Buda Castle: Exploring with Tickets, Opening Hours, and Must-See Attractions

Explore Buda Castle’s history, art, and stunning views over Budapest. From galleries to royal history, it’s a must-visit. Buy tickets in advance to make the most of your time.

The Buda Castle is deeply intertwined with the city’s rich and tumultuous past. Over its 800-year history, it has withstood wars, earthquakes, sieges, and fires.

Its beauty remains unparalleled, and today, it is one of Hungary’s most magnificent symbols.

The Buda Castle District also houses the Matthias Church, the Budapest History Museum, the Hungarian National Gallery, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the National Széchényi Library.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets to the Buda Castle.

Top Tickets

# Walking Tour of Buda Castle with a historian
# Walking Tour of Buda and Pest
# Evening tour of Buda Castle: History & Myths

It’s highly recommended to book your tickets for Buda Castle in advance. These tickets sell out quickly, so securing your spot early ensures you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.

What’s ahead

What to expect at Buda Castle

A small glimpse into the magnificent Buda Castle District

Take a guided tour and dive into a sprawling 800-year-old history of Hungarian legacy.

Learning about the castle’s bloody counts, the Ottoman invasion, the Habsburg power struggle, the conflict of faith, and the golden age.

Admire the architectural artistry that has brought the Baroque-style Royal Palace to life and the persistence involved in restoring this symbol of Hungarian pride every time it was damaged.

Step into the recently restored St. Stephen’s Hall, decimated during World War 2, and stand in awe at the opulence on display.

Stand on the terraces or the ramparts and view sweeping views of the city from atop the hill.

Your guide will also take you on a walking tour of the fascinating Castle Hill area on the Buda side of Budapest.

You will see Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, Holy Trinity Square, Savoy Terrace, and other popular Budapest attractions.

Know before booking tickets

Here are some things to keep in mind before booking your tickets.

Knowing these details will help you plan a smooth and enjoyable visit to Buda Castle.

Where to book tickets

How do online tickets work

Buda Castle Ticket Price

Buda Castle vs. Castle District vs. Buda Castle Hill
Many visitors get confused with these three terms because they are used interchangeably. Buda Castle refers to the Royal Palace of the Hungarian Kings at the southern end of Castle Hill. Around Buda Castle are many other historical sights, all within a walled area known as the Castle district. As for Buda Castle Hill, that’s just another name for ‘Castle Hill.’


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Buda Castle tours

There are many tour options with different itineraries to explore the Buda Castle: 

Some tourists spend the whole day at Castle Hill exploring the various attractions, while others visit for an hour as part of their Budapest City tour. 

Some prefer a walking tour, while others go around in the official Buda Castle Electric Hop-on Hop-off bus

We list below the most popular Buda Castle tours.

Walking Tour of Buda Castle with a historian

Walking Tour of Buda and Pest

Evening tour of Buda Castle: History & Myths

Budapest city tour including Buda Castle

Buda Castle Private Walking Tour

Buda Castle Guided Tour with St. Stephen’s Hall

Buda Castle timings

The Buda Castle houses the National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, both of which are open from 10 am to 6 pm every day from Tuesday to Sunday. 

On Mondays, all attractions in the Castle remain closed. 

Budapest History Museum alters its timings slightly during the lean months of November to February when it closes early at 4 pm. 

Opening hours of Buda Castle District

How long does the tour take

Best time to visit

How to reach Buda Castle

Here’s our detailed information on how to reach Buda Castle for a hassle-free experience.

Walking to Buda Castle

Buda Castle Funicular

Bus to Buda Castle

Things to see in Buda Castle

The Buda Castle houses three attractions—the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, and the Széchenyi National Library.

Most visitors to Buda Castle skip the Library because….it is a library. 

These three institutions occupy all areas of the Castle – no space in the Castle building is ‘Castle only.’

In short, one can only visit the Museum, Gallery, or Library inside the Buda Castle. 

However, there are many other points of interest in the Buda Castle District (the walled area around the Castle). 

Buda Castle

Change of Guard

Hungarian National Gallery

Budapest History Museum

Széchenyi National Library

Attractions in Buda Castle District

The walled area around the Buda Castle, also known as the Castle District, is a tourist’s paradise with lots to do and see. 

We list out some of the best – 

Fisherman’s Bastion

Matthias Church: The Church of Our Lady

Old Rock Chapel

Holy Trinity Square

Andrew Hess Square

Labyrinth of Buda Castle

Hospital in the Rock

The House of Houdini

Museum of Music History

Golden Eagle Pharmacy Museum

Museum of Telephones

Museum of Military History

Download this map to understand the Buda Castle District and its attractions, including the Buda Castle. Courtesy: Nathan Hamilton

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Researched & written by
Jamshed is a versatile traveler, equally drawn to the vibrant energy of city escapes and the peaceful solitude of remote getaways. On some trips, he indulges in resort hopping, while on others, he spends little time in his accommodation, fully immersing himself in the destination. A passionate foodie, Jamshed delights in exploring local cuisines, with a particular love for flavorful non-vegetarian dishes. Favourite Cities: Amsterdam, Las Vegas, Dublin, Prague, Vienna

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