Ferenciek Square (Parisien passage)
The Ferenciek square used to be the center of the historic city of Pest, and still plays an essential role in the capital’s everydays. It’s not only a busy and popular hotspot, but also a place full of cultural and gastronomic adventures.
If you are wondering where the name comes from, just look around at the square, and you will see the Budapest Belvárosi Ferences church which has been standing there since the 18. century. Visiting the church is a must not just for its religious, but also its architectural treasures.
You are just at the right place if you enjoy discovering architectural beauties: the Klotild palaces and the Brudern-House with the Párizsi udvar in it offer breathtaking sights. The Brudern-House now operates as a hotel, but you can - and should - still visit Párizsi udvar, the only shopping garden left from the past century. Thanks to last years’ renovation works the building is now just as beautiful as it was in its golden ages.
You will find the very first fountain decorated with statues, the Well of the Nereids. Also just a couple of minutes walking and you’ll find yourself in Pilvax köz, the starting point of the 1848-1849 revolution, a huge milestone of Hungarian history. Although the original Café House is no longer there, you may walk around the block and the streets following the steps of the historic events. After discovering all the sights of Ferenciek square, just hop back on to the bus to continue your Hop On Hop Off Budapest tour towards Gellért bath.
The Ferenciek square is also the 13th stop of the Hop On Hop Off buses. Check out its exact location on the map!
FAQ
Yes, you can! While the Párisi Udvar is now a luxury Hyatt hotel, the iconic shopping passage is open to the public for free. You can admire the stunning Arabic, Moorish, and Gothic-style glass dome and Zsolnay ceramics. For a seated experience, the Párisi Passage Café & Restaurant is open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
These "Twin Palaces" act as a gateway to Elizabeth Bridge. Locally, they are known as Klotild (North) and Matild (South). Today, Matild Palace houses a Luxury Collection Hotel and the Matild Café & Cabaret, while the Northern Klotild is often searched for its neo-baroque towers that feature 48-meter-high carved stone crowns.
Following its recent renovation, the M3 Metro Station at Ferenciek Square has become a trending photo spot. The platform level features a unique gold and brown color palette with graphic motifs of birds, which refer to the legend of Saint Francis and the Franciscan order that gives the square its name.
This is Budapest's first fountain decorated with statues. Erected in 1835, it depicts two sea nymphs (Nereids) and is a popular meeting point for locals. It stands directly in front of the Inner City Franciscan Church, which is a must-visit for its Baroque interior.
Absolutely. The square marks the beginning of the world-famous Váci Street (Váci utca), Budapest's main pedestrian shopping avenue. It is also just a few minutes' walk from the Erzsébet Bridge and the University Library, one of the most beautiful libraries in Europe.
While the square is known for high-end dining, search trends show users look for budget options nearby. You are just steps away from several supermarkets like Spar and Aldi (open until 8:00 or 9:00 PM), and the famous Ibolya Presszó, a retro café that offers a glimpse into 1970s Budapest at reasonable prices.
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