Complete Guide to the Budapest Funicular

The Budapest Castle Hill Funicular (Budavári Sikló) is more than just a way to get from the Danube riverbank to Buda Castle — it’s a ride into history. With its wooden cabins, panoramic views, and 19th-century engineering, the funicular is one of the most iconic and scenic experiences in the city.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know: how much it costs, how long it takes, whether it’s worth the price, and how to make the most of your visit — especially if you’re planning to explore Castle Hill without the uphill walk.

About the Budapest Funicular

The Castle Hill Funicular is a historic cable railway that connects Clark Ádám Square, at the foot of the Chain Bridge, with Szent György Square, located at the top of Castle Hill. It’s not only a convenient way to reach Buda Castle — it’s also a UNESCO-listed landmark and one of the city’s most photographed transport attractions.

History of the Budapest Funicular

The Budavári Sikló was inaugurated on March 2, 1870, making it the second-oldest funicular in Europe.
The idea was proposed by Ödön Széchenyi, son of the renowned Hungarian statesman István Széchenyi, who was inspired by the funicular system in Lyon, France.

It was originally built to help government officials and theatergoers ascend the steep hill to the royal district without climbing on foot. The funicular was powered by a steam engine housed in the lower station, with a striking architectural design that blended industrial innovation with ornate elegance.

Unfortunately, it was severely damaged during World War II in a bombing raid on December 20, 1944. After the war, it remained in ruins for over four decades. It wasn’t until 1986 that the funicular was fully restored and reopened to the public. The reconstruction introduced a modern electric traction system, but preserved the original wooden cabin design, glass windows, and charming Victorian look.

Since 1987, the Budapest Funicular has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the entire Buda Castle District, recognized for its historical and architectural significance.

Today, riding the Sikló is not only a functional way to reach the top of Castle Hill — it’s a journey through Budapest’s layered history.

How does the Castle Hill funicular work?

The system consists of two counterbalanced cabins connected by a central steel cable. As one cabin ascends, the other descends, using a gravity-based balance that makes the process efficient and stable.

Each cabin travels on its own track and accommodates up to 24 passengers. The journey takes around 90 seconds and covers a distance of 95 meters with a steep 48% incline.

The cabins are enclosed with large glass windows, offering uninterrupted views of the Danube River, Chain Bridge, and the Hungarian Parliament as you glide upward toward the castle.

Key features of the Budavári Sikló

The two cabins are named after Saint Gellért (Gerard) and Saint Margaret, two of Hungary’s most revered saints.

Pricing & Tickets

Taking the Budapest Funicular isn’t just about skipping the steep walk — it’s also a charming, historic ride with some of the best panoramic views in the city.
Here’s what you need to know about ticket prices, where to buy them, and whether it’s included in city passes like the Budapest Card.

How much does the Budapest funicular cost?

As of 2025, a round-trip ticket on the Budapest Funicular costs 5,000 HUF (approximately €13.50 or $15 USD) for adults.
Children aged 3 to 14 pay a reduced fare of 2,000 HUF, while kids under 3 ride for free.

There’s also a family ticket for 12,000 HUF, valid for two adults and up to three children — a great option for those traveling together.
If you’re looking for more, a combo ticket is available that includes a round trip on the funicular and a Danube sightseeing cruise, priced at 6,500 HUF for adults and 2,500 HUF for children.

All round-trip tickets remain valid for both directions even if you only use one leg initially — the unused ride is valid for up to one year.

Check current fares on the official BKV website.

Is the Castle Hill Funicular worth the price?

It depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in combining functionality with a bit of history and charm, then yes — it’s worth it.
While some travelers consider it pricey for such a short ride (only about 90 seconds), others see it as a unique, scenic experience that connects you to Budapest’s past.

You’re not just paying for the transportation — you’re paying for the view and the atmosphere of a UNESCO-listed attraction.

Many visitors choose to take the funicular up and walk down to enjoy both experiences.

Can you buy funicular tickets online?

Generally, tickets are purchased on-site at either the lower station (Clark Ádám Square) or the upper station (Szent György Square).
Both ticket offices accept cash or credit cards, and signs are clearly marked.

During peak hours, be prepared for short lines at the ticket counter — especially in summer.

Online booking is available here. In this case an additional fee of 175 HUF is applied per ticket.

Is it included in the Budapest Card or travel passes?

No, the Buda Castle Funicular is not included in the Budapest Card or any regular BKK public transportation passes.
Even though the card gives you unlimited travel on buses, trams, and metro lines — as well as access to many museums — the funicular is operated under a separate fare system.

However, the Budapest Card does include free access to the official Castle Bus, which is an alternative way to reach the top of Castle Hill if you’re looking to save money.

Learn more about what’s included with the Budapest Card

Location & Access

The Budapest Cable Car is easy to find — it also connects two of Budapest’s most iconic spots: the Danube riverbank and the Buda Castle District. Whether you’re arriving from the Pest side or exploring Buda, here’s how to reach it and what alternatives you have if you prefer to walk.

Where do you catch the funicular in Budapest?

You catch the funicular at Clark Ádám Square, right at the Buda end of the Chain Bridge.
The lower station is located next to the tunnel that goes under Castle Hill and is clearly visible from the riverside promenade.

The upper station is at Szent György Square, just steps away from the Royal Palace, the Hungarian National Gallery, and other main attractions atop Castle Hill.

Address for navigation: Clark Ádám tér, 1013 Budapest

Is the funicular in Buda or Pest?

The Budapest funicular is located in Buda, on the western side of the Danube River.
It provides a direct, steep climb from the river level in Buda to the top of Castle Hill.

If you’re staying in Pest, you can easily reach it by crossing the Széchenyi Chain Bridge on foot. The walk from downtown Pest to the funicular takes around 10 to 15 minutes.

How do I get to the bottom station?

You can reach the lower station by foot or public transport:

• 🚶‍♂️ On foot: From Pest, walk across the Chain Bridge — the funicular entrance is straight ahead.
• 🚇 By metro: Take Metro Line 2 (red) to Batthyány tér, then walk 10 minutes along the river.
• 🚋 By tram: Tram 2 stops near the bridge, offering scenic views along the Danube.
• 🚌 By bus: Lines 16 and 105 stop right at Clark Ádám tér.

The base of the funicular is a great spot for photos of the Tunnel, Chain Bridge, and the Pest skyline.

Is there an alternative way to get to the top?

Yes, you can reach Castle Hill without using the funicular.
A popular and free alternative is to walk up the hill using one of the scenic stairways or paths starting near Clark Ádám Square.

For an even easier option, there’s a public elevator inside the Castle Garden Bazaar, just south of the funicular. It connects the riverside to the upper castle area and is free to use.

Many visitors choose to walk up or use the elevator, then ride the funicular down to enjoy the views affordably and comfortably.

Schedule & Availability

Knowing the operating times of the Budapest Castle Hill Funicular is key to planning your visit and avoiding surprises. While the funicular runs almost all year round, there are specific maintenance days to watch out for.

What are the hours of operation for the funicular?

The funicular runs daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Tickets are sold until 9:50 PM, and the cabins depart every 5 to 10 minutes, depending on visitor traffic and demand.

It’s a great choice whether you’re visiting in the morning for quieter views, or in the evening to catch the sunset over the Danube. Early hours (08:00–09:30) and late evening (20:00–21:50) tend to be less crowded, making for a more peaceful and photogenic ride.

For golden-hour photos of the Chain Bridge and Pest skyline, consider timing your ride close to sunset.

Does the funicular run all year round?

Yes, the Budapest funicular operates throughout the year — but it does close occasionally for planned maintenance.
These closures follow a predictable schedule:

• Every other Monday (odd-numbered weeks)
• Autumn closure: October 7–17, 2025

If a Monday closure falls on a public holiday, it is moved to the following working day.

Planning tip: If your visit coincides with a maintenance day, you can still reach the top via the Castle Garden Bazaar elevator or by walking up the scenic paths.

Is it closed for maintenance often?

Not really. The scheduled maintenance is limited and clearly communicated in advance.
Unless your visit falls specifically on one of the listed closure dates, you can expect normal operation.

You can always double-check planned closures on the official BKV website.

How long is the ride?

The ride takes approximately 90 seconds.
In under two minutes, you travel from the riverbank at Clark Ádám Square to the top of Castle Hill, covering 95 meters of distance and 50 meters of elevation, with a steep incline of 48%.

Despite its short duration, the journey offers some of the best views in Budapest — including the Danube River, the Chain Bridge, and the Parliament building, especially during the upward ride.

Short but spectacular: It’s not just about getting to the top — it’s about how you get there.

Practical Tips

Before you hop on the Budapest Castle Hill Funicular, it’s worth knowing a few practical details that can enhance your experience — especially if you’re visiting during the busy season or traveling with children, strollers, or mobility challenges. Below, we answer the most common questions with helpful advice.

Are there long lines for the funicular?

It depends on the time of day and the season.
During peak tourist hours — typically between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, especially in spring and summer — lines can be long, with waiting times of 20 to 40 minutes not uncommon.

The funicular’s capacity is limited to 24 people per cabin, and although it runs every 5 to 10 minutes, the flow slows down quickly when large tour groups or families are waiting. The line usually forms at the lower station (Clark Ádám tér), where most visitors begin their journey.

To avoid the queues, plan to arrive:

• Early in the morning (08:00–09:30)
• Later in the evening (after 8:00 PM), especially during summer

Local tip: If you have to wait, take advantage of the time to enjoy the view of the Chain Bridge, or snap some great photos from Clark Ádám Square, which offers one of the best angles of the funicular track.

Can you walk down after taking the funicular up?

Absolutely — and it’s a popular option.
Many visitors choose to take the funicular up to avoid the climb, then walk down at their own pace through the gardens, stairs, or cobbled paths that wind along the hillside.

Walking down allows you to:

• Enjoy different vantage points of Pest, the Danube, and Gellért Hill
• Discover hidden corners of the Castle District
• Save one leg of the funicular fare, especially if you’re on a budget

Another alternative is to use the public elevator in the Castle Garden Bazaar, which is completely free and very scenic — especially in the evening when the district is beautifully lit.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, as some sections are steep or paved with cobblestones.

Is the funicular suitable for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, the Budapest Funicular is accessible for both wheelchair users and families with strollers.
Both the lower and upper stations offer step-free access, and the cabins can accommodate mobility aids and pushchairs without issue.

That said, some areas within the Castle District — particularly the older alleys and small stairways — can be challenging due to uneven cobblestones and high curbs.

If you or someone in your group has reduced mobility, consider the following:

• Use lightweight or all-terrain strollers or wheelchairs
• Follow the smoother paved routes that lead to major landmarks like Matthias Church or Fisherman’s Bastion
• Use accessible buses (e.g., lines 16A and 116) or Castle Hill taxi services if needed

♿ Bonus: Many museums and restaurants in the area — including the Hungarian National Gallery — have elevators and accessible facilities.

How crowded does it get during summer?

Summer is high season in Budapest, especially from June through August.
The funicular sees the highest traffic between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, with large crowds forming not only at the funicular entrance, but also around Castle Hill’s main attractions.

If you’re visiting in summer:

• Arrive early in the day for a more relaxed experience
• Bring water, sun protection, and patience — Castle Hill has limited shade in open areas
• Consider visiting on weekdays rather than weekends to avoid the largest crowds

Despite the high foot traffic, the funicular remains a safe and well-managed attraction, with clearly marked paths, staff assistance, and frequent departures.

If you’re sensitive to heat or looking for quieter moments, late evening rides offer cooler air, smaller lines, and the added bonus of seeing the city lights twinkling below.

Experience & Views

The Budapest Funicular isn’t just a means of transport — it’s an experience in itself. Short as it may be, the ride delivers sweeping views, a nostalgic atmosphere, and a unique perspective of the city that’s hard to replicate from any other angle.

In this section, we answer the most common traveler questions about what it’s like to ride the funicular, when it’s most scenic, and whether it’s a good activity for kids or those short on time.

Is the view from the funicular worth it?

Yes — the views from the funicular are among the best in Budapest.
As the cabin ascends, you’re treated to a gradually unfolding panorama: the Danube River, the Chain Bridge, the Hungarian Parliament, and the distant skyline of Pest come into focus, framed by the historic architecture of Buda.

Even though the ride lasts only about 90 seconds, it offers a unique vantage point — especially when going uphill. The large glass windows in the wooden cabins provide an uninterrupted view as the city slowly spreads out behind you.

For photographers and first-time visitors, the ride is definitely worth the price just for the visual impact.

Is it better to walk or take the funicular?

It depends on your priorities.
If you’re short on time, traveling with children, or simply want to avoid the steep climb up Castle Hill, the funicular is the fastest and most scenic route.

However, walking up or down has its own charm. The hillside is dotted with gardens, staircases, and lookout points. You can also explore at your own pace, stopping for photos or enjoying quieter spots along the way.

Many travelers choose the best of both worlds:

• Take the funicular up to enjoy the ride and save energy
• Walk down to discover hidden paths and alternative views

Walking down also lets you explore the Castle Garden Bazaar, a beautifully restored cultural area with fountains, terraces, and an elevator to the riverfront.

Is it more scenic going up or down?

Most travelers — and locals — agree that going up is more scenic.
As you rise from Clark Ádám Square, the city gradually comes into view, layer by layer. The elevated position gives you a cinematic perspective of the river, bridge, and skyline, especially on a clear day or around sunset.

Going down is also enjoyable, especially at night when the city lights are on, but the visual impact is generally stronger during the ascent.

Want the perfect moment? Take the funicular up in the golden hour, around 30–60 minutes before sunset.

Is it fun for kids?

Yes — kids tend to love the funicular.
It’s short, smooth, and visually engaging. The large windows allow even small children to enjoy the ride, and the mechanical motion of the counterbalanced cabins can feel like a gentle amusement ride.

Some practical notes for families:

• Strollers are allowed, and the platform is level for easy boarding
• Children under 3 ride for free
• The cabin interior has wooden benches and vintage design that adds to the novelty for young passengers

Pro tip: If you’re visiting with kids, try to arrive early to avoid long lines and give them time to explore the castle grounds at the top.

Once you’re at the top, if you don’t want to waste time and would like to see all the must-see attractions in the Castle District, we’d love to have you join our Buda Castle Free walking tour — the perfect way to explore this historic area with a local guide.