Head Budapest Panoramic View(c) Hungarian Tourism Agency

Buda Castle District - Budapest

Buda Castle District - Budapest

In the middle of the capital is the largest castle in the country, the Buda Castle, which is actually not just one castle, but a whole castle district. To walk the whole area, you should plan a whole day, but if you also want to visit the Nemzeti Galéria (National Gallery), the Labyrinth, the Mátyás-templom (Matthias Church) and the Sziklakórház (Rock Hospital), you even have to plan a whole weekend for it. But at least you know that it is worth it.

The prestigious Castle District, perched atop Budapest, has always been a defining feature of the capital and today serves as an important hub for culture and history. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is home to landmarks such as Matthias Church (Mátyás Templom) and the Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya). The Castle District is known worldwide even to those who have not yet visited Budapest. Everyone who comes here is fascinated by the cobblestone streets and the atmosphere of the charming buildings and alleys, not to mention the view of the city. But you may not know that the neighborhood holds a number of secret treasures just waiting to be explored and prompting you to browse further. It is worth noting that despite the name, there is no castle here, but there is the magnificent Castle Palace, which has housed parts of the Hungarian National Gallery since 1975.

Getting to the Castle Palace is easy: take the bus or just walk. However, a more interesting way is to take the funicular up the Castle Hill, which starts from the foot of the hill right next to the road tunnel opposite the Chain Bridge. The funicular, which was the second of its kind built in the world, has a troubled history, as does the entire hill. It was restored to its original condition after being destroyed during World War II. Gliding up the slope this way and enjoying the view of the city is great fun (and makes for great photos) for both kids and adults.

If you're in town at the right time of year, you can indulge in samples of the best Hungarian cuisine. The Castle Palace is the traditional venue for the Budapest Wine Festival and a number of other events where you can sample sausages, locally brewed beer and a selection of Hungary's world-famous spirit, pálinka. The neighborhood also hosts regular concerts; top artists come here to perform. Whether you like Beethoven or jazz, you won't be disappointed.

Budaivar Ejsz © Hungarian Tourist Office
Budaivar Ejsz © Hungarian Tourist Office
Contact

Buda Castle
Budapest 1014, Szentháromság tér 2.
Phone: +3612254800, +3614583000
ugyfelszolgalat@budavar.hu
tourist@budapestbrand.hu

Castle Garden Bazaar
1013 Budapest, Ybl Miklós square 2-6.

 

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