Jewish Quarter (District VII)

Overview

Budapest's Jewish Quarter (District VII) is a neighbourhood of ornate synagogues, ruin bars, and Holocaust memorials. The Great Synagogue—the largest in Europe—anchors a district that has become the city's nightlife epicentre.

Highlights

• Great Synagogue: The largest synagogue in Europe (1859), Moorish Revival style.
• Ruin bars: Szimpla Kert and dozens of converted-courtyard bars.
• Holocaust memorials: The Tree of Life memorial and the Shoes on the Danube Bank.

History

The quarter was the site of the Budapest Ghetto in 1944–45. After decades of neglect, it was reborn as a creative and nightlife district in the 2000s.

Visitor Tips

• Great Synagogue: Book tickets online to skip the queue.
• Ruin bars: Visit Szimpla Kert in the afternoon for atmosphere without crowds.
• Duration: 2–4 hours.