How to get to Budapest Citadel?

Perched high on Gellért Hill with sweeping views of the Danube River and the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Citadella is one of Budapest’s most dramatic and historically rich attractions. Originally built as a fortress by the Habsburgs in the mid-19th century, it now stands as a symbol of freedom and remembrance, anchored by the striking Liberty Statue.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, the Citadella is worth the climb — offering not only stunning panoramic views but also a deep connection to Hungary's cultural and political history.

Table of contents

• Key Features of the Site
• Location and How Far It Is from Central Budapest
• Transportation Options to Reach the Citadella

Key Features of the Site

Visiting the Citadella offers far more than just a beautiful view — it’s a cultural and historical experience that connects past and present. From monumental statues to scenic trails, here are the defining highlights of this iconic Budapest landmark:

1. The Liberty Statue (Szabadság Szobor)

Standing proudly at the heart of the Citadella is the Liberty Statue, a towering figure that can be seen from across the city. It depicts a woman holding a palm leaf high above her head — a universal symbol of peace and freedom. Originally erected by the Soviet regime after World War II, its meaning has evolved over time. Following the fall of communism, the inscription was changed to reflect the Hungarian people’s struggle for independence.

The statue has become an enduring symbol of Budapest, representing resilience and renewal. Tourists often gather around its base not only to admire the sculpture but also to read the multilingual plaques that provide historical context.

2. Panoramic Views of Budapest

One of the biggest draws of the Citadella is its breathtaking 360-degree views over Budapest. The site offers an unbeatable vantage point from which to see:

• The Danube River winding through the city
• The Hungarian Parliament Building in all its Gothic grandeur.
  • Location: Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 Budapest
  • Hours: Open daily, tours available from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Cost: Guided tours starting from €18 per person
  • Features: Iconic neo-Gothic architecture, home to the Hungarian crown jewels, and located along the Danube River; tours available in multiple languages.
• The Chain Bridge, Elizabeth Bridge, and Liberty Bridge, all visible from the same spot

Rooftops of Pest stretching all the way to Heroes’ Square.

Photographers, Instagrammers, and nature lovers flock here — especially at sunset or sunrise — to witness the city bathed in golden light. At night, Budapest’s illuminated skyline offers an equally unforgettable sight.

3. Gellért Hill Trails and Natural Beauty

The Citadella is surrounded by the lush greenery of Gellért Hill, a nature-rich area that's part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage site. Several paved and unpaved walking trails lead to the top, each offering its own small viewpoints, statues, and benches for resting.

As you walk up the hill, you’ll pass:

• Sculptures and commemorative monuments
• Rock gardens and shaded groves
• Occasional kiosks selling drinks or souvenirs
• Wildflowers and birds, especially in spring and summer

The walk is moderately challenging but suitable for most fitness levels, with frequent stops along the way to enjoy the views.

4. Remnants of the Fortress

The Citadella itself was originally constructed in 1851 by the Austrian Habsburgs as a military fortress after the failed Hungarian Revolution of 1848–49. It was intended not to defend the city from external attack, but to assert imperial control over the Hungarians.

Today, the U-shaped fortress walls still stand as a historical reminder. While the interior was previously open as a museum, it is currently closed to the public pending renovation. However, the exterior is accessible, and plaques explain the fortress’s origins, architecture, and political role in Hungarian history.

5. Additional Features (Seasonal and Temporary)

Depending on the time of year and ongoing restoration efforts, you may also find:

• Vendors selling local snacks, souvenirs, and cold drinks
• Pop-up exhibits or art installations
• Informational signs in multiple languages
• Temporary light shows or guided tours in the evening

While the Citadella’s internal museum areas are not always open, the site continues to attract visitors as a top outdoor cultural destination in Budapest.

Location and How Far It Is from Central Budapest

The Citadella is situated at the top of Gellért Hill, one of Budapest’s most prominent natural landmarks. Located on the Buda side of the Danube River, it rises above the city at an altitude of approximately 235 meters, offering sweeping views across both the Buda and Pest districts. Despite its elevated position, the Citadella is surprisingly close to the heart of the city and easily accessible via public transport, taxi, or even on foot for those who enjoy a moderately challenging walk.

1. Exact Location and Access Points

The fortress sits within Budapest’s District XI (Újbuda), with its entrance accessible from several popular walking paths and transit-adjacent spots. Visitors can approach it from multiple directions, including the areas around Liberty Bridge, Elizabeth Bridge, and the famous Gellért Baths. Each access point has its own charm: some paths wind through shady groves with scenic rest spots, while others offer more direct but steeper routes. The walk up the hill is part of the experience, giving visitors a chance to appreciate both the natural beauty of the surroundings and the gradual reveal of panoramic city views as they ascend.

• Location: Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Budapest
• Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Cost: Entry starts at €19
• Features: Famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, natural thermal waters, and tranquil atmosphere; includes a wave pool and massage services.

2. Distance from Popular Landmarks

While the Citadella may look distant from below, it is actually only a short trip from several of Budapest’s most visited sites. For instance, from Clark Ádám tér, near the Chain Bridge, the distance is just under two kilometers. If you're taking public transportation — specifically tram line 19 to the Rudas Baths stop — the journey followed by a brief walk takes around 15 minutes. A taxi from this area will get you to the top in under ten minutes, depending on traffic, making it one of the quickest options.

From Buda Castle, the Citadella is about 2.2 kilometers away. While the two sites are located on neighboring hills, getting from one to the other involves descending and ascending again, so it's not a flat walk, but it’s doable if you're up for a longer, more scenic stroll.

• Location: Szent György tér 2, 1014 Budapest
• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Cost: Castle grounds are free; museum entry starts at €8
• Features: UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the Budapest History Museum and Hungarian National Gallery; offers breathtaking views of the Danube.

Perhaps the most popular starting point for walking is Gellért Baths, located at the base of the hill. From here, it’s about a kilometer to the top via a well-trodden but relatively steep path. Many visitors choose this route for its direct access and shady, tree-lined trails.

If you’re coming from Deák Ferenc Square, a central hub in Pest, the total distance is about 2.5 kilometers. This is a convenient starting point if you’re staying in the city center, as it connects to multiple metro and tram lines. From there, you can cross either Elizabeth or Liberty Bridge on foot and begin your ascent on the Buda side.

3. View the Map and Route Planning Options

Planning your route to the Citadella is simple with the help of modern navigation tools. Google Maps offers accurate walking and transport directions, while the BKK Futár app (Budapest’s official transit planner) provides real-time schedules and service updates for public transportation. For those comparing all available options — including time, cost, and walking distances — platforms like Rome2Rio offer a helpful side-by-side overview.

Even though the Citadella is perched high above the city, it remains very much within reach. Whether you’re looking for convenience, a scenic walk, or the fastest route, getting there is part of the adventure — and the reward at the top is well worth the effort.

Transportation Options to Reach the Citadella

Despite being perched atop Gellért Hill, the Citadella is surprisingly accessible from almost anywhere in central Budapest. Whether you're short on time, traveling on a budget, or simply want to enjoy a scenic route, there are several ways to reach the site, each offering a different experience. Below, we explore the main options: tram and foot, taxi, and walking from the city center.

1. Tram and Short Walk (Recommended Public Transport Option)

One of the most efficient and affordable ways to reach the Citadella is by using Budapest’s well-connected tram system. The line 19 tram, which runs along the Buda side of the Danube, offers a scenic ride with views of the river and the Parliament building. You can board the tram at Clark Ádám tér, right near the Chain Bridge. After a short ride — usually less than five minutes — get off at the Rudas Gyógyfürdő (Rudas Baths) stop.

From there, it’s a short but uphill walk to the Citadella, taking about 10 to 15 minutes depending on your pace. The footpath is paved and safe, with several resting spots and lookout points along the way. Trams on this line are frequent, running every 10 minutes during the day, and tickets are inexpensive — typically around €2 per trip. For many visitors, this combination of public transport and walking provides the best overall balance of cost, time, and scenery.

2. By Taxi

If you prefer a direct route or are traveling with luggage or limited mobility, taking a taxi is a fast and comfortable option. The drive from central Budapest — for example, from Deák Ferenc Square or the Parliament area — usually takes about six to ten minutes, depending on traffic. The distance is roughly 3.5 to 4 kilometers, and fares typically range from €4 to €5.

Budapest taxis are generally safe and reliable, but it’s a good idea to use official taxi companies or apps like Bolt or Főtaxi to avoid overcharging. While you won’t get the same immersive experience as walking or taking the tram, a taxi can be a good choice if you're short on time or visiting early in the morning or late at night.

If you prefer a more leisurely journey, consider booking a private boat tour on the Danube. While it takes longer, it provides an unforgettable view of Budapest’s riverside landmarks, including the hilltop Citadella, blending sightseeing with a unique mode of transport.

3. On Foot (For Active Travelers and View Seekers)

For travelers who enjoy exploring on foot, walking to the Citadella is not only doable — it’s also highly rewarding. From popular city landmarks such as the Chain Bridge, Elizabeth Bridge, or Gellért Baths, it typically takes 20 to 30 minutes to reach the summit, depending on your route and fitness level.

The most scenic walking paths begin at either end of Liberty Bridge or near Gellért Hotel. These routes take you through shaded parks and up gently winding trails that offer increasingly impressive views as you ascend. While some sections are steep, there are plenty of benches and platforms along the way to rest and take in the surroundings. For many, the experience of walking up Gellért Hill becomes one of the highlights of the visit — especially when the panorama of Budapest comes into view at the top.