From July 22 to July 27, 2025, Gyula Castle (Gyulai Vár) transforms into a vibrant hub of history, adventure, and family fun. Running from Tuesday to Sunday, the castle offers a packed schedule of guaranteed tours, interactive programs, and some quirky new experiences that transport visitors right back to the Middle Ages—the perfect time to dust off your curiosity and maybe even (literally) get your hands on a sword.
Program Highlights: Swords, Falcons, and More
Gyula Castle (Gyulai Vár) has upped its game, rolling out guaranteed guided tours every open day at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. These tours are free for individual visitors (sorry, groups need to book a separate slot and pay). Beyond that, Saturday is when things truly get medieval: visit the working blacksmith’s forge at 10:00 a.m., then at 11:00 a.m. marvel at skilled falconers showing off their feathered companions. Saturday at 12:30 p.m. is when things get sharp—literally—with a saber dueling demonstration. You’ll discover the history of the weapon, see how duels were once fought, and maybe even pick up a few classic moves yourself.
Saturday’s not over yet: at 7:00 p.m., another round of saber fencing offers a look into the martial skills of the time, followed at 8:30 p.m. by a guided castle tour lit only by candlelight. Just book your place by 3:00 p.m. that day (call +36 66 650 218 or visit the gift shop). The candlelight tour is $15 per person.
Sunday also has plenty to offer, especially for hands-on history fans. At 11:30 a.m., take part in a “touch the weapons” session where guards will literally put famous arms into your hands. Then at 12:30 p.m., join the “siege tour,” which explores the most exciting parts of the fortress, recounting tales of its legendary defense during the 1566 siege and the subsequent Ottoman era. This special tour is included with your day ticket, with a $1.40 supplement for unlimited re-entry.
Escape Room Thrills in a Castle
For puzzle-solvers, a brand new escape room experience—previously at Almásy Castle (Almásy-kastély)—now takes over the castle’s ticket office. The game “Trap of the Turbaned Ones” starts with the dramatic clang of prison bars; you and your fellow “prisoners” have just one hour to break free from Turkish captors, or else!
Escape room slots are available daily from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (starting on the hour), and booking is required by phone (+36 66 650 218) or in person at the Almásy Castle Visitor Centre (Almásy-kastély Látogatóközpont) gift shop. Participation is $7.50 per person, paid at the gift shop or online—but remember, online tickets still require advance time slot booking. The game’s last available slot is one hour before the castle closes.
Practicalities: Tours, Tickets, and Fees
If you want more than the included free tours, special guided tours for individuals or groups are also available in English or other languages:
- 80 minutes: $35 (flat rate)
- 45 minutes: $30 (flat rate)
- Foreign language: $43 (flat rate)
Everyone—even those eligible for discounted tickets—must pay the guide fee for these extra tours.
Where to Stay: From Historic Suites to Family-Friendly Apartments
Gyula (Gyula) isn’t just about the castle. The town’s hospitality is ready for every style of getaway. Wellness Hotel Gyula (Hotel Gyula) is a top choice for families, offering full board at half board prices throughout the year—even on holidays. Its historic and romantic setting is great for couples, while friend groups and children will find no shortage of fun and wellness options. Seniors can recharge in relaxing surroundings.
Abbázia Apartments and Studios (Abbázia Apartmanok és Stúdiók) sit just 164 feet from the castle and the famed thermal baths. Angelhaus Guesthouse (Angyalház Vendégház), located in a quiet area, welcomes guests year-round as well.
If you enjoy a morning walk to the town lake or historical sights, you’ll be happy at Central Apartment (Central Apartman) or the apartments on the banks of the Élővíz Canal (Élővíz-csatorna)—these feature tasteful decoration and plenty of space for families or larger groups of friends.
Corso Boutique Hotel (Corso Boutique Hotel) places you at the heart of downtown, surrounded by museums, cafés, boutiques, and flower-filled squares. Corvin Hotel Gyula & Wellness Apartments (Corvin Hotel Gyula*** & Wellness Apartmanok) offer superior suites—great for couples and families alike, with extra living space for longer stays. For something peaceful, Csigaház Pension (Csigaház Panzió) sits next to the castle gardens, promising that only birdsong will interrupt your tranquility.
Food, Shops, and Vintage Charm
Refuel at the castle’s terrace, which has been a staple since the 1970s, or at the Almásy Castle Visitor Centre’s café and museum shop, open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Don’t miss the legendary Hundred-Year-Old Confectionery (Százéves Cukrászda), Hungary’s second-oldest pastry shop, serving treats since 1840 in a beautifully restored, empire-style setting. Frescoes, original Biedermeier furniture, and a pastel-hued selection of cakes and ice creams transport you to the golden days of coffee house culture. There’s also a confectionery museum with antique tools.
Mark Your Calendar
Gyula Castle’s (Gyulai Vár) summer events promise medieval adventure and memorable family fun. Just remember, program times and details might change, so stay flexible and enjoy the history, food, and intrigue that Gyula (Gyula) offers all summer long.
