This is the most famous and pictured bridge of Budapest and is one of the prides of Hungarians. Crossing the Danube in the center of the city, the bridge serves as a decorative, yet well-used connection of the two banks. Built between 1839 and 1849, it was the city’s first permanent bridge. During both world wars the bridge was destroyed, cutting off travel between Buda and Pest, but fortunately the pillars remained in tact and the bridge could later be rebuilt. At night, it is lit by hundred of bulbs making it an equally attractive sight on the Budapest night scape.

One can walk across the bridge on the pedestrian sidewalks separated from the lanes for car traffic. This can be a particularly pleasant way to reach the base of the Castle Hill. Be sure to stop and admire the view while crossing and check out the lion statues at either end of the bridge. Legend has it that the sculptor forgot to carve the tongues of the lions and jumped into the Danube out of shame.