Join a historical journey that not only a list of years, locations, and events, but also brings you closer to the diverse eras of the Hungarian 20th century and the fates of its people
3 hours, easy walk
Route & Themes
Jewish Quarter with Great Synagogue
Pest Downtown & Glasshouse
Liberty Square with the Soviet Memorial
Parliament with a revolution exhibition
Shoes on the Danube Bank Memorial
Imre Nagy Memorial
Coffee break
Suggested meeting point
Astoria - 1053 Budapest, Kossuth Lajos u. 19.
Prices
1-2 people base price € 165
Group of 3 people € 60 /person
Group of 4 people € 47 /person
Group of 5-7 people € 39 /person
Group of 8-12 € 34 /person
Inclusions
Hotel pick-up or meet on location
Licensed English speaking guide
Coffee/tea or soft drink
Exclusions
Entry fees, food
Know before you book
The tour runs in both rain and shine, so please dress appropriately
Due to the subject matter, it is not suitable for children under 14 years of age
Deposit payment is required through a secure payment link
Free cancellation is offered 24 hours before the tour
“We are Central Europeans: our nerves are frayed, and our toilet paper is rough” - Estherházy Péter
We start our walk in a bustling square in the city center, then entering to the Jewish Quarter. In the early 20th century, this area was a thriving trade center where coffee houses were crowded with business people and writers.
You'll discover why Hungary allied with Hitler during WWII and how it fell under Nazi occupation in 1944. We'll explore the former ghetto, visit meaningful memorial sites, admire synagogues, learn about pre-war Budapest life, and see how this quarter has transformed into a modern neighborhood.
After WWII, Stalin's "liberation" of Hungary led to 45 years of forced communist rule under Soviet occupation. These times are still vivid in our memories, thanks to our parents, grandparents, and our own life experiences. We’ll visit the last Soviet War Memorial and a small exhibition at the Parliament, where the events of the 1956 revolution took place. You will walk along the river to Chain Bridge passing the Shoes on the Danube Bank Memorial and the tour concludes at Imre Nagy Memorial near the Margaret Bridge.
Communism ended in 1989, drastically changing people's lives as they transitioned into a capitalist society. The journey leading to these changes may spark intriguing discussions. I bring my stories to life using a wealth of archived photos, personal memories, and a touch of sarcasm.