Many expats will have visited Buda Castle, the former royal palace overlooking Chain Bridge in the capital – now here’s your chance to explore and enjoy more.

1. Boldogkő Castle

Address: 3885 Boldogkőváralja

Tucked away in the Zemplén hills, Boldogkő exudes an air of tranquillity and mystery. Accessible by a picturesque hike, this medieval fortress offers a peaceful retreat amidst lush greenery. 

Its well-preserved walls, towers and quaint chapel make it a real hidden gem that now rewards visitors with an entertaining day out thanks to major renovation in the early 2000s.

Although this year’s annual medieval has just taken place, you can still look forward to September’s regular feast of pork and pálinka brandy.

2. Diósgyőr Castle

Address: 3534 Miskolc, Vár utca 24

In the leafy outskirts of Miskolc, Hungary’s third city towards the Slovak border, Diósgyőr Castle is a medieval fortress that has long been used for music festivals. 

Under reconstruction since 2021, it should slowly reopen – before it does, events take place at the Lovagi Tornák tere alongside.

3. Eger Castle


Address: 3300 Eger, Vár 1

Eger Castle, located right in the middle of this charming town of wine and spas in eastern Hungary, is renowned for its role in defending Hungary against the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century.

The castle's heroic resistance has become a source of national pride, and its beautifully restored walls, towers and underground passages offer a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of Hungary's past.

4. Jurisics Castle

Address: 9730 Kőszeg, Rajnis utca 9.

Nestled inside the border with Austria, within charming town of Kőszeg, this medieval fortress claims a history that spans over a millennium. 

Its imposing walls, defensive towers and charming courtyards transport visitors back in time.

The castle's fascinating exhibitions provide insights into its strategic significance, particularly the section on the Ottoman siege of 1532.

5. Sümeg Castle

Address: 8330 Sümeg, Vároldal utca 5

Perched atop a volcanic hill north of Lake Balaton, Sümeg Castle offers both a glimpse into medieval life and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

This well-preserved fortress has witnessed centuries of history, and visitors can explore its towers, dungeons, and interactive exhibits that bring its stories to life.

Regular equestrian demonstrations add a touch of enchantment to an already captivating destination.

6. Tata Castle

Address: 2890 Tata, Váralja utca 1-3

Home of the Kuny Museum showing the development of Tata through various standpoints – nobility, the guilds and the arrival of the Esterházys – Tata Castle is surrounded by the shimmering waters of Lake Öreg,

Visitors can combine medieval history with leisurely waterside walks, perhaps enjoying a meal at the two-Michelin star restaurant next door, Platán.

7. Visegrád Castle

Address: 2025 Visegrád, Várhegy

As your train follows the Danube to or from Slovakia, this atmospheric ruin is what you see, perched on a hilltop just inside the border with Hungary.

This medieval landmark consists of two main sites, upper and lower, fortifications built in the mid-1200s after the Mongol invasion and used as a summer residence by Hungarian royalty until the Ottoman conquest of the mid-1500s.

Much is open to the public, with exhibitions on the history of the castle and the Holy Crown, as well as a regular series of themed events.

Main photo: Sümeg Castle

If you have a favourite that’s not in this list, please so let us know by clicking here.

Words by Peterjon Cresswell for Xpatloop.com
Peterjon has been researching the byways of Budapest for 30 years, extending his expertise across Europe to produce guidebooks for Time Out and his own website liberoguide.com