Hungary’s capital is filled with stunning sights, but few places rival the grandeur and charm of Buda Castle in Budapest. This beautiful area offers visitors a rich tapestry of historic buildings, museums, and top-tier restaurants. Whether you’re visiting with family or planning a romantic date, Buda Castle District has something for everyone – all while offering a deeper insight into the history of Hungary and Budapest.
The Buda Castle District in Budapest is not only a historic jewel but also a symbol of the nation’s rich heritage and architectural brilliance – it’s worth getting to know the area.
Buda Castle
In Budapest, Hungary, a castle tour often begins here, in the 1st District, as Buda Castle and its surroundings are among the most popular and visually striking areas of the city. Perched high above the Danube, Castle Hill has dominated the city’s skyline for centuries, making it a favorite among both tourists and locals. Strolling through its historic streets feels like stepping back in time: medieval castle walls, elegant palaces, and cobblestone alleys bring history to life, with something new to discover around every corner.
However, the Castle District isn’t just about the past – it’s also a vibrant cultural hub with picturesque viewpoints and diverse culinary experiences. The area is rich in museums, galleries, churches, and historical landmarks, while charming cafés, patisseries, and award-winning restaurants offer the perfect excuse to pause and indulge.
Whether you’re planning a short walk or have a full-day itinerary, Buda Castle District offers a magical experience year-round – its romantic atmosphere, timeless beauty, and panoramic views will enchant you. And when it’s time to rest, there’s always a Buda Castle restaurant nearby, ready to welcome you.
Must-See Landmarks near Buda Castle
This historic area offers a wealth of attractions. Here are some must-see highlights.
Medieval Jewish House of Prayer
You’ll find this 14th–century Medieval Jewish House of Prayer on the ground floor of the apartment building at 26 Táncsics Mihály Street in Buda. The vaulted prayer room is divided on the south side by a Gothic pillar and on the north side by a framed window of the former women’s prayer room. The hall was excavated and subsequently restored in 1964 during the historic research of the building.
Koller Gallery & Art Gallery
As the first private gallery in Hungary, this institution represents both Hungarian and international artists, contemporary or modern, at a high artistic level. The gallery is located in the studio of sculptor Amerigo Tot, so in honor of him, a modest memorial room has been created here. When visiting, be sure to explore the tranquil garden, filled with bronze and marble sculptures that beautifully blend art with nature.
Mary Magdalene Tower
The only medieval tower in Buda that has survived largely in its original state is a must-see for every visitor. The rest of the church was demolished in the 1950s, but the tower survived thanks to an architect’s idea to save it by creating the Rákosi Pantheon. Today, it houses a chime of 24 bells, which are rung every quarter of an hour.
Wise Castle
In addition to its educational function, the old Buda Town Hall building also houses a restaurant, a café, a gift shop, and a bookshop for tourists. Thanks to a high standard of restoration, several medieval wall sections (above and below ground) have been made visible to the public.
Matthias Church
This Catholic Church, with a long and exciting history, is a World Heritage Site. It has played a prominent role in the history of Buda and Hungary as a coronation church, a venue for state representation, and a parish church.
Várkert Bazár
The Neo-Renaissance Castle Garden Bazaar, built between 1875 and 1883 by the designs of Miklós Ybl, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you’ll find several places to eat and relax, or you can visit the courtyard of the Foundry House on the first floor of the building. The South Palace hosts various exhibitions throughout the year.
Renaissance garden, St Stephen’s Tower
The South Gardens are the hidden treasures of the Buda Castle Palace. From the Renaissance-style garden, you can approach the St. Stephen’s Tower, from where you can enjoy an unparalleled view of the Gellért Hill.
Lion Courtyard
In the area of the Lion Courtyard, the lighter paving stones reveal the layout of the western wing of the Anjou palace and the huge attached Bone Tower. On the lower levels of the Buda Castle Museum, you can also see the medieval parts of the buildings that were excavated after the Second World War.
Savoy Terrace
Savoy Terrace offers the most beautiful panoramic view of the Castle District towards Pest and Gellért Hill. In front of the façade of the Hungarian National Gallery, which forms the back wall of the terrace, a statue of Jenő Savoyai on horseback commemorates the recapture of Buda from the Turks.
Fisherman’s Bastion
The Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the most famous monuments in Budapest, making it an important tourist attraction due to its unparalleled panorama of the city from its neo-Romanesque observation decks. The main façade of the Fisherman’s Bastion, parallel to the Danube, is about 140 metres long, where you can enjoy the view while taking a short walk. Its spire-like stone towers symbolise the seven Hungarian chieftains. The name dates back to the Middle Ages, when a guild of fishermen protected this part of the castle wall. It has been part of the Budapest World Heritage Sites since 1987.
Museums and exhibitions in Buda Castle
The area doesn’t just look historic – it offers countless opportunities to learn about Hungary’s past through its many museums.
Hungarian National Gallery
The Hungarian National Gallery is the largest public collection documenting and presenting the development and evolution of fine art in Hungary. Its collections range from the founding of the state to the present day, from the earliest Hungarian monuments to contemporary art. The museum is housed in the stately building of the Buda Castle Palace.
The history of the building dates back to the reigns of King Louis the Great, King Sigismund, and King Matthias, when the castle was one of the most splendid royal residences in Europe. The building was severely damaged during the Turkish occupation from 1541 until 1686, when Buda was reconquered.
Its rebuilding began in 1749, during the reign of Maria Theresa, in the Baroque style.
At the end of the 19th century, the palace was extended with new buildings designed by Miklós Ybl and Alajos Hauszmann, and then supplemented with neo-Baroque elements.
During World War II, part of the building was burnt down and destroyed. The restoration of the dilapidated palace was a long time coming, with work only beginning in the 1960s. The Hungarian National Gallery relocated to the palace complex, which had been converted for museum purposes, in 1975.
Budapest History Museum – Castle Museum
The Castle Museum is located in the wing of the former royal palace facing Gellért Hill, in a historic setting.
Visitors can tour the restored halls of the medieval palace, the former castle chapel and Gothic hall, and marvel at the museum’s unique treasures: the silk tapestry featuring the Hungarian-Anjou coat of arms, the Gothic sculpture of exceptional artistic value, and the marble carvings that decorate King Matthias’ palace.
In addition to the palace’s history, the Castle Museum’s exhibitions also showcase the most significant events and personalities in Budapest’s history.
Labyrinth
The labyrinth at the bottom of Castle Hill has been used for various purposes since the Middle Ages, serving as a refuge, a hermitage or a prison. In its winding corridors and vaulted halls, you can visit Gothic and Renaissance stone monuments and Turkish tombstones.
From St. Stephen the Founder to King Matthias, the statues of the most famous Hungarian kings bring medieval Hungary to life.
Rock hospital and nuclear bunker
Until 2002, the history of the Rock Hospital Nuclear Bunker Museum had been kept a secret; yet, it is a fascinating story to tell and an unparalleled experience to see in person. This former air hospital and nuclear bunker is located deep in the Várhegy. Nearly 200 life-like wax figures and original equipment help you experience the events and atmosphere of World War II, 1956, and the Cold War. In the latest exhibition section, the current state of war medicine is illustrated through the lifesaving actions of special operations forces. The Rock Hospital Bunker Museum is open year-round, but can only be visited on a guided tour.
House of Houdini
With the opening of the House of Houdini, a cultural centre of outstanding importance has been established in Budapest, a meeting point for magic enthusiasts and practitioners from around the world.
The House of Houdini commemorates the greatest escape artist of all time, the Hungarian-born Harry Houdini. The permanent exhibition on show here is the only and largest Houdini exhibition in Europe. The House of Houdini aims to preserve the memory and art of its namesake for posterity.
Restaurants in the Castle District
With so many sights to see, you’ll likely work up an appetite – and there’s no better place to enjoy a meal than at one of the Buda Castle restaurant locations, many of which are considered the best restaurant Budapest has to offer.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy or elegant Buda restaurant with traditional fare or fine dining, the District has it all.
21 Hungarian Kitchen
Looking for a modern take on classic Hungarian cuisine? This popular Hungarian restaurant in Budapest serves food that strikes the perfect balance between tradition and modernity. 21 restaurant’s dishes preserve the traditional flavors while updating them with lighter preparations and modern techniques. Enjoy your meal on the summer terrace or in the beautifully designed interior on colder days.
Jamie Oliver’s Italian
The celebrity chef’s first Central European restaurant is located right here in the Castle District. This authentic Italian eatery offers Jamie’s signature twist on traditional dishes in one of the most stunning spots of the city – an absolute must for food enthusiasts. It’s a favorite Italian restaurant Budapest visitors often return to for its authentic flavors and stunning views.
Hotels in the Castle District
Staying a little longer? Why not choose accommodation right in the heart of the Castle District?
Pest-Buda Design Hotel
Budapest’s oldest hotel, dating back to 1696, is now a stylish boutique hotel offering timeless elegance and modern comfort. Pest-Buda Hotel is a perfect retreat for those seeking a peaceful and charming stay, steeped in centuries of hospitality tradition.
Baltazár Boutique Hotel
With just 11 uniquely designed rooms, Baltazár offers more than just a place to stay – it’s a full experience. The decor combines bold modern and vintage elements, ideal for travelers who love contemporary style and want to stay in the heart of historic Buda.
Discover the Magic of the Buda Castle District in Budapest
If you’re looking for a place where history, culture, breathtaking views, and culinary delights all come together in a single walk, the Buda Castle District is your perfect destination. Whether it’s a romantic afternoon, a family outing, or a quick meal in the best Hungarian restaurant Budapest has to offer, unforgettable experiences await around every corner. The Castle District is more than a tourist attraction – it’s a timeless world you’ll always want to return to.