Expert-Led Private Tour of Budapest's Castles

During this three-hour private walk we’ll immerse ourselves in one of Budapest’s oldest neighborhoods—the Castle District—and visit many of its most well known sites, including Fisherman's Bastion and the Buda Castle, the traditional home of Hungarian monarchy. Along the way, we'll explore the history of the area from its medieval origins through the rule of the Habsburg dynasty.
First settled in the 13th century as the population sought refuge from Mongol attacks, the Castle district enjoys a strategic hill location with sweeping views of the city. The area was historically home to Buda's royal families and during our time together we will have the chance to use their stories to weave together a narrative of the city from the Medieval and Ottoman era through the time of Maria Theresa and Franz Joseph. Aside from Buda Castle, which has now been transformed to a variety of national museums and libraries, the Castle District contains a wealth of monuments and architectural gems to fill out our understanding of Budapest's history.
Our time will begin near the iconic Fisherman's Bastion, whose towers, which represent the seven Magyar tribes, provide sweeping views across the Danube. The Mattias Church, traditionally home to Buda's German community, and the Mary Magdalene Tower, the remains of the Hungarian community's church, help illustrate the international nature of Buda and how different cultures have transformed art and architecture to suit their needs over time. Along the way we will make ample use of the remaining houses, gates, and windows throughout Castle Hill that, though lesser known, can often give an even richer insight into the history of the area. Should time and interest allow, we may stop at the section of the Buda Castle that is now the Budapest History Museum to explore its exhibition on the early foundations of Buda Castle.
This three-hour visit to the Castle District will allow us to come away with a richer understanding into the history of Buda, using the fabric of the area to delve into themes of community, politics, and religion.