Margaret Island

Overview

Margaret Island is a 2.5 km verdant island in the Danube between Buda and Pest, with gardens, swimming pools, a running track, medieval ruins, and a musical fountain. Car-free and peaceful, it's Budapest's favourite escape.

Highlights

• Musical fountain: A choreographed fountain performing to classical and pop music.
• Dominican Convent ruins: 13th-century ruins where the island's namesake, Princess Margaret, was cloistered.
• Palatinus strand: An open-air swimming pool complex.

History

Named after Princess Margaret (1242–1270), who was sent to the Dominican convent here by King Béla IV. The island has been a public park since 1869.

Visitor Tips

• Bicycle or electric cart: Hire bikes or carts at the island's south entrance.
• Musical fountain: Performances on the hour—check seasonal schedule.
• Duration: 1.5–3 hours.