Inner City (Budapest)

The Inner City (Hungarian: Belváros) is the central, historically significant part of Budapest, Hungary. It is coterminous with the city's District V. and located within Pest, on the left bank of the Danube River.

Characterized by its dense urban fabric, the Inner City features a mix of residential, commercial, and administrative buildings, many of which date back to the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. Its architectural styles are varied, showcasing influences from Baroque, Neoclassical, Eclectic, and Art Nouveau movements.

Key landmarks and attractions within the Inner City include:

• St. Stephen's Basilica: A prominent Roman Catholic basilica and one of the tallest buildings in Budapest.
• Hungarian Parliament Building: Located just north of the Inner City on the Danube bank, easily accessible and a major tourist attraction.
• Váci Street (Váci utca): A pedestrianized shopping street lined with boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
• Central Market Hall (Nagy Vásárcsarnok): A large indoor market offering a variety of food, souvenirs, and local products.
• Deák Ferenc Square (Deák Ferenc tér): A major transport hub and public square.
• Liberty Square (Szabadság tér): A square featuring several important buildings, including the Hungarian National Bank and the former stock exchange.
• Shoes on the Danube Bank: A poignant memorial commemorating the Jewish victims of the Holocaust who were shot and thrown into the river.

The Inner City is well-connected to the rest of Budapest via a comprehensive public transportation network, including metro lines, trams, and buses. It is a major tourist destination and a center for business and government activities. The area is generally perceived as upscale and relatively expensive compared to other parts of Budapest. The Inner City also plays a significant role in Hungarian national identity, history, and culture.