opera house tours budapest

We have received your request correctly.

You will receive an email with a summary of your bookings.

Can't find it? Leave us your email and we'll send you a summary of your bookings.

Budapest Opera House Guided Tour

• 8.30 / 10 2,073 reviews | 23,049 travellers Very educational. The guide and the Opera staff were very correct. 8 Anonymous
• Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the service starts
• X (Twitter)

Discover the second largest stage in Europe on this guided tour of the Hungarian State Opera House , a must-see on your trip to Budapest !

After meeting in the main hall of the Budapest Opera House , we'll set off on our guided tour of this incredible neo-renaissance building, designed by the famous Hungarian architect Miklós Ybl. It dates back to the 19th century and its construction was financed by Francis Joseph I of Austria, who demanded that it should not be larger than the one in Vienna.

We'll continue our tour of the Hungarian State Opera House in its magnificent hall which is decorated with oak panels and red curtains. Then we'll head down the main staircase, which will take us straight to the auditorium .

To end our tour of the Budapest Opera House, we'll get to watch a ten-minute live concert performed by two opera singers on the second largest stage in Europe !

More Information

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

Entry fee to the Opera House

10 minute concert

When to book?

You can book up until 24 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

Bookinbudapest Kft. Show more

Corporate name: BUDAPEST TRANSFERS, S.L

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities .

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

Hungarian State Opera House

You may also be interested in

Danube Evening Cruise

Danube River Cruise

Free Walking Tour of Budapest

Login to add activities to your favorites and access them from any device

This site is reCAPTCHA protected and Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Basic information regarding personal data protection

Person responsible for the processing: CIVITATIS TOURS, S.L. (CIVITATIS). Purpose: Provision of the services requested; Sending commercial communications about CIVITATIS products and services, for which commercial profiles of our customers may be drawn up; Sending surveys in order to assess the services offered and their degree of satisfaction, as well as the publication of opinions about the service received; Compliance with accounting, legal, fiscal and administrative obligations; Publication of customer images and processing of data for statistical purposes. Rights: You have the right to access, rectify and delete data, to limit its processing, to oppose its processing and to its portability. Additional Information: You can consult additional information on Data Protection in the General Terms and Conditions .

Log in to rate the opinions of other travelers

Guided Tours Budapest Opera House

Opera visit - guided tours in the opera house.

• Enjoy the interior visit in the historic Hungarian State Opera House!
• Duration: 60 min
• Activity provider: Hungarian State Opera
• Departs from: Budapest

Meeting point: 1061 Budapest, Andrássy út 22.

• Available: Daily at 13:30, 15:00, 16:30

The Opera House is one of the most beautiful buildings of Budapest. Its construction was finished in 1884 upon the design of Miklós Ybl. During the inside tour visitors may wonder around the theatre - considered to have one of the best acoustics in the world - , admire Károly Lotz's ceiling frescos and the beautifully gold-gilt decorated boxes having a special atmosphere. Besides we guide you around those parts which are closed to public during the evening performances, like the Bertalan Székely hall or the marble king staircase.

-Discover the beauty the completely restored Opera House - 60 minutes live guided tour - The guided tour will also include a short concert with the Opera’s soloists.

- Entrance ticket - Live guide

- Tips and gratuities - Personal expenses - Optional activity costs

- Hotel pick-up NOT included.

• Online price: 22€
• Jan - Dec:  13:30, 15:00, 16:30

Number of tickets

If you have special requests or comments concerning your bookings, please write here. We will do our best to meet them!

Contact informations

We will never sell, share or distibute your personal information.

Please enter your airport transfer reservation number to apply the discount.

You will pay in HUF. Total price: Ft.

• City pass, Skip the line tickets

• [email protected]
• +36-70-776-1217

BUDAPEST TOURS, EXCURSIONS

• City Tours - Sightseeing
• Hop on Hop off tour
• Cruises, Dinner Cruises
• Night Tours in Budapest
• Food, Wine & Gastronomy
• Excursions outside the city
• Group Tours
• Private Tours
• Half Day Tours

SPECIAL OFFER: GET 5% DISCOUNT

• First book your arrival airport transfer
• Discount code included your confirmation
• Select your tour
• Insert your discount code
• Choose paying option "5% discount"
• Pay only at arrival

Budapest Tours & Excursions

NEW TOURS BUDAPEST

TRANSFERS - GROUND TRANSPORTS

• Round trip airport transfers Budapest
• One way transfers: Airport to Budapest
• One way transfers: Budapest to Airport
• Transfers from Budapest pier to hotels
• Transfers Budapest - Héviz
• Transfers Budapest - Balaton
• Transfers Budapest - Vienna
• Transfers Budapest - Bratislava
• Transfers Budapest - Zagreb

Hungarian State Opera House: Tickets, Tours & Visitor Info

Experience captivating performances at budapest's state opera house.

Stepping into Budapest’s State Opera House is like stepping into a 19th-century royal court, a stunning masterpiece that promises an unforgettable cultural immersion. If you’re in Budapest, this grandeur is an experience you can’t afford to skip.

• Go behind-the-scenes with a guided tour, unveiling the backstage secrets and the rich history of Hungary’s most prestigious musical institution.
• Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the opulent auditorium, home to some of the world’s finest acoustics.
• Marvel at the stunning neo-Renaissance architecture and intricate frescoes that adorn the Budapest State Opera  House.

Tickets, Tours & Prices

• Skip The Line Guided Tour – Skip the lines and dive into the elegance of the Budapest Opera House on a guided tour, uncovering its rich history and stunning architecture.
• Segway Sightseeing Tour – Glide through Budapest’s vibrant downtown on a private 1.5-hour Segway tour, discovering iconic sights with ease and a touch of fun.

Purchasing tickets for the State Opera House is straightforward and can be done online via the official Opera House website or at the box office. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak times, to avoid long queues. 

Various ticket categories are available, including standard seats, VIP packages, and standing-room options, with pr ices varying based on seat location and the popularity of the performance. Special discounts are often available for students, seniors, and group bookings, and it’s worth checking for seasonal promotions. Guided tours of the Opera House offer a range of experiences, from standard tours to backstage access, with tours available in multiple languages and scheduled daily. Ticket prices for guided tours vary, with family packages and discounts for multipl e ticket purchases sometimes available. 

Additionally, visitors can explore exhibitions and the museum, which feature historical displays and artifacts; combo tickets that include both guided tours and exhibition entry are also offered. For accessibility, there are special seating and services for visitors with disabili ties, and it’s recomm ended to arrange these in advance.

Opening Hours

The Hungarian State Opera ticket office is open from Monday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and on performance days, it stays open until the end of the first interval. Note that 30 minutes before a performance, the ticket office exclusively serves visitors for that day’s event.

The OperaShop operates from Monday to Sunday, 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and remains open until the end of the first interval on performance days. If there are morning performances, the shop opens at 10:00 a.m. 

For guided tours, inquiries can be made from Monday to Friday between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. For the latest schedule and availability, it is recommended to check the official website or contact the tour office.

What to see and do

There’s so much to explore and experience at the Hungarian State Opera House.

Take a Guided Tour of the Opera House

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the splendor of the State Opera House is to take a guided tour. These tours are a fantastic way to explore the building’s rich history and stunning architecture. There are several types of tours available, from the standard tours that cover the main highlights to the more exclusive backstage tours.

If you’re on a standard tour, you can expect to be wowed by the grand staircase, the main auditorium, and the luxurious royal box. The backstage tour, however, takes it a step further, offering a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes workings of this iconic venue. Imagine walking through the corridors where performers prepare, or seeing the intricate machinery that makes the magic on stage possible.

A little tip from me: book your tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. The tours can fill up quickly, and you don’t want to miss out. Also, consider opting for a morning tour. They tend to have smaller crowds, offering a more intimate and personal experience.

Attend an Opera or Ballet Performance

Experiencing a performance at the State Opera House is like ste pping into a different world. The venue hosts world-class opera and ballet productions that are nothing short of mesmerizing. From classic operas to modern ballets, there’s always something captivating on the schedule.

Attending a performance here is not just about the show; it’s about the entire experience. The acoustics are phenomenal, and the atmosphere is electric. There’s something magical about being in the audience, feeling the music resonate through the ornate halls.

Check the schedule and book your tickets in advance to secure the best seats. And a word to the wise: attending a performance is a formal affair. Dress appropriately to match the venue’s elegance. Trust me; you’ll feel much more a part of the experience if you do.

Explore the Main Auditorium

The main auditorium of the State Opera House is a sight to behold. Picture this: red velvet seats, gold accents, and elaborate ceiling frescoes that will leave you in awe. And let’s not forget the chandelier, one of the largest in Europe. It’s hard not to be impressed by the level of craftsmanship and opulence.

To truly appreciate the auditorium, explore different seating areas. Each vantage point offers a unique perspective. For an unobstructed view, visit during a tour when the auditorium is empty. You’ll have the chance to take in every intricate detail without the distraction of a full house.

Visit the Royal Box

The royal box is the epitome of exclusivity and luxury. Historically reserved for royalty, this box offers the best views of the stage and is often a highlight on guided tours. The decor is nothing short of magnificent, with plush seating and prime positioning that makes you feel like a VIP.

This is where you can really feel the history of the Opera House. Imagine the dignitaries and celebrities who have sat in these very seats, enjoying world-class performances. It’s a special experience that adds a touch of historical significance to your visit.

Admire the Grand Staircase

Walking up the grand staircase of the State Opera House is like stepping into a fairy tale. The marble steps, ornate railings, and grand arches make it a central feature of the building.

Every time I walk up those steps, I can’t help but imagine the many famous figures who have done the same. It’s a surreal experience that makes you feel a part of the Opera House’s storied past. Don’t forget to take photos from various angles to capture its magnificence.

Explore the Foyer and Salons

The foyer is where visitors gather before performances, and it’s a sight to behold. The elegant design, beautiful frescoes, and chandeliers create a stunning ambiance. Spend some time here to soak in the atmosphere and snap some photos.

The Opera House also boasts several smaller salons, each with unique decor and historical significance. The Red Salon and the Smoking Room are particularly noteworthy for their exquisite design. These areas are often included in guided tours, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the Opera House’s elegance.

Visit the Opera House Café

The Opera House Café is a charming spot for a pre-show snack or a post-tour refreshment. The menu offers traditional Hungarian pastries and a variety of beverages. Personally, I recommend trying the Dobos Torte, a classic Hungarian dessert that is simply delightful.

Even if you’re not attending a performance, visiting the café is a unique way to experience the Opera House ambiance. For a more relaxed experience, visit during off-peak hours. It’s a lovely spot to unwind and soak in your surroundings.

Discover Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Facts

The State Opera House is full of hidden gems and fascinating stories. For instance, there are small balconies that offer unique perspectives of the interior. These lesser-known areas often go overlooked but are worth seeking out.

Did you know that the Opera House is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a former opera singer? It’s one of those intriguing anecdotes that add depth to its history. Additionally, the building’s construction is a story in itself, filled with challenges and triumphs that make it even more remarkable.

If you’re planning to visit the stunning Hungarian State Opera House in Budapest, getting there is a breeze with several convenient options. The easiest way is to hop on the Metro Line M1 (Millennium Underground), which stops directly at the Opera station, just a 2-minute walk from the Opera House. 

This line is perfect if you’re staying in central Budapest, as it connects several key points along Andrássy Avenue. Alternatively, you can take the M3 line to Arany János utca station, which is about a 5-minute walk away—this is particularly handy if you’re coming from areas served by the M3 line.

Buses also offer flexible options, with lines 105, 15, 210B, and 9 stopping at the Opera M bus stop, just a short stroll from the Opera House. For those who prefer the tram, Tram Line 4 stops at Oktogon, a central intersection from which you can enjoy a pleasant 7-minute walk down Andrássy Avenue to the Opera House. 

Whether you’re coming from the Buda side or central Pest, these public transport options make accessing the Hungarian State Opera House straightforward and hassle-free.

Nearby Places

St. Stephen’s Basilica : One of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, St. Stephen’s Basilica is located just a short walk from the Hungarian State Opera House. Its stunning facade and impressive dome are architectural marvels, and the panoramic view from the top is simply breathtaking.

Andrássy Avenue : A historic boulevard and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Andrássy Avenue stretches from the city center to Heroes’ Square. Along the avenue, you’ll find an eclectic mix of neo-Renaissance mansions, embassies, and luxury shops, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll and a stop at one of its fashionable cafes.

House of Terror Museum : Located on Andrássy Avenue , the House of Terror Museum delves into Hungary’s fascist and communist regimes during the 20th century. With personal stories, photographs, and artifacts, it offers a deeply sobering insight into the nation’s history.

Heroes’ Square : One of Budapest’s major squares, Heroes’ Square is situated at the end of Andrássy Avenue. The Millennium Monument, featuring statues of important national leaders and the Archangel Gabriel, is a highlight, along with nearby cultural institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Kunsthalle.

Budapest City Park (Városliget) : Near Heroes’ Square, Városliget is one of Budapest’s largest green spaces, brimming with popular attractions such as the Széchenyi Thermal Bath , the Budapest Zoo, and Vajdahunyad Castle. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation and leisure, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Did you know that: (5 Interesting Facts!)

• The Budapest State Opera House is considered one of the best opera houses in the world, not just in terms of acoustics but also for its breathtaking beauty. It’s a testament to the opulence of the Austro-Hungarian Empire days.
• Designed by Miklós Ybl, one of Hungary’s most influential architects, the Opera House took nearly a decade to build. From 1875 to 1884, every detail was meticulously crafted, resulting in a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture.
• This grand opera house was inaugurated by Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth (also known as Sisi), who had their own royal box. However, they only used it once, much to the dismay of the Hungarian nobility.
• The staircase of the Opera House, known as the grand staircase, is a spectacle in itself. The ceiling above it is adorned with a magnificent fresco of the Greek gods on Olympus, painted by famous Hungarian artist Károly Lotz.
• Despite its global acclaim, the Budapest State Opera House is often overlooked by tourists. This makes it a hidden gem in the city, offering a more intimate and less crowded experience than many other top-tier opera houses.

History 

• 1873 : The Hungarian government commissions the construction of an opera house in Budapest. The renowned Hungarian architect Miklós Ybl is appointed to design the building.
• 1875 : Construction of the State Opera House begins under Miklós Ybl’s supervision, with the foundational stone laid in May.
• 1884 : The Hungarian State Opera House officially opens on September 27th with a performance of Ferenc Erkel’s opera “Bánk Bán.” The event is attended by Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria-Hungary.
• 1896 : The Opera House plays a central role in Hungary’s Millennial Celebrations, marking 1,000 years since the Hungarian Conquest of the Carpathian Basin. Special performances and events are held.
• 1919 : The Opera House is temporarily closed during the Hungarian Soviet Republic but reopens later in the year once the political situation stabilizes.
• 1945 : During World War II, the Opera House suffers damage from bombings but is quickly repaired and reopens to the public.
• 1951 : A major renovation project begins to restore the building’s original splendor and to modernize its facilities.
• 1980 : Another significant renovation project is undertaken to preserve the historic structure and improve acoustics and stage technology.
• 2013 : The Hungarian State Opera House celebrates its 130th anniversary with a series of special performances and events.
• 2017-2021 : The Opera House undergoes an extensive renovation to restore its historic features and update its facilities for the 21st century. The grand reopening takes place in 2022.
• 2022-2023 : The Opera House reopens with the thematic season “Myth & History,” featuring a wide range of performances including classic operas and new productio

Can you go inside the Budapest Opera House?

Yes, you can go inside the Budapest Opera House. The Hungarian State Opera offers guided tours where you can explore its stunning architecture and learn about its rich history. Tours are available in multiple languages and provide a behind-the-scenes look at one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks.

What should you wear to the opera in Budapest?

When attending the opera in Budapest, it’s best to dress smartly. While formal attire like evening gowns and tuxedos are not mandatory, opting for business casual or elegant evening wear will help you fit in with the sophisticated atmosphere of the Hungarian State Opera.

How much does it cost to attend a performance at the Hungarian State Opera?

Ticket prices for performances at the Hungarian State Opera vary depending on the show and seating. Generally, tickets can range from as low as €5 for balcony seats to over €100 for premium seating options. It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, as popular shows can sell out quickly.

What are the best seats at the Budapest Opera House?

The best seats at the Budapest Opera House are typically found in the central stalls and the first few rows of the balcony. These seats offer an excellent view of the stage and optimal acoustics for enjoying the performance. For a more luxurious experience, consider booking a box seat.

Is the Budapest Opera House worth visiting?

Absolutely, the Budapest Opera House is definitely worth visiting. Even if you’re not an opera enthusiast, the building’s opulent architecture, rich history, and cultural significance make it a must-see attraction. Whether you’re attending a performance or taking a guided tour, the Opera House provides a memorable experience.

Map & Address

Hungarian State Opera House, Andrássy út 22, 1061 Budapest, Hungary

© Your CITY BUDAPEST 2024

• Hungarian State Opera House

Hungarian State Opera House Tours

Tourists reviews

Budapest, Hungary's capital, offers a melange of historical sites, beautiful landscapes, and diverse cultural experiences. Among the city's splendid attractions, the Budapest Opera House tours are a unique experience, rich with architectural grandeur, musical history, and captivating performances. Located in the heart of the city, it is an ideal place for families, friends, and solo travelers looking for a deep dive into Hungary's cultural heritage.

Planning the Tour

The opera house tour in Budapest is easy to plan and safe for all travelers. They offer a variety of tour formats to suit every kind of visitor. One can opt for a guided tour with well-informed hosts who are generous with information and answers to all kinds of questions, providing an enriching learning experience. Languages such as English, Spanish, and French are served, making the tours accessible to an international audience.

For those who prefer a more flexible experience, there is the hop-on hop-off bus tour that includes a visit to the opera house along with other significant places in Budapest. This tour starts at various times throughout the day and allows travelers to pick the slot that best fits their schedule.

Booking and Access

Booking a tour is an easy process that can be done over the phone or online through the opera house's official page. Once booked, visitors receive a confirmation that they can print out as their tour ticket. On the day of the visit, they simply line up at the designated entrance and show their printed ticket.

Experience on the Tour

People who have enjoyed the Budapest Opera House tours have often spoken of being serenaded by the elegant architectural detailing and grand interiors. The tours also include a peek into the backstage, offering a glimpse into the meticulous work that goes into creating each performance.

The hop-on-hop-off bus tour, while inclusive of the opera house, also provides an opportunity to explore other historical places in Budapest. Whether you're a history buff, an architectural enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, this tour is an easy way to soak in the city's vibe.

The tours are designed to be comfortable and enjoyable for all. Along the way, hosts provide a light snack as part of the tour package, ensuring that visitors can relax and refuel while absorbing the operatic ambiance.

Broadening the Horizon: Beyond Budapest

For those interested in a multi-city experience, the Budapest Opera House tour can be paired with a trip to Bratislava, Slovakia's capital, which is a mere two-hour drive away. This combination offers a generous helping of Central European culture and history, and there are travel packages available to facilitate this.

The Budapest Opera House tour is a great way to spend a day, or even a few days, in Budapest. It offers a unique insight into the city's historical and cultural facets, a chance to explore at one's own pace, and the comfort of being in a safe, well-guided environment. So, read up, contact the Opera House, and book your tour. Be prepared to be serenaded by the symphony of experiences that await in Budapest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best opera house tours in budapest, and what do they offer visitors.

The best opera house tours in Budapest are typically guided tours of the Hungarian State Opera House, which offer visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the grand building's history, architecture, and production facilities, including the stage, dressing rooms, and orchestra pit. These tours usually last around 45-60 minutes and provide visitors with insights into the world of opera, as well as the opportunity to admire the stunning interior of the opera house.

What is the duration of the Opera House tour in Budapest?

The Opera House tour in Budapest typically lasts for approximately 45 minutes.

Can visitors take photographs during the Opera House tour?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photographs during the Opera House tour in designated areas, but flash photography is not permitted.

Are guided tours available in languages other than Hungarian?

Yes, guided tours of the Opera House in Budapest are available in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Russian.

Sights of Budapest

Harju maakond, Tallinn, Kesklinna linnaosa, Tornimäe tn 3 // 5 // 7, 10145

[email protected]

+37255617605

OÜ Travel Nerd, Registry code 16388532

• +1 (888) 477-9917
• [email protected]

• Your cart is empty
• Budapest, Hungary

Opera House Tour in Budapest, Hungary

About this tour

Embark on a guided tour of the Budapest Opera House, a stunning neo-renaissance masterpiece designed by renowned architect Miklós Ybl in the 19th century. Starting in the main hall, adorned with oak panels and red curtains, we’ll explore the opulent interior. Descending the grand staircase, we’ll reach the impressive auditorium. The tour concludes with a captivating ten-minute live concert on the second-largest stage in Europe, showcasing the talent of two opera singers.

Highlights :

• Explore the breathtaking Budapest Opera House, a neo-renaissance gem by architect Miklós Ybl.
• Immerse yourself in the opulence of the hall with oak panels and red curtains.
• Descend the grand staircase to discover the magnificent auditorium.
• Experience a live ten-minute concert on Europe’s second-largest stage performed by talented opera singers.

Included/Excluded

• Entry fee to the Opera House
• 10-minute concert
• English Speaking Guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meeting Point

Hungarian State Opera House 

Tour Start Times

Frequently asked questions, booking and cancellation policy .

• There is a 48-hour cancellation policy. Please notify us at least 48 hours before the start of your tour if you wish to cancel, and we'll issue a full refund. Failure to do so means guests will lose their payment.
• Minimum days to book before departure: 2 days. Need to book within 2 days? Contact us for availability!

Tour's Location

Opera house tour in budapest, hungary "}}' data-lng="" data-icon="" data-zoom="1" data-disablecontrol="true" data-showcustomcontrol="true" data-style="normal"> from: $70.00 date 08/28/2024 start time adults 18+ guest name * mr miss mrs book now owner.

Member Since 2022

Explore other options

Full Day Danube Bend Tour from Budapest, Hungary

Budapest Danube River Evening Cruise

Guided Tour of the Parliament in Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s Danube River Boat Party Experience

Great Market Hall Food Tour in Budapest, Hungary

Budapest Danube River Day Cruise

Buffet Dinner Cruise in Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, Hungary City Tour

Select User Type

Enter the e-mail address associated with the account. We'll e-mail a link to reset your password.

• Best Things to do in Budapest

Budapest Opera House

The  Budapest Opera House , in Hungarian known as the Magyar Állami Operaház, is located in central Pest. It was built according to the Neo-Renaissance style, a movement that developed in the XIX century along with Neo-Classicism and Neo-Gothic based on the Renaissance Architecture.

The Budapest Opera House   officially opened its doors on  September 27th 1884 ; at that time it had 1.310 seats.

The decorations

The building is characterized by  renaissance  and baroque decorations. It was built between 1875 and 1884 by the famous Hungarian architect  Miklós Ybl . The structure features various frescos, sculptures, and works of art made by local artists such as Bertalan Székely, Károly Lotz, and Mór Than. The reception hall features some works made by Árpád Feszty.

The entrance of the right side is characterized by statues of Ferenc Erkel, author and composer of the national anthem of Hungary, as well as of Franz Liszt, the best known Hungarian composer. Both statues were sculpted by Alajos Stróbl. The structure is very well cured in all its details, both on its inside and on its facade, shaping a suggestive visual impact. The royal box, the foyer, the main gateway, and the numerous works of art turn this theater into a very unique place.

Visiting the theater

If you are spending your holidays in Budapest and you wish to learn more about the Opera House, you can take one of the many  guided tours available in different   languages, or you can also see one of the many performances and shows scheduled by the theater.

The very first performance played at the Opera House dates back to 1886; a trio of piano and arch performed by the violinist Jeno Hubay, the cellist David Popper, and Johannes Brahms who was a composer, piano player and music director.

Illustrious guests from the past Empress Elizabeth used to attend the Budapest Opera Theater even when emperor Franz Josef could not come along.

Opening hours

The Budapest Opera House opens from:

• From Monday to Saturday : from 11.00 to 17.00 or until the beginning of the show
• On  Sundays and holidays : from 16.00 until the beginning to the show

Ticket offices open at 10am on the morning of the show, and stay closed on Sundays if there are not scheduled events.

Tickets for the Budapest Opera House  can be purchased at Hajós utca 13-15, which is open on weekdays from 10am to 5pm. It is also possible to purchase tickets online – sometimes tickets are available at discounted rates.

Getting there

The Budapest Opera House can be reached by metro  line M1 , getting off at Opera Station, which is located just across from the building, or by taking tram ways 4 and 6, getting off at  Oktogon .

Other theaters in Budapest

In addiction to the Opera House, it is possible to attend other shows in Budapest at the following theaters:

• Music Academy  The Music Academy building features some magnificent halls in Hungarian liberty style.
• National Concert Hall The Palace of Arts hosts the National Concert Hall, named after Bela Bartok. The halls has 1700 seats and a magnificent organ. Moreover, the same building is home to the National Dance Theater and the Ludwig Museum of contemporary art.
• Various theaters such as  Madach , Vigszinhaz , Thalia  and the  Hungarian Theater  offer an active modern musical schedule.
• Merlin Theater  and the  German Theater of Budapest perform shows in English and German.

Useful information

Metro stops.

• Opera (67 mt)
• Arany Janos utca (286 mt)

Where is located Budapest Opera House

How to save on transport and entrance fees.

City Card allow you to save on public transport and / or on the entrances to the main tourist attractions.

Attractions around

• Travel destinations
• Architecture
• Digital nomad jobs
• Business ideas
• Digital nomad interviews
• Join mailing list
• Mailing list

© 2024 Bright Nomad

Visiting the Budapest Opera House

• Post date August 14, 2022
• Post categories In Budapest , Cultural Travel , Hungary
• Tags Architecture , Culture , Historic Houses , Music , Tours

What’s it like to visit the opera house in Budapest?

I always enjoy visiting opera houses when I travel. They have three of my greatest passions – music, architecture and theatre – all in one place.

The Hungarian State Opera House in the centre of Budapest is a very beautiful building with an even more beautiful interior.

You can see the interior either with a guided tour or by buying a ticket to a performance. I did both and can recommend both 🙂

The Budapest opera house guided tour

The opera house in Budapest runs its own guided tour , that takes you to different parts of the building otherwise closed to the public.

When you enter the opera house foyer , with its marble columns, decorated floors, chandeliers and impressive ceilings, you immediately get into the atmosphere of old-world luxury.

The guide took us up the stairs and made many short breaks along the way to allow us to take photos.

Be prepared to take a lot of photos!

We stopped on the red carpet on the grand staircase to learn about the history of the building and its Neo-Renaissance style architecture.

It was designed in the 19th century by Hungarian architect Miklós Ybl and took 9 years to build.

Every part of the interior is decorated with paintings on the walls and ceilings, created by Hungarian artists. Most paintings have music-related themes that are fun to spot, like musical instruments and players.

We visited the beautiful Royal Parlour , used by Royals and their guests, with portraits of Hungarian opera singers on the walls.

Another gorgeous hall we saw on the opera house tour was the Red Parlour , which serves as a VIP room, but was originally reserved exclusively for the visitors of the Royals.

Our guide went into great detail about the elaborate decorations in every part of the building and it felt a bit like visiting a museum.

We also visited the bar , with its wonderfully high ceilings and paintings, all with themes related to the sounds of nature.

One of the highlights of the tour is, of course, the spectacular red and gold auditorium .

During the tour, you’ll get to see it from any angle you want and take as many pictures as you want, including the boxes and the stalls.

When we were done taking photos, we listened to our guide’s explanations about the decorations, the chandelier and how the stage and auditorium have been adapted to modern needs.

The tour ends with a beautiful performance by two opera singers. It adds so much to the tour!

The performance takes place on the grand staircase and you’ll be sitting very close to the performers, so it’s quite an experience and a magnificent grand finale for this tour.

When you leave, take another look at the building facade from Andrássy street and also take a walk around the building.

You’ll see statues of Mozart, Beethoven, Verdi and other great composers, including the famous Hungarian composers Liszt and Erkel.

Tickets for the budapest opera house tour

These tours are available in English and other languages and are a popular attraction in Budapest, so you want to reserve your spot in advance.

I got my ticket here and showed it on my phone to the tour guide.

There were about 20 people on the tour I joined, but the guide knew how to navigate the rooms and stairways with a large group of people.

Seeing a performance at the opera house in budapest

If you love opera, I highly recommend seeing a performance in Budapest. Even if you’re not a huge opera fan, I would still recommend the experience.

After taking the guided tour, I realised that the auditorium was not too large, meaning that most seats should have a great view of the stage .

With the exception of some seats with a restricted view at the very top gallery (that use a video screen), almost all seats have a good or excellent view.

There were subtitles in Hungarian and English above the stage that were easy to read.

The opera I wanted to see was Mozart’s The Magic Flute, and as you might expect for such a famous opera, some dates were already sold out. If you know your Budapest travel dates and want to see a popular performance, I suggest you book way in advance.

I got my ticket directly from the opera house website.

Compared to its neighbour opera house in Vienna or some other European capitals, prices at the opera house in Budapest are very reasonable, so you can enjoy an opera performance even if you travel on a mid-range budget.

The Budapest opera auditorium is known for its acoustics and you’ll notice that as soon as the performance starts.

It was a magnificent show, a playful modern production with video art and great costumes.

During the intermission, you can go to the bar and the terrace on the first floor.

More European music experiences

• Paris opera house
• Barcelona’s magnificent concert hall
• Open Air Opera Concert
• Teatro La Fenice Tour in Venice

More about Budapest

• Free walking tours in Budapest
• Street art in Budapest
• Szentendre day trip from Budapest
• Visiting the Great Synagogue in Budapest

Save this guide to visiting the Budapest opera house on pinterest

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

LA TRAVIATA

Un ballo in maschera, day-selecting calendar.

The calendar is loading. The calendar is now loaded.