The 1st District / I. District / District 1 / District One of Budapest, Hungary, is one of the 23 districts of the capital, also known as the Budapest Castle District (Várkerület). District 1 is a small but colourful and exciting part of the city, home to the Hungarian historic Castle District / Quarters. Budapest's Castle District in Budapest has one of the capital's most vibrant and historic areas. Located in the heart of the city, the area offers many attractions for visitors and locals alike. From famous architecture and iconic monuments to fine cuisine, there is something for everyone. Its unique cultural heritage and incredible sights make it one of the most popular destinations in Hungary and across Europe.
Budapest's Castle District is packed with historic sights and attractions(the Royal Palace, the Matthias Church, medieval houses), interesting museums, charming, crooked streets following the shape of the hill, as well as some good cafés and restaurants. Besides the monuments, you get a breathtaking panorama of the Danube with the Chain Bridge and the Pest side of the city on the opposite side of the river. Szentháromság tér (Holy Trinity Square) is the centre of Budapest Castle District.
In addition, numerous festivals and events take place in the 1st District throughout the year, including the Budapest Spring Festival and the Budapest Autumn Festival, among others. This makes District 1 a rare one in Europe for tourists especially if one is also traveling with the family.
City districts and sights
Castle Quarter (Budapest)
The Budapest Castle District is a picturesque, historic neighbourhood in Budapest and the tourist centre in District 1. It is also referred to as Castle Hills. The Castle Hill consists of two parts, split by Dísz tér in the middle: the Buda Castle today houses museums and government buildings, whereas Úri, Országház, Fortuna, and Táncsics Mihály Streets are home to residential buildings. The current Castle Hill was inhabited after a Mongolian invasion in 1241-42 and in the 14th century, it had about 8,000 inhabitants.
The Budapest Castle District is a picturesque, historic neighbourhood in Budapest and the tourist centre in District 1. It is also referred to as Castle Hills. The Castle Hill consists of two parts, split by Dísz tér in the middle: the Buda Castle today houses museums and government buildings, whereas Úri, Országház, Fortuna, and Táncsics Mihály Streets are home to residential buildings. The current Castle Hill was inhabited after a Mongolian invasion in 1241-42 and in the 14th century, it had about 8,000 inhabitants.
Buda Castle and Castle Palace
The Budapest Castle popularly known as Buda Castle is a cultural and historical landmark of Budapest's 1st District. It is one of the most famous buildings in the city and has been a World Heritage Site since 1987. Buda Castle, also known as the Royal Palace, was originally built by King Béla IV in 1265. The Buda Castle housed several influential figures in Hungarian history, including King Matthias Corvinus who ruled in the 15th century. History accounts have it that the Buda Castle has been renovated several times, including once in the late 19th century by the famous architect Miklós Ybl. Today, it houses the Hungarian National Gallery and other attractions such as a Museum of Historical Weapons and a café. The Buda Castle offers visitors a spectacular view of the Budapest cityscape and is one of the landmarks of the Hungarian capital.
The Castle Palace, also known as the Lülőczy Palace, is located on the grounds of Buda Castle. It is a four-story Neo-Renaissance Palace built in 1873 by Count Kristóf Lülőczy as a gift for his wife, Ildikó Forgách. The Castle Palace now serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse of the lifestyle of the 19th-century Hungarian aristocracy with its magnificent furniture and decorations. The castle grounds (Buda Castle) are now open to visitors who wish to explore the many gardens and courtyards in the Buda Castle District with free admission.
Fisherman's Bastion
The Fisherman's Bastion, also known as Halászbástya, is a picturesque terrace on the Buda bank of the Danube in District 1 of Budapest. It was built in 1895 - 1902 to commemorate the fishermen who defended the city in the Middle Ages. It is now one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. The terrace consists of seven towers representing the seven Magyar tribes that settled in the Carpathian Basin. They offer a breathtaking panoramic view of the Danube and the Pest side and a beautiful Neo-Gothic architectural style. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, interactive exhibitions, and nightly light shows. The main attraction at Fisherman's Bastion is the view of the Danube and Pest. The architecture of Fisherman's Bastion makes it an attractive location for photography.
Matthias Church
Matthias Church, also known as the Church of Our Lady, is a Roman Catholic church in the first (1st) District of Budapest. It is one of the city's oldest and most influential churches and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church was built from 1255 - 1269 under the directives of King Bela IV who dedicated it to the Virgin Mary as part of his gratitude. Historical evidence indicates that King Béla IV founded the church in 1255 after he moved his court up to Castle Hill from Óbuda.
Alexander the Great Palace (Palais Sándor)
The Alexander the Great Palace (Palais Sándor) is a magnificent historical building in Budapest's I. District. The Alexander Palace was built in 1803 - 1805 for the wealthy aristocrat Count Géza Sándor and his wife, Baroness Emma. It was designed by the architects Mihály Pollack and Johann Aman.
Today, the Alexander Palace serves as the official residence of the President of Hungary. It is a popular tourist attraction because of its magnificent interiors and beautiful gardens. Don't miss out on the hidden gems of Budapest! From the captivating changing of the guard to the thrilling Castle Hill funicular, these minor attractions are worth every second of your time.
Maria Magdalena Tower
The Mary Magdalene Tower (Buda Tower) is a church tower in the I. District of Budapest. It was built in the 13th century and is a prominent landmark and an essential piece of the city's architectural history. The tower is 67 meters high and was originally part of the Church of Mary Magdalene. It is the oldest surviving medieval building in Buda Castle. It offers a unique panoramic view of Budapest's main sights and the Budapest Castle District.
Labyrinth
Budapest's 1st District, also known as Budapest Castle District, is home to the city's famous Labyrinth. Located within the walls of Buda Castle, the Labyrinth offers visitors a unique and interactive way to explore the rich history of the Hungarian capital. This underground Labyrinth was built in 1902 by Hungarian architect Ármin Hegedüs. The Labyrinth has a total of 7 chambers that can be explored on 5 different levels.
Vienna Gate (Bécsi Kapu)
The Vienna Gate / Bécsi Kapu is a monumental building in District 1 of Budapest, Hungary. It stands on Vienna Gate Square and is one of the most famous symbols of Budapest. The Vienna Gate was built in honour of the coronation of Emperor Franz Joseph I as King of Hungary in 1867 and marks the entrance to the City Park, one of the oldest parks in Europe. The Vienna Gate is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors a unique view of the city.
Víziváros (Water Town)
Víziváros, often known as the Water City, is a district in the 1st District of Budapest in Hungary. It is located on the western bank of the Danube in the heart of the city centre, and its picturesque location makes it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Víziváros is known for its historic buildings, narrow streets, and breathtaking views of the Danube and Buda Castle. It is one of the most popular areas in Budapest and is home to many cafés, restaurants, and shops.
Castle Garden Bazaar
The Castle Garden Bazaar is a popular place in District 1 / I. District of Budapest, built in 1875 and reconstructed in 2014. It houses exhibition halls, a multi-functional event space, a Neo-Renaissance garden, restaurants, and a coffee house. The Várkert Bazaar provides visitors with opportunities for entertainment, cultural relaxation, and encounters at any time of the year. The Várkert Bazaar is run by a non-profit limited liability company supported by the Hungarian Prime Minister's Office.
Clark Adam Square
Clark Ádám tér is a square in the First (1st) District of Budapest, Hungary. It is located directly on the Buda side of the Széchenyi Lánchíd, also known as the Chain Bridge. The square was named after Adam Clark (1775-1813), a Hungarian military engineer who designed the Chain Bridge over the Danube in 1849. Nearby is the Budavári sikló, a funicular railway that takes visitors to the Castle District.
Embark on a mesmerizing and spectacular view or journey through the majestic castle hills by hopping on the exhilarating funicular (Sikló) from Clark Ádám tér (Clark Adam Square), nestled at the enchanting Buda end of the iconic Chain Bridge. Plan your trip to include a visit to the breathtaking Royal Palace (Királyi Palota), the enchanting Fishermen's Bastion (Halaszbastya), the historically rich Matthias Church (Matyas templom), and the magical Faust Wine Cellar Labyrinth. And of course, don't miss out on the thrilling experience of riding the castle hill funicular from Clark Adam Square in Buda.
Batthyány tér
Batthyány tér is a public square in the I. District of Budapest. Named after Lajos Batthyány, Hungary's first Prime Minister, it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Situated near Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge, it offers stunning views of the Danube and magnificent buildings such as the Hungarian Parliament, Matthias Church, and the Royal Palace. The square is also home to cafés, restaurants, and shops.
VI. Market Hall
The 6th (VI.) Market Hall in District 1 of Budapest is a historic market hall that has existed since 1894. Located at 6 Batthyány Square, it is one of Hungary's oldest and most famous markets. The neoclassical design of the building stands out from its more modern surroundings. The market hall was originally built to provide food for the citizens of Budapest. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of products such as fruit, vegetables, spices, meat, and traditional Hungarian specialities.
Hagyományok Háza
The House of Traditions is a museum of Hungarian folk art traditions located in District 1 of Budapest, at 8 Corvin Square. It is a contemporary cultural institution that opened in 1997 and is dedicated to the values of Hungarian tradition. It hosts numerous exhibitions, workshops, and other activities where visitors can learn about the country's culture and heritage. The building itself is a beautiful example of Art Nouveau architecture.
Krisztinaváros
Krisztinaváros is a neighbourhood in I. District / 1st District of Budapest. It was founded in 1868 and named after Empress Maria-Theresia's daughter, Maria Christina. It is known for its architectural beauty, with many 19th-century buildings still intact.
Royal Riding Hall
The Royal Riding Hall, also known as Franz Joseph's Riding Hall, is one of the oldest buildings in Budapest 1st District and is one of the District's most important landmarks. It was opened in 1895 and is still used today for equestrian events. The hall can be visited on guided tours. Visitors can explore the impressive architecture and admire the numerous trophies from past competitions.
Vérmező
Vérmező is a public park in Budapest I. District. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists and has long been an important part of the city's history. The park was established in 1886 as a memorial to the 1848/49 revolution and has been a popular place for recreation, exercise, and relaxation ever since. During the summer months, it also hosts numerous cultural events and festivals.
Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum
The Rock Hospital Atomic Bunker Museum is a unique attraction in the District 1 of Budapest. It offers visitors an educational and exciting experience as it tells the story of a hospital built during the Cold War to prepare for a nuclear attack. The museum displays a variety of exhibits, including medical equipment from the time, original photographs, and detailed models of the complex. Visitors can also watch a short film about the hospital and its history.
Tabán (Budapest)
Tabán is a district in the I. District of Budapest. It also uniquely extends to parts of the District XI of Budapest. It is located on the western side of the Danube and is one of the city's oldest parts. Tabán is bordered to the south by Gellért Hill and to the east by the Freedom Bridge (Szabadság híd) and the Elisabeth Bridge (Erzsébet híd). Baroque villas and apartment buildings surround the grassy parks on the slopes of Gellért Hill in the quiet, charming Tabán district. The area is also known for its historic public baths, including the Ottoman-era Rudas Spa and the Art Nouveau Gellért Spa, with its mosaics and stained glass windows. Suppose you climb up to the Citadel, a fortress from the Habsburg period. In that case, you will be rewarded with a beautiful city view.
Gellért Hill
Gellért Hill is a popular tourist destination in the 1st District of Budapest. It is located on the right bank of the Danube and rises 235 meters above sea level. The Gellért Hill has been a sacred place since ancient times and is noted to have housed numerous chapels and ruins. Today, it is known for its breathtaking views of the city, the famous statue of Saint Gellért, and the famous Cave Chapel.
Rudas Gyógyfürdő és Uszoda
The Rudas Thermal and Swimming Bath, located in the First (1st) District of Budapest, is one of Hungary's oldest and most popular thermal baths. Built-in 1550 by the Ottoman Turks, it has been restored and modernised without losing its historic charm. The thermal bath offers a wide range of treatments, including therapeutic baths, whirlpools, and massages. There is also a modern swimming pool, a wellness centre, saunas, and a fitness room. The Rudas Spa is a great place to relax and enjoy the healing powers of thermal water from Hungary's natural springs.
Elisabethbrücke
The Erzsébet híd (Elisabeth Bridge) is a famous landmark in Budapest that spans the Danube River. It connects the city's I. District and District V. (5th District) and is one of the main roads between Buda and the centre of Pest. The bridge is named for the beloved Empress Elisabeth of Austria, also known as Queen Elizabeth or Sisi of Hungary, who reigned from 1854 until she died in 1898.
It was originally built in the late 19th century and has since undergone several renovations and restorations. Erzsébet híd is not only a crucial transportation route for locals and tourists but also a popular spot for sightseeing and taking in the stunning views of the city and the river.