What to do in Váci Utca, the main street of Budapest

In Budapest there are two streets that stand out above the rest. One is Andrassy Avenue, which is also a World Heritage Site. The other is Váci Utca, the most commercial pedestrian street in Budapest.

Vaci Utca is one of those streets that you want to walk through again and again thanks to its special charm and atmosphere.

At its ends are two must-see places, Vörösmarty ter and the Budapest Central Market.

History of Vaci Utca

The origins of Váci Utca Street date back to the 18th century, although most of the mansions found there today are from the 19th and 20th centuries.

This street was one of those that led to the city walls, in this case to the gate on Vörösmarty Ter.

Even today some remains of that gate can be seen.

Since the 18th century, this street has been the busiest in the city, attracting numerous wealthy people.

This importance continues in the 21st century with its shops, malls, restaurants, cafeterias and hotels, maintaining the mansions that were built in its day, number 13 being the oldest of all (from the year 1805).

Enjoy the atmosphere of Vörösmarty ter

Vörösmarty ter is undoubtedly the busiest square in Budapest and one of the most beautiful.

It is located at one end of Váci Utca and in its center is the beautiful statue dedicated to Mihály Vörösmarty, the poet after whom the square is named.

The buildings that surround Vörösmarty ter are spectacular and in them we can see everything from banks to clothing stores.

The Embassy of the United Kingdom is also there and at one of its ends a place that you should not miss, the Gerbaud Patisserie, the most famous in Hungary and that since 1858 offers exquisite cakes and pies.

Sitting on the terrace to taste one of their sweets is a delight.

The Central Market of Budapest

In Budapest there are 5 markets but the most famous of all and the most beautiful is the one at the other end of Váci Utca.

It was built at the end of the 19th century amid controversy since its opening caused a rise in food prices.

It was seriously damaged in the Second World War and little by little its structure deteriorated until in 1991 it was declared in ruins and closed.

After a renovation it reopened its doors in 1994 and today it is one of the most visited buildings in Budapest.

It is always very crowded, especially on Saturdays, and at the top there are very cheap food stalls where you can taste the typical food of the city sharing a table with Hungarians and tourists.

Practical information

• How to get
  • Subway, Vörösmarty tér (line M1) or Ferenciek tér (line M3).
  • Tram, Fővám tér (lines 2, 27 and 29).
• Central Market Hours
  • Tuesday to Friday, 6am-6pm.
  • Saturdays, 6am-3pm.
  • Monday, 6am-5pm.