Buda Castle

Buda Castle is without doubt one of the best-known images of the capital. It is also known as the Royal Palace, as it was previously where the Hungarian kings lived.

Nowadays, Buda Castle houses the National Széchényi Library, the Budapest History Museum, and the Hungarian National Gallery.

Buda Castle is a remarkable castle and one of Budapest and Hungary’s most magnificent symbols, along with the Chain Bridge to which it is linked. The imposing Buda Castle sits at the top of Castle Hill, offering an impressive scenic view over Pest and the river. The views are very similar to those from Fisherman’s Bastion. And being connected to the Chain Bridge, the palace complex is breathtaking at night when the overpass and the Castle are lit up.

As well as visiting the Palace, we recommend getting lost in Castle Hill’s narrow streets and alleyways.

How to Get to Buda Castle?

There are several ways of getting to this fascinating landmark:

Walking up the steep stairs from the Chain Bridge, at Clark Adam Square.
Walking up the hill on a path that starts at the Funicular.
Take the Buda Hill Funicular up to the Castle. The funicular ride costs 4,000 Ft (US$ 10.29) and is open from 8 am – 10 pm.

Take the Funicular Up & Walk Back

If you don’t want to hike all the way to the top of Castle Hill, we recommend taking the Funicular up to the Royal Palace and then strolling back down, which is very enjoyable and doesn’t take long.