Margaret Bridge in Budapest: everything you need to know
- attractions
- March 6, 2024
Margaret Bridge, one of the most iconic bridges of Budapest, and surely one of the most beautiful. But there’s more to it than just the looks. Read this guide and learn all the interesting things about Margit híd.
KEY FACTS
• Official Hungarian name: Margit híd
• Designer: Ernest Goüin
• Construction: 1872-1876
• Rebuilt after WW II: 1948
• Length: 607.6 m / 1,993 ft
• Width: 25 m / 82 ft
• Google Maps: 47°30’52.9″N 19°02’37.0″E
Margaret bridge - History
Built between 1872 and 1876, Margaret Bridge stands as the second-oldest public bridge in Budapest, a testament to the city’s architectural prowess and engineering ingenuity. Designed by French engineer Ernest Gouin, this neo-baroque masterpiece spans the majestic Danube River, offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.
War damage and reconstruction
Like many structures in Budapest, Margaret Bridge bore witness to the turmoil of World War II. Tragically, in November 1944, the bridge fell victim to a devastating explosion, resulting in the loss of countless lives and significant damage to its eastern span. Despite the destruction, Budapest’s resilient spirit shone through, and the bridge was meticulously reconstructed in 1948, blending modern amenities with its timeless charm.
Fast forward to the 21st century, and Margaret Bridge underwent a much-needed facelift from 2009 to 2011. This extensive restoration project not only addressed structural concerns but also revitalized the bridge’s aesthetic appeal. With a nod to its historic roots, the renovation incorporated durable steel elements while preserving the bridge’s original elegance. Today, it’s one of the most beautiful bridges in Budapest.
Architecture
What sets Margaret Bridge apart is its distinctive V-shaped structure, a design choice influenced by the island it connects to. With an angle of 165 degrees at the embranchment towards Margaret Island, this architectural marvel seamlessly merges form and function.
Adorned with ornate statues of galley prows by the French sculptor Adolphe Martial Thabard, and commemorative plaques, the bridge pays homage to Budapest’s rich cultural heritage. The front ends of the bridge pillars feature impressive figureheads resembling winged female figures. In the middle pillar, there’s a special plaque commemorating its construction. Positioned above the plaque, you’ll find a relief depicting the Hungarian crown, accompanied by two towering obelisks on either side.
The views from Margaret Bridge
If there’s one thing you shouldn’t miss when in Budapest, is the view from Margaret Bridge, probably one the best in the city. And, if possible, go there at night. You’ll be impressed by all the attractions reflecting their lights over the Danube – simply breathtaking. Alternatively, for a different perspective (like in the picture above), you can also enter the island, and go under the bridge, .
The view from the bridge a unique perspective of Budapest’s skyline and the Danube River. As you stand on the bridge, you’re treated to vistas of both the Buda and Pest sides of the city. Looking towards Buda, you’ll find an imposing silhouette of Buda Castle atop Castle Hill, with the historic Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church nearby.
On the Pest side, the bustling cityscape comes to life with the Hungarian Parliament dominating the scene. Its neo-Gothic architecture and intricate details shine in the landascape, reflecting off the shimmering waters of the Danube below. Finally, further along the Danube you’ll spot the iconic Chain Bridge, connecting the two bustling city districts.
Exploring Margaret Island, served by Margaret Bridge
No visit to Margaret Bridge is complete without a stroll through the enchanting Margaret Island. Yes, you heard it right – it’s an island right in the heart of Budapest. And it’s not small. Once accessible only by boat, this verdant and vast oasis today welcomes visitors with open arms, offering tranquil gardens, scenic pathways, and recreational activities for all ages. It’s the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Read our complete guide about Margaret Island.
How to get to Margaret Bridge
In order to get to the bridge (and to the island), there are many convenient options.
Metro: If you’re using the Budapest metro, you can take Metro Line 2 (Red Line) and get off at the Batthyány tér station, which is close to the northern end of Margaret Bridge on the Buda side.
Tram: Tram lines 4 and 6 are probably the easiest way to get to the bridge. They’re two of the busiest tram lines in Budapest, and they cross Margaret Bridge. You can hop on these trams and enjoy a scenic ride while crossing the bridge. They both stop on both ends of the bridge, and right in the middle.
Train: If you’re coming from Buda, there’s a connection made by the train H5, between the small town of Szentendre and Margaret Bridge, in Budapest.
Bus: Several bus lines, like the 9, 15 and 91, also pass near Margaret Bridge, making it accessible from different parts of the city.
Walking or Cycling: If you’re exploring Budapest attractions on foot or by bike, you can easily walk or cycle to Margaret Bridge. If you opt for a bike ride, then our recommendation is to use MOL Bubi bikes, which is a pretty cheap and convenient way to do it – you only need your smartphone, and there are docking stations at both ends of the bridge.
Read more: Best attractions in Budapest
Attractions near Margaret Bridge
Margaret Bridge is quite central in Budapest, and close to many attractions, inside and outside of Margaret Island. Have a look at the list:
Statue of Imre Nagy: outside the island, 2 min away by foot from the bridge, you can find the statue of this 1956 anti-Soviet uprising hero. Location here.
Hungarian Parliament: outside the island, a 10-15 minute walk from along the Danube bank, Pest side, will lead you to Budapest Parliament, perhaps the most iconic landmark in Budapest. Location here.
Shoes on the Danube: close to the Parliament, just 15-20 minutes away by foot from the bridge, you have the Shoes on the Danube Bank, a tribute to the Jewish victims of World War II, consisting in 60 pairs of iron shoes symbolizing the shoes left behind by those shot into the river. Location here.
Batthyány tér and the view over the Parliament : this square on Buda side, just 10-15 minutes away from the bridge, offers a great frontal view to the Parliament, across the river, especially when the night falls. Location here.
Musical fountain. Inside the island, about 7 minute by foot from Maraget bridge, you can find this musical fountain and its water shows that go on from 11AM to 10PM, every day between May and October. Location here.
Margaret Island’s attractions. If you keep walking into Margaret Island, you’ll find many other attractions, like the Palatinus baths, the ruins of a Franciscan Monastery, a mini zoo, a water tower, a musical well, or a Japanese garden (the latter being one of the furthest from the bridge, about 30 minute by foot).
Where to eat near Margaret Bridge
You have several restaurants and bars close to the bridge, inside and outside the island. Here’s a selection we’ve prepared for you, based on Google rating and convenience/distance to the bridge:
Margaret’s Restaurant & Pub
Google rating: 4.6
Just 5 min by foot to the bridge, on Buda side, Maragret’s Restaurant & Pub is a great place for tapas and for those looking to try different beers.
Lecso Hungarian Restaurant
Google rating: 4.3
About 8 min away from the bridge, this self-service restaurant on Pest side offers tradition Hungarian cuisine. A good option if you’re on a budget and want to try some local food.
Mcdonald’s
Google rating: 3,9
You have a Mcdonald’s on Pest side, right before Margit bridge. In case you want something quick, or plan to have your meal in the island, this might be it.
Bem Söröző Étterem:
Google rating: 4.4
If your thing is more hearty soups, as well as Eastern European and Hungarian food, Bem Söröző is less than 10 minutes way from the bridge, on Buda side.
Kácsa Étterem
Google rating: 4.5
A bit further away on Buda, you can have Hungarian food in this traditional restaurant, at the sound of live Gypsy music. Perfect for those looking for a local experience.
Rub and Roll
Google rating: 4.4
Located on Pest side, less than 10 minutes from Margaret bridge, Rub and Roll, a restaurant proud of its barbecues, is mostly for meat lovers.
