Fisherman’s Bastion

Fisherman’s Bastion was built between 1895 and 1902 on Buda’s Castle Hill not to provide protection, but rather as a lookout point—and this fairy-tale castle site, with its seven spired towers representing the seven tribe of Magyar (Hungarians) that settled here in the 9th century, is all about providing stunning views of the city, the Danube, and best of all the ornate parliament building across the river. In medieval times, a guild of fishermen protected this area, giving the bastion its name, and its construction coincided with the restoration of the nearby church. You can just walk around and drink in the beauty, or pay a small fee for a walk up a tower spire, to further amplify the amazing view.

How I love Budapest. Both sides of the river, the Buda and the Pest, equally. At night, there is something especially lovely about the Buda side and a visit to the enchanting interior of the Matthias Church is a requirement, as well as time to soak up the view from the beautiful Fisherman’s Bastion (pictured here). Any visit to this area of Budapest is not complete until you soak up the dessert and coffee at the epic, nearby Ruszworm Cafe. Trust me.

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Fisherman’s bastion is located on top of the hill. The unique architecture and the colorful rooftop caught a lot of attention. It is also a great photo spot to take photos of the Pest side, since it’s located at a high point at the Buda side. Cafes are along the building, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee, looking at the river Danube and listen to the “Blue Danube”.

Many visitors walk along the Fishermen’s Bastion and happily walk down the marble steps. The bastion serves as a viewing terrace with spectacular views of the Danube. Numerous professional and hobby photographers come here to take stunning photos of the Parliament and the historic buildings of the flat Pest side. The Hungarian Parliament looks amazing from the Fishermen’s Bastion.

Tourists abound at Fisherman’s Bastion on the Buda side of the Danube adjacent to the beautiful Matthias Church. While views from Fisherman’s Bastion facing Pest are postcard-worthy, don’t forget to turn around to see the beautiful visual juxtaposition of the church and bastion.

The Fisherman’s Bastion restaurant can be found on the Buda side of the river up on the hill in the castle area. The views are amazing, but the food is the real treat and coupled with first class service the experience is simply flawless. While the interior design, with its recent restoration, is considered a masterpiece, it is still worth taking advantage of the delightful roof terrace.

Budapest, Hungary is one of my favorite cities in Europe. I’ve learned that you have to be up before sunrise to get that photo op!! This will make all the difference in the world when you are visiting a popular attraction with thousands of tourists. My daughter and I were up before dawn and took a taxi to Fisherman’s Bastion to create this breathtaking image of the sunrise over the Hungarian Parliament. I highly recommend doing this...you will not be disappointed with this spectacular view of the sunrise!!!!!