Caving in Budapest
Millions of years ago, a sea flowed beneath the Hungarian capital, creating a vast network of underground caverns. In Buda, split from Pest by the mighty Danube, it is possible to explore these caves, protected by overalls and guided by a gas-lamp helmet. The Matyeshegy Caves were used as a bomb shelter for citizens in World War II, and while closed to the general public, tour operators take bucket listers deep into the system. With no wooden boardwalks and few large caverns, prepare to get dirty as you slip through the cracks, and crawl through insanely tight passages.
Length of Trip : 3 hours
Cost :
Depending on type of tour, prices range from US$53 and up.
Best time to go : Tours are offered year round.
Wheelchair friendly : No
Family friendly : Ages 6 and up.
Where to eat :
Central
Spinoza (Hungarian-Mediterranean)
Official Site :
Tour Operator for the Matyeshegy cave tour
Where to Stay :
Budget: Lanchid19 Hotel
Mid-Level: Hotel Palazzo Zichy
High-End: Aria Hotel
Getting There :
English guided tours take place Monday, Wednesday and Friday in the afternoon, Tuesday and Thursday in the morning, Saturday in the early afternoon. To get to the cave, take bus 6 from Kolosy square.Get off at the fifth bus stop, named Pál-völgyi cave (ask the driver if you're not sure). If you're travelling by car, take Szépvölgyi street leading to the Hármashatár-hegy and look for the Pál-völgyi cave sign.
Note from Robin :
All equipment is provided, including headlight, overall, helmet. Wear comfy shoes, they'll get some good wear on them but fortunately, the tour stays clear of wet parts of the cave. This is a pretty physical tour, so if you're overweight, claustrophobic, or not in good shape, contact the company and discuss with them beforehand.
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