Budapest Communist Tours

Communist Statue in Memento Statue Park, Budapest

Communist Statue in Memento Statue Park, Budapest (photo by Thierry H)

Budapest was hidden behind the Communist Iron Curtain until 1989. Communism left its scars and marks on the city’s attractions, people, and tours. No wonder that tourists love the Communist tours with their intriguing recent history, where the moments of horror mix with absurd humour, and funny Communist things like a Trabant car made of cardboard. Oh yes. It is not a joke. Note: we think the Communist tours in Budapest are best suited for 14+ children if you should happen to be on a family trip in Budapest.

 

Communist Attractions Budapest

 

You would expect that Budapest is still full of Communist sights, but the truth is, since 1989, the locals have been happily clearing away the memories of the recent past. So finding the Communist attractions in Budapest is not so easy. Many of them are spread out in the city of 2 million residents, on both the Buda and the Pest side. Can you still greet Lenin? Of course!

As for Hungarian goulash communism, you will find the House of Terror Museum fascinating and thought-provoking (the former HQ of the secret police, with a Soviet tank, portraits of the victims, etc.). If you are interested in buying second hand communist memorabilia (scarf, photos, etc.), you may visit the popular flea markets of Budapest.

Trabant in Budapest the Communist car

Trabant in Budapest the Communist Car – Pedro Szekely Photography

Another truly nice piece of communism that is well worth a visit, is the Children’s Railway up in the Buda Hills (about 30 min ride from Szell Kalman Square M2 metro station (former Moszkva Square)). The railway was run by serious pioneers in the past, these days it is run by not less serious children (the engine drivers are adults, don’t worry).

Marxim Pizza place named after who else but Marx is by the Millenaris Park. The pizza snack bar features several Communist posters, and snacks with typical Communist propaganda names (5 year plan, etc). It is worth a detour if you are in the neighbourhood (around Szell Kalman Square by the M2 metro station).

The Hospital in the Rock is one of the lesser known attractions in Budapest: the cave in the Buda Castle Hill has a huge nuclear shelter and well equipped WW2 hospital underground. A fascinating historical sight.

The Soviet Liberty Monument on Szabadsag Square is one of the few monuments  – in addition to the Liberty Statue atop Gellert Hill – which is still on display in the city. Freedom and irony pressed into stone.

Budapest Retro

Retro Attractions in Budapest from the Communist era include:

  • Taskaradio Eszpresszo, a cafe with lots of memorabilia, toys, lamps, etc. from the Communist and Socialist era of Hungary
  • Bambi Eszpresszo opened in 1961 and still running on and on. A favourite of locals despite the often grumpy and Socialist style service. But do not visit it for its service unless you want to re-live history with us.
  • Menza Restaurant: the name menza (canteen menu) is definitely Communist. And for some, it is retro enough. We think it is chic retro rather than Communist, but you can eat well here for a good price, so there is not much to lose.
  • Tisza Shoes: for a while everyone had the pleasure to wear the Communist design of Adidas. The Tisza shoes are now hip and trendy, rather than the only choice for sports shoes. A practical and cool retro item from Hungary.
  • Thrift Shopping in Budapest: many of the second hand shops that are founded and run by locals will have a few Communist or Socialist style wear, clothes, shirts, accessories, etc.