Libraries in Budapest

14/10/2022

So, you’ve decided to come study in Hungary. A million things must be running through your mind. Where will I live? How will I handle mundane things in a new country, like buying groceries or clothes? How will I make friends? Don’t forget, though, that you’re coming to learn. This, of course, leads to a very relevant question—where will I study? To help you find your way, we’ve compiled a list of some of these oases of learning in a city better known for its nightlife scene. Without further ado, here, then, are some of the best libraries in Budapest.

Libraries in Budapest: Study in Style

While you can certainly study at home, that presents its own challenges—if nothing else, than to productivity. Coffeehouses aren’t bad, but they’re full of their own distractions as well. What then?

Although they may not be well-advertised, there are a multitude of beautiful, peaceful, and—most importantly—quiet libraries in Budapest. These hidden gems are incredible places to think, to learn, to simply refocus yourself. And, fortunately enough, there are a great deal of them.

The Best Libraries in Budapest

The Szabo Ervin Main Library (Wenckheim Palace)

As its name implies, this is a true treasure-box of a library. Built in the nineteenth century, the building was originally home to the aristocratic Wenckheim family. The family donated the palace to the city of Budapest in 1927. But while it no longer plays host to countesses and barons, the library hasn’t lost any of its old-world splendor. These days, its gilt halls house row upon row of books—and plenty of great study spaces as well. Located just off of Calvin Square, in the heart of Budapest’s downtown, it’s a great place to sit down and get some work done.

Find out more about how to access both the Wenckheim Palace, and all of the library network’s other locations, here.

The Szabo Ervin Library Network

While the former Wenckheim Palace might be the most sumptuous of all the public libraries in Budapest, it is by no means the only one. In fact, the Szabo Ervin Library network has branch locations throughout the city. With dozens of spots located virtually wherever you might be, the Szabó Ervin network is arguably the easiest way to find libraries in Budapest. What’s more, if you already have a pass for the central library (discussed above), that will get you into all of the branch locations as well!

The National Széchenyi Library

Located in the city’s Castle District, the National Széchenyi Library is certainly among the most scenically situated libraries in Budapest. As the national library of Hungary, the Széchenyi houses a huge collection of books, mainly in Hungarian. However, it also has works in a number of other world languages as well. In addition, the Széchenyi library is home to a vast store of rare and unique works. In other words, if you’re in need of some primary sources for a research paper, you can do much worse than head to the Széchenyi Library. Its location in the Castle District means that, whenever you need a break, just pop outside for incredible views. And, of course, great ice cream as well.

For more information about opening hours and access to one of the most beautifully situated libraries in Budapest, check out their website.

University Libraries in Budapest: BME, ELTE, Semmelweis, and More

We’re talking about libraries in Budapest. You’re coming here to study. Naturally, then, we have to talk about university libraries. Regardless of which institution you’re attending, you’ll most likely be spending quite a bit of time in your university or college’s library.

Fortunately for you, many of these university libraries are both stunning pieces of architecture, and ideal spots to huddle down and get your work done. Each of the city’s largest universities have large, spacious libraries, able to accommodate dozens, if not hundreds, of students at a time. The University of Budapest, Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) has two major libraries, as well as other lovely study spaces tucked away throughout its numerous campus locations. Likewise, the Budapest University of Technology and Economics, as well as Semmelweis University (the country’s top medical school) both feature great libraries in Budapest. The same is true of many of the city’s other schools, both large and small.

Keep in mind, too, that while you’ll most likely have automatic access to your home institution’s libraries, that doesn’t mean they’re the only ones you can visit. Most of the university libraries in Budapest listed above allow students from other schools, and guests in general, to make use of their study spaces. So check out their websites, get in touch. And, if you don’t want to leave your dorm on a rainy day maybe, you can study in our own library at Dean’s as well.

Libraries and Lodging

And, if you are a student preparing for a study abroad experience in Budapest, you’ll need more than just a library to read in. Perhaps more than anything else, you’ll be looking for a place to stay during your time in Hungary’s capital. While there are many options to choose from, you can’t do much better than Dean’s student hotel. Geared toward international students from around the world, Dean’s is a great place to stay during your studies here in Budapest.

As a student hotel, Dean’s is home to many long-term international students, such as yourself. In addition, though, it also serves as a hotel for adventurous souls from around the world, all of whom are looking for more than what a boring old regular hotel can offer. With such an exciting mix of people, you’ll be sure to make friend’s for life at Dean’s.

What’s more, Dean’s top-notch amenities mean that you won’t have to deal with all of the pains and headaches commonly associated with housing while studying abroad. You’ll be able to rest well, study well, and make the most of your time in Hungary’s capital.

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