Kossuth Square | Hungary’s historic open-air landmark

Kossuth Square is the grand public plaza in front of Hungary’s Parliament Building. Named after national hero Lajos Kossuth, it’s a key site for political events, national ceremonies, and public gatherings. The square features statues, memorials, and open green space, offering a clear view of the Parliament’s facade.

Plan your visit to Kossuth Square

Opening hours

Kossuth Square is open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There are no fences or restricted areas, so you can visit anytime, day or night—completely free of charge.

Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Kossuth Square is between 7am and 9am or after 5pm, when lighting is best for photos and the area is less crowded. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September and October) offer pleasant weather and clearer views of the Parliament without the heavy tourist rush.

The Parliament is dramatically lit after dark—grab a coffee at a nearby café (like Café Gerbeaud) and return for night photos.

Time it right: Catch the ceremonial changing of the guard in front of the Parliament daily at noon. It’s less crowded than similar ceremonies in other European cities but just as impressive.

Location

Address: Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér, 1055 Hungary

Find on maps

Kossuth Square sits on Budapest’s Pest side, right by the Danube, in front of the Hungarian Parliament’s grand riverside facade.

Nearest landmark: Chain Bridge, located about 900 meters away (roughly a 10-minute walk) along the Danube.

Visitor information

Getting There: Kossuth Square is easily reached by Metro Line 2, with the Kossuth Lajos tér station opening directly onto the plaza. Trams 2, 23, and several buses also stop within walking distance.
Accessibility: The square is fully wheelchair accessible, with smooth paths, ramps, and elevators near metro exits. Benches and shaded areas offer rest spots, making it comfortable for visitors of all ages.
Security and Rules: Uniformed guards patrol the area, especially near the Parliament. Photography is allowed, but drones, large protests, or entering restricted zones without a permit are not.
Nearby Facilities: Public restrooms are located near the Parliament Visitor Centre, just off the square. Cafés, ATMs, and souvenir shops are on nearby streets like Alkotmany utca and Falk Miksa utca.

Cultural significance of Kossuth Square

Kossuth Square is a central civic space tied closely to Hungary’s political and historical identity. It has been the site of state ceremonies, protests, and national commemorations, including key moments during the 1956 revolution. The square reflects Hungary’s democratic values through its statues, memorials, and direct link to the Parliament. It regularly appears in Hungarian news coverage and political documentaries, and was featured in Cold War, the Oscar-nominated film by Paweł Pawlikowski.

The design and use of the square mirror its function as a space where government and public life visibly intersect. Its layout and symbolism make it comparable to other high-profile political spaces like Berlin’s Platz der Republik or Paris’s Place de la Concorde.

History of Hungarian Parliament

Frequently asked questions about Kossuth Square

How do I get to Kossuth Square?

Hop on Metro Line 2 and get off at Kossuth Lajos tér, and you’ll get there.

Are there any historical relics or artifacts in Kossuth Square?

Yes, the square features statues, memorials, and an underground site with bullet-marked walls from the 1956 revolution—real reminders of Hungary’s turbulent past.

When was Kossuth Square built?

The square took shape in the late 19th century, alongside the construction of the Hungarian Parliament, and has been a public space since the early 1900s.

Who built Kossuth Square?

Hungarian architects and planners designed it as part of the Parliament complex, with Imre Steindl leading the overall vision for the area.

What are some popular places to grab a bite to eat near Kossuth Square? Are there any local street food options worth trying?

Try Falk Miksa utca for cozy cafés and bistros. For local flavors, grab a lángos or chimney cake from nearby street vendors, especially near the riverfront or metro exit.