endless!
Hungary’s museums offer the perfect mix of art, history, and whimsical charm for travelers looking for a bit of everything. From legendary museums filled with priceless artifacts to niche museums dedicated to pop culture pantheons, Budapest’s melting pot of galleries will surely have something for every traveler. International Museum Day presents a great point of consideration for travelers to experience Budapest and wander into one of the city’s 68+ galleries, taking in the wide range of works and history featured in this UNESCO world heritage city.
