Description
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is more than just a river crossing – it is a symbol of the Hungarian capital. As the first permanent bridge across the Danube, it connected the formerly separate cities of Buda and Pest in 1849 and played a key role in the formation of modern-day Budapest.
With its massive stone pillars, iconic lion statues guarding each end, and its elegant iron chain structure, the bridge is both monumental and graceful. Especially in the evening, when it’s bathed in golden light and reflected in the Danube’s surface, the Chain Bridge reveals its full magic.
Stretching 375 meters, the bridge now serves only pedestrians, cyclists, buses, and taxis – car traffic has been banned since its complete renovation in 2023. A walk across the bridge offers one of Budapest’s finest panoramas: to the east lies bustling Pest with the impressive Gresham Palace, while to the west, the Buda Castle Hill rises majestically with the Royal Palace at its peak.
Historical Information
The idea for the bridge was born in the harsh winter of 1820, when Count István Széchenyi found himself stranded for days due to ice blocking the river crossing. Recognizing the urgent need for a permanent link, he became the driving force behind the project.
The bridge was designed by English engineer William Tierney Clark, built by Scottish engineer Adam Clark, and financed by Baron György Sina. When it opened in 1849, even nobility had to pay tolls to cross.
During World War II, the bridge was destroyed by retreating German forces but was rebuilt and reopened in 1949 for its 100th anniversary. The most recent and comprehensive renovation was completed in 2023, including a full restoration of the stone lions. Since then, the Chain Bridge shines in new splendor, illuminated with energy-efficient LED lighting – which lights up in Hungary’s national colors on holidays.
How to get there
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge is one of the most centrally located landmarks in Budapest – linking the Castle District on the Buda side with the city center of Pest. It’s easily accessible on foot from either bank of the Danube. If you’re arriving by public transport, the best options are the metro lines M1 or M2 to "Deák Ferenc tér", or tram line 2, which runs along the riverbank – get off at "Széchenyi István tér", just steps from the bridge. You can also reach the bridge in just a few minutes from Váci utca, Budapest’s famous shopping street, or from the Castle Palace.