What are the best things to do in the Jewish Quarter of Budapest?

Visit the Dohány Street Synagogue

The main synagogue in Dohány street is the largest synagogue in Europe. It was built between 1854 and 1859 by a group known as Neolog Jews who wanted to modernize Judaism with the intention of integrating into Hungarian society. The Moorish Revival style gives it a charming architectural design.

 

Dohány Street Synagogue Budapest
Dohány Street Synagouge. Photo: bzsh.hu

Carl Lutz Memorial

This memorial dedicated to the Swiss diplomat Carl Lutz can be found in Dob street (District VII) at the entrance of the former Budapest Ghetto.
It was created as a memorial for rescuing 60 thousand Hungarian Jewish from deportation to death camps during World War II.

 

Carl Lutz memorial Budapest
Carl Lutz memorial. Photo: ourwideworld.com

Ruin bars

Jewish Quarter is not only known for the Jewish heritage and synagogues but it’s famous for its vibrant nightlife. Visiting a few ruin bars is a must if you are in the Jewish Quarter. The first and most famous one is Szimpla kert while Fogasház and Instant are known for hosting parties.

 

Szimpla kert ruin bar
Szimpla kert ruin bar. Photo: budapestflow.com

Street food

Street food has become immensely popular lately and the Jewish Quarter is one of the best places to find it.

 

Don’t miss Karaván Street Food Court next to Szimpla ruin bar; a perfect spot for eating street food in Budapest. For further recommendations see our guide about the best street food.

 

Karavan street food courtyard
Karaván Street Food Court

Street art

If you want to explore the street art scene of Budapest, you will find many murals in the Jewish Quarter. To find all of the murals in this neighborhood check our comprehensive street art map of Budapest.

 

Besides murals, all other forms of street art can be found in this area (stickers, stencils, paste-ups, etc.) To discover the vibrant murals and street art pieces in the Jewish Quarter sign up on our small-group street art tour.

 

Angel San Briz mural Okudart budapest
Mural by Okudart in the Jewish Quarter. Photo: budapestflow.com