Modern Hungarian architecture: The MOL Tower, the Museum of Ethnography and beyond

For two decades the Palace of Arts—MÜPA—has been one of Budapest’s premier cultural landmarks. Designed by the Zoboki–Demeter & Co. architectural studio, the building’s monumental elegance extends to its interiors, most notably the Béla Bartók National Concert Hall, which is world renowned for its acoustics. While strolling along the Danube promenade, stop to take a picture of the vast glass facade, which reflects the sky and the surrounding cityscape, before stepping inside to hear some exceptional music. At MÜPA music and contemporary architecture mingle at the highest level.

The MOL Campus is a must see if modern commercial architecture is your thing. Completed in 2022 based on designs by Foster + Partners in collaboration with Finta Studio, the tower is now the tallest building in Hungary. Its striking glass surfaces, sustainable technologies and dynamic form reflect both the contemporary economy and Budapest’s evolving urban identity. And it’s not just for admiring from a distance. Step into the public areas, to sense how the building interacts with the city around it, and enjoy a unique perspective over the capital from the top‑floor viewing deck.

The House of Music Hungary opened in City Park in 2022 and is based on an iconic design by acclaimed Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto. Its perforated, floating roof and expansive glass walls create a radical, new relationship between music, space and nature. As well as concerts (of course!), you’ll find interactive exhibitions, a musical experience centre and tranquil resting areas. It’s a place where modern architecture engages all the senses.

Designed by Napur Architect, the Museum of Ethnography in City Park features two sweeping wings that emerge from the ground, evoking both the land itself and folk culture. Built as part of the Liget Budapest Project, the museum is both innovative and respectful of tradition. Wander through its courtyards, explore the interior spaces and observe how contemporary architecture weaves together public space and exhibition areas.

Venturing beyond the capital, you’ll encounter outstanding examples of modern architecture in unexpected rural settings. The Kreinbacher Estate on Somló Hill, which was designed by BORD Architectural Studio, blends harmoniously into the volcanic landscape. The winery’s buildings appear to rise organically from the terrain, using materials and forms that emphasise nature without overwhelming it. A similar philosophy guided the creation of the Sauska Estate Centre in Rátka, Tokaj. Here, subterranean spaces and minimalist surface design harmonise the winemaking process with the surrounding landscape. Wander through the press houses, savour the wines and enjoy how the architecture itself enhances the experience.

Kemenes Volcano Park in Celldömölk stands at the foot of an extinct volcano, housed in a monolithic concrete structure. Designed by István Ferencz, the building evokes the raw power of the volcanic landscape, making the architecture feel almost like an exhibit in its own right. Modern architecture serves as a guide on a geological journey: walk through the building, watch the lights and sense how your perspective changes at the foot of the volcano.