Exploring the Castle District - the Old Town part of Budapest

As the name suggests this is one of the oldest and most historical areas of Budapest. The Royal Palace was established here during the 13th century and was defended by the large stone walls. With its narrow side streets unchanged for centuries, gives visitors a feel of going back in time.

On the top of the Castle Hill named "Várhegy", the Royal Palace presently holds the National Art Gallery and the Budapest Historical Museum. The palace was constantly rebuilt/modified between 1241-1848.

The Matthias Church was also built around the same time of the Castle district, during the mid 1200's. It is one of the most beautiful churches of Budapest. The building was recently reconstructed and it is still home of Catholic masses as well as celebrity weddings and funerals. When you visit this sight, you will know why.

The Fishermen's Bastion was erected for the Millenium Celebration of Hungary (1896), designed by the same architect Miklos Ybl, who designed the Basilica and the Opera House. It offers a beautiful panorama to the Pest side, although you have to pay approximately 3EUR in order to climb just 3 meters higher. If you don't think it is a bargain, the Gellert Hill offers much more to see for free.

The House of Hungarian Wines is located right next to the Matthias Church and the Fishermen's Bastion, offers an all you can drink wine tasting tour, carefully selected the best wines from the 23 wine region of Hungary.

The Castle Labyrinth is a recent exhibition which is more like an amusement than a historical sight. It offers some fun such as the wine fountain, which is an actual source of some drinkable quality wine.

The Funicular as a must attraction, was built also for the Millenium. It operates between the riverside and the Castle Hill, an ancient look with the modern security. During that 5 minutes you can enjoy the panorama of the Pest side meanwhile you can save yourself some walking either uphill or downhill. If you take the Funicular down from the hill, you can easily get to the Pest side by crossing the Chain Bridge, otherwise you can continue your walk towards the Gellert Hill.