If you visit Budapest, there are certain must-see spots. The Buda Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in the Hungarian capital, forming part of Budapest’s «fame triangle» along with the Parliament and Chain Bridge.
The Buda Castle was originally built seven centuries ago. However, it no longer resembles the original, as it was repeatedly damaged by battles and wars, leading to several reconstructions.
Despite the many rebuilds, the castle remains stunning, just like Buda, the city’s oldest part, which has a quaint charm in some areas. It is undoubtedly one of the must-see spots in Budapest.
One of Budapest’s most famous structures, forming the «fame triangle» along with the Parliament and Chain Bridge, is the Buda Castle.
Built seven centuries ago, today’s palace is very different from the original due to numerous battles that destroyed it and the subsequent reconstructions.
With the Budapest Card, you can skip the line and save money when visiting the castle.
History of Buda Castle
The first fortress, built by King Béla IV between 1247 and 1265 in Óbuda, was part of his response to the devastating Mongol invasion, which razed Hungary. He ordered the construction of a hundred castles and fortified many existing ones to ensure defense in case of another invasion, which indeed came.
The city gained prominence under successive kings, becoming one of the kingdom’s main centers, alongside Esztergom and Székesfehérvár.
Construction on the current palace began in the 14th century by the younger brother of King Louis I. Later, King Sigismund expanded the castle and its walls, and finally, Matthias Corvinus authorized further Renaissance-style enhancements. After the Ottoman Empire’s conquest in the 16th century, Buda suffered significant damage.
In the 17th century, it was reconquered by Leopold I of the Habsburgs, though the battle left it ruined again and it was subsequently rebuilt.
The fortress’s Saint Stephen’s Tower was used as a gunpowder depot, but a cannon shot caused an explosion that tragically killed 1,500 Turkish soldiers instantly.
The Habsburgs invested heavily in transforming Buda Castle into a royal residence, altering its design completely. In 1723, a massive fire broke out.
Thanks to good relations between the Hungarian nobility and the queen, she gifted the palace to the University of Nagyszombat, though it was ultimately used by the Palatine of Hungary (the highest-ranking official after the king).
In 1944, the Red Army caused more damage to Buda, and the palace was rebuilt after World War II.
In 1950, the castle was fully restored, and it now functions as a museum and library.
How to Get There
To reach the castle, simply cross the Chain Bridge and either walk up the path next to the tunnel or take the funicular that climbs to the top. The funicular costs 900 forints per trip, with round-trip tickets available at a discount.
The choice is yours, but it’s worth walking up to take in the city views and walking down to enjoy the scenic vistas from Buda.
Buda Labyrinth
This labyrinth is a network of tunnels created over centuries by the erosion of Budapest’s water sources. It spans over four kilometers, though only one kilometer is open to visitors.
Inside the caves, you’ll find various exhibits and even a café.
After the Mongol invasion, the castle population grew, and these tunnels provided protection for the fortress.
Some say the tunnels extend to other cities, possibly serving as escape routes in dangerous situations.
One of the accessible areas, known as the Prehistoric Labyrinth, displays cave paintings with symbolic figures.
One important note is that the Buda Castle Labyrinth itself is not directly beneath the castle; it’s close to the Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church. Legend has it that Vlad Tepes, or Vlad III the Impaler, the prince of Wallachia, was imprisoned here after a betrayal.
The torture he endured here supposedly shaped him into the ruthless figure that inspired Bram Stoker’s «Dracula». The labyrinth has been open to the public since 1980.
What to Expect on the Labyrinth Tour
Like any maze, it’s easy to lose your sense of direction. Visitors can explore over a kilometer of galleries, which vary in width but all share a mysterious atmosphere.
The temperature inside the labyrinth remains cool, which you’ll appreciate if you visit during summer. Entering in the late afternoon is ideal, as the atmosphere becomes more mysterious and is perfect for a family adventure.
As evening falls, the lights in the corridors gradually dim, and each visitor is given a lantern to explore the passages.
Inside the cave, you’ll encounter surprises like sculptures representing the site’s history, including a giant head emerging from the ground like a shipwreck survivor, thick chains to make you feel like you’re in a dungeon, and more.
The smell of wine is surprising, as some underground springs here are filled with drinkable wine, adding an unusual touch to this already curious site.
Tours include standard visits and two special options:
- Personal Tour: A solo tour where visitors go through an exclusive area, one at a time, for an isolated experience—perhaps like a prisoner might feel!
- Couples Tour: While partners eventually meet up, each takes a separate path, creating a unique experience.
Another option is the Free Tour of Buda Castle by Civitatis, a three-hour tour led by a Spanish-speaking guide, sharing the rich history and fun facts about this remarkable site.
Here are some additional tours to consider:
- Walking Tour of Buda Castle, including St. Stephen’s Hall
- Visit the Buda Castle Caves
- Grand City Tour with a Walk through Buda Castle
- Walking Tour of Buda Castle District: Vampires and Myths
- Walking Tour of Buda Castle District
Book your ticket to explore the Buda Castle Caves here to uncover more of Budapest’s rich history.
Discover More of the Buda Castle District
Exploring the Buda Castle area on foot is highly enjoyable. It’s a pedestrian-friendly zone filled with Budapest’s top attractions and offers a cable car to reach the castle itself.
Buda Castle served as the royal residence for many years. Other noteworthy sites in the area include Matthias Church and the renowned Fisherman’s Bastion.
You can also visit the remnants of a Jewish prayer house and museums dedicated to music history, military history, and telecommunications.
Be sure to bring your camera—this hill offers some of the best views in the city.
Opening Hours by Section of Buda Castle
Hungarian National Gallery and Museum: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closed on Mondays. Buda Labyrinth: Open from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM and from 8:30 PM to 8:00 AM.
The entry fee for the Buda Labyrinth is €7.00, making it one of the most affordable attractions in the country.
Address for Buda Castle
Buda Castle is located on Castle Hill, accessible by bus and then via the funicular from either Clark Ádám Square or Dózsa György Square.