Budapest Hammer & Sickle Communist Times Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
In this tour, you'll receive a comprehensive overview of Hungary's communist era. Learn about how children were raised, family life, travel restrictions, and what life was like behind the Iron Curtain. Discover the lengthy process to acquire a passport and experience intriguing aspects of the time, from black markets to banana lines.
We'll explore the history of the Communist government appointed after World War II, whose policies led to the 1956 Hungarian Revolution. The tour provides an overview and highlights major locations where significant events unfolded.
We'll visit Liberty Square and Budapest's last remaining Soviet monument. Our journey will take us to the Hungarian Parliament, where the first shots that sparked the uprising were triggered. We'll also visit an exhibition near the Parliament, the site of the initial volley.
Available options
Small-group walking tour
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
What's included
English speaking guide
Coffee or tea or soft drink
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Learn about how communism affected the religious life and operation of the different churches
2
Stop 2
Visit the Soviet Memorial, where you can learn about the end of World War II, the beginning of the occupation, and how the Communist Party seized power over the country.
3
Stop 3
The square in front of the Parliament played an important role in the first days of the 1956 revolution. Here you can learn what led to the outbreak of the revolution and how the party leadership handled the events.
4
On October 25, 1956, on the second day of the revolution, the military authorities and Soviet tanks fired into the gathering crowd. The exhibition presents the events with archive footage and recollections.
5
Stop 5
At the famous Budapest Holocaust Memorial, you can understand what was happening in the final months of the war, while the Soviet army had already surrounded the city.
6
Visit the statue of Imre Nagy, a leader of the 1956 revolution who was later executed. His reburial was an important moment in the change of regime.
What's not included
Pick-up and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
46 reviews
5★
34
4★
9
3★
3
2★
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1★
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Tripadvisor
4.8
21 reviews
5★
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4★
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3★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
NO audio equippment or headphones available on this tour.
Tour goes in all weather conditions so please dress appropriately
Not recommended under age 12
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of the Deak Square pale yellow Lutheran Church, at the church steps
About Budapest
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and thermal baths. Straddling the Danube River, it offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western European cultures, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Budapest Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture and a symbol of Hungary.
Architecture
1-2 hours
€20-30
Buda Castle
Buda Castle is a historical castle and palace complex that offers panoramic views of the city.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore, €3-5 for museums
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the largest thermal baths in Europe, offering a relaxing experience in historic surroundings.
Relaxation
2-3 hours
€15-20
Fisherman's Bastion
Fisherman's Bastion is a neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque structure offering panoramic views of the Danube and Pest.
Architecture
1 hour
Free (€3 for the tower)
Heroes' Square
Heroes' Square is a significant monument and a major landmark in Budapest, commemorating the heroes of Hungary's history.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Goulash
A traditional Hungarian soup made with beef, vegetables, and paprika.
Dinner
Contains beef, gluten (from bread or flour)
Lángos
A deep-fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, and garlic.
Snack
Contains dairy, can be made gluten-free
Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács)
A sweet, cylindrical pastry cooked over an open fire and coated with sugar and cinnamon.
Dessert
Contains wheat, sugar, can be made gluten-free
Töltött Káposzta
Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced pork and rice, cooked in a tomato sauce.
Dinner
Contains pork, gluten (from tomato sauce)
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Buda Hills
Cycling along the Danube
Kayaking on the Danube
Visiting thermal baths
Strolling along Andrássy Avenue
Relaxing in City Park
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending classical music concerts
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Budapest for warm weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and tourists.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Hungarian
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Hungarian Forint (HUF)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Budapest is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious with valuables in crowded areas
- • Use official taxis or app-based services
- • Check bills carefully at restaurants and bars
Getting there
By air
- Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport • 16 km from city center
By train
Budapest-Keleti Railway Station, Budapest-Nyugati Railway Station
By bus
Népliget Bus Station, Árpád Bridge Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient and easy to use, with four lines connecting major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, Főtaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
District V (Belváros)
District VII (Jewish Quarter)
District VIII (Józsefváros)
District IX (Ferencváros)
Day trips
Szentendre
20 km from Budapest • Half day
A charming town known for its museums, galleries, and colorful houses.
Esztergom
50 km from Budapest • Full day
A historic town with a stunning basilica and a rich history.
Visegrád
40 km from Budapest • Full day
A historic town with a royal palace and scenic views of the Danube Bend.
Festivals
Budapest Christmas Market • Late November to early January
Budapest Spring Festival • March
Sziget Festival • August
Pro tips
- Use the Budapest Card for free public transport and discounts on attractions
- Take a Danube River cruise for stunning views of the city
- Visit the thermal baths early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds
- Explore the Jewish Quarter for its vibrant nightlife and historic sites
- Try local street food, such as lángos and kürtőskalács, for an authentic taste of Budapest
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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