Budapest Liberty Square (Szabadság Tér)
Szabadsag Ter, Budapest, HUN
Budapest's Liberty Square (Szabadság Tér is among the most picturesque of the city's public spaces. Nestled in District V, the square is flanked by grand buildings like the United States Embassy and Hungarian National Bank headquarters. A stately Soviet War Memorial is the park's centerpiece, and the interactive fountain is a must-see.
This peaceful public space was once the site of an Austrian fort, and today features historic statuary reflecting a turbulent history. Find a monument celebrating Hungary's liberation from Nazi occupation, and a statue of American president Ronald Reagan. This free attraction is ideal for relaxing and is included on numerous city tours. You can lounge beneath the park's shade trees after visiting the Hungarian Parliament, St. Stephen's Basilica, and the Chain Bridge—all within walking distance.
- Families with kids shouldn't miss the small playground, located at the southwest corner of the park.
- Get a snack—there's a café in the square, and numerous bars and restaurants nearby.
- You can easily walk to the famed statue, Shoes on the Danube Bank, commemorating victims of fascist violence.
The most convenient way to find Budapest's Liberty Square is to take the metro to the Lipótváros neighborhood. You can hop on the M3 metro line to the Arany János Utca stop, and walk just two blocks to the square. Alternatively, bike and segway tours, historical walking tours, and even private tuk-tuk tours typically swing by the square, so it's hard to miss if you opt for a sightseeing excursion.
Though there's really no bad time to visit the square, the fountain doesn't operate in winter, so visit in spring, summer, or fall to run through its spurting jets. You can also stop by for a seasonal event. If you're around during the World Cup, head to Liberty Square to watch the games on oversized screens. There's also a beer festival in June, which is a great way to try the local brews.
For an experience perfect for history buffs, a Hungarian communism tour is a great way to discover the political history of the city. Most tours stop at Liberty Square—to discuss the Habsburg fort that once stood on the property—and visit sights like the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda's St. Gellért Square, and Corvin Mozi, a center of Soviet resistance. With live narration as you go, these tours are designed to illustrate the country's storied past.
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