Things to do in Gödöllő

Your 4-hour tour begins with a drive from Budapest to Gödöllő, the site of the former summer residence of Queen Elizabeth, who was known as Sissi. This palace is the second-largest Baroque chateau in the world and an estate that has preserved the atmosphere of 19th century royal splendor. Led by your knowledgeable guide, you will enjoy a tour of the renovated castle and walk along the same hallways, on the same staircases and through the beautiful park as the Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary. The tour ends at Hotel Intercontinental Budapest, in the city center.

Travel back in time through three generations of the Grassalkovich family as you pass through the rooms of the Royal Palace of Gödöllő, built in the 18th century. Get a glimpse into the Habsburg Dynasty and all its splendor.  Explore the royal palace as it was when residence to Empress Sisi and Emperor Franz Joseph. See for yourself why it was the couple’s favorite summer residence. The elaborate baroque furnishings, private chambers, and myriad paintings on display promise to take you back to the time of the monarchy. There was also a time in history when the palace had a secret side. Explore this at the end of your tour — it’s up to you to discover the mysteries.

Gödöllő is a town situated in Pest County, about 30 kilometers northeast from Budapest. This city is home to the Palace that was originally built for the aristocratic Grassalkovich family. Later Franz Josef, the Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary, along with his wife Elizabeth, used the Palace as their residency. Enjoy a guided tour through this fascinating historical site with transportation from Budapest. Guests can see the greatest Baroque castle in Hungary. Enjoy an exclusive tour through the impressive interior of the Palace. The area of the permanent exhibition includes the grand staircase, the entrance hall, the little dining hall, pantry and the rooms of the era of the Grassalkoviches and Royal Family. After touring the interior, guests can take a walk in the Royal Garden seeing the pavilion and landscaped gardens. Afterwards enjoy a coffee or a tea at the palace café (extra charge). After having free time in the garden you’ll be transferred back to Budapest City Center.

Just 30 minutes outside of Budapest, set in the lush Hungarian countryside is the beautiful Royal Palace of Gödöllő, one of the extravagant residences of the former Austrian Emperors. The former residence of the Habsburg emperors is the second largest Baroque Palace in the world and is one of the largest and most important examples of Hungarian architecture. Elisabeth, Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary, who was fondly called 'Sissi', and Francis Joseph I lived here in the late 19th century. The royal couple stayed in Gödöllő mainly in autumn and spring, and revived and invested in the agricultural town in which the palace is set. The elegant royal complex is now open to visitors and this tour will take you inside the restored palace for a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the emperors. You'll visit the palace museum and will be guided through the 26–hectare English garden of the palace. As you explore the immense and brilliantly decorated estate, your guide will let you in on the secrets of the private life, lovers, and hidden doors and rooms of the royal couple. You'll have the opportunity for a coffee break on the grounds before heading back to central Budapest.

Begin your day at your hotel in Budapest and enjoy a scenic, private drive to the charming town of Gödöllő for a visit and tour. Gödöllő is the site of the European Union Rotating Presidency Meetings of 2012, and the site of the spectacular, Baroque-style Royal Palace of Gödöllő, which formerly served as the summer residence of Queen Elisabeth. While you are exploring the beautiful palace, take a journey in the history of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy and their connection to the beautiful palace, a favorite of Franz Joseph and the royal family, as well as of Empress Elisabeth (Sissi), who especially loved staying in Gödöllő.   After wandering from room to room and getting to know the life and times of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, take a walk through the beautiful Palace Park, and enjoy a cup of coffee and piece of cake at the Confectionery of the Palace.

Get to know the former Queen Elisabeth, also known as Sisi, and King Francis Joseph I on this private 3-hour tour of Gödöllő Palace. Tour the baroque palace and enjoy learning about the beloved queen and the history of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Depart from Budapest and relax on a 30-minute drive to the former summer residence of Queen Elisabeth (Sisi) and Francis Joseph (Habsburg Emperor and Hungarian King 1867-1916) in Gödöllő. Your visit will give you a glimpse of times under the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Also become acquainted with the secrets of the private life, hidden doors, rooms, and lovers of the royal couple. After your guided tour through the Gödöllő Palace, have the opportunity to enjoy a coffee and to look around in the souvenir shop before heading back to Budapest.

The Royal Palace of Gödöllö is the largest baroque palace in Hungary, and the 2nd biggest by surface area in the world after Versailles. On this full-day tour from Budapest, you will drive to Pest county, about 20 miles (30 kilometers) northeast of Budapest city center. Built by Count Antal Grassalkovich, one of the most respected Hungarian noblemen of the 18th century, the complex served as a summer residence for Emperor Francis Joseph and Queen Elisabeth (Sissi) between 1867 and 1916, and for Governor Miklós Horthy between 1920 and 1944. Beautifully restored, you can now wander the richly painted rooms, such as the Grand Hall and Library. Admire the white and gold décor, red marble baths and wardrobe of Sissi, as well as a tiny baroque theater. Stroll in the 26-hectare English park. On request, and depending on the season, riding opportunities and horse shows can be arranged in nearby Lázár Park. You will also go to the Marian shrines of Máriabesnyő, a place of pilgrimage since the 18th century. Admire the enchanting baroque church, now a favored wedding location for Hungarian brides.

Queen Elisabeth tour: Details: Gödöllő is situated 15 miles away from Budapest.The palace was the summer residence of Queen Elisabeth (Sisi) and Francis Joseph (Habsburg Emperor & Hungarian King. During our visit I will show the rooms that have regained their former splendour and make you familiar with the life of the royal couple.Than we can go for a stroll in the garden a have a cup of coffee in the palace. The tour ends in Budapest.