The Festetics Palace in Keszthely is one of Hungary’s largest and most popular palace complexes, welcoming visitors with six permanent exhibitions across five buildings. Originally built in the mid-1700s, the palace was owned by the Festetics family for 200 years. The family played a significant role in Hungary’s political, economic, cultural, and scientific life.
In 2019, Festetics Palace won 2nd place in the “Quality Award” category at the Szallas.hu Tourist Attraction of the Year Gala.
Visitor Reviews
- “We felt like we were time travelling. The whole family loved it!”
- “There’s so much to see in the area, rich in history, offering something for everyone’s interests!”
- “We explored the palace, but my 13-year-old grandson was most impressed by the hunting exhibition – it was incredibly lifelike!”
History of the Festetics Palace
In the mid-18th century, Kristóf Festetics built the central and eastern wings of today’s structure. The first renovation was initiated by György Festetics at the end of the century, resulting in the late Baroque-style library wing.
The next major renovation, attributed to Tasziló Festetics, included the construction of the northern wing, housing ballrooms and guest suites, as well as the tower. During this period, modern conveniences such as a plumbing system, central heating, and a mansard roof were added. By 1880, the palace attained its current form.
Exhibitions
Visitors can explore opulently furnished rooms, featuring original Festetics furniture, providing an authentic glimpse into the family’s life. Highlights include Hungary’s only intact aristocratic private library, a grand oak staircase, and the shimmering beauty of the Mirror Hall.
For history and culture enthusiasts, the antique ambiance and refined atmosphere offer an unforgettable experience.
- Carriage Exhibition: A collection of over 50 carriages, sleighs, and coaches for vehicle enthusiasts.
- Amazon Visitor Centre: Showcasing land, water, and air transportation history across the centuries.
- Historical Model Railway Exhibition: One of Europe’s largest, featuring 19th-21st century station buildings, tracks, and working trains.
- Hunting Museum: Boasting a rich trophy collection from five continents, including items donated by Franz Joseph Windisch-Grätz.
- Garden Railway: Located in the Hunting Museum and Model Railway Exhibition Park, it carries 20 passengers over a 500-metre track.
- Palm House and Bird Park: Features exotic plants and birds, allowing visitors to observe and even hand-feed them.
The palace’s vast park combines English and French garden styles, with a diverse flora that has earned it conservation status.
Accessibility
The palace is a 5-minute walk from the Bástya Street bus stop and 20-25 minutes on foot from the railway and bus stations. There is a free B+R car park near the Georgikon and Pál Street junction, accommodating 60 cars and bicycles.
Address: 8360 Keszthely, Kastély Street 1, Hungary
Phone: +36 83 314 194
Email: agata.mezofi@nofnkft.hu
Reviews
Rating: 9.5/10 (4,663 reviews)
- 100% of visitors recommend it to friends
- Visitors consider it a half-day programme
- Worth visiting year-round
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday-Sunday: 10:00–17:00
(Hours may vary; please check the schedule before visiting.)
Discounts and Prices
- Logged-in bookings receive a 20% discount on combined exhibition tickets.
Ticket Prices:
- Adult (Palace + 5 exhibitions): 7,500 HUF
- Adult (Palace + 1 exhibition): 4,600 HUF
- Discounted (Palace + 5 exhibitions): 3,750 HUF
- Discounted (Palace + 1 exhibition): 2,300 HUF
Venue Features
- Accessible
- Pet-friendly
- Languages spoken: Hungarian, English, German
- Payment options: Bank cards (MasterCard, VISA) and SZÉP cards (OTP, MBH, MKB, K&H)
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