Half of the visitors admire the Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya) and the other half hate it. It is built in a combination of Neo-Romanesque and Neo-Gothic style with a total of 7 towers connected by walkways.

For many, it's just an over-decorated kitsch building that, although it looks very old, was actually built at the turn of the 19th century. But what all visitors can agree on is the absolutely stunning view of the Parliament building and the whole of Budapest.

History of the Fisherman's Bastion

The Fisherman's Bastion complex has no historical significance, at least not by name. In fact, the bastion was never used for the defence of the city, but only for ornamental purposes. The building was designed by architect Frigyes Schulek, who at the same time designed the important reconstruction of the neighbouring Matthias Cathedral.

It was built in 1895-1902 with 7 stone towers, which symbolize the 7 tribal leaders of the Hungarians who settled in the territory of today's Hungary in 895.

Admission and opening hours

Most of the Fisherman's Bastion is accessible free of charge and without time limits. Virtually the entire battlements, which serve as the best vantage point overlooking Budapest, are open to the public at no charge.

Only the highest of the towers of the bastion has a fee, and only during the day between 9:00 and 21:00 (in winter only until 19:00). 1 200 hufto be paid at the machine (by card or cash).

You can also pay to enter the small chapel of St. Michael, also with the amount 1 200 huf.

Official information: budavar.hu/halaszbastya.

Location and transport

The Fisherman's Bastion can be found in the centre of historic old Buda on Szentháromság tér, right next to St. Matthias Cathedral. It's a short walk from the Danube River, but you can also use public transport to get here, though it's up a steep hill: