Guide to Visiting Budapest Caves – Explore Deep Below Buda
On my second trip to Budapest we decided to visit the Budapest caves which are a great day trip – once we found them. There are approximately 200 caves under the capital formed by thermal springs with nine protected caves and three open to the public. Their crisp cool air and amazing stalagmite formations and other sights make them a must visit.
Szemlöhegyi Cave
After taking the metro, the bus, then getting off only to walk back, we somehow stumbled upon the first one Szemlöhegyi Cave. The Szemlöhegyi Cave was the smaller of the two caves we explored that day with a total length of 2200 meters. The caves look like they were decorated with minerals in the forms of grape bunches and cauliflower; and so is called the underground flower garden. And illuminations throughout create fantastical formations and echo the beauty of the wonders. This cave system is considered one of the most valuable natural treasures in Budapest.
Pálvölgyi Cave
The second Buda cave we went to was the Pálvölgyi Cave where thankfully they provided us with warm winter jackets. We entered through what felt like a magical wooden door in the side of a hill that transported us into the depths of a wonderland. This cave is now the second longest in the country at 18 kilometers in length. It has been a highly protected area since 1944. This was a truly spectacular cave system with fantastic stalagmite formations, narrow ladders, steep stairs and high ceilings making you feel like an explorer in a new world.
Tips for exploring the caves in Budapest
Bring warm clothing – From the summer temperatures of 30 something degrees outside it’s like stepping into a freezer, as it’s only 10 degrees in the caves. While some caves offer jackets, other don’t. So be prepared.
Plan ahead – The caves can be somewhat difficult to find, as they are in rural Buda. So check on a map ahead of time where they are, and choose your bus accordingly.
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