Buda Castle
The Buda Castle is without doubt one of the best known images of the capital. The castle is also known as the Royal Palace, as it was previously where the Hungarian kings lived.
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. Nowadays, Buda Castle houses the National Széchényi Library, the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery.
The imposing Buda Castle sits at the top of Castle Hill and offers an impressive panoramic 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 also recommend getting lost in the Castle Hill’s narrow streets and alleyways.
How to get to Buda Castle?
There are several ways of getting to this fascinating landmark:
- By foot: Steep stairs from the Chain Bridge, at Clark Adam Square.
- By foot: Walking up the hill on a path that starts at the Funicular.
- By Funicular: Take the Buda Hill Funicular up to the Castle. The ride up costs 4,000 Ft (US$ 10.30) and is open from 8 am – 10 pm.
Take the Funicular up and 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 stroll back down, which is very enjoyable and doesn’t take long.
Schedule
The museums open from 10 am – 6 pm, Tuesday-Sunday
Price
The gardens and the surroundings of the Buda Castle are free. The museums have a separate entrance.
Transport
Funicular Budavári Sikló.
Bus: Dísz tér, lines 16, 16A and 116.
Nearby places
Rudas Thermal Bath (370 m) Budapest History Museum (486 m) Budapest Citadella (559 m) Hungarian National Gallery in Budapest (603 m) Inner City Parish Church (645 m)
