Many of the seven million tourists visiting Budapest annually want to see the country’s Parliament lit up at night.
Every day, after sunset, the Parliament is lit up, casting a stunning reflection of its facade over the majestic Danube River.
Witnessing Budapest’s Parliament Building during the day and night offers two distinct experiences.
If you see the Parliament building only during the day, you don’t do justice to its beauty.
An evening sightseeing cruise along the river is the best way to appreciate the building’s beauty against the night sky, which is illuminated and free from the hustle and bustle of daytime tourists.
Most popular ticket
# City highlights evening Danube cruise
We strongly advise booking your cruise early. With high demand, tickets sell out fast, so by reserving your spot in advance, you won’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.
What’s ahead
Best way to see the Budapest Parliament at night 🌠
The best way to enjoy the beauty of Budapest Parliament at night is by gliding over the Danube River on an evening cruise. Book Your Cruise
Some tourists also visit Buda Castle on the other side of the River Danube to view the parliament building at night.
Visitors on a budget or those short on time prefer to walk around the building after the lights are up to enjoy the views.
What time does the Parliament Building light up

The Parliament Building glimmers in gold with its lights, which get switched on around sunset.
The best time to view the lit-up building is just before sunset when the sky looks like a painted canvas in twilight with the building in the center.
There is no specific time to switch on the lights; however, they are usually lit up late in the summer and earlier during winter.
Month | Sunset Times |
---|---|
January | 4 pm – 4.45 pm |
February | 4.45 pm – 5.30 pm |
March | 5.30 pm – 6.10 pm |
April | 7.10 pm – 7.50 pm |
May | 8 pm – 8.30 pm |
June | 8.30 pm – 8.45 pm |
July | 8 pm – 8.45 pm |
August | 7.25 pm – 8.20 pm |
September | 6.20 pm – 7.30 pm |
October | 4.30 pm – 6.20 pm |
November | 4.30 pm – 4 pm |
December | 3.50 pm |
Tickets to the evening cruise

You can admire the famous landmarks in the city of Budapest at night with this ticket.
This night cruise on the Danube River offers a completely different experience than what you witnessed during the day.
This ticket takes you down the river at sundown to view all the illuminated wonders of Budapest.
The cruise sails across the following buildings and bridges:
- Margaret Bridge
- Buda Castle
- Castle-bazaar
- Gellert Hill
- Gellért Baths
- Budapest University of Technology and Economics
- Corvinus University of Budapest
- Vigadó Concert Hall
- Hungarian Academy of Sciences
- Hungarian Parliament Building
Here is the best part! This ticket also comes with one complimentary drink (alcoholic/nonalcoholic).
This boat has an inbuilt pub and a coffee house, so feel free to buy any drink you prefer.
Sit back and relax as you sail down the Danube, marveling at the sights and sipping drinks of your choice.
Departure: Dock 42 port is the meeting point from where you will take this sightseeing tour. This meeting point is next to Szent István Park. Get Directions
Ticket price: €13 per person
Book This CruiseNote: The light fixtures of these buildings are sometimes changed to signify special days, so if you are lucky enough, you get to witness these buildings in different colors and types of lights.
The Hungarian Parliament is not the only building that dazzles in Budapest’s night sky. A whole list of other attractions in Budapest offers mesmerizing views at night, including the Buda Castle, Margaret Bridge, St Stephen’s Basilica, etc.
Why is nighttime a better choice?

Witnessing the 268-meter-long (.1 mile) Budapest Parliament at night facilitates a unique experience.
Strategically fixed light works enhance its neo-gothic architecture.
The entire city of Budapest is illuminated after the sunset, providing a different perspective of the historic landmarks.
The Danube River, which flows across the Budapest Parliament, compliments the glistening building, exuding a romantic atmosphere you can experience with your loved ones.
So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and experience a magical evening on the Danube River while sipping drinks.
Frequently asked questions
Here are a few questions tourists ask before booking their night-time sightseeing cruise on Danube.
Does an Evening cruise ticket include access to the Hungarian Parliament?
No, the evening cruise is a sightseeing tour along the Danube River. It does not include access to the Hungarian Parliament or the other monuments you will see along the way.
When should I arrive at the meeting point?
You are required to arrive 15 minutes before the time slot you selected while booking the cruise.
Are food and drinks allowed?
You can’t bring food and drinks on board. But don’t worry – with an evening cruise ticket, you’ll receive one complimentary drink. And if you want more, you can purchase them from the bar inside.
Can I reserve a seat of my choice?
There are no assigned seats on Danube cruises. You can take a seat anywhere and move around to see different views.
Can I get a full refund upon cancellation of the ticket?
You can get a full refund if you cancel the ticket 24 hours before the time of your cruise.