City Tour Guide

Situated in the historic Lonyay-Hatvany mansion, the Aranybastya Restaurant opened its doors to visitors in 2021. The villa's history dates back to the Turkish era when the Aranybastya, a polygonal Turkish fortification, stood on its site during the Ottoman occupation. The villa, built between 1870 and 1872 based on the designs of Miklos Ybl, features classical and neorenaissance elements. In 1915, it became the property of Ferenc Hatvany, a collector and painter, who housed his world-famous art collection here.

From the terrace of this panoramic restaurant, you can enjoy one of the most beautiful views of Buda Castle. Led by Chef Attila Szel and Pastry Chef Peter Laszlo, Aranybastya's dishes are crafted from excellent local ingredients, using the latest techniques, and represent a refined, understandable bistro style. Whether it's a delicious lunch, afternoon coffee with unique pastry specialties, an exclusive Philipponnat afternoon champagne offer, or a romantic dinner, this gastronomic-rich restaurant is the perfect choice.

Immerse yourself in the magic of French champagne culture with the exclusive “ Aranybástya ” Philipponnat afternoon champagne experience for two, perfectly paired with gourmet delicacies. Treat yourself between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. to a bottle of Philipponnat’s special champagne, accompanied by everything from smoked trout to raspberry macarons.

The Budapest Castle Bus offers a unique opportunity to explore the historical landmarks of the city while making our restaurant easily accessible! Electric minibuses, departing every 10 minutes between 9 am and 5 pm, stop at five points in the Castle District. Take advantage of this convenient transportation option to reach our restaurant effortlessly and experience the charm of the historic quarter without a tiring walk!

As part of the Aranybastya exhibition, enjoy a cultural interdisciplinary experience where captivating Hungarian artworks meet the restaurant's exceptional culinary specialties. Through our partnership with Fine Art Hungary, showcasing the top 100 works of Hungarian contemporary artists curated by experts, we feature works from artists on this prestigious list. Past exhibitors included renowned artists such as Alexandra Hegedus, Oliver Szax, Edina Som-Balogh, and Karolina Savolt.

Learn about the Lajos Batthyány Foundation, which serves as a think tank supporting Hungarian conservative thought and welcomes visitors with a variety of events, panel discussions, concerts, and multidisciplinary performances. Discover the legacy of Baron Ferenc Hatvany in the impressive “ Lónyay-Hatvany ” villa’s replica exhibition, which features works by the masters from the art collection lost during World War II.

Located in the Hunyadi Courtyard, the Chief Guard Exhibition welcomes visitors with scenes from daily life and captivating stories, offering a glimpse into the lives of the bodyguards who defended the rulers and their families “even at the cost of their own lives.” Discover the “Even at the Cost of My Life!” exhibition, where you can view a unique collection from a private, multi-generational family collection. The exhibition traces the 260-year history of the Hungarian bodyguard corps through period scenes, photographs of ceremonies, portraits, as well as bodyguard uniforms, helmets, and personal items.

Enjoy the captivating atmosphere of St. Stephen’s Hall at Buda Castle, which reflects the magic of the past! Admire the hall’s Romanesque-style interiors and the harmonious blend of Hungarian ornamentation and masterful craftsmanship, exemplified by the monumental pyrogranite fireplace and unique works of art on display in the hall. The hall, which won an award at the 1900 Paris World’s Fair, has retained its original beauty over the years and has now been reborn as part of the National Haussmann Program so that visitors can enjoy its historical and artistic treasures.

Experience the city’s exciting history and the hidden treasures of the Castle District through the themed walks offered by Budavári Séták and the Hosszú Lépés Program. Set out with Budavári Séták to follow in the footsteps of Palatine Joseph, explore the lives of 20th-century women, and discover the world-famous sights of the civilian city, or join the Budavár Book Walk of the Hosszú Lépés Program to learn more about the life of the new Jewish aristocracy and the history of the Hatvany family!

We welcome you warmly to our neighbourhood, where urban adventures and flavours combine to create unforgettable experiences! Join us and discover the enchanting beauty of the city through a special culinary journey!