castle hill travel & tours

Castle Hill Tours

Take a guided tour of the Great House and its walled gardens at Castle Hill

After Chicago industrialist Richard T. Crane, Jr., purchased the property in 1910, the former farmland of Castle Hill came to exemplify a European-inspired country estate of the era, with its farm and estate buildings, designed grounds and gardens, and diverse natural areas. The first house built atop Castle Hill, an Italian Renaissance Revival villa designed by Shepley, Rutan and Coolidge, was razed and replaced in 1928 with the Great House, the 59-room Stuart-style mansion designed by architect David Adler that you see today. The grounds and gardens would be molded by the talented designs of the Olmsted Brothers and Arthur Shurcliff. Castle Hill would become the centerpiece of an estate encompassing 3500 acres, emphasizing the natural landscapes, their stewardship, and protection.  

In 1910, the same year they purchased the property, the Cranes amended their wills to reflect that The Trustees would be bequeathed this astounding property. They understood the value of land preservation. Castle Hill comprises 365 acres of the 2100 currently stewarded by The Trustees, and captures the essence of summer living at a grand gentlemen’s estate.  

With wonderful walking and  hiking paths, curated gardens, 360-degree views, and glorious architecture, there is something to interest everyone. Choose from six guided tours of the house, gardens, and grounds with our expert interpreters, or plan a day of your own devising. Group rates are available, as are private tours.  

Grounds admission is included in tour ticket pricing, or available a la carte, and covers a 3-hour visit . 

Guest of the Cranes

The cat’s meow, cupola with a view, behind the scenes at the great house, little women at castle hill, the grand design: a landscape tour of castle hill, formal flowers: a tour for gardeners.

It’s 1929 and you’ve just arrived after a long journey to see the Great House at Castle Hill and to visit your friends, the Crane family, of Crane plumbing fame. You are greeted at the door by household staff and your adventure as a “Guest of the Cranes” begins. A tour through the house will show you the luxury and conveniences that will be at your disposal during your summertime visit to Ipswich. An invitation from the Crane family is a coveted prize. Welcome to Castle Hill!   

Our hourly tour is a time capsule experience that takes you back to 1929, the Crane family’s first summer in brand new Great House. It is the second one the Cranes built at Castle Hill and it’s a stunner! The tour includes the family bedrooms, bathrooms, and guest rooms.    

Tours leave on the hour and have a run time of approximately 50-60 minutes. Tours run from 10AM-3PM. Tickets can be purchased in advance, or first-come-first-serve on property.   

  Accessibility:  The Grand Stair has 30 steps. We’re sorry, but there is no elevator. Headset amplifier available upon request.  

Our imagination is one of our greatest assets. Imagine living in 1929 and visiting the Crane family at their summer home in Ipswich. The house is so big and Mrs. Crane’s kitty, Ptolemy, has gone missing just before the party! Can you help a family servant find our mischievous Siamese? Once he’s found, we’ll have just enough time to dress for the party!    

This tour has a run time of approximately 30-40 minutes and is recommended for children 3-8 and their families. It takes you through the family and guest living spaces of the Great House.   

Accessibility:  The Grand Stair has 30 steps. We’re sorry, but there is no elevator. Headset amplifier available upon request.   

This is our most Instagram-able tour experience and a particular treat for those interested in the architecture of the Great House and its surrounding property. You’ll gain insight into the architectural choices made by David Adler as he designed and built the Great House, the second home the Cranes built atop majestic Castle Hill. The exterior and interior spaces are a feast for the eyes. Learn how this architectural feat fits into the history of the property even beyond the Crane family, peek into servant life in the house, but most importantly – you will get to step out onto the roof and take in the panoramic views of Castle Hill!   

Accessibility:  This tour climbs 3 flights of stairs. We’re sorry, there is no elevator. Headset amplifier available upon request.   

Do you love checking out basements, kitchens, and other nooks and crannies? Our behind-the-scenes tour takes you into the world of service and explores how the house ran when the Cranes were in residence. You’ll see how a plumbing magnate incorporated the latest technology of the era into his summer home to maximize efficiency, including electric wind indicators and an advanced telephone system.

This tour has a run time of approximately 50-60 minutes.

Accessibility:  This tour utilizes several staircases and is not accessible to those with mobility issues. We’re sorry, there is no elevator. Headset amplifier available upon request.  

This 90-minute guided walking tour highlights the magnificent sites at Castle Hill where the acclaimed 2019 movie was filmed.

Hear behind-the-scenes stories about the production. Experience the places where Timothée Chalamet, Florence Pugh, Meryl Streep, and other actors filmed scenes.

Learn the fascinating history of Castle Hill and the family who once called this breathtaking location their summer home.

Accessibility : This is an outdoor tour and will involve approximately 1/4 mile of walking on grass and pavement, with some uneven stairs. Headset amplifier available upon request.

This tour has a run time of approximately 90 minutes. Tickets can be purchased in advance, or on a first-come-first-serve basis on property.

This 90-minute walking tour explores the magnificent living masterpiece that is Castle Hill. Step into scenes of expansive grandeur designed by some of the most influential landscape architects of their time.

Accessibility : This outdoor walking tour covers approximately a half mile and utilizes stairs. The full tour is not accessible to those with mobility issues. Voice amplification will be used.

This tour has a run time of approximately 90 minutes. Tickets can be purchased in advance, or first-come-first-serve on property. If weather prevents the tour, refunds will be issued automatically.

Calling all gardeners! Are you interested in how the formal gardens at Castle Hill have grown and changed over the years? Are you looking for inspiration for your own garden? Formal Flowers will take you on a detailed journey into the way the Italian and Rose Gardens were designed and planted in the Crane’s day, and how the gardens were re-imagined in 2016 and 2020. Tours include information on the current plantings with emphasis on those that are in bloom at the time of your tour.

Accessibility: This tour is an outdoor walking tour and utilizes stairs to access the garden spaces. The full tour is not accessible to those with mobility issues. Voice amplification will be used.

This tour has a run time of approximately 50-60 minutes. Tickets can be purchased in advance, or first-come-first-serve on property. If weather prevents the tour, refunds will be issued automatically. Grounds admission is included in the ticket price and covers a 3-hour visit.

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate

Crane Beach on the Crane Estate

Crane Wildlife Refuge on the Crane Estate

The Inn at Castle Hill

Castle Hill Travel & Tours

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8455 106A Avenue NW

Edmonton, AB T5H 0X4

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If you are planning a trip or vacation this year, stop by Castle Hill Travel & Tours in Edmonton today. Our travel experts will connect you with low domestic and international airfare specials as well as a number of deluxe vacation packages. Whether you're in the mood to take a safari in Africa or a cruise around the Caribbean, we can help you put together your dream vacation. We also offer packages for honeymoons and special discounts on group travel. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation. One of the most wonderful things about travel is that we get to discover all different types of cuisines and sample wines and beers and other local specialties around the world. But for many people, food is the reason to travel. “Foodies” --as they are called-- are all about the food when they travel. And there are Foodie destinations ----cities and regions where you’ll find some of the best restaurants in the world. If food is a big part of why you travel, let’s discuss which destinations you might consider and plan your next vacation around the food! For more information on Theme Travel for Foodies Please Subscribe to our Newsletter for the latest Travel Discounts and News. more... See more text

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Explore the extraordinary, wether ts a short tours and/or long vacation, we got you cover! We specialize in Asia, offerring Luxury Travels, Holistic Vacation Packages, Special Tours & Travels...

Castle Hill Travel & Tours Inc is an active leisure company serving clientele worldwide… As member of Travel Leaders Network it allows us to provide our clientele with better deals and tailored experiences than you could find elsewhere.

But that’s not what makes us unique. What separates us from other travel providers is our refreshing flexibility, simplified approach to solving the toughest challenges in this industry. Additionally, our Travel Professionals' years of experience and trusted relationship with travel companies around the globe, make us strong partner ,capable of of delivering the latest innovation and travel experiences to you ahead of others.

Our Travel Professionals take the time to get to know your interest and lifestyle-all the while saving you money through exclusive deals and special fares.

By using the services of Castle Hill Travel & Tours,you can plan every component of your next trip in one enjoyable visit.

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Atour Travel Service is a fully licenced, professional travel agency from Sydney’s Hills District. Operating since 1992, they have thrived on exceptional customer service exceeding in their delivery of quality travel advice and management for the local community and its businesses. A trusted brand, their multi-award winning team have over 200 years’ experience between them and are truly passionate about travel and designing dream holidays and seamless corporate trips.

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Castle Hill (Várhegy)

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Located on the west side of the Danube River , Castle Hill is a must-see district for any Budapest visitor. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987, the area's iconic Buda Castle was constructed in the 13th century. Walk the cobblestone streets, take in the medieval atmosphere and dive deep into Budapest's history.

From the castle to  Matthias Church  to the underground Castle Labyrinth to  Fisherman's Bastion , you'll find there's almost no end to what you can learn about Budapest's past. The lack of vehicle traffic also lends an old-world charm to the area. Plus, travelers say you'll discover sweeping city panoramas from multiple locales in the neighborhood.

Getting to Castle Hill requires walking or taking public transportation. The nearest metro station is Batthyány tér, though walking across the Széchenyi Chain Bridge from Pest is more pleasant and probably a quicker way to get to the region during peak hours. You can also take the historical funicular, which costs 1,200 forints (less than $5) per ride or 1,800 forints ($7) for a round-trip ticket. The neighborhood itself is free to visit at any time of the day, but entrance fees and visiting hours apply for Castle Hill sights like Matthias Church and Buda Castle's museums.

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#1 Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya)

Located in the historic district of  Castle Hill , Fisherman's Bastion is a neo-Gothic terrace that looks like a structure taken straight out of a fairy tale. Designed and built in 1905 by Frigyes Schulek – the same architect who built the adjacent Matthias Church – Fisherman's Bastion is named after the medieval guild of fishermen who protected Budapest from invasion.

Visitors say Fisherman's Bastion's gleaming white structure provides panoramic views of the city: From here, you can snap some breathtaking pictures of the Danube River , Margaret Island and Pest. Also save time for exploring the sight's seven ornate turrets, which symbolize the tents of the seven Magyar leaders who settled the Carpathian Basin, ultimately leading to the existence of modern-day Hungary. 

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Castle Hill, New Zealand

Castle Hill, New Zealand In a country famous for beautiful landscapes, only Castle Hill has received one particular honour: being declared by the Dalai Lama as a ‘spiritual centre of the universe’. Castle Hill is…

28 May 20 · 5 mins read

In a country famous for beautiful landscapes, only Castle Hill has received one particular honour: being declared by the Dalai Lama as a ‘spiritual centre of the universe’.

Castle Hill is a rock formation set in the Waimakariri Basin, located in the Canterbury high country of New Zealand, about 95 km or 80 minutes north-west of Christchurch . It lies between two mountain ranges – the Torlesse and the Craigieburn. Dwarfed by the surrounding mountains from afar, up close the rock formations tower over the visitor.

Geologically, the boulders are limestone karst formations. They are the water-eroded remnants of limestone landscapes that formed in New Zealand in the Oligocene age (30-40 million years ago), when much of the islands were under the sea.

So, why did the Dalai Lama declare Castle Hill to be a ‘spiritual centre of the universe’?

On a visit to Christchurch in 2002, the Dalai Lama was unimpressed with the energies he found in town. As the Christchurch Cathedral is made from rock quarried from the boulders, he was taken to the original site. Overwhelmed by the beautiful landscape, he had a spiritual experience. Afterward, he maintained that the area was one of the energy centres of the universe.

There is something about nature’s sculptures that evokes the spiritual for human beings. For centuries, humans have regarded Castle Hill as having religious significance of some kind. The Ngāi Tahu – the major Maori iwi (or tribe) of the South Island – named the sculpted rocks Kura Tāwhiti, or ‘treasure from a distant land’. The name is an allusion to kumara cultivation in the area, and is also the name of one of the ancestors aboard the Arai Te Uru canoe, which sunk off the coast of Otago.

The area was used by the Ngāi Tahu for a variety of purposes. Kumara and taramea (used in perfume) were cultivated, and Moa, kiwi, and eel were hunted here. The rock arrangement was likely used by the Maori to set their calendar, by aligning limestone outcrops with particular star clusters. And senior tohunga (expert priests, teachers, healers, navigators and builders) likely trained novices in the area.

The rocks are home to 500-year old rock art – a focal point for a number of strange theories. As the 18th and 19th century Maori had no tradition of rock art, it was believed by some that the drawings were created by non-Polynesian visitors. Julius von Haast, the 19th century founder of the Canterbury Museum, believed that they had been created by Tamil seafarers or Buddhist missionaries. More recently, archaeological excavations of shelter floor deposits and radiocarbon dating have established that rock art was an important part of early Maori culture. Some drawings seem to depict the arrival of European ships, suggesting that they may be more recent.

Unlike rock art in Australia , which has stayed distinct for thousands of years, the geological instability of New Zealand and weathering of the rocks means that the Maori drawings are rather indistinct.

After colonisation, Castle Hill struck European settlers as being of spiritual importance. The 19th century observer, the Reverend Charles Clarke, vividly described the outcrops as

grouped like the buildings of a Cyclopean city, or the circling seats of a vast amphitheatre; and further still huge groups and solitary masses like the gigantic monoliths of Stonehenge.

Perhaps this sense of grandeur is why John Milliken, the owner of a pastoral station in the area, donated the rocks to form the font and pulpit of the Christchurch Cathedral (the main building was constructed out of the more reliable Oamaru stone). Today, the site is a magnet for New Agers, who practice rituals – known as a ‘Transfusion Dance Party’ – nearby.

In 1998, the conservation area was declared as topuni – a state of high mana (authority or prestige), one of only 14 areas on the South Island to reach this status, which also includes Mount Cook/Aoraki, Mount Aspiring/Tititea, and Tutoko.

Today, Castle Hill is a magnet for rock-climbers from around the world. For the less adventurous, the formations still cast an overwhelming appeal. A path leads up to the rocks, but disintegrates once there. Even on a busy day, you’ll likely find yourself alone, loomed over by these incredible natural formations.

Perhaps – like the Dalai Lama and so many others before you – you’ll find something spiritual in the experience.

Castle Hill is an easy day tour from the city of Christchurch, visited as part of Odyssey Traveller’s New Zealand tour, An Odyssey Down Under . We have scheduled a free day in the city, ideal for a trip to these extraordinary rock formations.

Odyssey Traveller’s tour of New Zealand is designed to take you through the best landscapes of the North Island and the South Island. We begin our tour in Auckland , where we learn about the history of New Zealand, before heading south to Rotorua , home to the Te Puia Thermal Reserve, and an important centre of Maori culture. The tour then heads through some of the North Island‘s spectacular scenery, including the Waimangu Volcanic Rift Valley, Lake Taupo, and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing , before heading to Wellington , New Zealand‘s capital.

From Wellington, our trip departs for Christchurch on the South Island, taking the interislander ferry, stopping off at the charming costal town of Kaikoura on the way. We then head south to Dunedin, a university town with a strong Scottish connection. From Dunedin, our tour heads to Te Anau , from which we explore the stunning scenery of Fjordland National Park on the west coast of the island, including Milford Sound . We then head to Queenstown , set dramatically among the natural beauty of the Southern Alps, where our escorted tour comes to an end.

Every Odyssey guided tour is designed for mature and senior travellers who want an authentic experience of their destination, with a focus on history, culture, and natural landscapes. Our New Zealand vacation is led by an experienced tour director/tour guide. We’re not your standard tour operator: an Odyssey group tour is genuinely small, with around 6-12 guests per tour group.

Odyssey has been taking Australian travellers to the world since 1983. We pride ourselves on being a committed global citizen – a task that has become harder in recent months, with the coronavirus restrictions on travel. So, we have decided to reorient our focus towards tours of Australia and New Zealand. Australia and New Zealand – along with other small countries including South Korea and Taiwan – have been largely successful in containing the number of coronavirus cases, and are starting to lift strict lockdown measures. With talks between the Australian government and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and the New Zealand Government, we are hopeful that trans-Tasman travel will resume later this year. So while coronavirus means that you should probably put that United States adventure, cruise ship holiday, or Russian visa application on holiday, there’s no need to put your passport away just yet!

Articles about New Zealand published by Odyssey Traveller

• Questions About New Zealand
• Auckland, New Zealand
• Rotorua, New Zealand
• For all the articles Odyssey Traveller has published for mature aged and senior travellers, click through on this link .

External articles to assist you on your visit to New Zealand

• Tourism New Zealand
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Explore the Riviera

Castle hill: a guide to visiting nice’s beloved hilltop park.

Castle Hill (or Le Parc de la Colline du Château in French), is a popular park located in Nice, France. It is situated atop the hill of the same name and offers stunning views of the city and its beaches below.

This beautiful park is enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike. It is one of the most iconic locations in Nice and a good place to meet up with friends, go for a run, or just take in the sights and is worth visiting even if you are only in Nice for one day .

In addition to its expansive views, Castle Hill is home to several attractions that provide visitors with plenty of entertainment opportunities.

Planning a visit to Colline du Chateau? Well, in this guide you will find all the information you need to make the most of your visit.

We’ll cover everything from the various activities available at the park to tips for making your visit more enjoyable.

Planning a trip to the South of France? Then make sure to follow my Instagram and join my Facebook group for the best tips, places, and hotels on the French Riviera. You can also get a custom itinerary made by me here or check out my travel guides for Nice, Monaco, Cannes, Antibes and Saint-Tropez.

✈️ Need help planning your trip to the French Riviera?

Make the most out of your trip with a personalized itinerary made just for you or book a travel consultation where I will answer any questions you might have.

How do you get to Castle Hill in Nice?

Getting to Castle Hill is easy if you are staying near the Promenade des Anglais as it is located at the end of it, to the left. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the city center.

READ: 35 Best things to do in Nice, France

If you don’t feel like walking, you can take the tram to the Port Lympia station and walk from there.

Then, to go up the hill you have two options: Walk up the wide, cobblestone staircase or take the elevator located at the beginning of it.

Castle Hill Address

1 Rue des Ponchettes, 06300 Nice is the address to the elevator to Castle Hill.

Opening hours

Even though it is a public park, Castle Hill has opening and closing hours. They are from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm in winter and from 8:30 am to 8 pm in summer.

The park is open seven days a week.

⛱️ Looking for the best places to eat, stay, and explore in Nice?

In my Nice Travel Guide , you will find all the best addresses, unique day trips, restaurants, hotels, and hidden gems in Nice. Planning your trip to the South of France has never been easier ❤️

Best time to visit

Weather-wise, there is not really a bad time to visit Castle Hill as Nice is a city blessed with blue skies and sun almost every day of the year.

The warmer months, such as June, July, August, and September are of course better for activities like picnics and sunbathing, but you can still enjoy the park in winter.

• 9 Best Walking Tours in Nice, France [2024]

Do you have to pay to visit Castle Hill?

No, you do not have to pay an admission fee to visit Castle Hill. It is a public park and all visitors are welcome.

Things to Do in Castle Hill

There are many fun things to do in Castle Hill. These are some of our favorites:

1- Celebrate La Fete du Chateau

This is a popular festival that takes place in the park every year. Every June, it hosts concerts, exhibitions, and other events for visitors to enjoy.

2- Walk around

Simply strolling around the hilltop park is an enjoyable activity itself, especially with its breathtaking views of Nice.

3- Have a picnic with local specialties

Castle Hill has numerous picnic spots, making it the perfect place to spread a blanket out and enjoy some food while admiring the beautiful views.

Get some socca or a fresh pissaladiere from Marché Aux Fleurs for a delicious local lunch.

4- See the Cimetière du Château

This cemetery is situated in the park and is worth a visit. It’s the final resting place of many prominent figures from both Nice and France.

5- Participate in sports

The park offers plenty of space for jogging, cycling, soccer, and other outdoor sports.

6- Go on a walking tour of Castle Hill

A guided tour is a great way to learn more about the park, its history, and its sights (read: The best tours to take in Nice this year ).

In this walking tour of Castle Hill and Old Nice, you will hear insider stories about the Nice Town Hall, the Nice Cathedral, and more.

6- Find Cascade Dijon

This man-made waterfall is a sight to behold and a popular attraction in the park.

7- Admire The Ruins of Castle Hill

The ruins of the castle’s walls are still visible today and make for a great photo opportunity.

You can read about the original chateau here .

6- Watch the sunset

One of the best times to visit Castle Hill is during sunset when you can admire the city lights as they come alive below you.

Things to remember when visiting Castle Hill

1- Respect the rules: Castle Hill is a public park and therefore there are some rules in place to keep it clean and safe. Respect them at all times.

2- Wear comfortable shoes: The cobblestone stairs can be slippery, so wear comfortable shoes or sneakers to go up and down safely.

3- Avoid bringing pets: Pets are not allowed in the park as they can disturb other visitors.

4- Take your trash with you: Leave no trace by taking all your litter home with you when you leave.

5- Be mindful of the temperature when visiting in summer: Castle Hill is quite exposed and can get very hot during the summer months. Bring sunscreen, hats, and light clothing so you don’t get sunburned.

6- Listen to your guide: If there is a guided tour in your itinerary, make sure to listen carefully so you don’t miss out on any information.

7- Take lots of photos: The views from up top are spectacular, so take plenty of photos to remember them!

Things to do after visiting Castle Hill

Finished with your visit? Well, now it’s time to explore more of Nice. A few things you can do are:

1- Visit the Promenade des Anglais

To get from Castle Hill to the famous Promenade des Anglais, all you have to do is take the stars down, and voilá! You are there.

Walk along this iconic beachfront road and take in the sights of Nice’s beautiful coastline.

2- Try traditional Niçoise food and wine on a food tour

The city is known for its delicious cuisine and what better way to experience it than by joining a food tour?

Taste local specialties such as pissaladière, socca, salade niçoise and more.

3- Make your own perfume at Molinard

If you’re looking for a unique way to take home a little piece of Nice, why not create your own personalized perfume at the renowned Molinard perfumery?

4- Visit the Matisse Museum

One of Nice’s most beloved museums, the Matisse Museum, makes for a wonderful place to visit after Castle Hill.

Here you can explore an extensive collection of works from the famous artist and experience a true art immersion.

5- Explore Old Town

Take a stroll through Old Town (Vieux Nice) and admire its charming architecture, colorful markets, and buzzing street life. An absolute must while visiting Nice!

6- Go on a dynamic Nice City Segway Sightseeing Tour

Discover the city in a fun and dynamic way with a segway sightseeing tour . This is great for those that want to cover more ground in less time and get to know the city from its best viewpoints.

These are just some of the activities you can do after your visit to Castle Hill. Of course, there are plenty of other things to do in Nice, so don’t stop exploring!

Where to stay near Castle Hill

As we previously mentioned, Castle Hill has a very privileged location as it is located next to Promenade des Anglais and the Vieux Port and is also just a small walk away from Vieux Nice.

Therefore, choosing a hotel near Castle Hill is a great idea if plan on exploring the city mostly on foot.

These are some of our favorite hotel recommendations:

On a budget: Hôtel Vendôme

Mid-range: Hôtel Nice Azur Riviera

Splurge: Boscolo Nice Hotel & Spa

READ: 15 Best hotels to stay in Nice, France

Conclusion: A Guide to Visiting Castle Hill in Nice

That’s a wrap! We hope you found our guide to visiting Castle Hill.

Castle Hill is a must-see while on the French Riviera. Its privileged location, incredible views, and rich history make it an unforgettable experience.

Just remember to be respectful of the park’s rules, wear comfortable clothing, bring sunscreen and take lots of photos. Happy travels!

Oh! And if you are visiting the South of France soon, check out my travel guides , follow my Instagram and join my Facebook group for more hidden gems and travel tips. Happy travels!

Plan the perfect trip to the French Riviera

👗 Find all my favorite addresses in Nice on this travel guide.

📕 Get a personalized French Riviera itinerary here or check out my other travel planning services

🗺️ Book guided tours through Get Your Guide and Viator .

🛏️ Find the perfect hotel on Booking.com .

Continue reading:

• 27 Best Things to Do in Nice, France
• 15 Best Hotels in Nice, France for 2024
• 24 Best Boutique Hotels in Nice in 2024
• 10 Reasons Why Nice is Worth Visiting

Camila Neves

Nice to meet you! My name is Cami and I am a full-time traveler and foodie. I live in Nice in the South of France and this blog is where I share my impressions and travel secrets.

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Budapest  >  Budapest Castle Hill Walking Tour

‎ Budapest Tourist Tips ‎ |  Suggested Itineraries For Budapest

• Central Pest Walking Tour
• Jewish Quarter Walking Tour
• Castle Hill Walking Tour
• City Park Walking Tour
• Gellért Hill Walking Tour
• More Sights
• Best Day Trips
• Helpful Visitor Tips
• Suggested Itineraries

Budapest Castle Hill Walking Tour:

Location :  Buda Castle Hill ( West Side of Danube River ) Cost :  Free, Self-Guided ( Museum & Funicular Fees Below ) Style :  Do-It-Yourself Walking Tour ( Self Guided ) Start :  Széchenyi Chain Bridge ( Pest side of Danube ) End :  St Anne’s Church ( Batthyány Tér Metro Stop ) Walking Distance :  2.6 miles Time Required :  90 Minutes of Walking ( 4 hours with sights ) Fun Scale :  9 out of 10

Overview of Castle Hill:

Sitting in the Buda Hills, high above the Danube, the Castle District ( Budai Várhegy ) is amazing to visit during the day and extremely beautiful while lit up at night. Getting here can be a little tricky a the only subway stops lie at the bottom of Castle Hill.

The best way to do the Castle Hill walking tour is to start on the Pest side ( Eastern ) of the river and stroll across the famous Szecheny Lanchid ( Chain Bridge ) to the base of Castle Hill. From there you can great a great view of the city by taking the funicular up the rest of the way or if there is a long line just hop on bus #16. The entire Castle District area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sights.

Castle Hill Walking Tour Sights:

1. széchenyi chain bridge ( széchenyi lanchid ):.

About The Chain Bridge :  The historic quarter-mile long Chain Bridge was  completed in 1849  as the first permanent bridge connecting Buda and Pest.  It was also the first permanent bridge spanning the Danube River in all of Hungary.  The bridge was needed to help Pest escape flooding and lead the merging with Buda and Óbuda in 1873.  With  large lion statues  guarding all four corners of the Bridge, its easy to feel its power.  Great photo opportunities come not only from the statues but also from the Chain Bridge itself with the breath-taking Buda Hills & Royal Palace in the background.  The Bridge is absolutely gorgeous when lit up at night.

*At the end of the Chain Bridge you will come to… 2. Clark Adam Square:  This large roundabout is named after the Scottish engineer  Clark Adam , who built the Széchenyi Chain Bridge and the Buda Hill Tunnel in the mid-1800s.  The bustling roundabout is a huge meeting point for pedestrians, buses, trams, and cars pretty much any time of the day.  The center of Clark Adam Square is always filled with a delightful collection of fresh flowers.  Make sure to check out the 10 foot tall  Zero Kilometre Stone  on the South side of the Square.  This limestone sculpture is meant to look like a zero as it marks “kilometer zero”  from which all roads in Hungary were measured from.  Although we recommend taking the funicular up, Bus #16 also departs from Clark Adam Square to the top of Castle Hill.

*Directly across the square you will see the Castle Hill tunnel to the right and to the left is… 3. Buda Hill Funicular ( Budvari Sikló ):  First built in 1870, the Sikló provides the commanding views of Budapest will whisking you up Castle Hill.  The funicular was totally destroyed during WW2 and it took all the way until 1986 for it to reopen again.  The new Sikló has two 24 person trolley-style cars which easily climbs up the 48% grade.  This is by far the coolest way to get up Castle Hill as it is cheap, fast, and direct.  Did we mention the views?  The other options to reach Castle Hill are to walk up the strenuously steep hill, take an expensive taxi, or jump on bus #16 which is cheap and stops in Clark Adam Square.  Hours:  730am to 10pm, leaves every 5 minutes.   Cost: 870 Ft one way or 1400 Ft round trip.

*At the top of the funicular look to your left and you will see…  4. Bud a Royal Palace ( Budavári Palota ):  During your entire walk across the Chain Bridge, the Buda Royal Palace towers over you waiting for your arrival.  Now that you are finally here, the first thing you’ll notice is a big statue of the  mythical bird Turul .  Folklore says that the Turul led early Hungarian ( Magyar ) migrations in the 800’s and dropped his sword in the region indicating it was to be the new home of the Hungarians.  The Hungarian capital was originally in the city of Eszergom, but when the Tatars started taking over Europe in the 1200’s  King Bela IV moved the capitol  here to Buda. With the new capital established, a much larger Grand Palace than the one before you dominated Castle Hill.

This giant Grand Palace lasted through a lot of turmoil and was even untouched through over a 150 years of Ottoman occupation.  The  Hapsburgs  ended the Ottoman occupation by capturing Buda and Pest in the name of Austria in 1686 and quickly tore down the Grand Palace.  In an effort to make Buda in the image of Austria they moved the Magyars to the country side, moved thousands of German speakers in, and built and even grander Baroque Palace on Castle Hill.  The Hapsburgs held the Palace for over 200 years through the 1848 Revolution all the way until WW2.   During the war the Hapsburg’s Palace was destroyed in crossfire as the Nazis and Soviets battled each other on nearby Gellért Hill and has since been replaced by the current dull, domed building before you.

As a tourist, the Royal Palace’s exterior is boring during the day, but is actually  quite stunning at night  when it is lit up by flood lights.  This night view is best seen from across the river with the Chain Bridge lit up in the foreground.  Inside the Palace, you’ll find lovely ballrooms, a grand library, gold-plated interiors with rich ornaments, two great museums, and nice exhibitions.

4a.  National Gallery of Hungary  ( Magyar Nemzeti Galéria ):  The entrance to the National Gallery is dominated by an  equestrian statue  of the Polish general Jan Sobieski, who fought successfully against the Ottomans.  The art gallery holds exhibitions of some of the best known Hungarian painters including Mihaly Munkacsy, Pal Szinyei-Merse and many more.   Hours:  Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm, Closed Mondays.   Cost:  Free, some special exhibits may be extra.   Gallery Website:  ( HERE ).

4b.  National Széchenyi Library :  The National Széchenyi Library is the biggest library in Hungary and is worth a quick peak.  The History on among the Library’s 2.5 million books is unbelievable.  They have over 1,800 works from the first century of book printing and over 8,000 books  printed before 1711 AD .  Nationally the Library also has the first book ever published in Hugarian from the 1100’s and first book printed in Hungary called  Chronica Hungarorum , or Chronicle of the Hungarians, which was printed in 1473.  The darkwoods and antique feel to the Library will make you feel like you a stepping into a cozy 1800’s home library.   Hours:  Tuesday-Sunday 10am-8pm.   Cost:  Free.   Library Website:  ( HERE ).

4c. Budapest History Museum:  The approach to the museum is home to one of the most photographed spots on Castle Hill,  Mátyás Corvinus Fountain ( Mátyás-kút ) .  The famous fountain depicts King Mátyás leading a group of hunters together with their hounds and trophy kill.  Mátyás was widely considered the People’s King as he took power from the nobles, evened out taxes, befriended the Ottomans, conquered Vienna and brought Hungary to its Golden Age in the late 1400’s.

Inside the museum you’ll find exhibitions of Budapest that show the Hungarian culture with great details starting from the medieval times up to the modern age.   Hours:  Summer Daily 10am-6pm; Winter Wednesday-Monday 10am-4pm, Closed Tuesdays.   Cost:  1300 Ft Adults, 650 Ft Students.

*When you are ready to leave the palace walk back toward the funicular into St George’s Square.  On your right is the yellow dance theater where Beethoven once performed and on the backside of the ruins on your left is the entrance to the…

5. House of Royal Wines and Cellar Museum:   Housed in the 13th Century ruins of the old royal wine cellars, the House of Royal Wines and Cellar Museum is the perfect place to learn about Hungarian wines.  The actual taste testing are a little expensive for Budapest, but the staff is very knowledgeable, and the museum goes into great detail.  The tastings come with a great meat and cheese platter which helps to make it feel like a better deal.  Even if you don’t join the tasting, wandering the ancient tunnels of the museum is still a good time.  If you are willing to put in a little time learning you may be fast on your way to becoming a local wine expert.   Hours:  Daily Noon-8pm; Closed on Mondays in the Winter.   Museum Cost:  Adult 900 HUF, Child500 HUF.   Tasting Cost:  3 wines 1350 HUF; 4 wines1800 HUF; 6 wines 2700 HUF.

*As you leave the Office of the President follow the straight road running along the left side of the parking lot, it is called Uri Utca. About 2-3 blocks up you will see a sign for on of the entrances to… 6.  Buda Palace Labyrinth  ( Budavári Labirintus ):  The Labyrinth of Buda Castle is situated in the complex of caves and cellars underneath Buda Castle District dating back to both the Ottomans and  prehistoric times . While there is a ton of great stuff to see here, the best are the giant Crowned Head Statue and a fountain that is filled with red wine. There are many miles of caves to explore and after 6pm they turn the lights out and give you gas lamps to navigate the passages. Their website has a number of very cool videos. If you have kids, note that on Sun from 10am-Noon they have great activities for kids. The Labyrinth is listed as a World Heritage Site and as one of the World’s 7 Underground Wonders.

Hours:  Daily 9:30am-7:30pm; last entry 7pm.   Cost:  Adult 2000 HUF, Children 1500 HUF, Family 4000 Ft.   Address:  Úri utca 9.   Closure Notice:  In July 2011 the Hungarian Government seized the main Labyrinth and parts have been closed to the public since then.   As of 2013 a new company has has been offering a self guided tour for a more limited area of the tunnels. Their tour is the same price as the old one, but more limited and with some very corny wax figures all over the place. We hope the full tunnel system open again someday.   Here  is the old companies website so you can see the difference.   Labyrinth Website:  ( HERE ).

*After checking out the Labyrinth, get back onto Uri Utca and follow it the same direction as before. About a block and a half up take a right onto Szentharomsag Utca and you will find… 7.  Ruszwurm Cukrászda Cafe :  This small cafe serves as a great spot to rest during your walking tour as they have a mouth watering selection of pastries, doughnuts, and drinks.  The cherry wood with mahogany inlays inside the shop add to the warm antique feel of the interior.  Although the current shop was  established in 1827 , the lot the shop sits on has been a sweetshop forever and was used to be a gingerbread shop in medieval times.   Hours:  Daily 10am-7pm.   Cafe Website:  ( HERE ).

*Continuing down Szentharomsag Utca a couple hundred feet you run smack into the middle of… 8. Holy Trinity Square ( Szentháromság tér ):  The center point of the square in the middle of Castle Hill is the  Holy Trinity Statue .  The tall white statue was built in 1713 to commemorate the victims of the 1691-1709 plague epidemic and to protect the city from future plight.  The statue’s column is covered with angles and capped by elements of the Holy Trinity.  Superstitious residents feel the Statue definitely helped as the plague never returned.

Moving around the Square, the Old Town Hall of Buda still stands although it hasn’t been a seat of government since Buda and Pest united in 1873.  Our favorite thing in around the Square is the House of Wines is ( Open daily from Noon-8pm ) which for 3500 HUF will let you taste test up to 55 wines in their beautiful cellar.  The  House of Hungarian Wines  is especially a great place to swing by in the beginning of September when it holds the International Wine and Champagne Festival.  If you are looking for food in the Square, the largest state run shops are located on the south side where you can buy sandwiches, salads and soft drinks.  After you grab your food take a walk to the Toth Arpad promenade and find a bench for a beautiful picnic while enjoying the amazing view of Buda hills.

*On the Northside of the square, it is the impossible to miss… 9.  Matthias Church  ( Mátyás Templom ):  The history of Matthias Church is kind of all over the place, but here is a quick overview.  A church has been here  since 1015 A.D.  when Saint Steven built the first Church of Our Lady ( Church of Mary ).  The details of the first church are a little hazy as it was destroyed by a Mongolian invasion in 1242.  With the church destroyed, some money disputes arose while planning the next one which required Pope Innocent IV to step in and mediate.  With the issue settled the Hungarian King Béla IV quickly rebuilt the church used pieces of the original one.  Unhappy with the church 100 years later Louis the Great had it rebuilt in 1370 in a Gothic style that was all the rage at the time.  He apparently wasn’t the best builder as the large bell tower later collapsed during church service.  When  Mátyás Corvinus , known as the People’s King, took over in the late 1400’s the Church got some of it’s biggest additions.  The King had the large Mary’s Gate was added as well as the 197 foot tall Southside tower with the King’s raven insignia.  Although it is still called the Church of Our Lady, most locals call it Matthias Church after this popular King who also married the Czech princess Katalin Podjebrád inside the chapel.

Matthias did a great job rebuilding the Church as it held through 150 years of Ottoman an a conversion into a mosque.  It was actually the biggest mosque in Hungary until the army of Pope Innocent XI reclaimed it for the Christians in 1686.  Although the roof was burned and the organ was ruined in WWII, somehow the rest of the church was spared.

Throughout the life of the Church, the rich history of music has made the Church one of the the music centers of Hungary.  Musical Performances involve the church choir and orchestra who regularly preform during the Sunday high masses (held in Latin) at 10am.  If you prefer organ music you can also attend service at 830am, Noon or 6pm to get your fix.   Hours:  Monday-Friday 9am-5pm; Saturday 9am-1pm; Sun 1pm-5pm.   Cost:  1000 HUF covers both the Church and the attached Museum of Ecclesiastical Art; the sacred chapel area is mainly for worship and always free.  They will turn you away if you have uncovered shoulders and men must take off their hats.   Church Website:  ( HERE ).

*Walk either through or around the church and you will be on the… 10. Fishermen’s Bastion (Halászbástya):  Almost every postcard in Budapest shows a part of the romantic Fishermen’s Bastion with its fairytale white towers.  The Fishermen’s Bastion’s seven towers represent the seven Magyar tribes that settled the Carpathian Basin 896 A.D which holds modern day Hungary.  The Bastion takes its name from the guild of fishermen who were responsible for defending this stretch of the city walls in the Middle Ages.  Due to WWII bombings and lack of maintenance the Bastion of on the verge of ruins before money was raised in 2006 to start a restoration.  Today the revived Bastion has a great panoramic viewing terrace, with many stairs and walking paths and an amazing atmosphere.

A hidden gem at the Bastion is the  Halászbástya Restaurant  ( website ) located under the base level of the through an iron gate and statue laden tunnel.  The restaurant is fancy and expensive for Hungarian standards, but is still affordable with meals from $10-20.  We prefer eating on the open air Bastion Terrace all the way at the top of the Bastion instead.  The views from the Terrace are amazing and they have a wide selection of hot and cold meals, plus drinks of course.  The Terrace is open the Spring through the Fall 10am-10pm and in the Winter they also have a separate indoor heated terrace with great views as well.  Every after guests can sit back and relax to the tunes of a Gypsy band playing international and Hungarian favorites.   Bastion Hours: 24 Hours.   Cost:  Free, in the Spring and Summer they charge a small fee if you want to climb to the top of the towers.

*After a nice rest at go to the far northern tip of Fishermen’s Bastion and you will be able to going into the back entrance of and walk right through the… 11.  Faust Wine Cellar :   The Faust Wine Cellar sits in an old tunnel  below the Hilton Hotel  and has a great atmosphere and even better wine.  The cave like Cellar sells wine by the glass and also has a series of tasting packages.  If you are stopping by for a special occasion you can arrange for them to have a gift scroll waiting at your table for just a couple of dollars.  A favorite among tourists are the 30 different flavors of Pálinka wine made from Hungarian fruit spirits. The Dominican Cloister near the passage to the Cellar dates back to the 1200’s and was recently restored.

The Hilton Hotel sitting above the Cellar was the first major American hotel to come to the castle district, and while it is over-rated for accommodations, serves as a great landmark. You’ll easily notice the Hotel’s glassy exterior, but if you look closely you will see that some of the facade is actually made up from the ruins of a 13th Century wall once stood here.   Hours:  Thursday-Tuesday 1-9pm; Closed on Wednesdays.   Reservations:  Reservations are not required, but we suggest them just in case it’s busy since it’s easy to email have them hold a table through their website.   Getting Here:  Walking into the Hilton Hotel and go past the bar, there will be signs leading you to the Wine Cellar and Dominican Cloister.  The passage down is 54 steps, but is well worth it.   Cellar Website:  ( HERE ).

12. Mary Magdalene Tower ( Mária Magdolna Torony ):  Once the location of a Gothic 13th Century Franciscan Church called Kapisztrán Templom, Mary Magdalene Tower stands as a great memorial to the past.  The original church was named after a hero of Hungary’s victory in 1456’s Battle of Belgrade against the Ottomans.  The Pope himself was so happy about the victory that he ordered that all churches bells must ring at noon to celebrate.  When the Ottoman’s finally overtook the city for from the mid-1500’s to the 1686, the Kapisztrán Church was the only one in Buda to not be converted into a mosque and remained an active church.

Like many churches in Budapest, Kapisztrán was heavily damaged during WWI, but because people had been moved out of this part of the hill the government never rebuilt it.  They instead cleared the area and built Mary Magdalene Tower in its place as a memorial to the war.  Notice how the memorial tower’s bell still tolls at noon.

*Directly across the street from the church ruins you will see a large imposing building which is the… 13.  Museum of Warfare  ( Hadtorteneti Muzeum ):  Highlights the history of Hungarian Wars throughout time and displays a wide range of weapons and tools. It costs a couple euros to get in, a couple more if you want to take photos, and has very little explanations in English, but if you are a big history or war buff you’ll love this place.  Sitting behind the Museum and capping the edge of Castle Hill, Anjou Bastion has a couple great view points looking out onto Buda. It’s hard to miss the shrine honoring Abdurrahman Abdi Arnaut, who was the last Turkish Governor to rule Hungary during the nearly 150 year Turkish occupation of 1541 to 1686.   Hours:  Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm, closes at 4pm in the Winter; Closed Mondays; also Closed mid-December through mid-January.   Cost:  Free, sometime special exhibits are extra.   Museum Website:  ( HERE ).

*Walking along the bastion, you will run into the building neighboring the Warfare Museum to the north, it is the…  14.  Hungarian National Archives :  The Hungarian National Archives pretty much has everything you can think of in terms of scientific researches, family history, and the accessibility of legal documents to help you dig into any regional ancestry you may have.  We really love looking through their large collect of super old historical photos.  Even if you don’t go inside, it is easy to get wowed by the size on the Archives building and the beauty of its tiled roof.  Notice how similar the tiles are to those on the roof of Matthias Church.   Hours:  Tuesday-Friday 8:30am-5:45pm.   Museum Website:  ( HERE ).

*After leaving the archives, take a left and start circling the building and you go right through the… 15. Vienna Gate ( Bécsi Kapu ):  The area near the Vienna Gate served as a market for non-Jewish merchants in the Middle Ages and was also a crossroad for trading.  It is said that if you go through the Gate and  walk for 10 days you’ll reach Vienna .  Before entering the Gate, walk up to the houses to the right which are level with the top of the Gate.  From here you’ll be able to walk on the top of the Vienna Gate and get a great look at old Buda down below.  The neighboring house numbers 5-7 have been the homes of many well known Hungarians over the year and Thomas Mann was said to stay here often in the 1930’s.  The photo to the right shows the outside of the Gate as it appeared in 1896.

As you make your way through the Vienna Gate, the park area just outside the Gate is a peaceful retreat.  The park is called the  Europe Grove Park  after Mayors of the 16 largest cities in Europe came here in 1972 to each plant their choice of rare tree.  As you descend the hill, imagine what is must have been like living in one of the neighboring Baroque houses looking up at Castle Hill in medieval times.

16. The Swan House ( Hattyúház ):  Sitting on the corner of Hattyú (Swan) Street, the Swan House is one of the coolest modern buildings you’ll find in Budapest.  It was originally built in the early 1800’s as a military hospital before being turned into Music Hall and Hotel called the White Swan Inn (Swan Vigadó).  One of the Hall’s most famous concerts was when the famous Budapest composer Liszt’s held a show where all of the proceed were donated to charity.  In the 1990’s the Swan House got a facelift where they did a very unique blend of old stone arches, reclaimed wooden doors, and modern concrete curves.  Today the Swan House has a bunch a different types of businesses including a cafe and a number of small offices.

A hidden gem for photographers is the Hungarian Post Office Headquarters which lies two blocks to the West of the Swan House in Moscow Square.  The building more resembles a red fortress more than an office building which makes the Soviet influence really stand out.  Slightly zoom out on our map above and you will see it.

17. Parliament River Views:  As you make your way to the Danube you’ll have amazing views of the Hungarian Parliament directly across the river.  If you thought the views of the Parliament from on top of Castle Hill were cool, you’ll be floored at how awesome the views from the river are.  Some of the best group photos were taken in Budapest pest have been near the river with the Parliament as a backdrop.  The  Red Bull Air Race  makes a stop from year to year in Budapest around the 20th of August.  It is a high-flying, aerial race against clock which sends stunt planes very to close to historical buildings, the Danube, and even the fans.

*Overlooking Batthyany Ter by the river it’s hard to miss the twin towers of… 18. Church of Staint Anne ( Szent Anna Templom ):  Definitely worth a stop as this is one of the most beautiful baroque buildings in Budapest. The church itself is highlighted by twin green onion-shaped bell towers on the outside and a dark medieval feel on the inside complete with a large cupola and altar.

*A nice couple block stroll along the Danube and you’ll find yourself in front of the tile roofed… 19. Reformed Church ( Református Templom ):  From the outside this is our pick for best looking church in Budapest. While it may not have the grand interior like St Stephens in Pest, the Reformed Church with its warm tones and tile roof is quite a majestic sight.

20.  Hungarian Heritage House :  Over looks Corvin Square and serves the purpose of preserving and promoting Hungarian folk tradition. They have sponsor/run various stage performances and are very active in a number of local festivals.   House Website:  ( HERE ).

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Disclaimer: Information on this page and in our walking tours were deemed accurate when published, however, details such as opening hours, rates, transportation, visa requirements, and safety can change without notice. Please check with any destinations directly before traveling.