Hungarian State Opera House: The Complete 2026 Visitor’s Guide (Tours, Tickets and Insider Tips)

There’s a moment during every Opera House tour when the guide pauses on the grand staircase, gestures toward the ceiling, and watches as thirty tourists simultaneously tilt their heads back and forget how to speak. It’s the same reaction every time—a collective “oh” that transcends language barriers and proves that some beauty is truly universal.

The Hungarian State Opera House does that to people. It’s the kind of building that makes you wonder what your ancestors were doing while 19th-century Hungarians were casually constructing one of the most acoustically perfect performance halls on Earth. (Probably not building anything with gold-leaf ceilings and 3,050-kilogram chandeliers, I’m guessing.)

Here’s the thing: you don’t need to care about opera to appreciate this place. You don’t need to know the difference between a soprano and an alto, or pretend to enjoy four-hour German tragedies where everyone dies. The Opera House is spectacular as pure architecture, as history frozen in marble and bronze, as a testament to a time when “we should probably add more gold” was considered sensible interior design advice.

This guide covers everything: tours, tickets, the best ways to experience this place without selling a kidney, and honest answers to questions like “do I really need to dress up?” (Spoiler: kind of, but not as much as you think.)

Why the Budapest Opera House Matters (Even If You Don’t Like Opera)

The Hungarian State Opera House, completed in 1884, represents one of Europe’s finest examples of Neo-Renaissance architecture. Designed by Miklós Ybl over nine years with a budget funded by Emperor Franz Joseph I, the building features the third-best acoustics in Europe, a 3,050-kilogram bronze chandelier, and frescos by Hungary’s most celebrated 19th-century artists. After a comprehensive 2017-2022 renovation, it stands restored to its original splendor.

Let me tell you a story that perfectly captures this building’s energy.

When the Opera House opened on September 27, 1884, Emperor Franz Joseph attended the ceremony. According to legend, he looked around at the gilded boxes, the painted ceilings, the ridiculous opulence of it all, and reportedly said something along the lines of: “This is more beautiful than the Vienna Opera.”

Now, whether he actually said this is debatable. But the fact that Hungarians have been telling this story for 140 years tells you everything about what this building represents: a flex. A gorgeous, acoustically perfect, “we may be part of your empire but we can out-culture you” flex.

The Opera House was designed by Miklós Ybl, the same architect behind St. Stephen’s Basilica and half of Budapest’s most impressive buildings. Emperor Franz Joseph agreed to fund the project with one condition: it couldn’t be larger than the Vienna State Opera. Ybl’s solution? Make it smaller in footprint but richer in every possible detail. Every surface that could be decorated was decorated. Every corner that could hold a statue got a statue.

The result is a building that’s technically smaller than Vienna’s opera house but somehow feels infinitely grander—like a compact sports car that’s faster than the SUV next to it.

The Architecture: What Makes This Building Special

The Opera House’s Neo-Renaissance exterior features limestone and marble facades adorned with statues of Ferenc Liszt and Ferenc Erkel. Inside, the auditorium holds 1,261 seats arranged in a horseshoe shape proven to deliver exceptional acoustics, while Károly Lotz’s “Apotheosis of Music” fresco crowns the ceiling above the famous bronze chandelier.

Let’s break down what you’re actually looking at when you visit:

The Façade

Before you even step inside, the exterior demands attention. The Neo-Renaissance design incorporates elements of Baroque style, covered in limestone and Hungarian marble. Two statues flank the entrance: Ferenc Liszt (the piano virtuoso and composer you’ve definitely heard of) and Ferenc Erkel (the guy who composed Hungary’s national anthem and was the Opera’s first music director—less famous internationally, more important locally).

Above them, sixteen statues of famous composers line the roofline like they’re judging your outfit choices: Mozart, Beethoven, Verdi, Wagner, and others who probably wouldn’t approve of your Spotify playlists.

The Grand Staircase

This is where Instagram meets 1884. The wide marble staircase, designed for 19th-century aristocrats to show off their gowns while ascending, is now where tourists stand blocking traffic while trying to capture the perfect photo. (Same energy, different century.)

The staircase is flanked by columns, illuminated by wrought-iron lamps, and covered in enough red carpet to make any Hollywood premiere jealous. The vaulted ceiling above features murals by Bertalan Székely and Mór Than depicting the nine Muses—because apparently, regular ceilings were too boring for this building.

The Auditorium

Here’s where the real magic happens. The horseshoe-shaped auditorium seats 1,261 people across multiple levels, from the orchestra pit up to the third-floor galleries. Every seat was designed with acoustics in mind—tests conducted in the 1970s confirmed that this room has the third-best acoustics in Europe, behind only La Scala in Milan and the Palais Garnier in Paris.

Dominating the ceiling is the famous chandelier—3,050 kilograms of bronze illuminating Károly Lotz’s fresco depicting Greek gods on Mount Olympus. The fresco, titled “Apotheosis of Music,” shows Apollo, the god of music, surrounded by various deities. It’s the kind of ceiling that makes you wonder why modern buildings settle for acoustic tiles and fluorescent lights.

The Royal Box

Located dead center in the first-floor circle, the Royal Box is decorated with sculptures representing the four operatic voice types: soprano, alto, tenor, and bass. It was designed for Emperor Franz Joseph and Hungarian royalty, though today it’s used for state occasions and visiting dignitaries. During tours, you can peek inside; during performances, it’s usually empty unless someone very important is visiting.

The 2017-2022 Renovation: What Changed

The five-year renovation, completed in March 2022 under architect Gábor Zoboki, restored all original decorative elements while upgrading technical systems. The project preserved Ybl’s vision while adding modern climate control, improved accessibility, and updated stage technology—all invisible to audiences but essential for 21st-century operations.

Between 2017 and 2022, the Opera House underwent its most significant renovation since the 1980s. The Hungarian government poured resources into what became one of Europe’s most ambitious heritage restoration projects.

Here’s what they did:

• Full façade restoration: The limestone and marble exterior was cleaned and repaired, returning it to its original appearance
• Interior decoration restored: Every fresco, gilded surface, and decorative element was carefully restored by specialists
• Acoustic improvements: Modern technology was integrated to enhance the already-excellent acoustics
• Climate control: New HVAC systems keep the building comfortable without damaging the historic elements
• Stage technology: The original hydraulic stage machinery (revolutionary in 1884) was upgraded while maintaining its historic character
• Accessibility: New facilities for visitors with disabilities were added throughout the building

The renovation was overseen by architect Gábor Zoboki, with the guiding principle of returning the building to Ybl’s original vision while incorporating invisible modern upgrades. The result? When the Opera House reopened in March 2022, visitors described it as looking like it had been transported directly from 1884—except now with functioning air conditioning.

According to restoration experts, not many opera houses in the world have survived in their original form since the late 19th century. The Budapest Opera House is now one of the finest preserved examples of its era.

Experiencing the Opera House: Tour vs. Performance

You have two main options for experiencing the Opera House: a 60-minute guided tour (10,500 HUF, three times daily) or attending an actual performance (tickets from 3,000-25,000 HUF). The tour offers architectural access and a mini concert; a performance delivers the building as it was meant to be experienced—filled with music.

There are two fundamentally different ways to experience this building, and both are valid depending on what you want:

Option 1: The Guided Tour (OperaTour)

The official OperaTour is a 60-minute guided exploration of the building’s most impressive spaces. Here’s the practical breakdown:

What you’ll see on the tour:

• The entrance hall and grand staircase
• The main auditorium (if no rehearsal)
• The Royal Box viewing area
• Various salons and foyers
• Historical exhibits about the building and Hungarian opera

The mini concert: Each tour concludes with a short performance on the grand staircase by soloists from the Opera company—usually 2-3 arias performed in costume. This alone makes the tour worth it. Where else can you hear professional opera singers perform in a space specifically designed for acoustic perfection?

Photography: Allowed for personal use (no flash, no tripods). You’ll get plenty of opportunities for those ceiling shots.

Group size: Maximum 30 people per tour. Book in advance for popular time slots, especially on weekends.

Option 2: Attend an Actual Performance

Here’s the thing: the Opera House was built for performances, not tours. As one Reddit user put it perfectly:

“For all of you coming to Budapest, you should go to the opera!!! Forget about the traditional visit, go to an actual one. It’s not that expensive—with my GF we took places in the balcony, 3rd floor, first row, seats 20-21 (these were the cheapest seats, but we had a great view). We paid 3,000 HUF for 3h15 of pure pleasure!!! The opera is beautiful, we went to Falstaff, amazing play, you don’t see the time passing by. It’s subtitled in English on the main screen. Was not expecting much (my first opera) but was really amazed and impressed.” — r/budapest

That’s right: 3,000 HUF (about $8) for a multi-hour performance in one of Europe’s most beautiful opera houses. Even the premium seats top out around 25,000 HUF ($67)—less than you’d pay for decent concert tickets in most Western European cities.

Which should you choose?

If you have limited time and just want to see the building, take the tour. You’ll cover more ground, learn the history, and hear the mini concert.

If you have an evening free and want the full experience, attend a performance. Even if you’ve never seen an opera before, the combination of the music, the setting, and the sheer spectacle of the building in action is something a tour can’t replicate. The subtitles are in English (and Hungarian), so you’ll follow the plot.

Ideally? Do both. Tour it during the day, then return for an evening performance.

What to Wear (The Dress Code Reality)

The Opera House has a “smart casual” dress code that’s more relaxed than you’d expect. While gowns and tuxedos were standard in 1884, today’s audiences typically wear business casual or “nice dinner” attire. Avoid shorts, flip-flops, and athletic wear, but don’t stress about formal wear unless you’re in premium seats.

Let’s address the question everyone asks: do I need to dress up?

The official answer: smart casual or formal attire is “expected.”

The real answer: it depends on where you’re sitting and how much you care about fitting in.

For tours: You’ll be fine in normal tourist clothes. No one’s judging you for wearing sneakers on a Wednesday afternoon tour. Just avoid looking like you came straight from the gym.

For performances:

• Premium seats (stalls, first-floor boxes): People dress up. You’ll see suits, cocktail dresses, and the occasional ball gown. Matching the vibe shows respect for the venue and makes the evening feel special.
• Upper floors and standing room: More casual. Dark jeans, a nice top, and clean shoes are perfectly acceptable. You’ll see everything from business attire to “I came from work” looks.
• What to avoid everywhere: Shorts, flip-flops, tank tops, athletic wear, and anything you’d wear to a beach or gym.

Think of it this way: if you’d wear it to a nice restaurant, you’re probably fine. If you’d wear it to a fast-food joint, reconsider.

Getting There and Practical Information

The Opera House sits at Andrássy út 22, directly above the M1 Metro’s Opera station—the world’s second-oldest underground railway. The surrounding neighborhood offers easy connections to Heroes’ Square, the House of Terror, and the city center, making it an ideal starting point for exploring Budapest’s grandest boulevard.

The Opera House couldn’t be easier to find. It sits on Andrássy Avenue, Budapest’s most famous boulevard and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right.

Combining the Opera House with Other Attractions

Andrássy Avenue offers a natural walking route connecting the Opera House to other major attractions: the House of Terror (10-minute walk), Heroes’ Square (20-minute walk), and City Park. Alternatively, head toward the Danube for St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Parliament Building, creating a full day of Budapest’s architectural highlights.

The Opera House is perfectly positioned for exploring more of Budapest’s highlights. Here are some logical combinations:

The Andrássy Avenue Walk

Andrássy Avenue stretches 2.3 kilometers from the city center to Heroes’ Square. The Opera House sits roughly in the middle, making it a natural stopping point on this walk.

• Before the Opera: Start at St. Stephen’s Basilica, walk along the boulevard, stop for coffee at one of the grand cafés
• At the Opera: Take the afternoon tour or just admire the exterior
• After the Opera: Continue toward the House of Terror (10-minute walk), then on to Heroes’ Square and City Park

The Heavy Hitter Day

If you’re visiting Budapest for the first time and want to maximize major attractions:

• Morning: Parliament Building tour (book in advance)
• Midday: Walk to Opera House for the 13:30 or 15:00 tour
• Afternoon: Stroll Andrássy Avenue toward Heroes’ Square
• Evening: Return for an opera performance (if you’re ambitious)

For a complete multi-day plan, check our 3 Days in Budapest itinerary.

The Culture Vulture Combo

Pair the Opera House with other Hungarian cultural institutions:

• Morning: House of Terror (heavy, give yourself time to process)
• Afternoon: Opera House tour
• Evening: Performance at the Liszt Academy (another stunning concert hall nearby)

What Travelers Say: Review Synthesis

Visitors consistently praise the Opera House’s architecture and the quality of guided tours. Common themes include the “breathtaking” grand staircase, the mini concert as an unexpected highlight, and the exceptional value of attending actual performances. Occasional complaints focus on limited auditorium access during rehearsals.

Across TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and Reddit, certain themes emerge consistently:

What people love:

• “One of the best tours we did in Budapest” appears repeatedly—the combination of architecture and the live mini concert wins people over
• The 2022 renovation gets universal praise: “The building is very beautiful and having had a restoration in 2022 means it is looking very beautiful”
• Value for money on performances: Multiple visitors express shock that they can see world-class opera for less than a movie ticket back home
• The acoustics: Even people who “don’t like opera” comment on how different live music sounds in this space

What to know:

• Auditorium access isn’t guaranteed—if there’s a rehearsal, you won’t see the main hall. The guides compensate by showing alternative areas, but manage your expectations
• Tour groups can be large (up to 30 people). Some visitors prefer the intimacy of an actual performance
• Standing tickets for performances require, well, standing. For multi-hour operas, consider whether that works for you

One TripAdvisor reviewer summed it up perfectly: “Even if you have zero interest in opera, the building alone justifies the visit. It’s one of Budapest’s genuine treasures.”

A Brief History of Hungarian Opera

Opera in Budapest traces back to touring companies in the early 1800s, with permanent performances beginning at the National Theatre in 1837 under conductor Ferenc Erkel. The purpose-built Opera House opened in 1884, hosted Gustav Mahler as music director (1888-1891), survived two world wars, and emerged from its 2022 renovation as one of Europe’s best-preserved 19th-century opera houses.

For context on why this building matters culturally:

1835-1837: Opera performances begin in Buda and Pest via touring companies and the National Theatre

1873: Emperor Franz Joseph approves funding for a dedicated opera house

1875: Construction begins under Miklós Ybl

1884: Grand opening on September 27. The first program includes Act 1 of Bánk Bán (an opera by Ferenc Erkel based on Hungarian history), the overture to Hunyadi László, and Act 1 of Wagner’s Lohengrin

1888-1891: Gustav Mahler serves as music director, raising the Opera’s international profile

1947-1950: Otto Klemperer serves as music director during the post-war period

1980-1984: First major renovation; reopening on the 100th anniversary

2017-2022: Comprehensive restoration returns the building to its original glory

The Opera House has witnessed Hungary’s turbulent 20th century—from the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire through two world wars, communist rule, and eventual democracy. Throughout it all, the building stood as a cultural anchor, representing continuity in times of change.

The Second Venue: Eiffel Art Studios

Since 1951, the Hungarian State Opera company has operated two venues. The Eiffel Art Studios (formerly Erkel Theatre) serves as a secondary performance space with a different atmosphere and often lower ticket prices than the main Opera House.

While this guide focuses on the main Opera House, it’s worth knowing that the Hungarian State Opera company actually operates two venues:

The main Opera House (Andrássy út 22) — the subject of this article

Eiffel Art Studios (formerly Erkel Theatre, Köztársaság tér) — a larger, more modern venue for certain productions

When booking performances, double-check which venue you’re selecting. The Eiffel Art Studios has its own character and can be more affordable, but it lacks the historic grandeur of the main Opera House. If your primary goal is experiencing the 1884 building, make sure you’re booking for Andrássy út.

The Artists Behind the Beauty

The Opera House’s interior is essentially an art gallery disguised as a performance venue. Understanding who created what adds another layer of appreciation when you visit.

Károly Lotz (1833-1904)

The ceiling fresco in the main auditorium—”Apotheosis of Music”—is Lotz’s masterpiece. Born in Germany but naturalized Hungarian, Lotz became the go-to artist for Budapest’s grandest buildings. His fresco depicts Apollo, the Greek god of music, surrounded by other Olympian deities. The composition draws your eye upward toward the chandelier, creating the illusion of infinite space above the audience.

Lotz also contributed paintings to the Louvre Hall (one of the Opera House’s most elegant spaces) and various other rooms throughout the building.

Bertalan Székely (1835-1910)

Székely painted the ceiling murals on the grand staircase, depicting scenes from classical mythology—specifically, the nine Muses who inspire arts and sciences. His style combines academic precision with romantic warmth, and his work on the staircase murals complements Lotz’s auditorium ceiling perfectly.

Székely was also a prominent history painter, and his approach brought gravitas to what could have been merely decorative work.

Mór Than (1828-1899)

Working alongside Székely on the staircase murals, Than contributed additional mythological scenes. The collaborative nature of the decoration—multiple artists working in harmony—reflects the Opera House’s broader achievement: countless craftsmen, artists, and designers creating something greater than any individual could produce alone.

Alajos Stróbl (1856-1926)

The bronze statues of Ferenc Liszt and Ferenc Erkel flanking the main entrance are Stróbl’s work. He was Hungary’s leading sculptor of the era, and these statues set the tone before you even enter: this building is dedicated to music, to Hungarian music specifically, and to the artists who created it.

The countless decorative sculptures throughout the building—the figures representing the four voice types in the Royal Box, the allegorical figures in various halls—were created by a team of sculptors following Stróbl’s design principles.

What to Expect at a Performance

If you’ve never attended an opera before, knowing what to expect can make the experience more enjoyable.

Before the Performance

Arrive at least 30 minutes early. This gives you time to:

• Pick up tickets if you haven’t already
• Check your coat (there’s a cloakroom)
• Find your seats and settle in
• Explore the public areas—the entrance hall, grand staircase, and various foyers are stunning and worth photographing before the show
• Get a drink at the bar (intermissions can be crowded)

During the Performance

Hungarian operas and international productions are performed in their original language with Hungarian and English subtitles displayed on screens above the stage. Even if you don’t speak Italian, German, or whatever language the opera uses, you’ll follow the plot.

Turn off your phone. Not vibrate—off. The acoustics that make this hall special also make every buzz and ding audible to everyone around you.

Don’t talk during the performance. Save your commentary for intermission.

Photography and recording are prohibited during performances. The moment the lights dim, your phone should be away.

Intermission

Most operas include at least one intermission (typically 20-30 minutes). Use this time to:

• Explore more of the building (different floors, the buffet areas)
• Get refreshments (there’s a bar)
• Discuss what you’ve seen so far
• Use the restroom (lines can be long, especially for women’s facilities)

After the Performance

Applause customs vary by production. For opera, it’s traditional to applaud after arias (individual songs) as well as at the end. If you’re unsure, follow the audience around you. Standing ovations happen for exceptional performances.

Don’t rush out immediately. Taking a moment to absorb the experience—and to let the initial crowd clear—makes for a more pleasant exit.

The Opera Season and What’s Playing

The Hungarian State Opera season runs from September through late June, with a summer break during July and August.

Types of Productions

The repertoire typically includes:

• Classic operas: Verdi, Puccini, Mozart, Wagner—the standards you’ve heard of even if you’ve never seen them
• Hungarian operas: Works by Ferenc Erkel (especially Bánk Bán and Hunyadi László) and other Hungarian composers receive special emphasis
• Ballet: The Hungarian National Ballet shares the venue, performing both classical and contemporary works
• Contemporary works: New productions and modern interpretations appear alongside traditional stagings

Best Performances for Newcomers

If you’ve never seen an opera and aren’t sure where to start:

• La Traviata (Verdi): Accessible plot, beautiful music, not too long
• Carmen (Bizet): Dramatic story, famous melodies you’ll recognize
• The Magic Flute (Mozart): Lighter tone, fairy-tale elements, relatively short
• The Nutcracker (ballet): No singing required, universally beloved, family-friendly

Avoid starting with Wagner unless you’re committed. His operas are brilliant but long—some run over four hours—and require more attention than newcomers typically expect.

Special Performances

Throughout the season, the Opera House hosts special events:

• The Budapest Opera Ball: An annual society event dating back to 1886
• New Year’s concerts: Festive programming to welcome the new year
• Main rehearsals: Open dress rehearsals at reduced prices—a great way to see productions affordably
• Hungarian-themed productions: Offered at 50% discount as part of the “Hungarian Discount” program

Technical Marvels: The Stage Machinery

When the Opera House opened in 1884, it featured some of the most advanced stage technology in Europe. The hydraulic machinery—revolutionary for its time—allowed for scene changes, trap doors, and effects that amazed audiences.

The central stage includes a revolving platform, enabling smooth scene transitions without lengthy intermissions. Below the stage, a complex system of lifts and platforms can raise or lower scenery, actors, and entire set pieces.

During the 2017-2022 renovation, this historic machinery was carefully restored and updated. The goal was to preserve the 19th-century engineering while ensuring reliability for 21st-century productions. Modern computer systems now control what was once operated manually by teams of stagehands.

While audience members rarely see this machinery directly, its effects are visible in every production: seamless scene changes, dramatic reveals, and the technical polish that distinguishes major opera houses from smaller venues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Opera House tour worth it?

Yes, especially if you won’t attend a performance. The combination of architectural access, historical information, and the included mini concert offers excellent value at 10,500 HUF. Even visitors who “don’t care about opera” consistently rate it among Budapest’s best tours.

How do I get Opera House tickets?

For tours: Book online at opera.jegy.hu up to one week in advance, or purchase at the box office. For performances: Book through the official website (opera.hu) or box office. Avoid third-party resellers charging inflated prices.

What’s the dress code?

Smart casual to formal, depending on your seats. Avoid shorts, flip-flops, and athletic wear. For premium seats, business attire or cocktail dress is appropriate. For upper floors and standing room, dark jeans and a nice top work fine.

Can I visit without a tour?

The interior is only accessible via guided tour or by attending a performance. You can view and photograph the exterior anytime, but to see the grand staircase, auditorium, and other interior spaces, you need either a tour ticket or performance ticket.

How long is the tour?

60 minutes, including the mini concert at the end. Plan for about 75-90 minutes total including arrival and any gift shop browsing.

Are photos allowed?

Yes, during tours (no flash, no tripods). During performances, photography and recording are prohibited.

Is the Opera House accessible?

The 2022 renovation added accessibility features. Contact the Opera House directly (tour@opera.hu) before your visit to arrange any necessary accommodations.

What happens if there’s a rehearsal during my tour?

The auditorium will be closed, but guides compensate by showing alternative spaces normally off-limits. Some visitors actually prefer these “disrupted” tours for the unique access. The mini concert still happens regardless.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit

Here’s the bottom line: the Hungarian State Opera House is one of those rare attractions that delivers exactly what it promises. It’s genuinely beautiful, genuinely historic, and genuinely excellent at what it was built to do.

Whether you take the tour, attend a performance, or (ideally) both, you’ll experience a building that represents the best of 19th-century ambition—a time when architects thought “too much gold” was a concept that didn’t exist, and acoustics engineers were basically wizards.

In a city full of incredible architecture, thermal baths, and ruin bars, the Opera House stands apart. It’s not trying to be cool or trendy. It’s just being what it’s been since 1884: one of Europe’s finest cultural venues, restored to its original glory and ready to make your jaw drop the moment you step inside.

Go see it. You won’t regret it.

Prices verified: January 2026