St. Stephen’s Basilica: Guide with Tickets, Opening Hours, and Top Tips

Marvel at St. Stephen’s Basilica, a stunning piece of architecture with panoramic views from the dome. Witness the Holy Right Hand relic. Buy your tickets early to avoid long lines.
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St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest

St. Stephen’s Basilica, the largest Church in Budapest, is dedicated to Stephen, the patron saint and first Christian king of Hungary.

Famous for its historical value and beautiful Neoclassical architecture, the basilica houses a naturally mummified right hand of St. Stephen in the Holy Right chapel.

Here’s everything you need to know before booking tickets to St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Top Tickets
# St. Stephen’s Basilica tour tickets
# Organ Concert in St. Stephen’s Basilica
# Classical concerts in St Stephen’s Basilica

It’s highly recommended to book your tickets for St. Stephen’s Basilica in advance. These tickets sell out quickly, so securing your spot early ensures you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.

What’s ahead

St. Stephen’s Basilica tickets

There are three main tickets to explore the Basilica. These include the guided tour ticket, organ concert ticket, and classical concerts ticket at St. Stephens.

Guided tour ticket

St. Stephen's Basilica interiors
Image: Expedia

Experience St. Stephen’s with guided tour tickets that grant you access to the Basilica, treasury, historical museum, and panoramic dome terrace.

This one-hour guided tour is led by a local expert who stays with you throughout.

If the Church is unavailable due to a religious or wedding ceremony, you can still enjoy a guided tour of the treasury and historical exhibits.

With this skip-the-line ticket, you can bypass the ticket counter and walk right in.

Moreover, you will be offered a full refund if you cancel your ticket up to 24 hours prior to your booked date.

Ticket Prices:

Public Tour of the Church only

Adult Ticket (16+ years): HUF 9,455 (€25)
Child Ticket (7 to 15 years): HUF 2,647 (€7)

Extended public tour with Church, Tower, and Treasury

Adult Ticket (16+ years): HUF 15,122 (€40)
Child Ticket (7 to 15 years): HUF 4,159 (€11)

Private Tour of the Church

General Ticket (All Ages): HUF 9,831 (€26)

Private Tour with Church, Tower, and Treasury

General Ticket (All Ages): HUF 12,100 (€32)

Buy This Ticket


Note: Infants aged 6 years and under can enter the attraction for free.

Organ concert ticket

St. Stephen's organ concert
Image: MyGuideBudapest

The organ concert is a mesmerizing experience that brings the magnificent Neo-Renaissance architecture to life with the powerful sound of the basilica’s grand organ.

This concert features a selection of classical masterpieces that create an enchanting atmosphere within the stunning interior adorned with gold and intricate frescos.

Whether you’re a classical music enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable cultural experience, the organ concert at St. Stephen’s Basilica is not to be missed.

Some of the classical pieces played during the organ concert include Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Fantasie in F minor K 506, Alessandro Stradella’s Pietà Signore, and Johann Sebastian Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor BWV 565.

The arias of the program are performed by Kolos Kováts, one of the most famous and talented concerts and oratorio singers in Hungary.

The flute performance is by Eleonóra Krusic, who has performed in numerous orchestras in Hungary and abroad.

Ticket Prices

I Category ticket – row 1 to row 6

Adult ticket: HUF 10,967 Ft (€29)
Student ticket (6+ years, with ID): HUF 9,454 (€25)

II Category ticket – row 7 to row 16

Adult ticket: HUF 11,690 (€31)
Student ticket (6+ years, with ID): HUF 12,821 (€34)

III Category ticket – row 17 to row 26

Adult ticket: HUF 13,576 Ft (€36)
Student ticket (6+ years, with ID): HUF 14,330 (€38)

Buy This Concert

Classical Concerts ticket

St. Stephen's classical concerts

St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of Budapest’s most stunning structures, but the evening’s musical performances will be equally breathtaking.

Listen to world-class musicians perform the best of classical music, featuring works by legendary composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Bach.

The concert series includes a variety of performances, from solo organ recitals to full orchestral and choral concerts, each offering a unique and enriching experience.

Depending on your interests and budget, you can choose from three distinct concert programs, each with its own repertoire and ensemble.

Additionally, there are four seating options available, ranging from VIP seats close to the stage to more budget-friendly options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the magic of these concerts.

Ticket Prices

Category B (All Ages): HUF 15,837 (€42)

Category A (All Ages): HUF 18,855 (€50)

VIP (All Ages): HUF 21,118 (€56)

Buy This Ticket

Recommended


Know before booking tickets

Here are some things to keep in mind before booking your tickets.

Knowing these details, from how to book tickets to the best time to visit the Basilica, will help you plan a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Where to book tickets

Tickets for St. Stephen’s Basilica Budapest are available online and at the attraction.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the attraction.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket counters. 

Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

How do online tickets work

First, go to the booking page for St. Stephen’s Basilica Budapest, select your travel date and the number of tickets you want to buy, and then book the ticket.

Once you complete the booking process, the tickets will be mailed to you.

You do not need to carry printouts: Just show the e-ticket on your smartphone at the entrance and walk in.

Note: You need to carry a valid ID when you visit this attraction.

St. Stephen’s Basilica timings

The Basilica is open from 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays, 9 am to 1 pm on Saturdays, and 1 pm to 5 pm on Sundays.

The Basilia’s general opening hours can, at times, vary depending on religious or wedding ceremonies held within its premises.

You can check out St. Stephen’s official website for the mass, litany, rosary, adoration of the blessed sacrament, and confessional timings.

St. Stephen’s Dome is renowned for its panoramic view and follows the below-mentioned opening and closing hours schedule. 

November to March: From 10 am to 4.30 pm
April, May, October: From 10 am to 5.30 pm
June, July, August, September: From 10 am to 6.30 pm

How long does the Basilica tour take

It takes you around 1.5 hours to tour the Basilica. However, if you wish to attend an organ or a classical music concert at St. Stephen’s, it’s best to spare an extra hour for your visit.

Best time to visit St. Stephen’s

The best time to visit St. Stephen’s is between 12 pm and 2 pm when the sun’s rays cast their light through the Basilica’s windows, lighting up the interiors with a brilliant golden hue.

If you’re particular about avoiding the crowds and soaking in the Basilica’s atmosphere of faith, it is best to visit St. Stephen’s between 10 am and 11 am.

Likewise, the best time to visit the Basilica is between March and May and September and October.

Dress code and other info

The Basilica is steeped in religion and lore, so it’s best to dress modestly when you visit the attraction.

Avoid wearing sleeveless tops, short skirts, singlets, shorts, or caps, and avoid carrying food and drink inside the Basilica.

There are two elevators to access the dome panorama terrace—one in the lower part of the building and a smaller one in the higher portion.

It is best to avoid the second smaller elevator, which is packed when the Basilica is crowded. You can, instead, take the narrow staircase (200 steps) to reach the dome.

How to reach Stephen’s Basilica

How to reach St. Stephen's Basilica
Image: Just Budapest

St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of Budapest’s most prominent landmarks. It is centrally situated in the city’s downtown district, on the Pest side of the Danube River.

Address: St. Stephen’s Basilica address is Budapest, Szent István tér 1, 1051 Hungary. Get Directions

The St. Stephen’s Basilica is well-connected to all forms of public transportation.

By Bus

The Nyugati Pályaudvar M and Nyugati Pályaudvar M (Podmaniczky Utca) bus stops are a two-minute walk away, and the Markó Utca stop is a five-minute walk away from the Basilica.

The bus lines that service the St. Stephen Basilica route are as follows:

Nyugati pályaudvar M / József utca (Bus no. 931)
Móricz Zsigmond körtér M / Széll Kálmán tér M (Bus no. 6)
Káposztásmegyer Mogyoródi-patak / Dél-pesti autóbuszgarázs (Bus no. 914)
Újpest-központ M / Határ út M (Bus no. 914A)
Békásmegyer H / Dél-pesti autóbuszgarázs (Bus no. 923)

By Train

There are two train stations that have stops close to the Basilica.

The first one is the Nyugati Pályaudvar M light rail station which is a two-minute walk from St. Stephen’s.

The second one is the Nyugati Pályaudvar metro station which is a four-minute walk to the Basilica.

By Car

If you are traveling by car, open your Google Maps, insert the coordinates, and drive to St. Stephen’s.

You can find several parking spots in the vicinity.

There are also cars for rent and taxis for hire in Budapest.

FAQs about St. Stephen’s Basilica

Here are some frequently asked questions about St. Stephen’s Basilica:

What distinguishing qualities does St. Stephen’s Basilica have?

Famous for its magnificent interior decorations, soaring dome, and neoclassical architecture, St. Stephen’s Basilica is a sight to behold. It also has a large collection of religious artwork, including stained glass windows, paintings, and sculptures.

What is the admission price to St. Stephen’s Basilica?

It costs nothing to enter the basilica. Nevertheless, admission to the dome and the Treasury containing holy artifacts is charged.

Does the basilica have a dress code?

When visiting a place of worship, it is courteous to dress modestly even though there isn’t a set dress code. Shoulders and knees must be covered, and skimpy attire might not be suitable.

Where can I book tickets to the St. Stephen’s Basilica?

You can book tickets on the online booking portal of the St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Is it possible for you to go to St. Stephen’s Basilica religious services?

Yes, guests are welcome to attend the regular religious services held by St. Stephen’s Basilica, including Mass.

Are there any special events or concerts at the basilica?

St. Stephen’s Basilica often hosts classical music concerts and other cultural events, which can provide visitors with a unique and memorable experience. The schedule for upcoming events is available on the Basilica website.

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Researched & Written by
Jamshed is a versatile traveler, equally drawn to the vibrant energy of city escapes and the peaceful solitude of remote getaways. On some trips, he indulges in resort hopping, while on others, he spends little time in his accommodation, fully immersing himself in the destination. A passionate foodie, Jamshed delights in exploring local cuisines, with a particular love for flavorful non-vegetarian dishes. Favourite Cities: Amsterdam, Las Vegas, Dublin, Prague, Vienna

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2 thoughts on “St. Stephen’s Basilica: Guide with Tickets, Opening Hours, and Top Tips”

  1. We booked this event with a guided tour, and we’re so glad we did! Our guide was awesome, spoke perfect English, and shared tons of cool info about the church and its history. The church is stunning, and the guide’s explanations made it even better. We skipped the gallery visit, but the basilica alone was amazing.

    Reply
  2. St. Stephen’s Basilica is legit stunning! The interior decorations are next-level, and that dome is so epic. The neoclassical architecture is a total vibe. Plus, the collection of religious artwork, like the stained glass windows, paintings, and sculptures, is seriously impressive!

    Reply

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