When visiting Budapest, Gellert Hill, the Citadella, and the Statue of Liberty are essential attractions to include in your itinerary. From the summit, not only can you take in the stunning views of both Buda and Pest, but you can also observe the extensive restoration project at the Citadella (ongoing since 2022, with completion projected for 2023 or beyond). You can also enjoy a breath of fresh air in the scenic forests and parks surrounding the hill. Plus, reaching the Citadel is convenient via public transport!
I’ve hiked up Gellert Hill to the Citadel numerous times during my years in Budapest, whether with friends, family, or while pushing my baby, Alexander, in a stroller. Each visit has been invigorating, no matter the season, and the sunset views from the Citadella are especially breathtaking.
Keep reading to discover what to see on Gellert Hill, how to reach the Citadella on foot or by bus, tips for visiting as a family, and much more.
Explore more itineraries and activities in Budapest here!
Key Information about Gellert Hill, Budapest
Gellert Hill stands 140 meters tall and is comprised of Dolomite rock, located on the western side of the Danube in Budapest. Given that the city itself is approximately 100 meters above sea level, the total elevation of Gellert Hill reaches 235 meters above sea level. In Hungarian, it’s called Gellérthegy (click here for the map). In feet, this translates to 460 feet above Budapest and 770 feet above sea level.
Positioned south of Buda Castle Hill, Gellert Hill lies between Elizabeth Bridge and Liberty Bridge (the white and green bridges).
The northern face of the hill slopes steeply towards the Danube and Pest, covered in lush forests that make for great photo ops in spring and autumn. Various trails wind their way from the base to the summit, offering scenic terraces and benches along the way.
In contrast, the southern face gently descends into a park featuring meadows, trees, playgrounds, and residences, leading down to the bottom.
The hill is named after Bishop Gellert, who was tragically killed by pagan dissenters who rejected Christianity.
Gellert Hill possesses a rich and storied history. After the death of Bishop Gellert in 1046, the area remained uninhabited for some time, giving rise to tales of witches and dark rituals. During the Ottoman period in the 17th century, a shrine established at the summit became a pilgrimage site. The 18th century saw vineyards flourish on its slopes, particularly to the north. The Citadel, constructed by the Habsburgs between 1848-49, saw military action during WWII and the 1956 revolution. Since 1987, Gellert Hill has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site alongside the “Banks of the Danube,” which includes Buda Castle Hill, downtown Pest, and Andrassy Avenue. Today, it serves as a delightful spot to explore for several hours—making it one of the nearest hiking opportunities to downtown Budapest.
At the top of Gellert Hill, you’ll find the two main attractions: the Citadella fortress and the Statue of Liberty. While access to the fortress is restricted, the stunning panorama from this vantage point features the rolling hills of Buda, the majestic Buda Castle, the serene Danube River adorned with bridges, and the iconic Parliament building on Pest.
Walking around Gellert Hill, the Citadel, and the Statue of Liberty is completely free of charge. And the good news? Gellert Hill is open all day! However, it’s advisable not to visit during the nighttime.
Additionally, there are more attractions on Gellert Hill, including the Cave Church, the Gellert Monument, the thermal baths situated at the base of Gellert Hotel and Rudas, the surrounding park, and a playground for children.
How Long Does It Take to Climb Gellert Hill?
Plan for at least 1 hour to visit Gellert Hill, the Citadella, and the Statue of Liberty. Depending on the crowd, weather conditions, and how much time you spend exploring, you could easily take up to 2 hours here. Consider it a leisurely morning following your bustling first day in Budapest! 🙂
The views are delightful any time of year: winter’s bare trees allow for better city visibility, while the foliage in spring, summer, and fall provides shade and fantastic photo ops from various small terraces along the trails (viewpoint in Hungarian: kilátó or kíiátóterasz).
Although Google Maps suggests a quick 10-minute climb from Elizabeth Bridge to the Liberty Statue, I would estimate it at around 20-30 minutes, especially if you take breaks for photographs. The journey from Liberty Bridge, which is even steeper, takes a similar amount of time.
How to Get to Gellert Hill and the Citadella
You can reach the Citadel atop Gellert Hill on foot, via public transport, or by taxi:
- Walking takes around 15-30 minutes from either Elizabeth Bridge or Freedom Bridge, depending on your fitness level.
- By public transport, take bus 27 from Moricz Zsigmond Square to the Busulo Juhasz stop in about 10 minutes, followed by a 5-10 minute walk (one ticket costs 450 HUF or approximately 1.20 EUR when purchased at ticket machines or offices).
- By taxi, you can reach the site from downtown Pest in under 10 minutes for less than 3500 HUF (around 9 EUR), depending on traffic (check the Bolt taxi app for rates).
For more detailed instructions on reaching the Citadella and the Liberty Statue on Gellert Hill, refer to my updated 2023 article, considering the Citadel and Liberty Statue renovations.
Hiking up Gellert Hill is a wonderful way to spend time outdoors, get some exercise, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Danube, the bridges, and the Pest side. I highly recommend this hike if the weather is pleasant, especially if you appreciate scenic viewpoints. On a warm, sunny day, the tree cover will provide some refreshing shade.
However, if you’ve already been on your feet after a full day of exploring, don’t hesitate to take the bus or a taxi. The best viewpoints are at the top, so you won’t miss out. I’ll detail those below.
The key takeaway is that Google Maps might not be entirely accurate. While the paths are quite straightforward, your actual location might not be pinpointed correctly; the estimated walking time could be optimistic, and directions sent to “Citadella” or “Liberty Statue” may lead you to the base of the hill instead of the summit. Overall, navigating can be somewhat challenging.
What to See on Gellert Hill, Budapest – 2023 Update
The main attractions on Gellert Hill are the Citadella fortress and Liberty Statue at the top, the Saint Gellert monument near Elizabeth Bridge, and the Cave Church alongside the Pauline Monastery by Liberty Bridge.
Nearby attractions include Elizabeth Bridge and Rudas Baths to the north, as well as Liberty Bridge and Gellert Baths to the south.
If you’re looking to relax after a day packed with history, the wooded areas and parks on Gellert Hill offer a tranquil escape to revel in nature and admire the scenery.
The Citadella
- Opening hours: as of 2023, the Citadella is closed for refurbishment. Nevertheless, the surrounding paths remain accessible 24/7.
- Fee: the paths are free to explore.
- Facilities: there’s a kiosk called Raketa Pavilon, a toilet nearby, and a restaurant named Busulo Juhasz Etterem.
Let’s begin with the highlight: the expansive Citadella fortress.
The Citadel was constructed as a U-shaped fortress approximately 220 meters long and 60 meters wide, featuring 4-meter-high walls. Perched atop Gellert Hill, it is located 140 meters above the Danube and Budapest.
Constructed by the Habsburg rulers following the failed Revolution of 1848-1849, its military objective was to maintain control over Castle Hill on the Buda side, as well as Pest. Its 60 cannons primarily served as a show of power rather than as actual weaponry. Over time, relations between Austria and Hungary gradually improved, especially after the Compromise of 1867, the consolidation of Obuda, Buda, and Pest into Budapest in 1873, and the eventual withdrawal of Austrian troops.
In a move of symbolism, parts of the fortress were razed after 1894, marking its transfer to municipal ownership. This act symbolized to the locals that if sufficient resources were available, even a stronghold of oppression could be dismantled.
Subsequently, it served various purposes: a prison camp, shelter for the homeless, an anti-aircraft battery, and finally, beginning in 1961, it became a recognized tourist attraction. A portion of the complex was even converted into a hotel and restaurant for a time.
As of 2023, the Citadel is under extensive renovation. The surrounding atmosphere suggested great potential for history, culture, and entertainment at this site, which previously seemed overlooked and neglected. We hope for a brighter future for the Citadella!
More than just its imposing fortress and the visible bullet holes in its walls, what I appreciate most about this location are the stunning views of Budapest.
Be sure to enjoy the panorama from various spots along the length of the Citadel:
- The first viewpoint, known as Monolit (map here), includes binoculars and tends to attract a crowd due to its impressive views of Buda Castle, the Danube, the Chain Bridge, and Pest encompassing the Parliament and Margaret Island.
- The second viewpoint, halfway along the Citadella (map here), offers an even wider perspective (my personal favorite!). You’ll walk along the path below, and can climb up the stairs to the right to explore the limited accessible area.
- Further viewpoints beyond this are currently closed due to renovations.
Currently, the Liberty Statue was once an excellent spot for watching the sunset! Now, I believe the Monolit Viewpoint serves this purpose well. Here are some tips for enjoying the sunset on Gellert Hill:
- The sun sets on the Buda side (the same side of the river as Gellert Hill), generally behind Castle Hill, meaning that sunset occurs earlier than indicated on weather apps.
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
- Bring a jacket or a sweater, as it tends to get chilly quickly.
- Consider bringing snacks and drinks for the wait—be sure to pack out what you bring!
- If you plan to stay late to see the beautiful city lights, be sure to have a light source to navigate the paths on your way down. A charged phone or a portable charger is advisable.
- If it becomes too crowded, search for one of the alternative viewpoints along the trails.
- As a last resort, go down to Liberty Bridge, which is also a fantastic sunset viewing spot.
Be cautious, as Gellert Hill can become quite dark at night and may not be very safe, so it’s best to not linger too late.
Liberty Statue
- Opening hours: currently off-limits due to renovations in 2023, though you can still approach it during the day.
- Fee: free to access.
The Statue of Liberty is situated at the southern end of the Citadella fortress (in Hungarian: Szabadság-szobor, map here). This iconic landmark of Budapest rightly deserves its fame; standing beneath it inspires a deep sense of admiration and respect.
The 14-meter tall statue of a woman holding a palm leaf overhead commemorates the liberation from Nazi control by the Soviets in 1945 and is a tribute to all who fought for freedom. Its design reflects a strong and resolute character representative of Socialist-realist art, contrasting with the delicate aesthetics of Greek-Roman sculptures. To me, the Liberty Statue stands as both an imposing and graceful guardian watching over the city and its inhabitants.
Installed in 1948, combined with its 26-meter pedestal, the Liberty Statue is visible from all throughout the Danube and a significant portion of the city.
Two additional statues forming part of the Liberty Monument symbolize progress and evil: one depicts a male figure advancing while holding the torch of progress, and the other shows a male figure wrestling a dragon that signifies fascism.
The Statue of Liberty is internationally recognized as a symbol of Budapest, unlike many other monuments removed to Memento Park for Communist-era statues. The original inscription, which credited “the liberating Soviet heroes” to “the grateful people of Hungary,” was altered in 1989 to honor “all those who sacrificed their lives for Hungary’s independence, freedom, and prosperity.”
Currently, due to renovations, you can travel between the Monolit viewpoint and Liberty Statue along the paths. It’s a pleasant stroll, complete with numerous terraces featuring viewpoints as well as several benches.
St. Gellert Monument
- Opening hours: accessible 24/7
- Fee: free of charge
Poor St. Gellert! Legend has it that this missionary was confined in a barrel lined with nails by pagan Hungarians and pushed down the hill at this location. The struggle against Christianity was quite fierce! (map here)
Saint Gellert (also known as Gerard), who hailed from Venice around the year 1000, was a Benedictine monk who played a pivotal role in the Christianization efforts under King Stephen I. The first king of Hungary, crowned on the first day of the new millennium, understood that forging closer ties with Western Europe was crucial, thereby inviting missionaries and church leaders to Hungary. Gellert assumed various roles, including preacher, educator, hermit, and ultimately, missionary bishop of Csanád county. Sadly, following the death of King Stephen I in 1038, Hungary fell into turmoil.
The striking bronze statue, surrounded by a colonnade, honors St. Gellert, commemorating his martyrdom, which the legend states took place at this site in 1046. Various accounts recount his demise, each more horrific than the last, but the most popular version involves Gellert being placed in a cart or barrel, pushed down the hill, and then beaten to death at the bottom during the Vatha pagan uprising (or the reverse scenario). Ultimately, Christianity persevered, as Gellert and Stephen were canonized in 1083; today, they remain two of Hungary’s patron saints.
The monument lies just at the Buda end of Elizabeth Bridge, making it either the first sight you encounter on your walk up to the Citadella or the last as you descend.
The Cave Church and the Pauline Monastery
- Opening hours: Friday and Saturday from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Fee: 600 HUF/person; free for those under 10 years old; audioguides are available in Hungarian, English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Polish, and Russian.
The Budapest Cave Church, also known as Sziklakápolna or the Church in the Grotto, is a small church and monastery built within natural caves formed by thermal waters beneath Gellert Hill (map here, official website available in Hungarian only).
Located toward the bottom of Gellert Hill, near the Gellert Hotel and Freedom Bridge, the statue of St. Stephen and his horse marks a great photo op spot with Freedom Bridge in the background. The terrace above offers an even better view!
Established in 1926, the Cave Church was utilized by the monks of the Order of Saint Paul until the 1950s when the communist regime prohibited their activities and sealed off the church and cave. It was reopened in 1989.
Having always been intrigued by sacred places, I visited the Cave Church with my family in 2015. I found it fascinating: the humble cave chapel felt meaningful, and the metal icons and wood-carved items exhibited were simply exquisite.
The iconic and enigmatic structures and towers of the monastery are best appreciated from the Danube side, with Liberty Bridge as your backdrop (more or less here).
Gellert Baths
- Opening hours: please check here
Even if you don’t plan on luxuriating in the thermal waters of Gellert Spa, I recommend stepping inside to marvel at the stunning Art Nouveau entrance, mosaic flooring, and glass ceiling! Strolling around the lobby is free.
The Gellert Baths (in Hungarian: Gellért Fürdő, map here, official website available here) is located adjacent to the Hotel, across from the stairs leading to the Cave Church. Built in 1918, it was designed to solidify Budapest’s reputation as a city of spas (mission accomplished!). Its elegant Art Nouveau style makes you feel as though you’re journeying back in time.
Rudas Baths
- Opening hours: please check here
Rudas Bath is the most renowned Turkish bath in Budapest (in Hungarian: Rudas Fürdő, map here, official website available here). Nestled on the Buda side along the Danube, near Elizabeth Bridge, it features a modern wing complete with a small rooftop jacuzzi and historical stone pools beneath a dome speckled with tiny colorful glass openings—best appreciated during daylight when the sunlight streams through.
On a tranquil day, the Rudas Bath radiates a cozy, intimate vibe, particularly in contrast to popular places like Széchenyi Baths and Gellert Baths. However, during peak hours, it can feel quite congested. Be mindful of this when planning your trip to Rudas Baths.
Elizabeth Bridge
The sleek white bridge connects Döbrentei Square in Buda to Március 15 Square in Pest. The original design bore more resemblance to Liberty Bridge; however, after sustaining extensive damage during WWII, it was completely dismantled and redesigned into a modern suspension bridge in 1964 (in Hungarian: Erzsébet híd, map here).
Liberty Bridge
Budapest’s third permanent bridge connects Gellért Square in Buda to Fővám Square in Pest. Opened in 1896 by Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph as part of the millennium festivities, it was initially named after the Emperor himself; it was destroyed during WWII, then rebuilt and renamed during the Communist era in 1946 (in Hungarian: Szabadság híd, map here).
Liberty Bridge is my favorite bridge in Budapest! I adore its design and elegance; its grandeur combined with the graceful turul birds perched on the pillars creates a perfect scene. Most of all, I cherish spending time on the bridge, sitting in the center with my partner, enjoying a bottle of wine, and watching the sunset in summer. 🙂
FAQ about Gellert Hill, Budapest
Can You Visit Gellert Hill with a Baby Stroller?
If I managed it, so can you! Take bus 27 from Moricz Zsigmond Square. If you feel strong, you can walk down but keep in mind that you’ll need to navigate some stairs. I recommend walking down towards Elizabeth Bridge (the white bridge) since there are fewer steps compared to going down towards Freedom Bridge (the green bridge).
Overall, though, I don’t recommend attempting it. It can be quite exhausting, especially after a long day of city exploration. I suggest taking bus 27 up to the top of Gellert Hill, enjoying the panoramic view from the Monolit viewpoint, and then taking bus 27 back down. 🙂
Before heading to catch bus 27 to ascend Gellert Hill, consider stopping by the Cave Church to take in the view from its terrace and the one above it. The path leading there is steep yet wide and paved, with only a few steps.
Here are additional considerations if you’re visiting the Citadella with a baby:
- Breastfeeding in public is accepted; numerous benches provide suitable spots, or you can relax on the grass beneath a tree’s shade.
- A restaurant located at the Busulo Juhasz bus stop should have a restroom equipped with changing facilities.
- On sunny days, remember to apply sunscreen on your baby.
- While some areas around the Liberty Statue have gravel, it’s manageable to push a stroller.
- Baby-wearing is dependent on your physical fitness. Personally, I wouldn’t trek uphill with a 10 kg baby strapped to me, but you understand your body best.
Can You Visit Gellert Hill with Kids?
I’ve noticed plenty of children enjoying the paths and the summit of the hill. They seemed to be having a great time outdoors, relishing the fresh air and stunning views! I took Alex there when he was three; with snacks in hand and patience, we trekked from the bus stop to the Liberty Statue, and later down to Freedom Bridge in just a couple of hours.
On the southern face of Gellert Hill, there’s an amazing playground designed with giant pencils called Cerka-Firka (map here). I haven’t been there yet, but it looks close and really fun. We did check out a slide playground that features some seriously steep and enjoyable slides! Map here.
Are There Restaurants, Cafés, and Toilets on Gellert Hill?
Yes, there’s the Busulo Juhasz restaurant at the bus stop (map here), and a kiosk named Raketa Pavilon near the Citadella renovation area, which has a toilet (although I’ve never used it).
What Should I Bring and Wear to Hike Up Gellert Hill?
Since your visit to Gellert Hill will be part of a day of sightseeing in Budapest, you don’t need anything drastically different from your usual city gear.
- Wear comfortable shoes with a solid sole (avoid heels or soft-soled shoes), as the paths and roads can be uneven.
- Dress in layers, as you may feel hot while walking in the sun but chilly in shaded areas and breezy spots.
- Bringing a water bottle is advisable, but if you prefer to pack light, you can buy one at the kiosk.
What’s the Best Time to Visit the Statue of Liberty and the Citadella on Gellert Hill?
The Citadella and Statue of Liberty offer stunning views at any time of the day. Keep in mind:
- A sunny summer day can get quite hot during midday.
- In the morning, the rising sun illuminates the Liberty Statue, casting it in a beautiful light from the East.
- The sun sets behind Buda Castle in the West, creating a magnificent golden glow over the landscape during late afternoon.
- Windier days will experience stronger winds atop Gellert Hill.
The scenery also changes dramatically with the seasons:
- During winter, while tree branches may appear bleak and gloomy, the lack of leaves reveals much more of the urban landscape.
- Spring brings forth beautiful blooming flowers and trees.
- Summer features vibrant and bright lighting.
- In autumn, the foliage bursts into warm and colorful hues.
Utilize my guide to determine the best time for your visit to Budapest.
Conclusion on What to Know Before Visiting Gellert Hill in Budapest
You’re now fully equipped with everything you need to set out and discover Gellert Hill and its attractions!
Before you go, check the highlights on our Instagram account for added inspiration: there are even more videos and photos to assist in planning your visit.
Continue planning your perfect trip to Budapest:
If you have any other questions, feel free to ask in the comments!
