Palace Tickets and Tours in Budapest

Budapest is, along with Vienna and Prague, one of the most popular and visited imperial cities in Europe. In addition to its thermal pools and its hanging bridges, much of its attraction lies in the palaces and castles that you can find scattered along the cobbled streets of the city, which refer to the stately spirit that characterizes this destination.

Among the best activities you can do in Budapest is to visit the Royal Palace located on top of the Varhegy hill, visit the Godollo Palace, visit the legendary Palace of Parliament and marvel at the Postapalota Palace or Palace of the Post Office.

You will not be able to say that you have known Budapest until you have visited the Royal Palace or Buda Castle, which is one of the main tourist attractions of the city. Located at the top of Buda Hill, it offers sweeping views of the Danube River and Pest.

Over the centuries, it has been modified, destroyed and rebuilt several times, acquiring its current neoclassical appearance in the eighteenth century under the Habsburg monarchy. During your visit you can explore the art galleries inside the palace and the museum, which exhibits archaeological objects, historical artifacts and reconstructions of royal rooms.

Visiting the Buda Castle is one of the most popular activities in the Hungarian capital, but it is not only because of the building's architecture and its role in Hungarian history, but also because of its strategic location. You can even tour the surroundings of this building if you decide to book a half-day tour of Budapest.

If you plan to visit Budapest during the winter from the height of the hill you will be able to see some of the best snowy views of the city. And during the night, you will be able to see the Hungarian capital illuminated and spread out on both sides of the Danube River.

Details of interest

• Price: from 7 euros general admission.
• Location: Szent Gyorgy ter, Budapest.
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm.

The Parliament Palace of Budapest, located on the banks of the Danube River, is one of the most emblematic buildings of Hungary, as well as one of the largest parliamentary structures in the world. Its construction began during a time when the country was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and was conceived as a symbol of power with a neo-Gothic style inspired by the Palace of Westminster in London.

Visiting the Parliament of Budapest is a must for anyone wishing to understand the history and culture of Hungary. Inside it houses one of the biggest attractions, which is the Dome Hall, where the Holy Crown of Hungary, one of the most important relics of the local monarchy, is exhibited.

Architecturally, the palace is a neo-Gothic masterpiece, with Renaissance and Baroque elements inside. The building is 268 meters long and 123 meters wide and its exterior is adorned with 90 statues of historical figures, Hungarian leaders and warriors. Its facade, which overlooks the Danube, is one of the most photographed in the world and with tickets for the Parliament you can also walk through the inner courtyards.

The Budapest Parliament Palace is an essential visit not only for its architectural and aesthetic value, but also for its deep historical and cultural significance. Furthermore, its privileged location in the heart of the city will allow you to enjoy panoramic views of the river and other nearby attractions, such as the Chain Bridge and the Buda Castle.

Interesting details

• Price: from 27 euros general admission.
• Location: Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, Budapest.
• Hours: daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

The Vajdahunyad Castle is one of the most picturesque structures in Budapest, as it was built in the late nineteenth century in the City Park to commemorate the Millennium of Hungary. But the most curious thing is that it was not built following a single architectural style, but combines elements of different eras and schools, from Romanesque and Gothic to Renaissance and Baroque.

However, beyond its architecture, visiting this castle is an adventure in itself, as it is located on a small island in the middle of a lake. I recommend it especially in winter, when the lake becomes an ice skating rink. So, if you plan to tour Budapest in February or during the coldest months of the year, you can not only discover the building, but also enjoy its frozen surroundings.

On the other hand, one of the highlights of the castle is the Lookout Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the park and the nearby streets. Inside the castle you will also find corridors and rooms decorated with architectural details that reflect the styles of the eras represented by the building.

Also, nearby you can find other nearby points of interest, such as the famous Szechenyi Baths, which are considered one of the best spas in Budapest.

Details of interest

• Price: from 3.50 euros general admission.
• Location: Vajdahunyad stny, 1146, Budapest.
• Opening hours: Every day from 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Godollo Palace, located on the outskirts of Budapest, is one of the largest Baroque buildings in Europe. Built in the 18th century, this palace was originally the residence of the noble Grassalkovich family and later became the favorite residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria (known as Sissi) and her husband, Emperor Franz Joseph I.

In addition to its Baroque façade and gardens, at the palace you can see the interior halls and rooms of the monarchy, which were restored when the building became a museum open to the public.

The history of Godollo Palace, although it refers to the entire Austro-Hungarian monarchy, is closely linked to the figure of Empress Sissi, who used to retire in this place in search of tranquility and rest, away from the suffocating Viennese protocols.

A visit to Godollo Palace is essential for anyone interested in learning about the history of Hungary and the figure of Empress Sissi, one of the most beloved figures in European history.

Interesting details

• Price: from 8 euros general admission.
• Location: Grassalkovich-kastély 5852, Hungary.
• Hours: daily from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm.

If you walk along the famous Andrassy Avenue you will surely come across the palace of the same name, an emblematic building that reflects the elegance and splendor of the Hungarian aristocracy of the 19th century. Built in 1882, this palace was the residence of the influential family that gave its name to the street and the building, whose most prominent member, Count Gyula Andrassy, was Prime Minister of Hungary and a key figure of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

The palace was designed in a neo-Renaissance style, with a majestic facade and architectural details that evoke the grandeur of the era. Currently, the building has been transformed into a luxurious hotel, but it has not ceased to be part of the itineraries of the best tours of the Hungarian capital. You can also get there if you decide to buy tickets for the Budapest sightseeing bus, which includes a stop at Andrassy Avenue.

The striking thing about the Andrassy Palace is that it has undergone several transformations throughout its history, but it has never lost its splendor. During Hungary's communist era, the building was nationalized and used for different public purposes. After the fall of communism, the palace was renovated to recover its historical value.

To visit the Andrassy Palace, those interested can book a stay at the hotel, where they will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in its rich history and enjoy its luxurious facilities. It is also possible to access certain areas of the building, such as the restaurant and spa, without being a guest.

Details of interest

• Location: Andrassy ut. 98, Budapest.

The Gresham Palace is one of Budapest's most interesting architectural gems and an outstanding example of the Art Nouveau style in Europe. Located on the banks of the Danube River, opposite the iconic Chain Bridge, the palace was built to house offices, luxury apartments and stores. Its decorative facade and fine wrought ironwork make this a site to admire, both for its elegance and historical significance.

The interior of the palace features mosaic details, stained glass windows and marble columns that reflect the splendor of Art Nouveau. After World War II, the building was damaged and used for administrative purposes and housing, which deteriorated its condition.

Visiting Gresham Palace is possible in several ways. Although full access to the interior is reserved for hotel guests, visitors can admire the facade from the outside and enter the lobby to enjoy its design. In addition, the hotel has a bar and restaurant open to the public.

Details of interest

• Location: Széchenyi István tér 5-6, Budapest.
• Opening hours: The restaurant is open from 16:00 to 23:00.

If you want to see a building that not only stands out for its beauty but is still fulfilling a function, you can not miss the Postapalota Palace. This eclectic style work was built between 1923 and 1926 and stands out for its facade and its intricate decoration, which combines neo-Renaissance and modernist elements.

The palace was designed by architect Gyula Sándy and has served, since its inauguration, as the headquarters of the Hungarian Central Post Office. Although its main function has been administrative, its architectural beauty has made it one of the most emblematic buildings in the city.

Inside the Postapalota Palace you can see unique details such as stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings and mosaics that decorate the lobby. Today, the building houses the Money Museum, and while some areas of the building are restricted to the public, you can visit several of the palace's exhibition rooms.

The history of the palace is very rich because it is closely linked to the development of communications in Hungary. For more than a century, this building has witnessed important advances in the country's postal and telecommunications systems, and is a symbol of the nation's technological progress.

Details of interest

• Price: from 7 euros general admission.
• Location: Krisztina krt. 5-11, Budapest.
• Hours: Wednesday to Monday from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Known as the center of political power in Hungary, the Sándor Palace is one of the most important buildings in the country, as it currently serves as the official office and residence of the Hungarian president. Located right next to the Buda Castle, this palace stands out for its neoclassical architecture.

Built in 1806 by Count Vince Sandor, the palace was originally a private aristocratic residence. During the 19th century it passed through different owners until it became the residence of the Hungarian prime ministers from 1867, during the dual Austro-Hungarian monarchy. After World War II, the palace was severely damaged and fell into disrepair, but at the beginning of the 21st century it was remodeled and reassigned for official use.

Visiting the Sandor Palace is possible on certain special occasions, such as national holidays or during cultural events when guided tours of the building are organized. However, being the official residence of the president, access to the interior is restricted, although you can visit the perimeter of the palace during opening hours.

Interesting details

• Location: Szent György tér 2, Budapest.
• Opening hours: daily from 7.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m., although visits are restricted.

Although not as famous as the rest of the palaces of Budapest, Berpalota is a beautiful building located in the heart of the city and known for its eclectic architecture and its history as a former luxury residential palace. Its name translates as "rental palace," as it was originally designed to house high-end apartments.

Such buildings were characteristic of the Belle Époque, when Budapest experienced an economic and cultural boom, which prompted the construction of elegant urban residences and palaces. However, the outbreak of World War I and the disintegration of the Austro-Hungarian Empire generated an economic crisis that defunded these projects.

Berpalota, as a survivor of its era, retains a mix of striking architectural details inside, including high ceilings, marble staircases and elaborate ornamentation. Although some of the original apartments have been renovated and adapted to modern times, many of the decorative and structural elements have been preserved, allowing visitors to experience the aristocratic life of the era.

Visiting the Berpalota Palace can be an interesting experience for lovers of Budapest's architecture and urban history. Although access to the interior is usually limited to residents and people working in the building, guided tours can be arranged on special occasions, such as cultural festivals or architectural events.

Details of interest

• Location: Ferenciek tere 2, Budapest.

The Vigadó Concert Hall is one of the main cultural venues in Budapest. This building, although not formally considered a palace, is known for its Romanesque architecture and its historical importance as a center of Hungary's artistic and cultural life. Inaugurated in 1865, Vigadó has been the venue for countless concerts, exhibitions and cultural events over the years.

Likewise, the interior of the building offers impeccable acoustics, making it an ideal venue for classical music, theatrical performances and other high-level shows. In addition, it is equipped with a large concert hall and comfortable seating areas that allow you to contemplate the interior beauty of the building.

The history of the Vigadó is full of significant moments. The original building was destroyed during the Hungarian Revolution of 1848 and later rebuilt. Over the years, it has witnessed concerts by famous composers such as Franz Liszt and Johannes Brahms.

If you want to visit the Vigadó Hall you can attend one of the many concerts or events that are organized throughout the year, especially if you plan to visit Budapest in summer, when the hall's season opens. Tickets for these events can be purchased online or at the box office of the building.

Interesting details

• Location: Vigado ter. 2, Budapest.