Budapest , Hungary

Budapest Castle Walk

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About this experience

Budapest’s Castle District is a 1.5 kilometer-long neighborhood perched at the top of a hill rising from the Danube riverbank. It’s a neighborhood with a timeless atmosphere, surrounded by walls, and with plenty of places to stop and admire the spectacular views of the city below. This tour is an exploration of one of the oldest sections of the city, which is full of history, fascinating stories, and charming architecture, as well as the scars from dozens of sieges and battles. Once you pass the tour buses clustered in a few spots, this is a quiet car-free neighborhood of winding cobblestoned streets, baroque and gothic facades, colorful old stucco houses, and a few of Budapest’s most prominent buildings and monuments. This tour will showcase not only the important sites—such as the eclectic Matthias Church with its colorful tiled roof and brightly colored interior, the Royal Palace complex, and the Fisherman’s Bastion—but also the secret spots hidden in the side streets.

Available options

Private Tour

What's included

Coffee break during the tour (one coffee/drink included)

Many stops for photos and questions

English-speaking, experienced local guide

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The streets follow the shape of the hill, and have seen plenty of action since the mid-13th century when the first royal residence was built here. Your guide will discuss the periods of history which influenced this neighborhood, with a special emphasis on the Jewish population which once lived here, the Hungarian royalty, and the Habsburg empire.

Stop 2

You’ll learn about the heroes and villains of World War Two who left their mark here, and the brutal siege of Budapest in which the neighborhood was demolished when the German and Russian armies met on these streets. Buda became an important European city in the 15th century, a melting pot of nations.

You’ll hear about how the establishment of the Royal Court sparked the beginning of a long golden age—even though no royals ever resided here. The palace and the neighborhood have been destroyed and rebuilt many times over during the course of their history, with each period, particularly the re-building after World War Two (when there was such extensive damage), leaving a different mark on the current appearance of the place.

These days the Hungarian president is lucky enough to be able to call this neighborhood home, along with a few hundred regular citizens living in the hundreds of years old buildings. Join us to learn all about this area which has witnessed so much history.

What's not included

Gratuities

Entrance to the museums

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour is available year-round

This is a small-group tour (minimum of 2 guests and maximum of 8 guests)

For larger groups please choose the "Group Tour (min. 8 pers.)" option when booking

If you would like a private tour (which can be customized), please choose the "Private Tour" option when booking

Three-hour tour (if you have someplace to be afterwards, please let your guide know at the beginning of the tour as it can stretch on for more than three hours if you are not in a rush...)

This is a walking tour, so be prepared (with comfortable shoes) to spend lots of time on your feet! Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Minimum numbers of 2 apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.

Meeting point

Meet your guide on the Buda side of the Chain Bridge (Lánchíd) at Clark Ádám tér (square), next to the "Zero Kilometer Statue." Look for this giant stone statue of a zero (this is the point from where all distances in Hungary are measured) across the street from the entrance to the funicular.

Important notes

Please arrive 10 minutes early so the tour can begin on time. If you'll be late call +36 1 701 1886 so we can notify your guide. Dress according to the weather, and wear comfortable shoes! Contact us at hello@tastehungary.com with any questions!

About Budapest

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and thermal baths. Straddling the Danube River, it offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western European cultures, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Budapest Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building is a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture and a symbol of Hungary.

Architecture 1-2 hours €20-30

Buda Castle

Buda Castle is a historical castle and palace complex that offers panoramic views of the city.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore, €3-5 for museums

Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the largest thermal baths in Europe, offering a relaxing experience in historic surroundings.

Relaxation 2-3 hours €15-20

Fisherman's Bastion

Fisherman's Bastion is a neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque structure offering panoramic views of the Danube and Pest.

Architecture 1 hour Free (€3 for the tower)

Heroes' Square

Heroes' Square is a significant monument and a major landmark in Budapest, commemorating the heroes of Hungary's history.

Historical 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Goulash

A traditional Hungarian soup made with beef, vegetables, and paprika.

Dinner Contains beef, gluten (from bread or flour)

Lángos

A deep-fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, and garlic.

Snack Contains dairy, can be made gluten-free

Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács)

A sweet, cylindrical pastry cooked over an open fire and coated with sugar and cinnamon.

Dessert Contains wheat, sugar, can be made gluten-free

Töltött Káposzta

Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced pork and rice, cooked in a tomato sauce.

Dinner Contains pork, gluten (from tomato sauce)

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Buda Hills Cycling along the Danube Kayaking on the Danube Visiting thermal baths Strolling along Andrássy Avenue Relaxing in City Park Visiting museums and galleries Attending classical music concerts

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Budapest for warm weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and tourists.

18°C to 30°C 64°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Hungarian
Widely spoken: English, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Hungarian Forint (HUF)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Budapest is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious with valuables in crowded areas
• Use official taxis or app-based services
• Check bills carefully at restaurants and bars

Getting there

By air

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport • 16 km from city center

By train

Budapest-Keleti Railway Station, Budapest-Nyugati Railway Station

By bus

Népliget Bus Station, Árpád Bridge Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient and easy to use, with four lines connecting major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Főtaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

District V (Belváros) District VII (Jewish Quarter) District VIII (Józsefváros) District IX (Ferencváros)

Day trips

Szentendre

20 km from Budapest • Half day

A charming town known for its museums, galleries, and colorful houses.

Esztergom

50 km from Budapest • Full day

A historic town with a stunning basilica and a rich history.

Visegrád

40 km from Budapest • Full day

A historic town with a royal palace and scenic views of the Danube Bend.

Festivals

Budapest Christmas Market • Late November to early January Budapest Spring Festival • March Sziget Festival • August

Pro tips

Use the Budapest Card for free public transport and discounts on attractions
Take a Danube River cruise for stunning views of the city
Visit the thermal baths early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds
Explore the Jewish Quarter for its vibrant nightlife and historic sites
Try local street food, such as lángos and kürtőskalács, for an authentic taste of Budapest