Szechenyi Istvan Square Tours and Activities

Long known as Roosevelt Square (Roosevelt Ter), the name of this city intersection was officially changed to Széchenyi Square in 2011, in homage to Count István Széchenyi's generous gesture of contributing one year's worth of his income to enable the setup of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, situated on the edge of the square. The plaza also plays host to a statue honouring the same man, dating from quite some time before the moniker of Roosevelt came into use.

The square had previously been named for the American leader at the forefront of the Allied force's campaigns during the Second World War, notably driving the Nazis out of many European cities and countries, including Budapest and Hungary.

Soak up the splendour of the Four Seasons Hotel in the magnificent Gresham Palace. The exterior is very beautiful, particularly when illuminated after dark. The décor in the lobby is a real treat for the eyes – enjoy multi-coloured stained-glass windows, intricate mosaics and the adornment of wonderful ironworks. Built in 1906, it has had several different purposes over the years, functioning as an office block, the residence of a minor noble, Russian military commanders' lodgings and an apartment building. This all lead to a marked deterioration of the once-majestic building. Thankfully, the Four Seasons group bought the palace in 2001, refurbishing extensively and returning it to its former glory. The hotel has since gone on to be voted one of the best in Europe in a number of travel guides.

The square is connected to the older Buda side of the city by the Széchenyi Chain Bridge. The designer, William Tierney Clark, also conceived of the Marlow Bridge over the Thames in England, which explains the similarity of the two bridges. This was the first of the eight bridges built in the city, practically supporting the uniting of Buda and Pest. It was damaged during World War II, but was rebuilt and reopened on its 100th anniversary in 1949.

Széchenyi Square offers an attractive night-time view over the bridge and on towards Buda Castle. Stroll across the bridge, enjoying the waters below, for a different perspective back on Parliament Building and Széchenyi Square itself.

The square and bridge are open 24 hours a day, all year round.