Budapest's Prettiest Movie Theatres: The Puskin and Urania Cinemas

Not only is Budapest the number two go-to location for international productions looking to film in Europe, it’s also home to a couple of the world’s most beautiful art house cinemas. But don’t just take our word for it–it’s official!

Puskin Cinema in Budapest. Picture via www.puskinmozi.hu

In Time Out’s recently published list of the 50 most beautiful cinemas globally, The Puskin came in at number eight. But there’s another cinema just up the road from there that (in our humble opinion) is just as stunning architecturally: The Urania.

These iconic venues offer more than just a place to watch a film—they provide an immersive experience where history, architecture, and cinematic art converge.

 Puskin Cinema: A Timeless Masterpiece

Originally opened in 1926, it was once the largest cinema in Europe. Before becoming a movie theatre, it served as a casino, a past reflected in its lavish design. The cinema’s main hall, adorned with gilded sculptures by Sándor Kristián, retains its regal charm, offering visitors a glimpse into the golden age of the roaring 20s, Budapest style

Over the years, the Puskin has undergone renovations while preserving its historical integrity. Since 2013, it has housed five distinct screening rooms named after iconic films: Metropolis, Amarcord, Annie Hall, Mephisto (named after a Hungarian Oscar-winning film that you may remember we wrote about in this blog post), and Körhinta. The largest hall, with its marble pillars and golden ceiling, feels like a portal to another era.

Beyond its aesthetics, the Puskin Cinema champions independent and arthouse films, showcasing a curated selection of international and Hungarian movies. Regular family-friendly screenings, film festivals, and cultural events make it a beloved destination for movie lovers who crave more than just the latest blockbuster.

Urania National Film Theatre: A Monument to Cinema 

The Urania Cinema. Photo via Wikipedia.

Step into the Urania National Film Theatre and you’re instantly transported into a world of opulence. Constructed in the 1880s, the building wasn’t originally intended as a cinema at all. It first served as an Orpheum (a cabaret slash dance hall), until it was repurposed at the dawn of the 20th century to host film screenings.

The Urania has a striking neo-Renaissance facade, but just wait till you get inside. Here, you’ll be assailed by colourful Moorish design features, intricate detailing, lavish chandeliers, and a ceiling adorned with frescoes. It’s the complete package in terms of immersion into another, altogether more lavish world. Today, it’s a popular venue for film festivals, premieres, and screenings of both Hungarian and international arthouse films. Whether you’re watching a contemporary masterpiece or a classic film, the experience will only be heightened by the theatre’s grand aesthetics and rich history.

Why These Cinemas Matter

In an era where streaming and multiplex theatres dominate, venues like the Urania and Puskin preserve the charm of traditional cinema-going. They remind audiences that film is not just about content but also about atmosphere, communal experience, and appreciation of the art form in an environment that enhances storytelling.

For international filmmakers looking to shoot in Hungary, these cinemas also highlight Budapest’s deep cinematic culture, making it an ideal destination for film production. Whether you’re here to watch a film or to capture the city’s timeless elegance on camera, the Urania and Puskin cinemas are must-visit landmarks for any film enthusiast.

Time Out: The 50 Most Beautiful Cinemas in the World

Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies, and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.

Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.