Margaret Island is a long land mass located in central Budapest, Hungary, situated in the centre of Europe’s second-longest river, the Danube. The 500-metre wide feature stretches 2.5 kilometres between the areas of Margaret Bridge and Árpád Bridge. It serves as an equally historic attraction and recreational zone covered in charming trees and important landmarks.
Popular activities on Margaret Island include swimming in the Alfréd Hajós swimming pool, jogging around the island or participating in leisure activities provided by the Athletic Centre, and sightseeing through the many collections of rare plants and gardens. The major attractions include the musical fountain, one of the biggest public fountains in Europe, the medieval ruins of the Franciscan Priory and the Dominican convent, as well as the Premonstratensian chapel from which hangs the oldest bell in Hungary. Additionally, there are many decadent bars and restaurants to satiate the palates of hungry tourists.
The easiest way to get to Margaret Island is by tram stopping at the Margit híd Budai hídfő stop or public buses that route directly to the location. Driving personal vehicles across the island is not allowed, but there are car parks located in the city near the river crossing. Walking is the most popular form of transit across the island although bicycles and bringo carts are commonly rented.
Margaret Island was named after Princess Margaret, who was sent to the nunnery on the island by her father King Béla IV in the 13th century following the Budapest’s recovery from Mongolian devastation.