Museums in District V (Budapest)

Endre Ady Memorial Museum

Poetry lovers will enjoy this small museum. It is laid out just as the famous poet and his wife left it. It reveals not only the style and taste of a writer, but also furniture and finishings from the turn of the century. While you're looking around inside, it's easy to imagine that Endre Ady or his wife might return at any moment.

Bank Note and Coin Collection Museum

Coins and bank note lovers had better hope that they're in town on a Thursday, because that's the only time this small museum is open. Hungarian coins and notes (and their actual designs) dating from 1924 onward are on display here. There is also a collection of valuable commemorative coins on show. Admission is free. The exhibition starts at 9am.

Budapest Exhibition Hall

If you are interested in contemporary art, this is the place to come. This museum features contemporary exhibitions of photographs, paintings, sculptures and the increasingly popular installation art. The work displayed here is by both Hungarian and foreign artists.

Dorottya Gallery

This gallery specialises in exhibiting new and emerging work as well as pieces by established artists. All of the work is contemporary and the exhibitions change quite frequently. Photography and modern decorative sculpture is also displayed. This gallery is definitely worth a visit for serious art fans. Admission is free.

Museum of the Ambulance Service

This museum traces the development of the Hungarian Ambulance Service. Budapest seems to have just about every other kind of museum you can think of, so why not this? And since the fire brigade has a museum, the ambulance folks couldn't be left out. Dozens of photos and historic signs and notices as well as actual equipment make up the bulk of the exhibit. Admission is HUF 60.

National Lutheran Museum

The Lutheran church has a long and proud history in Hungary. This museum traces it from the Reformation onwards. The big draw here is the actual 'Last Will and Testament' of Martin Luther (dated 1542). For Lutherans themselves or those who are interested in the history of the church, this museum is worth a visit. Guided tours are available.

Petofi Museum of Literature

This is the place that has collected all of the available books (of a literary nature) written in Hungarian. As well as the literature, there is also a collection of manuscripts and other related items, a tape library and a video collection. It is a brand new facility. The goal of collecting every item written in Hungarian took some doing, but the Museum believe they have succeeded. In doing so they are documenting the evolution and changes in one of Europe's most unique languages.

Postal Museum

This small, cute museum is not to be confused with the Postage Stamp museum. Instead, this exhibit features two post offices as they looked at the turn of the century, along with some old equipment including delivery vehicles. It is definite must-see for those interested in the postal system. It is also a very quaint and original little bit of historical fun.

St. Stephen's Basillica Treasury

This treasury is attached to the famous St. Stephen's Basilica. It features devotional objects from Hungary, Austria and Germany as well as a large collection of chasubles (the garments worn by priests). The amount of gold used in some of the objects is startling and the detail of the work is also quite stunning.

Underground Railway Museum

This cute little museum takes only ten minutes or so to see and is located right where all the metro lines connect at Deak ter. They have several old carriages on display as well as some equipment and detailed drawings of the plans for this old system (the first underground on the continent). You can punch a ticket to cover the admission charge.

Galeria Centralis

If you're curious about what life was like in Hungary (or in any of the neighbouring countries) during Communism, then this is the place to visit. The exhibits (mainly photography) change fairly regularly and they offer an interesting perspective on everything from daily life to dealing with documents and officialdom. You can also see video footage and exhibits from around the region. Admission is free - so not only is this a great find, but it's also a bargain.

Ernst Galeria

A treasure trove of books, art and antiques await you at Budapest's Ernst Galeria. This gallery specializes in famous international and Hungarian art. However, they also showcase works of Hungarian artists who have been side tracked or overshadowed. Come have a look at the various shows and exhibitions held here and revel in the intellectually and culturally stimulating environment. Ernst also offers services like evaluation, set and interior decor, research and restoration. Whether you are a serious art collector or just love antique-ing', go browse and see what Hungary has to offer.