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Budapest, the Queen of the Danube, is constantly changing and beautifying itself while preserving its historical charm. One of the city’s most iconic spots, Gellért Hill, with the Citadella enthroned on its top, is currently undergoing a large-scale transformation that will open a new chapter in the life of this historic site. Gellért Hill is not just an outstanding natural formation in the heart of Budapest, but it also carries a multitude of historical and cultural layers. The Citadella, built as a Habsburg fortress , once a symbol of oppression, later became a symbol of liberation and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its panoramic views make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The comprehensive renovation of the Citadella, which began in the spring of 2021 and is expected to be completed in 2026 , aims to transform the area into a greener, more open, and attractive community space for everyone, while respecting its historical significance. This report provides up-to-date information on the conditions as of May 2025, presenting what awaits those who visit Gellért Hill during the works. It covers the currently available opportunities, expected challenges, and offers insight into the future vision of the renewed Citadella. When planning your visit, it’s worth considering that although the entire complex is not yet ready, Gellért Hill still offers experiences and a unique opportunity to witness a historical transformation.
Behind the transformation is the National Hauszmann Program , which fits into the broader concept of renewing Budapest’s historical identity, particularly the Buda Castle Quarter. This program often aims to strengthen the national narrative by reinterpreting historical sites. The Citadella, with its Habsburg and Soviet-era past, is a key location for this repositioning, where the emphasis is placed on Hungarian struggles for freedom.
Secrets of the Citadella Renovation: What Awaits Us Amidst the Works? (Latest News May 2025)
The comprehensive renewal of the Citadella and its surroundings, realized within the framework of the National Hauszmann Program , began in the spring of 2021 and is planned to be completed by 2026. The project aims to create a greener, more accessible cultural space that showcases the Hungarian nation’s struggles for freedom.
Current status (May 2025): The works are nearing completion, with the final phases underway in several areas.
- The fortress wall reconstruction is in its final stage.
- In the wing buildings, painting and paving work is being carried out in the spring.
- A special glass bridge has been built , connecting the upper, semi-circular level of the Western Rondella, as a unique architectural solution.
- The planting of the fortress park’s vegetation is in progress: more than 10,000 shrubs, 100,000 perennials, and over half a million bulbs are being planted, alongside 128 large trees. In the inner courtyard, 59 ornamental trees and shrubs (almond, ornamental cherry, Judas tree, magnolia, Persian ironwood) have already been placed. The green area will increase by 50%, to a total of 20,000 square meters, and a new, 6,000-square-meter public park will be established within the fortress walls.
- The installation of utilities on the rocky terrain presents a challenge but is progressing continuously. The entire road and utility network of the promenade will be renewed, and 700 meters of unique steel railings will be installed.
- During the restoration of the Liberty Statue, the metal screw connections were checked and replaced, 200 square meters of statue surface were renovated, and 7,000 screws were replaced. A cross will be placed on its pedestal, and the former Soviet soldier statue has been removed. The terrace around the Liberty Statue is also being redesigned.
- The fortress walls have been opened on the northern and southern sides, which is a significant change for visitors, improving permeability.
The exhibition titled “The Bastion of Freedom” is planned to be housed in the cannon tower (Western Rondella) and will present the Hungarian nation’s struggles for freedom. The exhibition is expected to open in 2026. The concept of the exhibition hovers between a wax museum and poetry, where the brick surfaces and vaults will remain visible.
Future services will include a café, ice cream parlor, and gift shop in the inner park. In the spirit of sustainability, a rainwater harvesting irrigation system and green roofs will be implemented.
Information about the renovation and current updates is provided by the National Hauszmann Program’s Facebook page (the official page of the Várkapitányság) and Citadella Vagyonkezelő Nkft.
The transformation of the Citadella is not just an architectural renewal but also a symbolic reinterpretation of the site. The former military fortress is being transformed into an open, green community space and cultural center. The opening of the fortress walls physically symbolizes this transition from a closed, controlling structure to an inclusive, freely accessible place. The modification of the Liberty Statue, particularly the placement of the cross, reflects the emphasis on national and Christian identity, in line with the general objectives of the National Hauszmann Program. All these changes aim to create a new narrative for the Citadella, serving as a monument to Hungarian freedom and resilience.
The scale of the works – such as the movement of 14,000 cubic meters of rock and earth for utility installation , or the planting of mature trees with special cranes – highlights the logistical and engineering challenges of construction on the hilltop. These complexities can contribute to the longer duration and costs of the renovation.
The table below summarizes the main elements of the Citadella renovation and their current status in May 2025:
Citadella Renovation Overview (May 2025)
| Area/Element | Current Status (May 2025) | Expected Opening/Completion | Notes for Visitors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fortress Walls | Opened on northern and southern sides, reconstruction in final phase | Continuously | Restrictions may still apply on promenades |
| Liberty Statue | Restoration and pedestal modification underway | 2026 | Terrace not accessible |
| Inner Park | Planting, development in progress | 2026 | Currently not accessible |
| “The Bastion of Freedom” Exhibition | Preparation underway | 2026 | Not yet accessible |
| Glass Bridge (Western Rondella) | Built | 2026 (with entire complex) | Internal element, currently not visible |
| Promenade Utility Network | Renewal in progress | 2026 | Expect restrictions in some places |
Gellért Hill’s Historical Significance
Gellért Hill Adventures in Spring 2025: Experiences and Impressions in the Shadow of Renovation
On a sunny May morning, when Budapest is already resplendent in the most beautiful colors of spring, conquering Gellért Hill promises a special experience, even amidst the large-scale renovation works. Among the many paths leading up the hill, the one starting from the Buda end of Elizabeth Bridge is particularly atmospheric, passing by the artificial waterfall and the imposing statue of Saint Gellért. Climbing upwards, the city panorama gradually unfolds, and although the sounds of construction machinery can be heard in the distance, the proximity of nature, birdsong, and fresh air counterbalance these.
As we approach the hilltop, more and more cordons and closures indicate the areas under renovation. A significant part of the fortress itself and the terrace around the Liberty Statue are currently not accessible, as confirmed by several sources. This might be disappointing at first, but it’s important to know that many other parts of Gellért Hill are still freely accessible, and you don’t have to go far for the view.
Despite the closures, many people visit the hill: tourists admire the partially accessible panorama, while locals use the well-known paths for dog walking and jogging. There’s a palpable sense of curious anticipation in the air for the renewed Citadella. Of course, the current situation demands compromises. It may happen that a favorite resting place or viewpoint is temporarily inaccessible, and detours may be necessary on familiar routes. However, this is part of such a large-scale transformation.
Visiting Gellért Hill during this period offers a kind of dual experience. On the one hand, you can enjoy the still accessible natural beauties and some corners of the stunning cityscape , and on the other hand, visitors can witness a historical transformation. This “behind-the-scenes” glimpse, even if partial, offers a unique perspective that future visitors will only know in its completed state. This peculiar situation provides an opportunity to get to know Gellért Hill from a new, transitional side.
Panorama Hunt on Gellért Hill: Which Viewpoints Are Accessible During the Citadella Renovation?
Gellért Hill is rightly considered one of Budapest’s best panoramic spots. However, the ongoing renovation works, lasting until 2026 , significantly affect the accessibility of traditional viewpoints.
Current (May 2025) accessibility of major viewpoints:
- Citadella Fortress Walls/Terraces: The interior of the fortress and the viewpoints directly along the walls are largely closed to the public. The terrace in front of the Liberty Statue and the promenade around the fortress are also not accessible. According to a March 2025 update, the Citadella area itself can be approached from one side, but the Liberty Statue is still not accessible. This means that viewing from the most iconic, highest points is limited.
- Liberty Statue Area: The statue is under restoration, and the surrounding terrace is being rebuilt, so this area is also not accessible.
- Monolit Viewpoint: This viewpoint, near the former main entrance of the Citadella, is still ACCESSIBLE, offering excellent views of Buda Castle, the Danube, the Chain Bridge, the Pest side, the Parliament, and Margaret Island. This is likely the most significant high-altitude viewpoint currently available in the immediate vicinity of the Citadella, although crowds can be expected.
- “Second Viewpoint” (halfway along the Citadella line): According to an October 2023 source, this point, accessible by stairs from the path below, offers an even better and wider panorama. Its current (May 2025) accessibility should be treated with caution, but it might be worth a try.
- Viewpoints along Gellért Hill Trails: Along the many winding paths on the hillside, smaller terraces and “unofficial” viewpoints may appear, offering great photo opportunities. For example, the route from Elizabeth Bridge towards the St. Gellért statue is not affected by the renovation works.
- St. Gellért Monument Viewpoint: This offers a good view, especially of the Elizabeth Bridge.
Under the current circumstances, it’s advisable to choose early morning hours for photography to avoid crowds. The sunset can still be stunning, especially from the Monolit viewpoint. However, it’s important to note that construction elements may mar some compositions, and from the St. Gellért statue towards Elizabeth Bridge, trees can sometimes obstruct the view.
Since the main viewpoints of the Citadella are limited or not accessible at all, visitors’ attention naturally turns to alternative locations. This creates an opportunity to discover lesser-known but equally beautiful panoramic parts of Gellért Hill. The “Instagram effect” still applies; visitors will search for iconic photo spots. In the current situation, the challenge is to find these places and take the best possible pictures despite the restrictions.
The following table summarizes the accessibility of Gellért Hill’s more important viewpoints and attractions in May 2025:
Accessibility of Gellért Hill Viewpoints and Attractions (May 2025)
| Attraction/Viewpoint | Accessible May 2025? | Tips/Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Citadella Fortress Courtyard/Walls | NO (fortress interior largely closed) | Focus on external promenades and other open parts of the hill. |
| Terrace in front of Liberty Statue | NO | The statue might be partially visible from a distance, e.g., from the Monolit viewpoint. |
| Monolit Viewpoint | YES | Popular, arrive early! Excellent photos of the Castle, Parliament. |
| St. Gellért Statue Viewpoint | YES (the path leading here is not closed) | Good view of Elizabeth Bridge; trees may sometimes obstruct. |
| Philosophers’ Garden | YES | Quieter place, unique atmosphere with city views. |
| Gellért Hill Trails | YES (most walking paths are open) | Discover hidden viewpoints while walking! |
Not Just Sunshine: Negatives of the Citadella Renovation and Visitor Challenges
Although the future vision of the renewed Citadella is promising, visitors to Gellért Hill during the current large-scale construction must expect certain inconveniences and challenges. Thorough information should also cover these aspects so that visitors arrive with realistic expectations.
Effects of the renovation:
- Construction noise and dust: Such a large-scale project inevitably involves noise, dust, and the sight of construction machinery and materials, which can affect the site’s calm atmosphere.
- Limited access and detours: As detailed earlier, many areas, including the inner parts of the fortress, the immediate surroundings of the Liberty Statue, and certain sections of the promenade around the fortress, are closed. This means visitors will have to take detours, and some usual routes cannot be used.
- Crowding at accessible points: Since the number of main viewpoints has decreased, the still-open places, such as the Monolit viewpoint, may be more crowded than usual, especially during peak hours.
- Possibility of disappointment: Visitors unaware of the extent of the closures may be disappointed to find they cannot fully explore the area. One of the aims of this information is precisely to prevent this.
- Temporary traffic disruptions: Special attention should be paid to the fact that between May 19 and 22, 2025, significant road closures and traffic restrictions are expected in several districts of Budapest due to the summit of the Organization of Turkic States, including the Szent Gellért Quay near Gellért Hill. Access to the hill may be more difficult during this period. Using the BudapestGO app for current traffic information is recommended.
- Safety considerations: Although construction sites are generally adequately secured, visitors, especially those with children, should exercise increased caution near work areas.
- Atmospheric impact: The sight and sounds of construction can detract from the “urban sanctuary” feeling that Gellért Hill usually provides.
According to some opinions, the Citadella, as a former symbol of oppression, should have been demolished , while other locals considered it overrated even before the renovation compared to the view from Buda Castle. These strong opinions are also part of the image of the site.
Presenting the negatives honestly contributes to credibility. If visitors arrive prepared, and reality is perhaps more favorable than expected, it can result in a positive experience. The current inconveniences can also act as a temporary “filter,” potentially reducing crowds in less affected parts of the hill, which might offer a different, calmer experience for more determined visitors.
Useful Tips for the Perfect Gellért Hill Excursion (2025): Access, Dining, Practicalities
Visiting Gellért Hill and the Citadella during the renovations can still be enjoyable if we follow a few practical tips.
Access:
- By public transport: Bus 27 runs from Móricz Zsigmond körtér all the way to the “Búsuló Juhász (Citadella)” stop, near the hilltop. Numerous tram and metro lines will take you to the foot of the hill (e.g., Szent Gellért tér – M4 metro; Fővám tér – M4 metro, then walk across Liberty Bridge).
- On foot: Several tourist paths lead up the hill, for example, from the Buda end of Elizabeth Bridge or Liberty Bridge. Some of these are steep and have stairs. Wearing comfortable, sturdy shoes is essential.
- Gellért Hill Funicular: Its construction is planned, with the upper station connecting to the Citadella promenade, but it is not yet operational as of May 2025.
- By car: Parking options are limited on and around the hill. In the future, the Citadella area will be completely car-free.
- Segway tours: Various providers offer Segway tours to Gellért Hill.
Best time to visit:
- Early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- At sunset, the view is particularly stunning. Due to the renovation, the Monolit viewpoint is recommended for sunset viewing instead of the Liberty Statue area.
- In terms of weather, spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) are the most pleasant.
What to bring: Comfortable hiking shoes, enough fluids, some snacks, a camera, and a sweater or jacket for cooler weather or evenings.
Services on and around the hill:
- Raketa Pavilon: A kiosk (buffet) on the edge of the construction site, which is reportedly operational.
- Búsuló Juhász Restaurant: A restaurant near the Bus 27 stop, offering Hungarian and international cuisine. Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 12:00-23:00.
- Public Toilet: There is a restroom located in front of the Raketa Pavilon. One next to the Gellért Hill slide playground has also been renovated, but its operation was previously uncertain. Future funicular stations will also have restrooms.
- The renewed Citadella will also feature a café, ice cream parlor, and gift shop.
Accessibility: Due to the terrain of Gellért Hill (steep paths, stairs), accessibility is limited. For those with strollers, taking Bus 27 is recommended to reach the hilltop. The National Hauszmann Program’s general objective is to improve accessibility , so the future funicular is expected to be accessible.
Duration of visit: It is generally worth dedicating 1-3 hours to exploring the hill, depending on your pace and the number of parts you wish to see.
Nearby attractions (briefly): St. Gellért Monument, Cave Church, Rudas Thermal Bath, Gellért Thermal Bath, Philosophers’ Garden. The proximity of Gellért Thermal Bath offers a natural connection between a relaxing spa experience and a hill walk.
The future improvement of accessibility to Gellért Hill and the Citadella, especially with the construction of the planned funicular , could significantly transform the visitor experience, making this prominent tourist destination accessible to a wider audience.
The Vision of the Renewed Citadella: Green Park, Historical Exhibition, and Community Space from 2026
The central idea behind the Citadella’s transformation is to create a “greener and freer citadel” , which could become one of Budapest’s most beloved community spaces, harmoniously blending historical heritage with the natural environment and modern visitor needs.
Main elements in the vision expected from 2026:
- Extensive green spaces: The current green area will be increased by one and a half times, to a total of 20,000 square meters. A new, 6,000-square-meter public park will be created within the fortress walls.
- Diverse flora: Ornamental trees (almond, ornamental cherry, Judas tree, magnolia, Persian ironwood), shrubs, flowering lawns, roses, lavender, climbing plants, and grapevines will enrich the landscape.
- Sustainability: Irrigation will be managed with collected rainwater, and flat roofs will be transformed into green roofs planted with drought-tolerant plants.
- “The Bastion of Freedom” exhibition: Housed in the cannon tower (Western Rondella), it will showcase the Hungarian nation’s struggles for freedom. The original brick surfaces and vaults will remain visible in the exhibition space, balancing wax museum and poetic elements.
- New services: A café, ice cream parlor, and gift shop will await visitors in the inner park.
- Architectural transformations:
- The fortress walls will be opened on the northern and southern sides, improving accessibility and connection with the surrounding park. This gesture is also interpreted as a “sword strike of freedom.”
- An internal, walkable glass bridge will be built in the Western Rondella.
- The terrace around the Liberty Statue will be redesigned to provide even more stunning views.
- A flight of stairs will be built behind the Liberty Statue, providing direct access to the fortress park.
- Hungary’s largest national flag will adorn the area.
- An eternal flame is planned for the center of the Rondella courtyard.
This large-scale project clearly aims to transform a site with a controversial past, also known as a symbol of oppression, into a place of national pride, freedom, and community recreation. This endeavor is consistent with the general objectives of the National Hauszmann Program, which aim to reinterpret historical spaces and integrate them into the national narrative. The project simultaneously realizes heritage protection – for example, the restoration of the fortress walls and the Liberty Statue, or the careful preservation of a World War II bullet mark – and the integration of modern architectural elements and contemporary functional uses. The successful creation of this balance will be crucial for the reception of the renewed Citadella.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Everything You Wanted to Know About Gellért Hill and the Citadella in 2025
- Why is a significant part of the Citadella closed? The Citadella is undergoing a comprehensive renovation aimed at renewing the area, creating new community spaces, and an exhibition. The full reopening is expected in 2026.
- Is it worth going up Gellért Hill during the renovation? Yes, for the still accessible beautiful promenades, the proximity to nature, the partially enjoyable panorama, and to witness the transformation of a historic site. However, it’s important to arrive with realistic expectations regarding the accessibility of the Citadella fortress.
- How long does it take to climb Gellért Hill? Climbing the ascent takes about 20-30 minutes, while a full visit to the hill can take 1-3 hours, depending on the chosen route and the time spent sightseeing.
- Where is the best view of the Danube in Budapest from Gellért Hill during the renovation? Gellért Hill traditionally offers one of the best views. During the renovation, specific accessible points like the Monolit viewpoint offer great panoramas.
- Which parts of the Citadella/Gellért Hill are accessible in May 2025? Many walking paths and parks on Gellért Hill are accessible. In the immediate vicinity of the Citadella, the Monolit viewpoint and the area around the St. Gellért statue are typically accessible. The interior of the fortress and the terrace in front of the Liberty Statue are largely closed.
- When is the full reopening of the Citadella expected? According to current plans, in 2026.
- Is there an entrance fee for Gellért Hill/Citadella? Visiting the accessible parts of Gellért Hill’s promenades and the Citadella’s external areas is free. The future “Bastion of Freedom” exhibition may have an entrance fee.
- Is there a public toilet on Gellért Hill? Yes, there is a public restroom near the Raketa Pavilon. There is also a renovated toilet next to the Gellért Hill slide playground, but it’s advisable to check its current operating hours. Future funicular stations will also have restrooms.
- How can Gellért Hill be reached by public transport? By bus 27 (from Móricz Zsigmond körtér to the Búsuló Juhász (Citadella) stop), as well as by trams stopping at the foot of the hill and the M4 metro (Szent Gellért tér or Fővám tér stops).
The Frequently Asked Questions help clarify the most important information and dispel any potential misunderstandings regarding the current state of the Citadella.
Is It Worth the Climb? Summary and Final Thoughts on Visiting Gellért Hill During the Renovation
The question of whether it’s worth climbing Gellért Hill during the Citadella’s major renovation is complex, but the answer is mostly yes, provided visitors arrive prepared and with realistic expectations. This iconic Budapest spot still offers many values and experiences even amidst its transformation.
Why it’s worth visiting:
- Natural environment and walking paths: Gellért Hill remains one of Budapest’s most beautiful green areas, with an extensive network of walking paths offering fresh air and relaxation from the city noise.
- Partial but stunning panorama: Although the main viewing terraces are limited or not accessible at all, from various points on the hill, such as the Monolit viewpoint or the area around the St. Gellért statue, there are still magnificent views of the Danube and the city.
- Witnessing change: A unique opportunity to follow the transformation of a historically significant site and get a glimpse into how future Budapest is being shaped.
- Fewer crowds (in certain areas): The restrictions due to renovation might deter some, so less frequented parts of the hill might offer a quieter experience.
- Free access: The freely accessible parts of the hill are still available free of charge.
What to consider:
- Construction impacts: Noise, dust, and the sight of work areas can affect the experience.
- Limited access: The interior of the fortress, the immediate surroundings of the Liberty Statue, and some promenades are closed.
- Potential for disappointment: Those expecting the full, usual Citadella experience might be disappointed.
As a local resident of Budapest and a dedicated explorer of the city, I believe that the charm of Gellért Hill prevails even under the current circumstances. In exchange for compromises, we get the promise of an evolving site that will become even more wonderful in the future. A visit is particularly recommended for those who have been here multiple times and are curious about the changes, or for those seeking a less conventional urban adventure. For first-time visitors to Budapest with limited time, it might be worth considering whether the limited experience meets their expectations, or if they would prefer other fully accessible attractions.
Gellért Hill and the Citadella are now in a transitional state, a kind of “chrysalis” from which a renewed, even more attractive “butterfly” will emerge by 2026. Until then, it’s worth exploring what it already offers with patience and openness. Budapest is constantly evolving, and this evolution is what makes it truly alive and exciting. The role of local travel bloggers during this period is particularly important, as they can help interpret these changes and maintain the connection with the city’s landmarks, even when they are “under reconstruction.”
