Beautiful Places in Hungary
Introduction
Heard of Hungary? No, not the feeling you get when your stomach grumbles. We’re talking about the enchanting country located in Central Europe, known for its rich history, hearty cuisine, and extraordinary landscapes. Dreaming about sipping wine in lush vineyards, exploring grand castles, or dipping into healing thermal baths? Then fasten your seatbelts, fellow travellers, because we’re heading straight to the heart of Europe!
Related articles: Best time to visit Hungary , Budapest Travel Guide
5 Key Takeaways
- Rich Variety: Hungary offers a rich variety of experiences for travelers, from bustling city life in Budapest, wine tasting in Eger, exploration of unique landscapes in Hortobágy National Park, to relaxation in the thermal waters of Heviz.
- Unique Experiences: Hungary is home to several unique experiences like the thermal baths in Budapest, the Great Plain or “Puszta” in Hortobágy National Park, wine tasting in Eger and Pécs, and exploring the largest stalactite cave in Europe in Aggtelek National Park.
- Cultural Blend: Hungary beautifully showcases the blend of different cultures. The capital city, Budapest, itself is a blend of two cities – Buda and Pest. The city of Pécs houses architectural marvels reflecting Roman, Turkish, and German influences.
- Famous for Cuisine: Hungarian cuisine is worth trying. Whether it’s the national dish goulash, deep-fried flatbread called lángos in Budapest, the spicy fish soup Halászlé in Szeged, or local wines in Eger and Pécs, foodies can have a great time exploring Hungarian flavors.
- Healing Thermal Waters: Hungary is famous for its thermal waters. Budapest is known as the ‘City of Spas’, Heviz is home to the world’s second-largest thermal lake, and even the city of Eger has thermal baths. The thermal waters are not just for relaxation but also believed to have healing properties.
Budapest: The City of Spas
Welcome to Budapest, the capital city affectionately referred to as the ‘City of Spas’. Ever imagined basking in a thermal bath nestled within a stunning Neo-Baroque palace? Or walking across a bridge that connects two cities into one? Budapest makes this possible!
Famous Attractions in Budapest
Starting with the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building, the third-largest parliament building in the world, known for its impressive Gothic Revival architecture. Don’t forget to snap a pic for the ‘gram!
Next, soak in the panoramic views from the Fisherman’s Bastion and make a stop at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, the largest medicinal bath in Europe. With its steamy outdoor pools and stunning architecture, it’s the ultimate place for rest and relaxation. Check out their official website here for up-to-date ticket prices.
Related articles: Fisherman’s Bastion guide , Szechenyi Baths guides , Budapest Travel Guide
Recommended tour: Buda Castle Walking Tour with Historian
Local Cuisine to Try
Hungry in Hungary? Dive into a bowl of goulash, the national dish, or try lángos, a deep-fried flatbread topped with sour cream and cheese. Wash it down with a shot of pálinka, the traditional fruit brandy. But remember, it’s strong stuff, so take it easy!
Lake Balaton: The Hungarian Sea
Next, let’s head west to Lake Balaton, the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe, affectionately called the ‘Hungarian Sea’. Surrounded by charming towns and rolling vineyards, it’s the perfect spot for water sports and wine tasting.
Activities Around Lake Balaton
There’s never a dull moment here. Go for a swim, try windsurfing, or simply sunbathe by the shore. Want something more thrilling? Take a hike on the Balaton Uplands and reward yourself with a mesmerizing view of the lake.
Nearby Towns to Explore
Take a detour to the nearby towns of Tihany and Keszthely. Tihany is renowned for its historic abbey and lavender fields, while Keszthely boasts the grand Festetics Palace, one of the three largest country houses in Hungary.
Eger: The City of Wine and History
Next on the list is Eger, a city nestled in the northern part of Hungary. Known for its historic castle, thermal baths, baroque buildings, and, most notably, its wine, Eger makes for a delightful visit.
Wineries to Visit
Eger is famous for its Egri Bikavér, also known as “Bull’s Blood”. Visit the local wineries such as St. Andrea Winery and Bolyki Vineyards and Winery. They offer wine tastings where you can savor the rich flavors of their wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Historical Monuments
Don’t forget to explore Eger Castle, which offers a sweeping view of the city and a journey back to the time of Turkish invasions. Visit the Dobó István Square for its lovely baroque architecture and the beautiful Minorite Church.
Hortobágy National Park: The Puszta
The iconic landscape of the Hungarian Great Plain, also known as the “Puszta”, is our next stop. Hortobágy National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique experience of Hungary’s traditional pastoral life.
Wildlife Encounters
Here, you can witness a fantastic array of birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Not to forget the iconic Hungarian grey cattle, horses, and racka sheep with their distinctive spiral horns.
The Unique Landscape of Hortobágy
The endless horizon, the mirage phenomena, and the iconic draw well with sweep poles create a unique atmosphere. Don’t forget to take a horse carriage ride or watch a traditional horse-herding show!
Szeged: The Sun City
Now, let’s travel south to Szeged, aptly named the ‘Sun City’ for receiving the highest amount of sunshine in the country. This charming city is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful squares, and mouthwatering food.
Szeged's Rich Culture
Explore the grand Szeged Cathedral, the third largest church in Hungary. Visit the Móra Ferenc Museum for an insight into the region’s history and the Szeged National Theater for an unforgettable performance.
Local Specialties of Szeged
Szeged is famous for its fish soup called Halászlé, a spicy dish made with river fish and a lot of paprika. Pair it with a glass of local wine for a true Hungarian experience.
Pécs: The Border City of Cultures
Moving towards the south-western part of the country, we arrive in Pécs, a city that beautifully blends different cultures. Influences of Romans, Turks, and Germans are visible in its architecture, making it a fascinating cultural hotpot.
Architectural Wonders in Pécs
Pécs houses the Early Christian Mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful Roman tombs and murals. Visit the Pécs Cathedral and the stunning Mosque of Pasha Qasim which is a symbol of the city’s multicultural heritage.
Tasting the Flavors of Pécs
Pécs is also famous for its porcelain and wine. Visit the Zsolnay Porcelain Museum and then head to one of the local cellars to taste the famous Pécs wine.
Aggtelek National Park: The Cave Explorer's Dream
Our next destination is the Aggtelek National Park, home to the largest stalactite cave in Europe – the Baradla Cave. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a magical underworld experience that’s out of this world!
Exploring the Baradla Cave
Take a guided tour of the Baradla Cave and witness the awe-inspiring stalactite formations. The cave also hosts concerts due to its excellent acoustics, making for a truly unique experience.
The Rich Biodiversity of Aggtelek
Beyond its caves, Aggtelek National Park is also a haven for nature lovers with its rich flora and fauna. Watch out for the numerous butterfly species that call this park home.
Heviz: The Thermal Lake Town
Last but certainly not least, we arrive at Heviz, known for its natural thermal lake, the second largest in the world. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the healing powers of thermal waters.
The Healing Power of Heviz
Submerge into the warm thermal lake, which is open year-round, thanks to its temperature ranging from 24 to 38 degrees Celsius. Visit the official site here for current ticket prices.
Experiencing the Town’s Charm
Stroll around the town and admire the beautiful villas, enjoy the local cuisine, and visit the local farmers’ market for some fresh produce and local crafts.
Practical Information for Travellers
Currency: Hungary’s official currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Although some places accept Euros, it’s always best to have some Forint on hand.
Language: While Hungarian is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations. It’s helpful to learn a few basic Hungarian phrases to navigate non-tourist areas better.
Public Transportation: Hungary, especially Budapest, has a comprehensive and easy-to-use public transportation system including buses, trams, and metros. Make sure to validate your ticket before travel to avoid fines.
Dress Appropriately: When visiting religious sites, ensure to dress modestly and respect the local customs.
Safety: Hungary is generally a safe country for tourists. However, it’s always important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places and public transportation, to avoid pickpocketing.
Tipping: Service charge isn’t typically included in the bill. A tip of 10-15% is customary in restaurants, taxis, and for other services.
Weather: Hungary has a continental climate. Winters can be very cold, and summers can be very hot. Pack your clothes accordingly based on the season you are visiting in.
Health: Tap water is safe to drink in Hungary. The country is also known for its thermal baths, which are not just relaxing but also have therapeutic benefits.
Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is widely available in most public places like restaurants, cafes, and hotels.
Etiquette: Hungarians appreciate if you greet them with “Szia” (pronounced see-ya) for “Hi” and “Köszönöm” (ko-suh-noom) for “Thank you”.
Related article: Best time to visit Hungary
Final Thoughts
And there you have it – ten of the most beautiful places to visit in Hungary! From the vibrant city life of Budapest to the tranquil thermal lake of Heviz, Hungary is an eclectic mix of unique experiences waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or a relaxation seeker, Hungary has something special for everyone.
So, why wait? Start packing your bags, and don’t forget to take this list along!
Thank you for reading. Viszontlátásra!
Related articles: Best time to visit Hungary
Recommended websites: Hungary Travel Website
Author
Nick Harvey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time to visit Hungary?
While Hungary is beautiful all year round, the best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant.
2. Do I need a visa to visit Hungary?
Hungary is part of the Schengen area. Visitors from non-Schengen countries may require a visa. Please check the latest visa regulations.
3. What currency is used in Hungary?
The official currency of Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF), although Euros are accepted in some places.
4. Is Hungary a safe country to visit?
Yes, Hungary is generally very safe for travelers. However, like anywhere else, you should take normal precautions to safeguard your belongings.
5. What language is spoken in Hungary?
The official language is Hungarian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.
We hope this guide helps you plan your dream Hungarian holiday! Remember, every day is a journey, and the journey itself is home. So go forth, explore, and enjoy every moment. Happy travels!
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