Budapest Castle Hill Funicular — Attraction in Budapest

During a trip to Budapest, I decided to experience the Castle Hill Funicular, drawn by the allure of a unique way to reach the top of the historic Castle Hill. However, I must share that while the idea of riding a funicular in such a picturesque setting seems appealing, the reality didn't quite meet my expectations.

Firstly, it's important to note that the ride itself is very short. Given the cost – which, though not exorbitant, feels a bit steep considering the duration – I found it hard to justify the expense. The experience, while novel, simply does not offer enough value for the money spent. The views during the ascent are pleasant but not significantly different from what you can enjoy for free by taking a leisurely walk up to the castle.

For those still keen on experiencing the funicular, I recommend purchasing a one-way ticket. The reason being, once you explore the Castle District and soak in its historic beauty, you'll likely find yourself wanting to walk down towards the river and exit at the other end of the castle. This exploration is rewarding in itself, offering scenic views and a richer experience of the area. Walking back to the funicular for a return ride not only feels like a waste of time but also robs you of the chance to see the castle from different vantage points.

A bit of historical context might add some appeal to the funicular ride. Opened in 1870, the Budapest Castle Hill Funicular was destroyed during World War II and meticulously restored in 1986. It serves as a charming, if brief, link to Budapest's rich past, connecting the Adam Clark Square and the Szechenyi Chain Bridge at the river level to Buda Castle above.

Again, while the funicular is a piece of Budapest's history and offers a quaint experience, it's perhaps not the best investment for those looking to maximize their exploration of the city. The Castle District is brimming with sights and stories that are best appreciated at a more leisurely pace, on foot, allowing you to fully immerse in the atmosphere of this...

SHAME & Pity! We arrived at the entrance/cashier and payed full (w/return) tickets without they informing us that the funicular will close soon for some time due to some delegation (?)… There was NO sign as well! They took our money for the return tickets without informing us!!! The day was very cold and rainy and we had people with us that could NOT walk down the castle hill! We spent only 30 minutes up the castle and as we were cold, we decided to go down the same way (on the funicular) but there was a rude policeman blocking us, sending us backwards and down the castle on foot, and when we asked when it will be open again so we wait for it, he did not know!!!… When we finally arrived down the castle and at the cashier’s, the young girl/clerk without even being able to explain with her poor english to so many tourists, or having the experience as it seemed to even say sorry, told all of us complaining customers/tourists that she is not the boss, she could not return our money back, and that we (tourists on the streets….) should have checked their site!!! BUT SHE OR SOMEONE ELSE WAS NOT responsible to put a small sign in their entrance/cashier, BIG JOB...

I decided to do the Siklo as those little carriages looked oh so cutesy. Plus my partner is disabled, so it represented one of the few chances for her to easily get up high in Budapest.

To be honest, if you are able bodied, I really wouldnt bother. Its expensive when compared with the likes of the Sacre Coeur funicular in Paris etc. The journey isnt that long. Plus Gellert Hill has arguably better views than Castle Hill in any case. I managed to climb Gellert Hill and would imagine anyone of reasonable fitness could manage the staircase up Castle Hill if going up for a wander round the old town.

Another thing was that the lady who sold us two return tickets messed up bigtime by only printing off singles to go up the hill. Upon returning, the ticket office noticed we only had singles and demanded our receipt as proof we had paid for returns. After much rummaging around, I managed to locate my receipt which proved we paid for 2x return tickets.

Save your cash and walk up would...