Cruise on the Danube by Malo
Some time ago, we went on a cruise along the Danube, which allowed us to see some of Budapest's landmarks from a different perspective such as the Parliament building or the Fisherman’s Bastion. But we also got a close-up look at the various bridges that cross Budapest.
Liberty Bridge
This is one of the most iconic bridges in Budapest. It was built at the end of the 19th century, in 1896, for the Millennium World Exhibition. The bridge features an Art Nouveau design, mythological sculptures, and the country's coat of arms displayed on its sides. Originally, it was called the Franz Joseph Bridge. It’s the smallest bridge crossing the Danube in Budapest, but it still measures 333 meters in length. It carries trams, cars, and pedestrians, and it remains a popular spot for locals to gather during sunny days.
Elisabeth Bridge
Slightly more modern in appearance, this bridge is named after Empress Sisi, a beloved figure among Hungarians. Elisabeth Bridge was rebuilt after World War II, as the original structure was destroyed in 1945. The new bridge, inaugurated in 1964, has a clean, functional style that contrasts with other more ornate bridges. It connects the Pest city center with the foot of Gellért Hill on the Buda side.
Chain Bridge
You can't talk about the bridges of Budapest without mentioning the most famous of them all: the Chain Bridge. It was the first permanent bridge to connect Buda and Pest, completed in 1849. It symbolizes the unification of the two cities and has become a true national emblem. With its lion statues at each end and its impressive structure, it is a must-see in the city. It has also undergone recent renovations to preserve its historic beauty.
Margaret Bridge
This V-shaped bridge connects the city to Margaret Island, a peaceful haven in the heart of the Danube. Built in the 1870s, it too was damaged during the war. Today, it is heavily used and offers stunning views of the river and the island.
Each bridge in Budapest tells a part of the city’s story between wars, reconstructions, and modernity. Seen from the Danube, this crossing becomes a true journey through time and architecture.