Hungary is home to many beautiful gardens, but few compare to the National Botanical Garden of Vácrátót. With its stunning landscapes, diverse plant collections and rich history, this garden is a paradise for nature lovers, researchers and casual visitors alike. Spanning over 27 hectares, the garden is not only a place of beauty but also an important scientific institution, housing the largest collection of living plants in Hungary.

A garden with a rich history

The Vácrátót Botanical Garden has a long and eventful history. Originally owned by noble families like the Csákys, it was transformed in the 19th century when Count Sándor Vigyázó acquired the estate. He introduced romantic landscape features, expanded the lakes and added exotic plants. Vigyázó hired one of Hungary’s top experts, Vilmos Jámbor, to redesign the castle garden at Vácrátót. His work created the stunning English-style landscape seen today.

As one of Hungary’s wealthiest men, Vigyázó left the garden to the Hungarian Academy of Sciences (MTA) in his will, provided his son, Ferenc Vigyázó, died without a male heir. However, after Ferenc’s passing, the family contested the will and won, leading to years of neglect. The ponds silted up, weeds took over, and the castle was demolished by a lawyer who inherited the land, replaced by the manor house still standing today.

World War II further damaged the site. Soviet troops occupied the property, digging shelters and using the manor as a stable. Debris, military remnants and damaged plants were left behind, and an ancient ash tree still bears the carved year 1945 from this era. Ironically, post-war nationalization finally granted the garden to the Academy. The Botanical Research Institute was established, and in the 1950s, extensive restoration began. The original 19th-century layout was reconstructed, streams and ponds were cleared, and large-scale replanting revived the landscape. This effort created the four major plant collections that still thrive today.

Exploring the plant collections

The garden boasts four major plant collections, each offering a unique glimpse into the diverse world of flora.

I. Dendrological collection

The Tree and Shrub Collection forms the structural foundation of the Vácrátót Botanical Garden, with some of its oldest trees dating back to the early 19th century. Many of these trees sprouted during the historical “plane tree era” of garden architecture, when large, majestic species such as plane trees, black walnuts, pagoda trees and hackberries were widely planted. The collection consists of both native and introduced species, reflecting the garden’s dual role in preserving Hungary’s natural heritage and showcasing exotic specimens.

Despite Vácrátót’s challenging environmental conditions – nutrient-poor, calcareous sandy soil, frost-prone valleys and periodic droughts – the collection thrives through careful selection of resilient species. The trees and shrubs are organized according to three guiding principles: preserving the historical landscape structure, grouping new plantings by geographic origin, and ensuring that only well-adapted species are cultivated. Notable elements include towering century-old trees and an impressive diversity of temperate-climate species, with an emphasis on Central and East Asian flora.

The collection features rich representations of genera such as maples, lindens, birches, honeysuckles, barberries, lilacs and ashes. Additionally, it boasts a significant number of rare and unique species, some found only in a handful of European gardens. This extensive collection plays a vital role in genetic conservation efforts, with over 1500 taxa registered in Hungary’s national gene preservation program. The garden is most visually striking during its main flowering period from late April to late June, as well as in early October, when the autumn foliage creates a spectacular display.

II. Perennial and Rock Garden Collection

The Perennial and Rock Garden Collection has a rich history that started in 1955. Initially, the rock garden was established in front of the greenhouse. A larger project to restore the old landscape rock garden by the slopes of the rocky lake was never completed due to its high costs. Instead, a new, smaller rock garden was created in the younger part of the garden, with the first plants being introduced in 1973.

Over the years, various sections have been updated, including the creation of shady perennial beds and the continuous expansion of the collection, especially with unique species like Hostas. Since 2002, updates have been made to several shaded beds, displaying over 150 different types of Hosta. The ongoing renovation of the greenhouse will also involve changes to the surrounding areas.

The collection is spread across different sections of the garden, showcasing European, Asian, American, African, and Australian plants. The rock garden alone hosts nearly 3100 species from temperate climates worldwide, with a focus on plants from rocky environments and meadows, as well as many forest species.

The collection is particularly rich in the Liliaceae, Iridaceae, Saxifragaceae and other plant families. Some areas, such as the bulb, succulent and iris collections, are not open to the public but are accessible to researchers. Throughout the year, the garden offers a variety of blooming plants, from early spring flowers like snowdrops and crocuses to vibrant summer blooms like columbines and bellflowers, with the peak of flowering occurring from late spring to early summer.

III. Taxonomic Plant Collection

The Taxonomic Plant Collection was established in 1953 under the leadership of Miklós Ujvárosi. It replaced an old, neglected apple orchard and became a major botanical project focused on the scientific organization and propagation of plants. Initially, 3263 species and varieties were planted, many of which came from the Debrecen-Pallag Agricultural Academy.

Over the years, the collection expanded through systematic propagation and an international seed exchange program involving nearly 700 institutions across 80 countries. Today, it continues to grow through plant-collecting expeditions in the Carpathian Basin and abroad, ensuring the preservation of rare and valuable species while maintaining the original design of this historic collection.

Spanning 1.5 hectares, the collection is the largest open-air taxonomic plant collection in Hungary and holds international significance. It features 90 plant families and 2500 species arranged in a semicircular layout, with a central artificial hill serving as the focal point. The plants are displayed according to evolutionary relationships, following the classification system of renowned botanist Rezső Soó. Older plant families with primitive traits, such as spiral floral structures and multiple free carpels, are positioned at the hill’s peak, while more evolutionarily advanced families with smaller, simpler flowers are arranged outward.

Informational signs provide details about morphology and distribution. The collection primarily showcases herbaceous annuals and perennials, though some shrubs and climbers are also included. Despite challenges posed by Vácrátót’s dry summers and harsh winters, the garden continues to flourish, offering visitors an educational and visually striking representation of plant evolution.

IV. Greenhouse Collection

The Greenhouse Collection was established to replace the historical greenhouses lost during turbulent decades. The first small greenhouse, partially sunken into the ground, was built in 1953, followed by the first major heated greenhouse wing in 1958. A significant expansion took place between 1985 and 1987, when a new 15-meter-high Palm House was constructed, replacing an older structure.

The Cold House, originally built in 1969, was renovated and expanded in 1997. Heating for the greenhouses evolved from coal in the 1970s to oil, and now to an advanced geothermal heating system. With the support of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, old greenhouses were reconstructed, and modern facilities were added. The latest additions include the 480-square-meter Cactus and Succulent House, inaugurated in 2009, and the Orchid and Bromeliad House, which followed shortly after, both equipped with automated climate control systems.

The collection, housing nearly 3000 plant taxa, is organized based on temperature, humidity and light requirements. It includes the Palm House, Orchid and Bromeliad House, Cactus and Succulent House, and Cold House. Notable plant groups include bromeliads, aroids, gingers, tropical orchids and carnivorous plants. Visitors can explore towering palm trunks in the Palm House, admire canopy-dwelling orchids and bromeliads, and study desert adaptation strategies in the Cactus and Succulent House.

As tropical vegetation faces increasing threats, the greenhouse collection plays a crucial role in plant conservation. Currently, the Palm House, Orchid and Bromeliad House, and Cactus and Succulent House are open year-round to the public, offering an immersive experience of diverse ecosystems.

Historical garden landscapes

Nagy-rét (Great meadow)

Standing on the castle terrace, visitors are greeted by the Nagy-rét, a wide-open meadow that is a classic feature of English landscape gardens. This area visually expands the garden, leading the eye toward the Great Lake (Nagy-tó) and the distant Great View (Nagy-vue). The meadow is framed by towering, centuries-old trees, providing a perfect spot for a relaxing walk or a picnic.

Műrom (Artificial ruin)

Tucked away among ancient trees and a winding stream lies the Műrom, a Gothic-style artificial ruin built in 1904. Although it looks like a centuries-old relic, it was purposefully designed to evoke a sense of mystery and history.

Artificial ruins were a popular feature in landscape gardens of the time, adding a romantic, nostalgic touch. In Hungary, similar ruins can be found in Tata’s English Garden, but Vácrátót’s version remains one of the most atmospheric.

Vízimalom (Water mill)

One of the most charming structures in the garden is the Water Mill, which was never actually used for milling. Built in 1890 as a decorative feature, it served as a garden retreat and later became a popular filming location. Many people still refer to it as the “Musical Mill”, named after a famous Hungarian film shot here in 1943.

Sziklás-tó (Rocky lake) and surroundings

In the late 19th century, Count Vigyázó dramatically redesigned this part of the garden, creating new lakes, waterfalls and scenic rocky formations. To achieve this, over 12,000 massive stones – some as large as dining tables – were transported from nearby quarries.

A 15-meter-high waterfall, still operational on special occasions, cascades into the lake, surrounded by stone terraces and hidden seating areas. This area once featured a grand rock garden, which the garden hopes to partially restore in the future.

Educational centers

Berkenyeház (Rowan House)

Opened in 2007, Berkenyeház marked a new era for the Botanical Garden and its research institute, serving as an educational and exhibition center. Through interactive displays and programs, visitors gain insights into ecological research, biodiversity conservation and the role of botanical gardens in addressing global environmental challenges. The exhibition highlights the Pannon Seed Bank project, which aims to preserve the seeds of at least 800 native Hungarian plant species, ensuring their survival for future generations.

Karbonház (Carbon House)

Carbon House was created as part of a sustainable energy project that introduced geothermal and biomass heating to support the greenhouses and local municipal buildings. It hosts the Living Large exhibition, which raises awareness about climate change, carbon footprints, and energy-efficient solutions. The building itself is a model of sustainability, utilizing passive solar energy and minimizing carbon emissions. The exhibition explores key topics such as biodiversity, low-carbon energy sources and reducing ecological footprints, urging visitors to make conscious environmental choices for a sustainable future.

Wildlife in the garden

The Vácrátót Botanical Garden is not only a haven for plants but also a thriving habitat for diverse wildlife. The protected environment, combined with rich vegetation, supports numerous species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Small mammals such as squirrels, dormice, hedgehogs and various bat species are commonly found, along with predators like martens, weasels, foxes and even otters. The enclosed nature of the garden prevents larger mammals from entering, but the abundant food sources and shelter make it an ideal home for these smaller creatures.

Birdwatchers will find the garden particularly rewarding, as it hosts 62 nesting bird species. Thrushes, tits, woodpeckers, warblers, finches and owls are frequently spotted, while rarer birds such as the Eurasian scops owl, kingfisher and black woodpecker also reside here. The lakes and streams provide a habitat for frogs, several lizard and snake species, and 22 types of fish. The garden’s commitment to minimal pesticide use helps sustain a thriving insect population, supporting birds and other wildlife. Observant visitors may notice signs of this rich ecosystem, from bird calls to gnawed nuts left by squirrels.

Top reasons to visit

• See one of the largest plant collections in Central Europe
• Walk among ancient trees and exotic flowers
• Explore tropical greenhouses and colorful rock gardens
• Learn about plant conservation and climate change
• Enjoy a peaceful, natural retreat just 30 km from Budapest

Walking through the garden’s shaded paths, listening to birdsong, and discovering rare and beautiful plants is an experience that stays with you. Vácrátót is more than just a park – it is a living museum of nature, history and science.

• Address: 2163 Vácrátót, Alkotmány út 2-4. (30 km from Budapest)
• Official website: botanikuskert.hu
• Opening hours: varies by season – check the official website
• How to get there:
  • By car: Vácrátót is about 30 km north of Budapest, roughly a 30–40-minute drive, depending on traffic. Take M3 highway (E71) toward Vác, then follow the signs for Vácrátót. You can also take Route 2 (Fő út) from Váci street if you are closer to the center of Budapest.
  • By train: take a suburban train from Nyugati Pályaudvar (Nyugati Station) to Vácrátót. The train ride takes around 40-50 minutes. Once you arrive at Vácrátót, you might need to take a short taxi or walk to the National Botanical Garden.
  • By bus: from Újpest Városkapu, you can take bus 314 to reach Vácrátót. The stop is on the northern edge of Budapest, and you can take the M3 metro line (Red Line) to Újpest Városkapu.