The Top Things to See and Do in the Castle District in Budapest

The Castle District in Budapest is a historic and picturesque part of the city. Located on the Buda side of the Danube River, the district is home to a number of important landmarks, including Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church. Visitors to the district will also find a number of museums, restaurants, and cafes.

Emperor Franz Josef and wife Sissi were crowned King and Queen of Hungary in Matthias Church, and from the hilltop you’ll enjoy stunning views of the city. The historic funicular railway takes you down to the Danube River, where you can stroll across the Chain Bridge to reach the city centre.

Visitors to Budapest often remark on the city’s unique split personality. On one side of the Danube river is Pest, a bustling metropolis filled with grand buildings and lively nightlife. On the other side is Buda, a more subdued and relaxed district with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. This dichotomy is due to the city’s geography: Pest is situated on flat land, while Buda sits atop a series of hills. Regardless of which side of the river you find yourself on, Budapest is sure to dazzle.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top things to see and do near the Castle District.

Buda Castle

Buda Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hungary. Built in the 13th century, the castle has been destroyed and rebuilt numerous times over the centuries. Today, it houses several museums, including the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the city from Buda Castle. 

Fisherman’s Bastion

Fisherman’s Bastion is a 19th-century turreted structure located on the hill above Buda Castle. The bastion was built as a viewing platform for visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the city. Today, it remains one of the best places in Budapest to take in sweeping views of the cityscape.

Matthias Church

Matthias Church is one of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest. The 14th-century church is known for its beautiful Gothic facade and ornate interior. Visitors can also climb to the top of its tower for more sweeping views of the city. The church is located in front of Fisherman’s Bastion, another popular tourist destination. The Bastion is a series of steps and terraces that offer panoramic views of the Danube River and Buda Castle. Matthias Church is a must-see for anyone visiting Budapest.

Budapest Parliament

The Parliament Building in Budapest is a magnificent neo-Gothic building and one of the most important sights in Budapest. Completed in 1904, it is the largest building in Hungary and features an impressive collection of architectural styles. The structure is symmetrical in design, with two large towers flanking the central entrance hall. The exterior is adorned with numerous sculptures and statues, while the interior is equally lavish, with intricate mosaics, stained glass windows, and carved marble staircases. A visit to the Parliament Building is a must for any visitor to Budapest, as it offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.

Culinary Budapest: The Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall is one of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest, and it’s also a paradise for foodies. The market is divided into two sections: the ground floor, which is dedicated to fresh produce, meats, and cheeses, and the upper floor, which houses a variety of stalls selling everything from Hungarian paprika to traditional pastries. In addition to being a great place to do your grocery shopping, the Great Market Hall is also a popular spot for lunch. The ground floor has several restaurants serving up traditional dishes like goulash soup and beef stew, while the upper floor has a food court with a variety of international options. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce or a tasty meal, the Great Market Hall is definitely worth a visit.

Museums

The Castle District is home to several museums:

• The House of Houdini Museum is a must-see for any fan of the world-famous illusionist. The museum, which is located in Budapest, Hungary, houses a collection of artifacts that Houdini used during his performances. These include his famous Water Torture Cell, as well as handcuffs, chains, and ropes that he used to escape from jail cells and sealed barrels. In addition to these artifacts, the museum also features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience some of Houdini’s most famous tricks. For example, visitors can try to escape from a straitjacket or solve one of Houdini’s challenges during his career. The House of Houdini Museum provides a fascinating insight into the life and work of one of the world’s most famous magicians.
• The Hospital in the Rock is a unique museum located in Budapest, Hungary. The museum is situated within a network of caves and tunnels that were once used as a hospital during World War II. The hospital was built in secret, and it served as a refuge for those who were injured or ill during the war. Today, the Hospital in the Rock is open to the public, and it provides an essential glimpse into Hungary’s history. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including medical equipment and artifacts from the war. Visitors can also explore the cave system itself, which is still largely intact. The Hospital in the Rock is a fascinating place to visit, and it offers a rare look at an important piece of Hungary’s past.
• The Hungarian National Gallery is one of the most important museums in Budapest. It houses an extensive collection of Hungarian art from the Middle Ages to the present day, as well as a significant number of European paintings. The gallery also has a well-stocked library and archive, which is open to the public. The museum is located in Buda Castle, which overlooks the Danube River. The castle was originally built in the 13th century and has been rebuilt several times. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hungary. The Hungarian National Gallery is worth a visit if you are interested in Hungarian history and culture.

6 Things You Should Definitely Do in Budapest

Budapest is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty:

1. visitors can enjoy the view from the Fisherman’s Bastion;
2. check out the Jewish Quarter for an amazing open air food market and street art;
3. in the evening, there are plenty of opportunities to relax with a drink in one of the city’s many Ruin Bars;
4. Budapest is also home to a number of thermal baths, perfect for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing;
5. and no visit to Budapest would be complete without taking a leisurely stroll across the Chain Bridge at sunset;
6. or if that’s your cup of tea, take an unforgettable boat trip on the Danube in the evening.

As you can see, the Castle District in Budapest is packed with things to see and do. From exploring historical landmarks to taking in sweeping views of the cityscape, visitors will find plenty to keep them busy in this picturesque part of town.