3 Best Sights in Hungary

Spread across four wings (and four floors) of the Royal Palace, this national gallery exhibits Hungarian fine art, from medieval ecclesiastical paintings, statues, and triptychs, through to Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque art, to a rich collection of 19th- and 20th-century works. Especially notable are the works of the romantic master painter Mihály Munkácsy, the Impressionist Pál Szinyei Merse (who independently pursued a style akin to French Impressionism), and the Surrealist Mihály Tivadar Kosztka Csontváry, who was much admired by Picasso. There is also a large collection of modern Hungarian sculpture, as well as regular (paid) temporary exhibits. Labels and commentary for both permanent and temporary exhibits are in English, and an audio guide is available.

In front of the gallery, facing the Danube, stands an equestrian statue of Prince Eugene of Savoy, a commander of the army that liberated Hungary from the Turks at the end of the 17th century. From here there is a superb view across the river to Pest. For another outdoor artwork, check out the nearby Halászó gyerekek díszkút (Fountain of the Fishing Children).

There is a 1,000 HUF charge to take videos, which are limited to permanent exhibitions.

With connections to both Kolos Ferenc Vaszary (1832–1915), the former Archbishop of Esztergom and Prince-Primate of Hungary who summered in Balatonfüred, and his renowned painter nephew János Vaszary, this eye-catching 19th-century building houses the town's best art gallery. Come to see everything from paintings by Old Masters to works by contemporary artists. There's also a lovely art-filled garden terrace with a good café.

A self-described "open community cultural space" located in a beautiful former pump house on the banks of the Danube, this cool little gallery and art space has rotating exhibitions of modern art. Access is through FELIX Kitchen&Bar, an elegant (and pricey) stop for a coffee, cocktail, or sumptuous meal.