Hungary has a rich history of medieval architecture, and many of its castles reflect its turbulent past.

Here are the top 10 most notable castles and palaces in Hungary:

Buda Castle (Budapest)

Location: Budapest

Historical significance: Built in the 13th century, Buda Castle was the residence of Hungarian kings. Today, it houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum.

Highlights: Renaissance and Baroque architecture, panoramic views of Budapest.

Eger Castle (Eger)

Location: Eger
Historical significance: Famous for its role in repelling an Ottoman invasion in 1552, the heroic defense of Eger became a symbol of Hungarian resistance.

Highlights: Well-preserved fortifications and underground passageways.

Vaidahunyad Castle (Budapest)
Location: Budapest
Historical significance: A relatively modern castle built for the 1896 and inspired by historic Transylvanian castles.
Highlights: A mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles.

Esztergom Castle
Location: Esztergom (Gran)
Historical significance: Once the residence of Hungarian kings and later a religious center, it played an important role in Hungary’s early Christian history.
Highlights: Magnificent views of the Danube, neoclassical cathedral next to the castle.

Hollokö Castle
Location: Hollokö (Rabenstein)
Historical significance: This 13th-century castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is surrounded by a beautifully preserved medieval village.
Highlights: Traditional Hungarian village life, panoramic views.

Kőszeg Castle
Location: Kőszeg (Güns)
Historical significance: The castle is known to have withstood a siege by the Ottoman army in 1532 when its defenses halted the Ottoman advance.
Highlights: Medieval architecture, tranquil surroundings.

Sümeg Castle
Location: Sümeg (Schimek)
Historical significance: Built in the 13th century, the castle played an important role in defending the region during the Ottoman wars.
Highlights: Stunning hilltop views, medieval reenactments and festivals.

Füzer Castle
Location: Füzer
Historical significance: One of Hungary’s oldest fortresses, located on a volcanic hill. It was a refuge for the Hungarian kings.
Highlights: Dramatic location and views.

Boldogkő Fortress (Boldogkővaralja)
Location: Boldogkővaralja
Historical significance: This medieval fortress is picturesquely situated on a rocky hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Highlights: Well-preserved fortress, beautiful scenery.

Sarospatak Castle
Location: Sarospatak
Historical significance: Renaissance castle closely linked to the Rakoczi family, one of Hungary’s most influential noble families.
Highlights: Fine Renaissance architecture, beautiful interiors.

These castles and palaces reflect Hungary’s rich history, from the Middle Ages to the Ottoman occupation and beyond. Many castles and palaces are now visited by a large number of tourists.

Buy tickets for the Great Synagogue in advance: Since a large number of tourists come to the synagogue, the queues at the ticket office can be very long. This is why more and more visitors are buying the entrance tickets, including a guided tour, online in advance. Tickets and more information are available on this link