Quick Overview

Address: St Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István-bazilika), Szent István tér 1, 1051 Budapest, Hungary, in the city centre (District V, Pest side).
Main Entrance: On Szent István Square, facing the open pedestrian plaza and steps leading up to the basilica façade.
Closest Metro: Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út (M1 yellow line) – about 3–4 minutes’ walk; Deák Ferenc tér interchange (M1, M2, M3) – about 5–7 minutes’ walk.
Nearby Trams & Buses: Trams 47, 48, 49 & several bus lines (e.g. 9, 15, 16, 105) all stop within an easy walk of the basilica.

Best First-Time Route

Take the metro to Deák Ferenc tér, Budapest’s main downtown hub. From there, walk along Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út or through the side streets towards Szent István tér. Within a few minutes, the basilica’s twin towers and dome appear directly ahead in the open square.

From the Danube Promenade

If you’re staying near the Danube riverfront or Chain Bridge, simply walk 8–12 minutes into the city centre. Head inland along Zrínyi utca – it leads directly to St Stephen’s Basilica and gives a beautiful first view as you approach the square.

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Option 1 — From City Centre & Deák Ferenc tér

Perfect if you’re staying in central Pest around Deák tér, Váci utca, or the Danube promenade.

  • From Deák Ferenc tér (M1, M2, M3): Leave the station following signs to Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út. Walk a few minutes north-west along Bajcsy, then turn right towards the open plaza of Szent István tér. You’ll see the basilica in front of you.
  • From Váci utca & the shopping streets: Walk toward Deák Ferenc tér or directly up Deák Ferenc utca. Continue straight onto Zrínyi utca and follow it all the way to the basilica steps.
  • From the Danube Promenade / Chain Bridge: Cross to the Pest side (if needed), then follow Zrínyi utca inland. The basilica square appears straight ahead at the end of the street.

Tickets & Payments

For public transport in Budapest, use single tickets, day passes, or a Budapest Card. Validate paper tickets before boarding or at metro entrances to avoid fines.

Option 2 — Metro, Trams & Buses (Most Common)

Using the Metro

The basilica is surrounded by several metro stations. The two most useful are:

  • Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út (M1): about 3–4 minutes on foot along Bajcsy and then into the square.
  • Deák Ferenc tér (M1, M2, M3): main interchange; walk 5–7 minutes up Bajcsy or via Zrínyi utca.

Trams & Buses

Several trams and buses drop you within a short walk:

  • Trams 47, 48, 49 – stop at Deák Ferenc tér.
  • Tram 2 – runs along the Pest riverfront; get off at Széchenyi István tér and walk 10–12 minutes.
  • Buses 9, 15, 16, 105 – serve the city centre and Deák tér area.

From Buda Castle & Fisherman’s Bastion

Take the 16 or 16A bus down from Buda Castle to the Pest side (Deák tér area), then walk to the basilica. Alternatively, cross the Chain Bridge on foot and follow Zrínyi utca.

From Parliament & Kossuth tér

From the Hungarian Parliament, walk 10–15 minutes through the elegant streets of District V, or ride a short metro or tram hop to Deák tér and continue on foot.

Navigation Tip

On maps, search for “Szent István-bazilika” or “St Stephen’s Basilica”. Aim for Szent István tér — the basilica fills one entire side of the square.

Option 3 — Scenic Walks via Danube, Andrássy & Downtown

Walking is one of the nicest ways to arrive at St Stephen’s Basilica. You’ll pass cafés, historic buildings, and postcard views of downtown Budapest.

  • From Andrássy Avenue (Opera House): Stroll down Andrássy út toward the city centre, turn toward Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út and follow signs to the basilica square. Around 10–15 minutes on foot.
  • From the Danube Promenade: Walk up Zrínyi utca from the river. This straight street frames a perfect view of the basilica dome as you approach.
  • From the Jewish Quarter / Gozsdu Court: Head toward Deák tér, then continue to the basilica along side streets. Expect a 10–15 minute walk.

Photo Tip

The best photos of the façade are often taken from the far end of Szent István tér, where you can capture the full dome, towers, and the wide staircase without standing too close.

From Budapest Airport (BUD)

100E Airport Express Bus

The easiest public transport option is the 100E bus from the airport to Deák Ferenc tér. From Deák tér, walk 5–7 minutes to St Stephen’s Basilica. You need a special 100E ticket (not a normal single ticket).

200E Bus + Metro

Budget option: take bus 200E from the airport to Kőbánya–Kispest, then connect to the M3 metro toward the city centre. Change at Deák Ferenc tér and walk to the basilica.

Taxis & Rideshares

Official airport taxis follow a fixed price per kilometre. Ask to be dropped at Szent István tér or near Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út. The ride usually takes 30–40 minutes depending on traffic.

Airport Shuttles & Transfers

Shared or private transfers can take you directly to hotels around the basilica. Book in advance if you prefer a door-to-door option instead of navigating tickets after a flight.

Luggage Tip

Large suitcases are uncomfortable on crowded metro lines and around the square. If possible, drop bags at your hotel or a luggage storage point before visiting the basilica.

Driving, Parking & Bikes

Driving into the Centre

The streets around St Stephen’s Basilica are busy and partly pedestrianised. If you’re driving, expect narrow one-way streets and limited space. Many visitors prefer to park further out and use public transport into the centre.

Parking Options

Look for underground garages and paid car parks in District V (around the basilica, Deák tér, or Arany János utca). Street parking is limited, metered, and often time-restricted.

MOL Bubi Bikes

Budapest’s public bike system, MOL Bubi, has several docks near the basilica. Cycle to the area, dock your bike, and continue on foot through the pedestrian square.

Accessibility

The basilica square is largely flat and paved. Inside, there are stairs and lifts for the dome and viewing terrace. If you need step-free access, check the latest accessibility details at the official basilica information desk.

Practical Visit Tips

Arrive a Little Early

Aim to arrive 15–20 minutes before your booked time, especially if you plan to visit the dome terrace or attend an organ concert. This gives you time for ticket checks and security.

Dress Code

St Stephen’s Basilica is an active Catholic church. Dress respectfully: shoulders and knees covered is recommended, especially during mass or religious events.

Photography & Quiet

Photography is usually allowed without flash, but can be restricted during services or concerts. Speak softly, switch phones to silent mode, and avoid taking photos during prayers or mass.

Combining with Other Sights

The basilica pairs well with Danube river cruises, Parliament visits, Buda Castle, or an evening ruin bar in the Jewish Quarter. Use its central location as a hub for your day.

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Getting There Cheatsheet

Exact Location

Szent István tér 1, 1051 Budapest — central Pest, District V.

Closest Metro

Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út (M1) & Deák Ferenc tér (M1, M2, M3).

Key Trams & Buses

Trams 47, 48, 49 • Tram 2 on the riverfront • buses 9, 15, 16, 105 nearby.

Typical Walk Times

Deák tér → Basilica: ~5–7 min • Danube promenade → Basilica: ~8–12 min.

From Airport

100E bus direct to Deák tér, then walk; or 200E + M3 metro combo.

Best Arrival Window

Morning or late afternoon is usually calmer than midday, especially in peak season and on weekends.

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Ready to Visit St Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest?

Take the metro, tram, bus, or enjoy a short walk through the historic streets of downtown Budapest — then step onto Szent István Square and into one of the city’s most beautiful churches.

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