Looking onto Heroes' Square (Hősök tere), the Museum of Fine Arts is known for its diverse collection of European works. Find drawing and painting from the 13th through the 18th centuries, and a celebrated Old Hungarian Collection. Visitors can buy same-day tickets, but most travelers prefer to buy passes in advance, often at a discount. Several city tours pass by the museum's neoclassical building and may include a river cruise—offering great value, and the opportunity to see more in less time.
Because of its central location, getting to the museum by public transportation is your best bet. Take the Millennium Underground (M1) metro—the yellow line—to Heroes' Square. When you step out of the underground, you'll see the museum's beautiful, colonnaded exterior. Taxis are also a great option for getting around Budapest, but expect to pay for the convenience.
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 6pm, and is closed on Mondays. As the museum is occasionally renovated—and is frequently hosting temporary exhibitions—confirm that the galleries you'd like to see are open on the day you're visiting. Weekends are busiest, so plan to arrive during the week to avoid crowds.
Experience one of the great Hungarian traditions at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, only a short walk from the Museum of Fine Arts. Purchase a full-day ticket and plan to soak in the indoor and outdoor pools, sweat out your stress in the saunas, or pamper yourself with a massage. The neo-baroque building and soothing, mineral-rich waters are the perfect compliments to a rejuvenating afternoon.
