Széchenyi Lánchíd
Széchenyi Lánchíd
4.5
About
Completed in 1849, this bridge was the first to be built across the Hungarian section of the Danube and is now considered to be one of the city's major landmarks.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Várkerület
How to get there
- Vörösmarty tér • 8 min walk
- Kossuth Lajos tér • 10 min walk
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3,233 within 3 miles
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681 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
17,583 reviews
Excellent
10,268
Very good
5,610
Average
1,543
Poor
131
Terrible
31
Raintree_Thailand
Bangkok, Thailand3,422 contributions
Nov 2022
The fabulous Széchenyi Chain Bridge is currently under renovation, but the beauty of the bridge can still be observed from various vantage points. The original bridge was completed in 1849 -- the first across the Danube in Budapest. It has undergone various repairs and renovations over the years, but largely retained the original look. Like nearly everything in their wake, the bridge spans were blown up by the Nazis in 1945. Fortunately, the pylon towers remain and the bridge was rebuilt and reopened in 1949, a century after the original opening.
Written January 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Maggi713
Baltimore, MD11,976 contributions
Nov 2022
The Chain Bridge was the first stone bridge connecting the regions of Buda and Pest. It is the second of two permanent bridges that cross the entire length of the Danube River. It is also architecturally beautiful and the city's most recognizable symbol. The bridge name is the Széchenyi Chain Bridge for Count Istvan Szechenyi and construction began in 1839. It was built by Scottish engineer Adam Clark. The official inauguration took place on November 20, 1849.
The bridge spans 662 feet, which made it one of the largest of its kind back in the 1840s. You will also want to check out the lions that adorn the abutments. They are a reproduction of the Trafalgar Square Lions. At night, it’s usually all lit up and just astonishing. At the bridge, you will be able to have breath-taking views of the city on both sides, as well as the magnificent view of St. Stephen’s Basilica. Whether during the day or the night, taking a walk on the Chain Bridge is a must do! It is currently being renovated.
The bridge spans 662 feet, which made it one of the largest of its kind back in the 1840s. You will also want to check out the lions that adorn the abutments. They are a reproduction of the Trafalgar Square Lions. At night, it’s usually all lit up and just astonishing. At the bridge, you will be able to have breath-taking views of the city on both sides, as well as the magnificent view of St. Stephen’s Basilica. Whether during the day or the night, taking a walk on the Chain Bridge is a must do! It is currently being renovated.
Written November 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
arshadmiantravelling
Middle East711 contributions
Aug 2019
AKA The Chain Bridge, this is a must see for its historical significance as well as architectural mastery.It is the symbol of the city, and you can even see it on a 200-forint coin. At some point in history, it had been the longest suspension bridge in Europe.
The bridge features a sculpture of the Kossuth Coat of Arms at the crown of the tower arches, which is a variation of the Hungarian coat of arms that does not include the Holy Crown on top. The famous lion statues are at the ends of this bridge, with their own fascinating history.
Would recommend taking a walk across the bridge, and just like most landmarks near the Danube and across it, marvel at its beauty under the lights in the night.
The bridge features a sculpture of the Kossuth Coat of Arms at the crown of the tower arches, which is a variation of the Hungarian coat of arms that does not include the Holy Crown on top. The famous lion statues are at the ends of this bridge, with their own fascinating history.
Would recommend taking a walk across the bridge, and just like most landmarks near the Danube and across it, marvel at its beauty under the lights in the night.
Written July 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
TravelMan1952
Solihull, UK78 contributions
Apr 2022
The Chain Bridge is under major reconstruction & is covered in scaffolding & protective sheeting. This has been going on since June 21 & doesn't look likely to be completed until 2§3 at the earliest in my estimation. No access, not lit up at night. If this is one of the reasons for your visit to Budapest. I strongly recommend you delay it until the work is completed.
This also applies to the Royal Palace & The Fisherman's Bastion. Both building sites!
This also applies to the Royal Palace & The Fisherman's Bastion. Both building sites!
Written April 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Vadim
Murmansk, Russia25,880 contributions
Jul 2022
The Széchenyi Chain Bridgei is the same landmark of Budapest as Orsagaz. The reason is not only aesthetic, but also historical. The bridge was built first across the Danube and actually became a condition for the unification of Buda and Pest in Budapest. Interestingly, the bridge was designed by English engineer William Turner Clark and built under the guidance of Scottish engineer Adam Clark, who are connected only by a common surname and this bridge. It is symbolic that the construction of the bridge and subsequent reconstructions were connected with the war. The bridge was put into operation in 1849 during the War of Independence, the first reconstruction took place during the First World War. During World War II, the Germans blew up the bridge and restored it immediately after in 1849, exactly 100 years after construction. And here is another reconstruction and another war. I couldn't repeat my hike 14 years ago - the bridge is closed for reconstruction. It is impossible to go to the bridge. The best way to see from the Buda Fortress.
Written October 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Calvin K
4 contributions
May 2022 • Solo
Closed until 2023.
As another user stated it has been closed since June 2021.
No access and everything under covers and lots of scaffolding. Quite a few areas under construction until 2023 (150 year anniversary or something like that) so bear in mind before you travel here if it will affect you:
Gellerts hill cave. Elizabeth Lookout Tower. Seven places in Castle Hill. Citadella. Liberty statue etc
Chairlift is closed until 3.06.22 (from 01.05.22) still plenty to see though.
As another user stated it has been closed since June 2021.
No access and everything under covers and lots of scaffolding. Quite a few areas under construction until 2023 (150 year anniversary or something like that) so bear in mind before you travel here if it will affect you:
Gellerts hill cave. Elizabeth Lookout Tower. Seven places in Castle Hill. Citadella. Liberty statue etc
Chairlift is closed until 3.06.22 (from 01.05.22) still plenty to see though.
Written May 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Juliet R
Budapest, Hungary366 contributions
Jan 2020 • Solo
A great place to walk or linger to admire the Danube. You can walk across in minutes to either side and there are steps down to waterside and underneath. Well placed benches waterside and great photo ops from alongside the boats or docks. As you walk across check out the inscriptions at beginning and end and also by the Lions on all sides.
I think evenings or early mornings are best because less vehicles and people and you can get better unobstructed views of the surrounding buildings & Danube.
Enjoy walking in the evenings as the sun sets all the city is lit with golden lights.
I think evenings or early mornings are best because less vehicles and people and you can get better unobstructed views of the surrounding buildings & Danube.
Enjoy walking in the evenings as the sun sets all the city is lit with golden lights.
Written January 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Onleaveagain
Stratford-upon-Avon, UK8,116 contributions
Aug 2022
During our recent visit to Budapest, this bridge was undergoing major renovation works and therefore it wasn’t possible to walk over it. In fact, a lot of the structure was concealed with hoardings and the like. Having visited Budapest before this is an iconic landmark and one which must not be missed once the works have been completed
Written August 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dhritiman_B
Eindhoven, The Netherlands31 contributions
Dec 2022
Chain bridge was one of the major attractions which pulled us there. Thanks to some bollywood sequences. However there was a heart break when we realized no pedestrians are allowed on this bridge. No worries, we took to the otherside through bus and took the snaps and let this unfulfilled wish a "to do" for the next trip. Another let down was, due to ongoing renovations, the lights were off during the night. Thus the major beauty of this bridge during night was lost :(
Written January 13, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Alex S
Leicester, UK152 contributions
Oct 2019
If you stroll along the River Danube embankment from the Parliament building or walk from St Stephen's Basilica directly towards the bridge you can cover so many interesting tourist venues in 1 day. Everyone knows this bridge as " Chain Bridge " but officially as the " Szechenyi Chain Bridge".
The suspension bridge was designed and made in sections in England and imported to Budapest.Hungary. The bridge spans the River Danube between Bude and Pest ie the Western and Eastern sides of Budapest. The bridge was designed by an English Engineer namely William Tierney Clark and built by a Scottish Engineer called Adam Clarke. The construction was overseen by Adam Clark and was completed in 1849. It was the 1st permanent bridge crossing the Danube in Budapest. Prior to this people used to cross the River by a ferry. The bridge's Span is 380 mtrs with facilities for the flow of 2 lane traffic and provides enclosed safe pavements for pedestrians either side. The bridge is anchored on the Pest side in Szechenyi (formerly Roosevelt Sq) adjacent to the Gresham Palace and on the Bude side to the Adam Clark Sq near the lower end of Castle hill Funicular leading to Budha Castle.
The Bridge Towers are richly decorated with the Hungary Coats of Arms with the crown and a wreathed of leaves and the Portals are decorated with Stone Lion Statues by Sculptor Jan Marschalko.
During the protests against Soviet Rule in 1989 the bridge was the site of demonstrations, this added to the people's love of the bridge and made it a symbol of Independence. The Chain Bridge and the Parliament building stands out with their glittering night illuminations. It's a must you should visit Bath venues during the day and night.
The bridge's of Budapest Are:-Megger, Arpod, Margaret, Chain, Elizabeth, Liberty, Pitofi, Lagymanyosi.
Do visit the Fisherman's Bastion and the Budha Castle and take some spectacular photos of the lower part of the River embankment etc of course the Chain Bridge and Parliament House. Thisis a must on your visit list.
The suspension bridge was designed and made in sections in England and imported to Budapest.Hungary. The bridge spans the River Danube between Bude and Pest ie the Western and Eastern sides of Budapest. The bridge was designed by an English Engineer namely William Tierney Clark and built by a Scottish Engineer called Adam Clarke. The construction was overseen by Adam Clark and was completed in 1849. It was the 1st permanent bridge crossing the Danube in Budapest. Prior to this people used to cross the River by a ferry. The bridge's Span is 380 mtrs with facilities for the flow of 2 lane traffic and provides enclosed safe pavements for pedestrians either side. The bridge is anchored on the Pest side in Szechenyi (formerly Roosevelt Sq) adjacent to the Gresham Palace and on the Bude side to the Adam Clark Sq near the lower end of Castle hill Funicular leading to Budha Castle.
The Bridge Towers are richly decorated with the Hungary Coats of Arms with the crown and a wreathed of leaves and the Portals are decorated with Stone Lion Statues by Sculptor Jan Marschalko.
During the protests against Soviet Rule in 1989 the bridge was the site of demonstrations, this added to the people's love of the bridge and made it a symbol of Independence. The Chain Bridge and the Parliament building stands out with their glittering night illuminations. It's a must you should visit Bath venues during the day and night.
The bridge's of Budapest Are:-Megger, Arpod, Margaret, Chain, Elizabeth, Liberty, Pitofi, Lagymanyosi.
Do visit the Fisherman's Bastion and the Budha Castle and take some spectacular photos of the lower part of the River embankment etc of course the Chain Bridge and Parliament House. Thisis a must on your visit list.
Written January 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
nicola h
Blackburn, UK79 contributions
Hi guys.
Does any 1 know if this is the bridge were u can place padlocks or is there another. Also any recommendations for a 4 night stay here. We are arriving 4th Nov. Thanks
martytc2014
Warrington, UK326 contributions
Don't think you can put locks on. Huge chains. Certainly wouldn't recommend where we stayed as too far out from tourist areas. I would have liked to stay in buda.
cabboiar
Columbus, OH49 contributions
I was wondering if there was an airport shuttle to Sofitel hotel at chain bridge?
gemtraveller30
Walton-On-Thames, UK179 contributions
I had already arranged transfers from airport to my hotel on the way out. I looked into options for return home, couldn't find a bus shuttle service like other places, maybe as it's further out the city compared to other places.
I was just reading that construction on the Chain bridge will start in September or October 2019. I have had difficulty finding the exact dates etc. We will be there for a short trip on Oct 1-4. Thank you.
Tom D
Buffalo, NY63 contributions
MY Understanding is that there will be a pedestrian area most of the time. But it may not be completely across the whole bridge. But call your hotel.
Κωνσταντινα Γ
Athens, Greece
Πώς μπορώ να φτάσω με δημόσια συγκοινωνία
theoadamopoulos
Athens, Greece376 contributions
Η μετακίνηση στην πόλη είναι εύκολη γρήγορη και ευχάριστη,με τα μέσα συγκοινωνίας αλλά και με τα πόδια.Στην συγκεκριμένη γέφυρα μπορεί κάποιος να πάει με όλους τους τρόπους,μέσα η με τα πόδια
yvonneguthrie24
London, UK18 contributions
Just wanted to ask if is possible to walk over the Chain Bridge? We are visiting 8 November. I heard there may be renovations to it that would close it but I’ve read some recent reviews which seem to indicate it’s open? Thanks.
Didi H
Strasbourg, France329 contributions
Hi ,Yvonne ,yes you can pass through the bridge from Buda to Pest side and it is preferable to do so .The views are stunning .
Lisavdh
Munich, Germany186 contributions
Hi there, someone asked this question in March 2018, but I need more recent answers as to when the renovations will begin on the Chain Bridge? We are visiting end of September and I’d heard the renovations were starting September but this hasn’t been confirmed. Anyone been there in the last few weeks or that can confirm exactly when these works will start, or if they’ve started? Thanks!
stan764
Tampa, FL105 contributions
We were in Budapest the first few days of September and chain bridge not being renovated then
Can you walk across the bridge?
Darren99999
Aylesbury Vale, UK518 contributions
Yes, kn fact I would recommend walking rather than driving as the views are better
David C
Appleton, UK196 contributions
We understood that the bridge was to be renovated following our visit in March 2018 but is it still open ?
Tazzapazza
11 contributions
I was there this summer and it was open
Széchenyi Lánchíd (Budapest) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Széchenyi Lánchíd
- We recommend booking Széchenyi Lánchíd tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 135 Széchenyi Lánchíd tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Széchenyi Lánchíd:
- Big Bus Budapest Hop-On Hop-Off Tour (From $16.09)
- Budapest Danube River Sightseeing Night Cruise by Legenda City Cruises (From $20.38)
- Candlelit Dinner Cruise by Legenda City Cruises, Budapest (From $91.18)
- Evening Cruise on the Danube with Optional Drinks (From $15.02)
- City Sightseeing Budapest Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour, Boat and Walking Tour (From $35.40)
- Hotels near Széchenyi Lánchíd:
- (0.18 mi) Hotel Clark Budapest
- (0.17 mi) Budapest Best Apartments
- (0.20 mi) Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace
- (0.20 mi) Sofitel Budapest Chain Bridge
- (0.26 mi) Prestige Hotel Budapest
- Restaurants near Széchenyi Lánchíd:
- (0.17 mi) Lanchid Brasserie
- (0.17 mi) Marvelosa
- (0.20 mi) KOLLAZS - Brasserie & Bar
- (0.16 mi) Vén Hajó Restaurant
- (0.17 mi) ZONA Budapest
- Attractions near Széchenyi Lánchíd:
- (0.01 mi) Roosevelt Square
- (0.15 mi) Pannónia Boat
- (0.18 mi) Mysterium Tours
- (0.19 mi) Budapest Wonderguides
- (0.12 mi) Budapeste Para Brasileiros