Buda Castle travel guide

Buda Castle, a historical palace complex of the Hungarian kings, stands majestically on the southern tip of Castle Hill in Budapest.

Originally built in the 13th century, the castle was designed as a defense against the Mongols. However, its golden age came in the 15th century under the reign of King Matthias Corvinus when the castle was transformed into a Renaissance palace.

Over the centuries, Buda Castle has witnessed a series of reconstructions due to various invasions and wars. The castle was heavily damaged during World War II but was meticulously restored in the mid-20th century.

Today, it houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, attracting millions of tourists annually. Its exquisite architecture, coupled with its rich history, makes Buda Castle an essential stop on any visit to Budapest.

Buda Castle's distinctive features are deeply woven into its architecture, reflecting its historical evolution. The Castle's Baroque facade is a stunning sight, particularly when illuminated at night. The Lion Courtyard, named for its four stone lions, is a central point of the complex, leading to the grand Matthias Fountain, an intricate sculpture depicting a hunting scene from legend.

The Royal Palace, currently housing the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, is a must-see. The National Gallery's collection is impressive, showcasing Hungarian art from the 10th century to the present. The Budapest History Museum presents the city's history from its foundations to modern times. Remarkably, beneath the castle lies a labyrinth of ancient caves and cellars, known as the Castle Cave System, accessible via guided tours. The panoramic view of the city from the Castle's terraces and the Fisherman's Bastion is an unforgettable sight, offering a view of the Danube, the Hungarian Parliament, and beyond.

Located in Budapest District I, the iconic Buda Castle is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Budapest or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in Hungary.

Budapest is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Budapest offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Fisherman's Bastion, Heroes' Square, City Park, Szimpla Kert, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Budapest has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Budapest - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Hungary!

Buda Castle is located in Budapest, Hungary, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport is approximately 10.89 miles (17.52 km) away from Budapest. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Buda Castle is located.

If you’re already in Budapest, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the castle. The exact address of the attraction is Budapest, Szent György tér 2, 1014 Hungary, Hungary.

You can also rent a car and drive to Buda Castle. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Buda Castle and other top attractions in Budapest at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Buda Castle!

The best time to explore Buda Castle is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when Budapest’s weather is mild and pleasant. These periods offer comfortable temperatures for sightseeing, avoiding the summer heat and winter chill. Notably, these seasons also see fewer tourists, allowing a more relaxed exploration of the castle's rich history and stunning architecture. Special events such as the Budapest Wine Festival in September and the National Gallop in May, which occur within the castle grounds, add to the charm of the visit. These festivities offer a unique insight into Hungarian culture and traditions, enhancing the overall experience. To avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekday mornings. Although the castle is beautiful year-round, a visit during these periods provides the perfect balance of favorable weather, manageable crowd levels, and enriching activities. Plan your visit to coincide with these months for an unforgettable experience at Buda Castle.

No visit to Budapest is complete without a trip to Buda Castle, one of the most iconic attractions in Hungary drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique castle, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Buda Castle starting from 36 EUR below.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Budapest and top attractions like Buda Castle with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Buda Castle and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Budapest, Hungary, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind castle in Hungary.

Discovering Hungary's captivating landscapes and the iconic Buda Castle becomes a breeze with a rental car. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 9 reputable rental car companies near Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport and the city of Budapest, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Hungary's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Budapest and beyond.

For budget-conscious travelers, Hertz currently boasts the most affordable rates, starting at just 28.54 EUR per day or 199.8 EUR per week. Conveniently located at Apaczai Csere Janos U. 4. , H1052 in Budapest, this rental option ensures you can explore Hungary's wonders without breaking the bank.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Budapest by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning Buda Castle just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Budapest.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Buda Castle below.

Budapest offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Budapest, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Fisherman's Bastion, Heroes' Square, and City Park.

Fisherman's Bastion is a bucket-list bastion and top attraction in Budapest, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 83,796 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Fisherman's Bastion is Budapest, Szentháromság tér, 1014 Hungary.

Another appreciated attraction in Budapest is Heroes' Square. This is just like Fisherman's Bastion, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 70,699 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this square is Budapest, Hősök tere, 1146 Hungary.

City Park is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Budapest. This urban park and top attraction in Budapest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 68,967 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at City Park creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of Budapest, Kós Károly stny. , 1146 Hungary.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Budapest below.