Castles and forts in Hungary

Festetics Castle

Festetics Castle is located in Helikon Park, which is the largest green area in the town of Keszthely. At the castle you can visit the Helikon Castle Museum, which is one of the city's main tourist attractions. The Baroque castle was completed in 1887 and houses no less than 111 rooms. It exhibits works by Haydn, Pleyel and Goldmark and on the ground floor there are very beautiful and precious military weapons on loan from the Hungarian National Museum.

The Royal Palace

Visit the Royal Palace, or Budavari Palota, which is also a national symbol of Hungary currently used by the President and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The construction started in the 12th century and the historical styles have therefore also left their mark on the magnificent building. The castle houses two museums and the National Library. Also visit the exciting labyrinth of the castle, which is located in a cave that is in turn part of a much larger grotto. Exhibitions are also held here, so step even closer into the darkness and discover the mystery of the cave on a rainy and wet day.

Vajdahunyad Castle

Vajdahunyad Castle is located in the Városliget City Park in Budapest. Built between 1896 and 1908, it was designed by the architect Ignác Alpár. Originally built of cardboard and wood for the Millennium Exhibition in 1896, the castle was subsequently constructed of stone and more durable building materials due to its popularity. The castle is a partial replica of the Hunyad Castle in Transylvania, Romania, but the castle is also built in many other architectural styles, including Baroque, Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance.

Esterházy Castle

Esterházy Castle (Fertőd), often referred to as the “Hungarian Versailles,” is a grand baroque palace located near the Austrian border. Built in the 18th century by the Esterházy family, it is one of Hungary’s most magnificent aristocratic residences. The castle is famous for its opulent architecture, lavishly decorated interiors, and beautifully landscaped gardens that reflect the elegance of the Habsburg era. Closely linked to composer Joseph Haydn, who lived and worked here for many years, it served as a vibrant cultural center. Today, visitors can explore the richly decorated halls, exhibitions, and concerts, gaining a glimpse into Hungary’s noble past and artistic heritage.
Nádasdy Castle

Nádasdy-vár, also known as Nádasdy Castle, is the defining landmark of Sárvár, Hungary. Originally built as a medieval fortress, it was later transformed into a Renaissance residence by the influential Nádasdy family. The castle is surrounded by a moat and features a distinctive pentagonal layout, making it one of the region’s most picturesque fortifications. Inside, visitors can explore beautifully preserved halls with ornate frescoes, exhibitions on local history, and displays highlighting the Nádasdy family’s cultural and political role in Hungary. Today, Nádasdy-vár also hosts concerts, festivals, and community events, combining its rich past with a lively present. With its blend of history, architecture, and cultural life, the castle remains a must-see attraction in western Hungary.