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Preplanned City Guides and Travel Itineraries

The Castle District

On this page you find practical information, photos and videos about The Castle District.

The Castle District features in these preplanned City Guides:

3-day Budapest City Guide5-day Budapest City Guide

Why visit / Interesting facts:

  • Breathtaking panorama
  • World Heritage Site

Time required: 90 minutes

Public transport:

  • Bus Line 16: Szentháromság tér stop

Address:

Photos: (see more photos)

Photo: J. C.

Things you need to know:

  • The Buda Castle District dates back to the 13th century when King Bela IV built a castle here after the devastating Mongol attacks of 1242
  • The medieval town of Buda grew around the castle; the town's real development started when the Royal Court moved here in the 15th century
  • Under the rule of King Matthias (1458-90), Buda became one of Europe's most powerful cities
  • The Turks occupied the castle in 1541 and ruled it until 1686 when the Habsburgs and their allies took it back; the siege devastated both the casle and the town
  • After the Turks left and the Habsburgs moved in reconstructions began; the area became a government district; the current Baroque appearance was finalized by mid 18th c.
  • World War II devastated the area once again; reconstructions recreated the Habsburg appereance
  • The Royal Palace houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. The building's grand design is the master work of local architects
  • Another major site is Sandor Palace; the official residence of the Hungarian president
  • The district is a Unesco World Heritage Site

What to do there:

  • Wander the old cobbled streets of the castle surrounding the Trinity Square (Szentharomsag ter)
  • Head to the imposing and multi-faceted Royal Palace. Make sure to admire it from all sides
  • You will have an amazing view of the mighty Danube from the Eastern façade

Tips & Insights:

  • Be sure to wear comfy shoes
  • The castle district is beautiful when illuminated at night

The Castle District features in these preplanned City Guides: