Buda Castle District

Overview

The Castle District (Várnegyed) is the historic hilltop quarter on the Buda side, encompassing Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion, Matthias Church, and medieval lanes with pastel-coloured houses.

Highlights

• Medieval houses: Pastel facades with Gothic doorways and windows.
• Bécsi kapu: The Vienna Gate entrance to the district.
• Hospital in the Rock: A WWII hospital and nuclear bunker carved into the hill.

History

Settled since Roman times, the district was the medieval capital of Hungary. It was devastated during the 1944–45 Siege of Budapest and reconstructed.

Visitor Tips

• Walking tour: The compact district is best explored on foot.
• Funicular or bus 16: Avoids the uphill walk.
• Duration: 1.5–3 hours.