Hungarian National Gallery (Magyar Nemzeti Galéria)

The most convenient way to visit the Hungarian National Gallery is by booking a Budapest sightseeing tour to Castle Hill. Many tours stop at the Hungarian National Gallery—since it's located inside the iconic Buda Castle—and typically offer great inclusions, like a funicular ride, or river cruise. If you don't have time to stop in the galleries, you can still pass the castle on a city Segway tour. To enjoy the galleries at your own pace, plan an independent visit.

• The museum is a must-see for art enthusiasts. Enjoy a vast collection of works, reflecting the breadth of Hungarian fine arts dating to the 10th century.
• History fans should book a tour in advance to visit the museum's restored Habsburg Palatine Crypt.
• For fantastic views, be sure to visit the museum's dome and terrace, which is open seasonally from May to October.
• You can get free museum entry with the Budapest Card, which will also get you free admission or discounts at cultural sights around the city.

The easiest way to reach the Hungarian National Gallery is on a Castle District sightseeing tour, with a stop at Buda Castle. For travelers that want to explore on their own, public transit is also an option. Take the 16 bus from Deak Ferenc Square, or the 16 or 116 bus from Szell Kalman Square. For a more scenic route, take the funicular from Clark Adam Square, but expect long lines during tourist season.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and closed on Mondays. To avoid crowds at the museum, arrive earlier in the week, as weekends tend to be busiest. You'll enjoy Budapest's best weather, and miss the peak summer tourist season, if you visit in spring or fall, but note that the dome and terrace are closed from November through April.

Take a 15-minute walk through the scenic Castle District and visit the must-see Matthias Church (Matays-templom). The neo-Gothic religious sight is known for its colorful tiled roof, ornate bell tower, crypt, and 14th century Mary Gate (Mária kapu). Step inside to enjoy the frescoes and stained glass, and check the calendar—music enthusiasts shouldn't miss the evening concerts held in the church.