Spending a few days in Budapest is a fantastic European getaway. The city is in full growth and is a clear example of the union between tradition and modernity. It has not forgotten its roots and is building a bright future on them. 

Among the numerous leisure options available in the city, and leaving aside the huge number of monuments and must-sees, we must highlight the museums of the Hungarian capital. 

For those who love art, whether in its pictorial expression, sculpture or any other form, we have compiled what we consider to be the best art museums in Budapest. They are a must on your getaway to the “Pearl of the Danube”.

The Best Art Museums in Budapest 

Hungarian National Museum

Múzeum krt. 14-16, 1088 

We can’t start talking about museums in Budapest without starting with the largest museum in the country; the Hungarian National Museum. It opened its doors at the beginning of the 19th century and since then, it has only grown to be a fundamental part of the history of the city and the whole country, such as the important role it played in the revolution of 1848. 

Thanks to its large number of works, you can learn about the history, not only of the city, but of the country from prehistoric times to the communist era. 

Its neoclassical exterior is imperial, but if there is one thing that stands out about the building, it is undoubtedly its incredible interior. 

Its interior decoration is synonymous with majesty. Ascending its stairs you will feel like a member of royalty. Focusing on its exhibitions, you can enjoy its seven permanent exhibitions as well as temporary ones spread throughout the year. Don’t forget to check their website before you go to find out exactly what you’ll find, opening times and discounts.

It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00 and the garden is open daily from 5:30 to 21:00.

Szépművészeti Múzeum (Museums of Fine Arts)

Dózsa György út 41, 1146

Guarding and escorting Heroes’ Square is one of the city’s great museums; Szépművészeti Múzeum or the Museum of Fine Arts. It opened its doors at the beginning of the 20th century. 

The enormity and richness of its collection is comparable to the great names of European museums; Egyptian, Antique, Old sculpture gallery, Old master paintings gallery, Modern collection and Graphics collection are the types of works you will see exhibited within its impressive walls. 

Don’t miss the chance to visit The Romanesque main hall. It has become an obligatory stop for any lover of history and art. Its interior mimics a Romanesque basilica, with huge columns and pillars.

Hungarian National Gallery

Szent György tér 2, 1014 

Known by locals as Magyar Nemzeti Galéria, its location is even better than Szépművészeti Múzeum, the Museums of Fine Arts previously mentioned. You’ll need to enter the royal palace of Buda Castle to enjoy its collection. 

Since 1957, it has exhibited the entire history of Hungarian art from its earliest displays in the medieval triptychs to 20th century modernism. All the artistic movements that took place in the centuries in between have been captured by Hungarian artists and gathered here. 

Not only can you enjoy oil paintings, but the museum also has sculptures and photographs by internationally renowned artists.

Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art

Komor Marcell u. 1, 1095

Irene and Peter Ludwig were the founders of the Ludwig Museum, which will be known later on as the Museum of Contemporary Art. Its location is unbeatable for understanding the type of art it displays; the Müpa Budapest building, a venue where different styles of artistic expression come together. 

As well as being able to enjoy the 12,000 m2 of exhibitions, you can attend a concert in the Béla Bartók National Concert Hall, home to the National Philharmonic and Music Library, which has acoustics that are unparalleled in Europe. 

Its extensive collection of modern and contemporary art includes iconic artists such as Andy Warhol or Claes Oldenburg.

Kunsthalle (Műcsarnok)

Dózsa György út 37, 1146

The Kunsthalle Art Palace, or Műcsarnok, is located in Heroes’ Square, guarding the square in front of the Museum of Fine Arts, Szépművészeti Múzeum. 

With its doors open to the public since 1896, it has always focused its exhibitions and displays on contemporary art. With avant-garde as a recognisable personal hallmark, the Kunsthalle, Műcsarnok, has carved out a niche for itself among the most important meeting points on the European scene.

Hungarian House of Photography – Mai Manó House

Nagymező u. 20, 1065

We leave the paintings and sculptures for a moment to focus on another of the great artistic expressions, photography. If we talk about this discipline in Hungary there is one name that stands out above the rest, Mai Manó. 

Respected photographer of the middle 19th century and beginning of the 20th, it has a permanent exhibition in the building as well as temporary exhibitions of great names of nationally and internationally known artists. 

It is worth noting the beauty of the building itself; a classic façade construction and unique decoration that will instantly let you know that you are about to enter a special place.

Victor Vasarely Museum

Szentlélek tér 6, 1033

We continue with different artistic expressions, and on this occasion we focus on the unique op art, i.e. optical art. This discipline has authentic works of art that will make your mind twist in order to grasp all its complexity. 

The artist Victor Vasarely, considered to be the true father of this artistic expression, has extensive experience in the art world and you can enjoy his evolution in his more than 400 works on display in his museum.

Imre Varga Collection (Gyűjtemény)

Laktanya u. 7, 1033

His museum, The Imre Varga Collection, displays pieces of art of his creation in the different fields he mastered, he was known for being an outstanding graphic artist, designer, painter as well as sculptor. He is considered one of the most talented Hungarian sculptors in history. 

Róth miksa museum

Nefelejcs u. 26, 1078 

Finally, we are going to visit the museum of a true genius. His field of work is complex and it takes an almost supernatural skill to become a master; Miksa Róth, a glass painter and mosaic maker. 

His works of art are not to be found in the world’s museums, but are spread across iconic buildings all over the world. Norway, Netherlands, Mexico and, of course, Hungary, are some of the places that have buildings with his stained glass windows. 

The only place where you can enjoy his work without having to travel to several cities is here, in his museum in Budapest.