The Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the most famous places in Budapest. It is on the Buda side of the city, next to Matthias Church, and from its terraces you can see the Danube, the Parliament and a large part of Pest. It is especially popular because of the view, but the atmosphere can be completely different depending on the time you visit it.
We decided to see it in two different moments: at sunrise and just after sunset. It almost felt like visiting two different places.
Sunrise: quiet Budapest
Visiting the Bastion early in the morning means waking up very early, but it is worth it. At sunrise, the first thing we noticed was the silence. There were only a few people around and we could walk through the arches and terraces without the big crowds that normally visit the area during the day.
The light also changes everything. The white stone of the Bastion becomes warmer and the city slowly starts to appear in front of you. From the arches you can see the Parliament on the other side of the Danube, while Budapest is slowly waking up.
After sunset: a completely different view
We came back another day just after sunset. This time the experience was completely different.
Budapest at night is much more dramatic. The Parliament is illuminated and immediately becomes the main thing you look at. The bridges, the streets and the buildings along the Danube are also full of lights.
At this time there are usually more people around. Some are taking pictures, others are sitting on the walls or simply looking at the city. The atmosphere feels more alive and social compared to the morning.
The arches of the Fisherman’s Bastion also make the view more interesting because they work almost like a natural frame around the Parliament.
Everybody can easily admire the landscape of the city through some binoculars along the path which can be used for free (differently from the Italian ones).
Sunrise or night?
It is difficult to choose.
Sunrise is better for the place itself. You can enjoy the architecture, walk around without too many people and see the city in a very peaceful moment. It also gives you the feeling that you have discovered a normally busy place when almost nobody is there.
Night is better for the view of Budapest. Seeing the Parliament and the Danube illuminated from above is probably one of the most impressive views we have found in the city.
So, if you have enough time, our advice is simple: go twice.
At sunrise you discover the Fisherman’s Bastion.
At night you discover Budapest.
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