Contents
Introduction: Welcome to Újbuda – The XI. Kerület
Budapest is a city of contrasts—divided by the Danube, united by its history, and colored by the diversity of its districts. Among its 23 boroughs, XI. kerület, officially known as Újbuda, stands out as one of the most dynamic, expansive, and beloved areas of the Hungarian capital.
Újbuda is located on the Buda side of the city and includes university campuses, art centers, historical landmarks, riverbank promenades, hills, and valleys. Whether you’re a local looking for nature escapes or a tourist curious about life beyond the city center, the XI. kerület offers a blend of old and new, urban and natural, academic and artistic.
A Brief History of XI. Kerület
The area that makes up Újbuda has a rich history that stretches back to Roman times. The ancient city of Aquincum was located just to the north, and various archaeological finds show that the area was continuously inhabited through the centuries. The modern concept of the district, however, came into being in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as Budapest expanded.
The name Újbuda (meaning “New Buda”) reflects the wave of urban development that transformed this area from rural land and vineyards into a bustling urban neighborhood. The fact that Újbuda is currently the most populated and second-largest district in Budapest is evidence of its practical significance and residential appeal.
Geography and Neighborhoods
XI. kerület is vast and diverse. It includes neighborhoods with completely different atmospheres—from densely built-up urban zones to forested hillsides. Here are some key areas:
1. Gellért Hill (Gellérthegy)
- Home to the Citadel, Liberty Statue, and Gellért Thermal Baths
- Offers panoramic views of the Danube and Pest side
- A well-liked vacation spot and UNESCO World Heritage Site
2. Lágymányos
- Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) is well-known for
- A youthful, vibrant area filled with cafes, bars, and students
- Hosts the futuristic CET Building (Bálna) and the Kopaszi-gát leisure park
3. Kelenföld
- Residential and transport hub
- Home to Kelenföld Railway Station and the southern terminus of Metro Line 4
- Recently undergoing transformation with new office buildings and apartment complexes
4. Gazdagrét
- Famous for being the filming location of the Hungarian TV series Szomszédok
- Mostly residential, featuring large apartment complexes and green areas
5. Sasad and Sashegy
- Affluent hillside neighborhoods with villas and gardens
- Quiet and green, ideal for families and nature lovers
Cultural Highlights and Attractions
Újbuda is not just a place to live—it’s a place to explore. Cultural, historical, and recreational activities abound throughout the district.
🏛️ Gellért Baths
One of the most iconic thermal bathhouses in Budapest, the Gellért Fürdő combines art nouveau architecture with luxurious spa facilities. It’s a must-visit for both relaxation and history.
🎭 MU Theatre
A gem in the independent theater scene, MU Színház is a cultural incubator for experimental performances, dance, and contemporary art.
🖼️ Bartók Béla Boulevard (Bartók Béla út)
Often referred to as the “cultural boulevard” of Újbuda, this street has transformed into a hub of galleries, artisan bakeries, indie bookstores, and cozy cafes. Highlights include:
- Faur Zsófi Gallery
- Kelet Café and Gallery
- Hadik Café – once the favorite hangout of poet Frigyes Karinthy
🎓 Universities and Education
Újbuda is a major academic center, hosting:
- BME (Budapest University of Technology and Economics)
- Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) – Faculty of Science
- Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design (MOME) nearby
This gives the district a vibrant, intellectual energy fueled by thousands of students from Hungary and abroad.
Nature and Outdoor Life
One of XI. kerület’s biggest advantages is its proximity to nature. Despite its urban developments, Újbuda offers an abundance of green spaces and trails.
🌳 Kopaszi-gát
A beautifully landscaped promenade along the Danube with cafes, playgrounds, and walking trails. Ideal for families, joggers, and cyclists.
🏞️ Sashegy Nature Reserve
This protected area is known for its native flora and panoramic views of the city. It’s a peaceful retreat with guided tours and educational programs.
🧗 Hármashatár-hegy and Buda Hills
While technically spilling into neighboring districts, the western edge of Újbuda connects to the extensive Buda Hills hiking system. Popular destinations include:
- Normafa
- János-hegy
- Erzsébet Lookout Tower
Transport and Accessibility
Getting around XI. kerület is easy thanks to its excellent public transport infrastructure.
- Metro Line 4 (M4) connects Kelenföld to Keleti Railway Station
- Trams 47 and 49 link to the city center along Bartók Béla út.
- Numerous bus and trolleybus lines serve the district
- Kelenföld Railway Station is a major domestic and international train hub
Additionally, the area is cyclist-friendly with designated bike lanes and riverfront paths.
Real Estate and Living in XI. Kerület
Living in Újbuda offers a mix of convenience and quality of life. From luxury apartments with Danube views to post-socialist housing blocks and hillside villas, there’s something for every lifestyle and budget.
- Kelenföld and Gazdagrét offer affordable housing options
- Bartók Béla Boulevard is trendy and central
- Sasad/Sashegy caters to families and upper-middle-class residents
In recent years, real estate prices have risen, especially around the new developments in Újbuda Center and Etele Plaza area. Still, compared to central Pest districts, Újbuda provides more space and green surroundings.
Community and Lifestyle
Újbuda’s community is diverse: students, professionals, families, retirees, and artists all coexist. The local government actively promotes community events, green initiatives, and cultural programs.
🛍️ Markets and Shopping
- Fehérvári úti Piac – Local market with fresh produce and Hungarian specialties
- Etele Plaza – A new shopping mall with modern facilities and entertainment options
☕ Cafés and Dining
From traditional Hungarian eateries to modern brunch spots and vegan restaurants, Újbuda’s food scene is thriving.
Top spots include:
- Koppenhága Café
- BÉLA Bartók
- Szatyor Bár
- Pesti Pipi (chicken lovers unite!)
Conclusion:
Újbuda, the XI. kerület of Budapest, is more than just a residential district—it’s a microcosm of Hungarian life. With its harmonious balance of culture, nature, history, and modernity, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a visitor discovering the city, a student chasing knowledge, or a family seeking a peaceful yet connected neighborhood, Újbuda welcomes you with open arms.
From the buzz of Bartók Béla Boulevard to the silence of Sashegy, XI. kerület proves that you don’t have to choose between urban energy and green tranquility—you can have both.
