Flamboyant and quirky, the premises of the National Theatre have been a prominent landmark of the southern Pest, ever since they opened their doors in 2002. Shaped like the prow of an elegant cruise ship slicing though the eastern bank of the Danube, the playfulness of its design shines through – especially in the statues and monuments scattered around. A jester stands guard at the entrance, the garden gates are shaped like the opening of the stage's curtains, and the garden itself is home to both a ziggurat and a maze.All this makes for a fantastic home for Hungary's pre-eminent venue for drama – and also a very welcome one. The National Theatre Company spent nearly 50 years of its 160-year life wandering from venue to venue, after its neoclassical home on Blaha Lujza square was demolished in 1963. Now its new home is a major attraction, despite its rather remote location. In part that's for its fine dramatic reputation. And in part because of the wonderfully bizarre building.The National Theatre's outside is worth a wander around for closer inspection. Tastefully sculpted in mirrored glass and clean white columns, the 'prow' actually breaks over a shallow pond. Look into it, and you'll see a replica of the grand façade of the old National Theatre, submerged beneath the waters. Above the entrance, its columns are clung to by nine golden-haired muses, striking various dramatic poses.Inside the theatre is equally striking – a great circular wall of glass on the outside, the auditorium inside is a square, filled with golden-hued geometry. The 'boxes' are literally boxes, and the stall seating is simple and sparse – leaving all focus for the stage. That edgy modernism matches the productions played out here. Contemporary plays and provocative themes are the staple, with music performances of all genres – from jazz to opera – taking place in the nearby Hall of Arts.
National Theater Tours and Activities
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Tours & day trips
See all 658 activitiesOpens in new tabBudapest Danube River Sightseeing Night Cruise
History & culture
See all 440 activitiesOpens in new tabBudapest All in One Walking Tour with Strudel Stop
Private & custom tours
See all 285 activitiesOpens in new tabZagreb - Budapest
Classes & workshops
See all 36 activitiesOpens in new tabBudapest: Hungarian Cooking Class with a Professional Chef
Water activities
See all 18 activitiesOpens in new tabBudapest: Premium Evening Cruise with Tokaj Frizzante
Popular places to visit
Palace of Arts
Enjoy a show at Palace of Arts, a popular theatre in Budapest. Visit the churches and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.
Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art
You can browse the exhibits at Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art, a museum with a storied past, during your holiday in Budapest. Visit the churches and top-notch restaurants in this romantic area.
Zöld Pardon
Enjoy a performance at Zöld Pardon, a theatre with a story to tell in Budapest. Visit the shops and stunning cathedral in this family-friendly area.
Zwack Unicum Museum & Visitor Center
Rich with history, Zwack Unicum Museum & Visitor Center is a cultural attraction worth visiting in Budapest. Discover the fascinating museums and churches in this romantic area.
BEAC Sports Complex
Catch an event at BEAC Sports Complex during your trip to Budapest. Experience the area's acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums.
Petofi Bridge
You can find out about the history of Budapest with a trip to Petofi Bridge. Experience the area's entertainment choices and acclaimed art galleries.
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