4 photography locations in and around Budapest
for portrait and couple photography in spring
1. Margaret Island
If I had to sum up in one sentence why you should choose Margaret Island, I’d say that it ideally combines good lights with suitable backgrounds, which is the recipe for beautiful pictures. It’s also easily accessible by public transport and offers a diverse environment
In March, magnolias and cherry trees bloom, and the scent of mahonia can be noticed from afar. The pink of dwarf almonds or the red leaves of coralberry can also provide colorful spring backdrops.
For those who love wildflowers, some locations offer breathtaking scenes of buttercups forming almost a carpet, or dazzling fields of crocuses photographed against the light (shooting towards the sun).
The Japanese garden and the ruins of the Dominican monastery also offer countless opportunities for photography. Here, it might be worth considering taking photos in the morning, because there can be a lot of other people on good photo spots.
2. Kő-hegy in Budaörs
Kő-hegy (literally Stone Hill) in Budaörs can be reached via a long staircase. At the top of the bare hill, you’ll find a small chapel with a cross beside it. Instead of the usual flowered, bushy, or wooded surroundings, expect rocks and no shade.
I think the popularity and charm of the place is due to the wonderful sunset lights. It’s a popular photo spot, so if you want to be on the safe side, you can even choose the neighboring, less frequented Odvas Hill. It's a lot higher and steeper, but I know an easy, little-known path up the hill.
3. Botanical Garden in Buda
The 7,5-hectare botanical garden, which is actually the garden of the University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, is easily accessible. It’s barely 10 minutes on foot from Móricz Zsigmond körtér.
In spring, there is a floral abundance with daffodils, tulips and flowering fruit trees. Unfortunately, it closes at 6 p.m. in summer.
Admission is free, but the Upper Garden cannot be visited on weekends and holidays.
4. Buda Castle District
The Várkertbazár, the Fisherman's Bastion, the Tóth Árpád sétány and the cozy little streets all provide a great location if you like urban environment.
On Tóth Árpád sétány (promenade), you’ll find blooming pink cherry trees coupled with a spectacular view stretching for a few hundred meters. Blooming is expected at the beginning of April and attracts a lot of people, so it’s especially important to schedule the shoot for mornings and weekdays.
I also know a less-visited spot (yes, such places exist in the Castle District) where you don’t have to worry about other photographers. True, there are only two cherry trees here, but their lower branches start much closer to the ground, so you don’t have to reach up—they can even surround you with flowers.
