SVÁBHEGY OBSERVATORY
Discover the Universe in Budapest
Nestled in the peaceful, forested hills of Normafa, just outside the centre of Budapest, the Svábhegy Observatory is one of Hungary’s most beautiful historic astronomical sites and home to the largest telescopes of Budapest.
Here, science, history and the beauty of the night sky come together in a unique setting. The observatory is part of Hungary’s leading astronomical research community, while also welcoming visitors who want to discover the wonders of the Universe for themselves.
A PLACE WITH MORE THAN 100 YEARS OF HISTORY
The story of the observatory began in 1871, when astronomer Miklós Konkoly Thege established an observatory in Ógyalla, now in Slovakia, formerly in the Kingdom of Hungary. In the early 20th century, as the political map of the region changed, the instruments of the historic observatory were transferred to Budapest.
A new observatory was built on Svábhegy in the 1920s. The Meridian House and the first telescope dome were completed in 1922, followed by the main building and further domes later in the decade.
The magnificent Budapest Dome, completed in 1928, became home to the 61-cm Zeiss-Heyde telescope. Today, this historic telescope can still be explored by visitors.
The observatory has been a place of astronomical research for generations – and the public has been able to visit and look through its telescopes since 2019.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPERIENCE?
Historic telescopes & spectacular domes
Step inside the iconic Budapest Dome and discover the remarkable instruments that have been used to explore the sky for generations. The historic 61-cm Zeiss-Heyde telescope is now also used as a demonstration telescope, allowing visitors to look through it themselves.
Explore the Sun
During daytime programmes, special solar telescopes reveal the ever-changing surface of our nearest star. Depending on the conditions, you may see sunspots and spectacular solar prominences – enormous structures of glowing plasma extending from the Sun.
Touch a piece of space
Discover the fascinating world of meteorites: where they come from, how they formed and what they tell us about the history of the Solar System. In selected programmes, visitors can even hold real meteorites and examine their extraordinary crystals under microscopes.
Discover the Universe
Our programmes combine astronomy with stories, history and hands-on experiences. Depending on the programme and time of day, you can explore the Solar System, learn about stars and galaxies, or observe celestial objects through our telescopes.
VISIT US
Individual Visitors
Our English-language programme, “Exploring the Svábhegy Observatory”, offers an approximately 2-hour guided experience with an English-speaking guide. You will explore the historic observatory grounds, visit the Budapest Dome and its giant telescope, discover the history of astronomy at Svábhegy, observe the Sun with the giant telescopes when conditions allow, and explore the fascinating world of meteorites.
Recommended age: 12+
English-language programmes are available on selected dates.
Check available dates and book your experience here.
Groups & Private Experiences
Looking for a special experience for your group?
The Svábhegy Observatory offers a unique setting for groups and VIP private visits, including school and educational groups, friends’ groups, clubs, corporate groups and special occasions.
Depending on your needs, programmes can include:
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guided visits of the historic observatory
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telescope demonstrations and astronomical observations
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astronomy talks and interactive experiences
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interactive programmes like meteorite examination, planet sniffing laboratory spectrum-zone experiments
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special daytime or evening programmes
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private and VIP astronomy experiences
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unique events in a historic observatory setting
For group and private enquiries, please contact us to discuss the possibilities at info@svabhegyicsillagvizsgalo.hu
AN OBSERVATORY IN THE HEART OF NATURE
The observatory is located in a beautiful, historic park just a few minutes’ walk from Normafa, one of Budapest’s most popular natural areas.
It is a place where you can step away from the busy city, walk among old trees and historic buildings, and discover the Universe through the eyes of astronomers.
FIND US HERE
Svábhegy Observatory
1121 Budapest, Konkoly-Thege Miklós út 15–17., Hungary
Public transport:
The observatory can be reached from Széll Kálmán tér by buses 21 and 221. Bus 221 stops directly at the observatory, while the final stop of bus 21 at Normafa is approximately a 5-minute walk away.
Please note: There is no visitor parking on the observatory grounds. Parking is available in designated areas around Normafa.
LOOK UP. DISCOVER. EXPERIENCE.
Visit the Svábhegy Observatory and discover a unique side of Budapest – where more than a century of astronomical history meets the wonders of the Universe.