Sándor Palace

Using my Budapest Pass, I got tickets for the Buda Castle Museum, which were supposed to include a visit to the presidential residence. However, when I arrived, I was told that the visit was not allowed, which was disappointing.

During today’s walk around Castle Hill in Budapest, we visited the Sándor Palace – the official residence of the President of Hungary. The building itself is elegant and understated, blending beautifully with the historic surroundings. However, the real highlight was the ceremonial changing of the guard, which we were lucky to witness. The ceremony started right on time. The guards, dressed in traditional uniforms, moved with impressive precision and discipline. Every step, turn, and salute was perfectly coordinated, making it clear that this was more than just a show – it was a proud tradition carried out with respect and professionalism. A sizable crowd had gathered in front of the palace – a mix of tourists and locals. Everyone watched attentively, with many taking photos and videos. Despite the number of people, the atmosphere remained calm and respectful, even a bit solemn. It was evident that for many, this event holds cultural and national significance. This is definitely a place worth visiting while in Budapest – and if you get the chance to see the changing of the guard, don’t miss it!

SANDOR PALACE The Sandor Palace is situated across from the Habsburg Gate, which leads to the Buda Castle complex. Since 2003, it has served as the official residence and workplace of the President of Hungary. The original Neoclassical-style palace was completed around 1806 by Count Vincent Sandor, and it was named after him. Subsequently, both the palace and the neighboring buildings facing the square were leased for government offices. Following the downfall of the Hungarian Soviet Republic in 1919, the Sandor Palace continued to be used as the Prime Minister's residence until World War II. During the war, an Allied aircraft bombed the palace, reducing it to ruins. It remained neglected until the Revolutions of 1989. Over time, the Sandor Palace underwent gradual restoration to recapture its former splendor, and in 2002, the interior was renovated. Many of the furnishings and items found within are replicas of the originals that were lost.

The Sandor Palace is the official residence and headquarters of the President of Hungary. It was, as with all other buildings in Budapest, destroyed in the world war II. Originally built in 1806 in neoclassical style, Sandor Palace is housed inside Buda castle. When you enter the castle area, it’s the first building on your left. It isn’t a grand looking or heavily protected building. Most likely two guards and one or two police offices be seen on the grounds. You can see the guards change(not as lavish as the Buckingham places guards change in London, but I like the simplicity!) every hour up until 5pm with a little pomp of marching and drum rolls and rifle displays. The views of neighbouring parliament and chain bridge as well as St Stephen’s Basilica are grand. There’s no entry fees to the castle unless you wish to visit the museums. If you have a bit of time hang around for the sunset as I must say the views are extraordinarily!

The beautifully renovated neoclassical building is the office of the President of Hungarian Republic. Easy to approach using the bus 16. It is not open for the wide public and tourists. But you can enjoy the regular change of guards with drumbeat. It is recommended when you go to the Castle District. The Castle District entrance is free of charge.

I could not believe, I was walking as a regular tourist in front of the Official Residence of the President of Hungary. In the Philippines, you can not walk in front of the Malacanang Palace just like that. Since this country is peaceful and no threats, you can only see one guard smiling at you. For a tourist like me, you will feel that you are in a safe and peaceful place. I hope, our country is like this. So I enjoyed my whole day tour around the complex. 5 stars. Approved!

We happened to be walking by during the change of arms at the top of the hour. You should try to time your visit to Buda caste around this time so you can watch as you walk by on your way there.

An average building, but if you manage to get the perfect timing on guard’s show, you might enjoy for a couple of minutes.