Museum of Military History (Hadtörténeti Múzeum)
Kapisztrán tér 2-4, Budapest, Hungary, 1014
Housed in a former army barracks, the Museum of Military History (Hadtorteneti Muzeum isn't Budapest's most popular museum, but it's a must-see for history buffs exploring Castle Hill. Filled with military relics and memorabilia from the Ottoman era through the 20th-century, the museum tells the story of Hungary's wars over the centuries.
The basics
The Museum of Military History is perhaps the best place in Budapest to learn about Hungarian military operations and political history, from the Middle Ages through the world wars. You can easily spend a few hours here. Find an armory, two floors of exhibits, and artifacts big and small, from crossbows and uniforms to military vehicles. Plan to purchase same-day entry, and pair stops at top Castle Hill sights like Fisherman's Bastion and Matthias Church.
Things to know before you go
- Most exhibition materials are in Hungarian and English, but some media may be Hungarian-only.
- Don't miss the cannonballs lodged in the museum's walls that remain from fighting during the revolution.
- Students and seniors received discounted admission, and Budapest Card holders are admitted free of charge.
- To visit the Armory you need to purchase a separate Weaponry Ticket.
How to get there
Located in Buda, you can find the Museum of Military History among the cobblestoned walkways of Castle Hill. The most convenient option to visit is via public transit. Take the M2 metro line from Pest and get out at the Széll Kálmán Tér stop. It's about a 15-minute stroll from the museum. You can also take the bus. The 16, 16A, or 116 busses all stop nearby. The entrance is located in Kapisztrán Square.
When to get there
The museum is open six days a week, and closed on Mondays and major holidays. Guided tours of the Armory are offered during opening hours, and tickets may be purchased from the museum's cashier. If you visit on a national holiday you can get free entry, so plan to stop by on March 15th, August 20th, or October 23rd for complimentary admission.
Finding Your Way on Castle Hill
Just a short walk from the museum you find several must-see Castle Hill attractions that are worth adding to your Budapest itinerary. This storied section of the city contains the Old Town and the Royal Palace, plus the elegant Matthias Church. You can explore independently, or join a walking tour or Segway excursion to learn more as you go. For a scenic trip back down the hill, hop the funicular railway to the Chain Bridge.
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