Hidden Gems | Everything You Should Know About The Budapest Funicular

If you cross the chain bridge from the Pest side of Budapest and look straight ahead, you’ll see the Budapest funicular up in the castle district. Though located in clear sight, it’s one of the best-hidden gems in Budapest and the best touristy things to do in the city. 

Budapest Funicular, Budavari Siklo in Hungarian, was Europe’s second-oldest funicular before its destruction in World War 2. It began operating in 1870 and has since been one of the city’s oldest attractions and one of Budapest’s best-hidden things to do. Despite not being the original, the reconstructed funicular is just as striking with its vintage design and whimsical colors.

Another fun fact about this hidden gem in Budapest is that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site worth adding to your list of things to do in Budapest. 

Everything to know about this Hidden gem in Budapest

Budapest Funicular Rides

Until recently, you could get a one-way ticket up or down the funicular. These days, you can only get a return ticket for 4000 HUF. The ride is short but offers striking views of Budapest, including the Chain Bridge, the Danube River, and the Parliament Building.

Budapest Funicular Tickets

A return ticket to the Budapest funicular costs around 10 euros. You can purchase your tickets online or at the station on-site. The funicular has a lower and upper station so you can begin your journey either way.

I recommend hopping on at the lower station, located at the end of the Chain Bridge, and taking some time between rides to explore the Castle District.

If you’re hoping for a jaw-dropping sunset, don’t expect much. As the ride isn’t west-facing, you don’t get much of a dramatic sunset from the ride itself. Luckily, you can get better views from the Buda Castle.

Budapest funicular opening hours

The funicular is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm. There’s a departure every 5 to 10 minutes, and tickets are sold until 9:50 pm.

Since the ticket is valid as long as the ride still operates, you can ride up Castle Hill and explore.

TIP: I recommend riding in the first car of the 3-level tram for the best views. This lift has the largest window and no obstructions.

Hidden Gems in Budapest | Exploring the Castle District

Once you’ve made it up Castle Hill, head toward the Royal Palace. Here, you can explore the gardens and even take a guided tour of the Buda Castle.

If you’re looking for more hidden gems in Budapest, visit the labyrinth under Buda Castle. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn about the Budapest cave system and do something unusual.

After exploring Buda Castle, continue your journey in the castle district by heading toward Fisherman’s Bastion. You’ll also see the beautiful Matthias Church, another famous city attraction. It’s got striking neo-Gothic features and bright ornamentation.

Here, you can explore and enjoy the beautiful sites of the city. The views from here stretch as far as the Parliament Building, the Danube River, and Pest. If you’re in Budapest for vacation, I recommend reading this two days in Budapest itinerary to plan your trip.

Once you’ve explored the Castle District, head back to the Buda Castle funicular. You can ride down the hill to complete your journey or continue exploring District 2.