Margaret Island Walking Tour (Self Guided), Budapest

Stretching for around 2.5 km, Margaret Island (“Margit-sziget”) on the river Danube is a popular green oasis / recreational area that serves as Budapest's playground since the 1870s. Flush with beautiful landscaped parks, ancient ruins and various sports facilities, the island can be accessed either by the historical Margaret Bridge on the south or the Arpad Bridge in the north, from where our exploration begins.

There are lots of lovely things to see on the way, from the attractively wooded areas (perfect for families and/or picnics) to the pretty rose garden and even a Japanese-style garden, made out of the debris of the old Budapest Zoo.

The island is also home to some of the city’s many baths, one of which (Palatinus) is a well-maintained water park with slides for all ages, as well as several pools and attractions, all at affordable prices.

Rounding out the island’s attractions are an iconic Art Nouveau-style water tower (1963), ruins of an old Franciscan church and Dominican nunnery where St. Margaret lived, an old musical well with a statue of Neptune (Apollo) at the top, and a dancing “musical fountain” at the other end – one of the largest in Europe and definitely worth checking out for its fabulous waterworks, repertoire, and light show.

Follow this self-guided walking tour to explore Margaret Island on foot, and laze around enjoying your day – an escape from tall buildings, noise and traffic.