10 Things to Do at the Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház) in Budapest, Hungary
Located in the heart of Budapest, Hungary, the Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház) is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. Built in 1884, the opera house has been a cultural center for over a century. It’s home to the Hungarian State Opera, the National Ballet Institute, and the Hungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra. Whether you’re a fan of the performing arts or just looking to explore a unique piece of history, there are plenty of things to do at the Hungarian State Opera House. Here are 10 of the best.
1. Attend a Performance: The Hungarian State Opera House hosts a variety of performances throughout the year. From operas and ballets to symphonies and concerts, there’s something for everyone. Check the calendar to see what’s coming up and book tickets in advance.
2. Take a Guided Tour: Take a guided tour of the opera house and learn about its history and architecture. The tour covers the main auditorium, the rehearsal hall, and the backstage area. Plus, you’ll get to see some of the costumes and props used in performances.
3. Visit the Museum: The Hungarian State Opera House is home to a museum, which houses a collection of costumes, memorabilia, and other artifacts related to the opera house. Take a self-guided tour and learn about the history of the building and the art of opera.
4. Enjoy a Meal: The Hungarian State Opera House has several restaurants and cafes, including a rooftop terrace restaurant. Enjoy a meal in one of the restaurants or grab a quick snack from the cafe.
5. Shop for Souvenirs: Pick up a souvenir from the souvenir shop located in the lobby of the opera house. You’ll find a variety of items, including books, CDs, and DVDs.
6. Attend a Lecture: The opera house hosts regular lectures and talks about the history and art of opera. Check the calendar and see what’s coming up.
7. Take a Class: The Hungarian State Opera House offers a variety of classes and workshops, including singing and dancing classes. Check the calendar to see what’s available and book your spot.
8. Take a Behind the Scenes Tour: Take a behind the scenes tour and learn about the inner workings of the opera house. You’ll get to see the rehearsal hall, the costume workshop, and the orchestra pit.
9. Attend a Special Event: The Hungarian State Opera House hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including concerts, galas, and film screenings. Check the calendar to see what’s coming up.
10. Enjoy the View: The Hungarian State Opera House has a beautiful rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the city. Enjoy a drink or a meal while admiring the view.
No matter what you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone at the Hungarian State Opera House. From performances and lectures to classes and special events, there’s plenty to do. So, take some time to explore and enjoy all that the opera house has to offer.