Buda Castle Funicular

The Buda Castle Funicular, known in Hungarian as the Budavári Sikló, is one of Budapest’s most iconic historic transport links and a favourite among visitors. Opened on 2 March 1870, it was the second funicular of its kind in Europe and was built to make the steep climb up Castle Hill more manageable for residents and government officials. The idea came from Count Ödön Széchenyi, the son of the great reformer István Széchenyi, and the engineering plans were drawn up by Ödön Jaruszek with later contributions from Henrik Wolfahrt. Originally steam-powered, the line carried passengers smoothly up and down the hillside until it was destroyed by bombing in 1944 during the Second World War. For decades it remained out of service, but thanks to a major reconstruction project it was rebuilt with modern electric machinery and reopened in 1986, while still retaining the classic design of the original. Since 1987, the funicular has been part of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage site.

The funicular runs between Clark Ádám tér, right by the Chain Bridge on the Buda side of the Danube, and Szent György tér, where visitors step out directly beside Buda Castle and the Presidential Sándor Palace. The track is only 95 metres long, yet it overcomes a height difference of almost 50 metres in less than two minutes. The two wooden cabins, charmingly named “Margit” and “Gellért”, move in opposite directions, one ascending while the other descends, and each carries up to 24 passengers. Despite the short journey time, the ride is memorable for its views over the river, the Chain Bridge, and Pest beyond. The funicular operates daily from 8 in the morning until 10 at night, with cars departing every five to ten minutes depending on demand, and it is maintained regularly to ensure smooth and safe operation.

Travelers should note that the funicular requires a special ticket that is not included in regular public transport passes. As of September 2025 return ticket costs 5,000 HUF for adults, while children between the ages of 3 and 14 can travel for 2,000 HUF; under-threes ride free. Families can purchase a combined day ticket for 12,000 HUF, which covers two adults and up to three children. Pensioner discounts and other public transport concessions do not apply here, although those holding a Budapest Card Plus may receive a free round trip. Tickets are available at the lower station ticket office or in advance through the official online shop at siklojegy.hu 

With Budapest Card Plus, it is free in both directions with a pre-booked ticket according to the BKK website, the city's public transport company.