Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the opening hours of St. Stephen’s Basilica?
- Basilica (Main Church Area):
- Monday – Saturday: 9:00 – 17:45 (Ticket sales: 9:00 – 17:15)
- Sunday: 13:00 – 17:45 (Ticket sales: 12:30 – 17:15)
- Panorama Terrace & Treasury: Daily 9:00 – 19:00 (Ticket sales: 9:00 – 18:30)
2. How much is the basilica entrance fee?
- Basilica Interior: Free entry, but donations are welcome.
- Panorama Terrace & Treasury: 2,500 HUF (€6.50) for adults (discounts available for students and seniors).
3. Can I climb to the top of St. Stephen’s Basilica?
Yes! The Panorama Terrace offers one of the best views of Budapest. You can either take an elevator or climb 364 steps to the top.
4. Is there an English-language Mass at St. Stephen’s Basilica?
Yes! The English Catholic Mass is held on Sundays at 10:00 AM.
5. What is inside of the Basilica?
Inside, you’ll find:
- The magnificent dome and interior frescoes
- The mummified right hand of St. Stephen (Hungary’s first king) in the Holy Right Chapel
- A grand organ used for concerts
6. Can I attend a concert at St. Stephen’s Basilica?
Yes! The Basilica regularly hosts classical music concerts, featuring its famous organ and world-class musicians. Tickets sell out quickly, so booking in advance is recommended.
7. Are there Basilica guided tours available?
Yes, guided tours are available, covering the history, architecture, and hidden details of the Basilica. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages.
8. How do I get to St. Stephen’s Basilica?
- Metro: Take M3 (blue line) to Arany János utca station (5-minute walk)
- Tram: Take Tram 2, 47, or 49 to Deák Ferenc tér (7-minute walk)
- Bus: Several buses stop nearby, including 9, 15, and 115
9. What attractions are near St. Stephen’s Basilica?
- Andrássy Avenue (luxury shopping, cafés, and the Opera House)
- Chain Bridge (10-minute walk to the Danube River)
- Parliament Building (15-minute walk along the river)
- Ruin Bars & Jewish Quarter (10-minute walk for nightlife lovers!)
10. What is the dress code for St. Stephen’s Basilica?
Since it is an active Catholic church, modest dress is required:
- No shorts above the knee
- No sleeveless tops (bring a light scarf or jacket if needed)
- Hats must be removed inside
11. When is the Christmas Market at St. Stephen’s Basilica?
The Basilica hosts one of Budapest’s best Christmas markets, usually from late November to early January. It features festive lights, mulled wine, and an ice-skating rink.
12. Can I see the Holy Right Hand of St. Stephen?
Yes! The mummified right hand of Hungary’s first king is displayed in a glass case inside the Basilica’s Holy Right Chapel.
13. Are there restaurants near St. Stephen’s Basilica?
Yes! Some great options include:
- High Note SkyBar (rooftop cocktails with Basilica views)
- Café Kör (local Hungarian cuisine, very popular!)
- 0,75 Bistro (great wine selection & modern Hungarian food)
14. How does St. Stephen’s Basilica compare to Matthias Church?
Both are must-see churches in Budapest, but they are very different:
- St. Stephen’s Basilica: Classical-style, huge dome, panoramic terrace, and relics.
- Matthias Church: Gothic-style, fairy-tale turrets, stained-glass windows, and Fisherman’s Bastion next door.
15. Can I visit the Treasury in the basilica? What’s inside?
Yes! The Treasury houses religious relics, historical items, and church artifacts. It is located near the Panorama Terrace.
16. Can I take photos inside the Basilica?
Yes, but flash photography is not allowed to protect the artwork. Tripods are also not permitted inside.
17. Is the Basilica wheelchair accessible?
Yes! There are ramps and an elevator inside. The Panorama Terrace is also accessible by lift.
18. Is there a minimum age for children to enter the basilica?
No, children are welcome! However, prams/strollers may not be allowed on the Panorama Terrace.
19. Are there student or senior discounts for tickets to the basilica?
Yes, Students, Seniors and Groups can get discounted entry to the Panorama Terrace and Treasury (Valid ID Required).
20. When was St. Stephen’s Basilica built?
Construction began in 1851 and was completed in 1905. It took over 50 years to finish due to structural issues and political changes.
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