Located next to the Palace of Arts, the National Theatre is one of Budapest’s most fascinating architectural landmarks. Designed by architect Mária Siklós, its location inspired a design reminiscent of a boat floating on the Danube. The theatre offers high-quality performances for culture enthusiasts, while the surrounding garden and sculpture park provide a delightful setting for a stroll in any season.
History
The idea of establishing a national theatre in Budapest was first proposed by Count István Széchenyi. In 1836, the Hungarian Parliament approved the plan to build a national playhouse on the corner of Rákóczi Road and Museum Boulevard. Originally called the Pest Hungarian Theatre, it was renamed the National Theatre in the 1840s.
Over the tumultuous decades of the 20th century, the theatre company was forced to relocate multiple times. At various points, the Népszínház and Thália Theatre on Nagymező Street served as temporary homes.
Construction of its standalone building began on 14 September 2000, based on the designs of Ybl Miklós Award-winning architect Mária Siklós. The project was completed in a record 15 months. Its inaugural performance was The Tragedy of Man.
Interior
The theatre features a modern yet traditional design and is divided into three main sections: the circular auditorium, public spaces, and the operational area surrounding the main stage. The upper floors house a stunning gallery with panoramic views of the Danube.
- Main Theatre: Seats 619 people.
- Additional Venues: Gobbi Hilda Stage, Bajor Gizi Salon, and the Kaszás Attila Rehearsal Hall.
Garden and Sculpture Park
The enchanting garden surrounding the theatre was designed by Péter Török. Its elegant entrance features statues of Zoltán Latinovits and Klára Tolnay. Statues of other legendary Hungarian actors, including Kálmán Latabár, Imre Sinkovits, Manyi Kiss, and Éva Ruttkai, can also be found here.
The garden’s highlights include a ziggurat, a red stone desert, and a labyrinth, adding unique elements to the landscape.
Getting There
The National Theatre is located in Budapest’s District IX, near the Pest side of the Rákóczi Bridge. The main entrance is between the Danube and Soroksári Road, facing Gellért Hill.
Public Transport:
- Tram: Lines 2, 24 (Müpa – Nemzeti Színház H)
- HÉV: Line H7 (Müpa – Nemzeti Színház H)
- Bus: Lines 23, 54, and 55 (Müpa – Nemzeti Színház H)
Address:
1095 Budapest, Bajor Gizi Park 1, Hungary
Phone: +36 1 476 6800
Email: szervezes@nemzetiszinhaz.hu
Visitor Reviews
Overall Rating: 10/10 (Excellent, based on 4 reviews)
- 100% would recommend to friends
- A 2–3-hour programme according to visitors
- Worth visiting all year round
Example Reviews:
- 10/10: “A treasure. I loved it.” (Gungl Szilvia, 1 year ago)
- 10/10: Reviews with no text.
Features
- Free Wi-Fi
- Partially accessible
- Free cloakroom
- Bicycle storage
- Nearby restaurant
Parking:
- Private, secure parking: 500 HUF/day, 400 spaces (600 m from the venue)
Opening Hours:
Open year-round.
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