Emilia Clarke Spotted in Budapest: Hollywood Star Brings Glamour—and Surprises—to the City

Emilia Clarke’s Budapest Adventure: A Treat for Tourists and Residents

If you’re strolling through Budapest this spring, keep your eyes peeled—you might just bump into one of Hollywood’s brightest stars. Emilia Clarke, best known as Daenerys Targaryen from “Game of Thrones,” is currently in Budapest filming her new Cold War espionage series, “Ponies.” Alongside co-star Haley Lu Richardson, Clarke has been spotted enjoying the city’s sights and local culture, making Budapest even more exciting for foreign tourists and English-speaking residents.

Why Is Emilia Clarke in Budapest?

Budapest has long been a favorite location for international filmmakers, thanks to its stunning architecture and versatile cityscape. This year, the city is doubling as 1970s Moscow for “Ponies,” a historical thriller set to premiere on Peacock. The series follows two unlikely CIA agents, Bea (Clarke) and Twila (Richardson), as they unravel a Cold War conspiracy after the mysterious deaths of their husbands.

Clarke’s character, Bea, is a Russian-speaking intellectual and the daughter of Soviet immigrants, while Richardson’s Twila is a fearless small-town American. Their partnership and the intrigue of the plot promise to make “Ponies” a must-watch for fans of spy dramas and Cold War history.

Star Sightings and Local Encounters

Emilia Clarke isn’t just working—she’s also exploring Budapest. Locals and visitors have already spotted her at Yom Tov, a popular nail salon in Újlipótváros, where the staff shared a glowing post about their celebrity guest. Clarke and Richardson also visited the historic Hungarian State Opera House, taking in a behind-the-scenes look at a ballet rehearsal and expressing their admiration for the city’s cultural treasures.

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During breaks from filming, the cast has been seen enjoying Budapest’s cafés, strolling through city streets, and even celebrating birthdays together, giving fans and residents a chance for a real-life celebrity encounter.

Key Details About “Ponies” and Filming in Budapest

• Filming began in early February 2025 and will continue for several months.
• Budapest and the nearby town of Dunaújváros are both serving as filming locations.
• The city’s landmarks—including the Chain Bridge and Heroes’ Square—are featured in the show.
• Clarke is also a producer on the series, deepening her connection to the project and the city.
• The production has led to occasional street closures and public transport changes, especially near major landmarks.

What the Stars Say

Clarke and Richardson have both expressed their love for Budapest’s architecture and vibrant atmosphere. After their Opera House visit, Clarke reminisced about her father’s career in stage acoustics, sharing how special it was for her to experience the city’s cultural heart. Both actresses have said they’re eager to return to the Opera House and continue exploring Budapest’s artistic scene.

Impact on Tourists, Residents, and the City

For visitors, Clarke’s presence adds a dash of Hollywood glamour to an already captivating city. Budapest’s popularity as a filming location means tourists might stumble upon a movie set or spot a star while sightseeing. For residents, it’s a point of pride and excitement, as the city’s international profile continues to rise.

The influx of film crews and celebrities also brings economic benefits, supports local businesses, and showcases Budapest’s unique charm on a global stage.

Practical Tips for Spotting Stars in Budapest

• Watch for film crews and closed-off streets, especially near iconic landmarks like the Chain Bridge and the Opera House.
• Follow local salons and cafés on social media—staff often share celebrity encounters.
• Be respectful if you see a star; Budapest is known for its welcoming and discreet atmosphere.
• Check the BudapestGo app for updates on public transport changes due to filming.

Conclusion

With Emilia Clarke and other stars calling Budapest home during the filming of “Ponies,” the city is buzzing with excitement. Whether you’re a tourist hoping for a celebrity sighting or a resident enjoying the city’s moment in the spotlight, now is a great time to explore Budapest’s streets—you never know who you might run into!