Buda Castle

Buda Castle featuring heritage architecture, a garden and a castle
Buda Castle featuring château or palace, a bridge and heritage architecture
Buda Castle showing an administrative building, night scenes and a bridge
Buda Castle featuring château or palace and heritage architecture
Buda Castle featuring heritage architecture, a castle and a bridge


This magnificent building is a landmark in the Budapest skyline, as well as being home to a gallery and a museum.

Buda Castle is a significant part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a much-loved sight for Budapest’s many visitors. The first castle on this site was built during the 13th century to protect against invasion by the Mongols. Over the years, a number of different structures have been built and destroyed by attackers. Thankfully, the second half of the 20th century saw the castle rebuilt and restored to its former glory.

Take a boat trip along the Danube River, or head towards the area around the Hungarian Parliament to enjoy fabulous views of the castle, along with the Chain Bridge, reflecting on the river’s surface. These are particularly breathtaking and romantic when the structures are illuminated at night.

From Széchenyi Square on the Pest side of the river, cross the Széchenyi Chain Bridge to Clark Ádám Square, where you can take the Castle Hill Funicular up to St George’s Square. Alternatively, you can take in the many vistas along the hearty walk up the hill.

The best views across the city are available from the summit of the hill – don’t forget your camera as there is a huge selection of top-quality shots to be snapped. Colourful Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion are laid out below you, with the imposing Citadella to the south, while the beautiful Danube winds its way serenely through the city. Gaze back across it towards the Pest side of the river, and take in the view of the enormous Parliament building.

Within Buda Castle’s walls, you’ll find the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, each in a separate wing of the castle. They house excellent artworks and artifacts respectively, and are well worth the admission charge. When you’re finished your visit, take a stroll around the Castle District (Várnegyed) and enjoy its pleasing collection of Medieval, Baroque and 19th-century buildings.

Reviews of Buda Castle

4.6
Top destination
5 - Excellent
607
5 - Excellent 62%
4 - Good
355
4 - Good 36%
3 - Okay
18
3 - Okay 2%
2 - Disappointing
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2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
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5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

The Hungarian National Gallery is a must for art lovers! Don't be put off by the hill, it's surprisingly climbable either by the steps or the little roads leading up to the Corvinus Gate.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Go early to avoid the crowds- we had the place almost to ourselves at 9.30 including the walk across the bridge.

4/5 - Good

ChrisJ

Be aware that the military museum thats part of the astle complex advertises that its open on Sundays, but when we went on a Sunday it was closed

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

Museum closed on Mondays

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Make sure this is open - when we went in October it was changed into a art gallery. Also closes for tickets at 5pm so make sure you are there beforehand. Can walk/get a bus easily enough.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

If budget allows dine at Fisherman's Bastion

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Things to do near Buda Castle

At Buda Castle, visitors can immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, including city tours and exploration of history museums. The area boasts numerous local attractions and art venues, while music concerts provide a vibrant entertainment scene. With its stunning architecture and scenic views, Buda Castle is a perfect blend of history and culture, making it an essential stop for any traveller.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Buda Castle, visit the Great Market Hall, a vibrant public market just 1.6km away, or Paloma, a family-friendly shopping centre located 1.4km away. Additionally, Philanthia, a charming store, is only 966m from the castle.

Recreation

Gellért Thermal Bath offers a soothing body treatment with a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation, located 1.6km from Buda Castle. Rudas Baths, just 966m away, provides a similar wellness experience. For entertainment, enjoy a vibrant music concert at Vigadó Square, situated 644m from the castle.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Budapest Castle Hill Funicular, a scenic ride 322m from Buda Castle, perfect for family adventures. For water fun, visit Aquaworld Budapest, 12.9km away, boasting exhilarating slides. Engage in an action-packed game at Lasergame Lasertag, located 1.6km from the castle.

Nightlife

In Buda Castle, the Ferris Wheel of Budapest offers thrilling views and adventure vibes, just 966m away. For an exciting challenge, try the Verem Room Escape Game, located 805m away. Enjoy a cultural evening at the New Theatre, 1.6km away, perfect for family entertainment and romance.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Buda Castle

Within and around Buda Castle, visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including charming squares, historic churches, and picturesque streets. Ideal for those seeking cultural enrichment, outdoor experiences, or a glimpse of city life, the area offers numerous points of interest that cater to diverse interests. Explore the rich heritage and stunning views that this iconic landmark has to offer, making it a perfect destination for any traveller.

  • Parliament Building: This stunning neo-Gothic building, located 1.3km from Buda Castle, is a symbol of Hungarian democracy. Its intricate architecture and grand interior are a feast for the eyes, offering a glimpse into Hungary's rich political history and culture.
  • St. Stephen's Basilica: Also situated 1.3km away, this magnificent cathedral is dedicated to Hungary's first king. Visitors can admire its stunning dome, intricate mosaics, and even ascend to the observation deck for breathtaking views of the city.
  • Szechenyi Chain Bridge: Just 805m from Buda Castle, this iconic suspension bridge connects Buda and Pest. Its historic significance and picturesque setting make it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, offering stunning views of the Danube River.

Best time to go to Buda Castle

The best time to visit Buda Castle is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January32.9°F (0.5°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February36.1°F (2.3°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March44.2°F (6.8°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April53.8°F (12.1°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June70.0°F (21.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July74.1°F (23.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August74.1°F (23.4°C)Light RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
September65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December35.2°F (1.8°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Buda Castle

To save money on your visit to Buda Castle, consider travelling between January and March for lower accommodation prices. Book your hotel around a month in advance and aim for a Tuesday stay for the best rates. Use Expedia's search tool to find eco-friendly lodging and combine hotel bookings with flights for additional savings. Look out for last-minute deals and sort prices from lowest to highest to uncover affordable options. Public transport is budget-friendly, and many attractions around Buda Castle are free, allowing you to enjoy the area without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Buda Castle are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Buda Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Buda Castle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Buda Castle is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly accommodation currently available. To uncover the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on your trip by combining your hotel reservation at Buda Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia