While goulash and paprika (which actually came from the New World) may be the most well-known Hungarian foods, the country is also well-known for its world-class fine wines and its pear liqueur, an orange-colored sweet dessert treat also known as palinka.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Hungary
After visiting Hungary, tourists rapidly realise that the country has been ruled by a wide variety of civilizations, including the Romans, Ottomans, Mongols, Magyars, Czechs, and Soviets.
There are remnants of Roman defences and very breathtaking structures from the Middle Ages. The stunning blue Danube River also flows through Hungary, making a cruise on the river an essential part of any visit. A rundown of the top attractions in Hungary:
1. Gyor
Gyor was founded by Celts and Romans, and it has been ruled by Mongols, Magyars, Czechs, and Ottomans (despite being torched by its citizens to prevent the latter). Gyor is a pleasant stop halfway between Budapest and Vienna.
Almost wherever you go, you’ll see statues or magnificent historic structures. Kaptalan Hill, where the Danube, the Raba, and the Rebca all meet, is where the old town is located. The church of St. Ignatius of Loyola is a beautiful Benedictine cathedral that has been called “nourishment for the soul” by its many visitors.
2. Hortobagy National Park
In 1973, Hungary created its first national park, and it is called Hortobagy. The alkaline steppe there dates back 10,000 years, making it the oldest protected area in the country and the largest semi-natural grassland in Europe.
During the Ice Age, the steppe was home to a wide variety of animals. The land is still used for grazing by horses, cattle, oxen, and water buffalo. There are 342 different bird species in the park, making it a great destination for birdwatchers.
The Nine-Arch Bridge, constructed in the middle of the 19th century to help travellers get across the constantly inundated grasslands, is a major draw for visitors. The Kareag Windmill, also constructed in the nineteenth century, is another must-see attraction.
3. Debrecen
Debrecen is a significant cultural hub because of its history as the capital of Hungary on multiple occasions throughout the century. Although suffering severe damage during WWII, Debrecen has maintained its status as Hungary’s cultural and academic hub ever since the 1538 establishment of Calvinist College.
The institution, now the University of Debrecen, is well-known for its stunning buildings. The city hosts the Bela Bartok International Choral Competition, so it’s no surprise that the local music culture is robust.
Many visitors come to see the Deri Museum’s ancient Egyptian treasures, the Reformed Great Church, the largest Protestant church in Hungary, and the annual Flower Carnival.
4. Heviz
Heviz is home to one of the world’s largest thermal lakes, so if you find relaxation in hot springs water, you should definitely check it out. The water is a comfortable 24–37 degrees (71–100 degrees Fahrenheit), providing for a relaxing swim. The water is purified by a rapid turnover at its source, which occurs every 3–1/2 days.
Heviz, Hungary, is a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to Lake Balaton and its many thriving resorts. You can go for a walk in the neighbouring forest, or check out a culinary festival or an outdoor concert after a refreshing dip in these healing waters. Heviz’s Mediterranean climate makes it a popular holiday spot anytime of the year.
5. Aggtelek National Park
Include Aggtelek National Park in Hungary on your travel itinerary if you enjoy caving. The park contains the largest stalactic cave in Europe and is located in northern Hungary, about a three-hour drive from Budapest. Physically accessible guided tours are provided.
Concerts inside Baradla are a unique way to enjoy the cave. Because it is a protected area, portions of the park is off-limits to visitors, while others require them to stay on designated routes. Aggtelek National Park is a great spot to observe wildlife and explore picturesque local communities.
6. Pecs
Pecs is one of UNESCO’s Cities of Peace because it is a cosmopolitan city where people of different ethnicities live side by side in harmony and where refugees are welcomed with open arms. Pecs has been ruled by the Romans, the Christians, and the Ottomans, and it is also the site of the first university in Hungary, which was established in 1367.
Pecs’s moderate climate, wonderful museums, ancient architecture, and excellent wines make it a famous tourist destination. Pecs Cathedral, Szchenyi Ter, the Pecs Synagogue, and the Mosque of Pasha Gazzi Kassim are just a few of the city’s historic religious sites that bring many visitors.
7. Sopron
Sopron, which has been around since Roman times, has been a part of both Austria and Hungary. Sopron earned the title of “Most Faithful Town” when a vote in 1921 confirmed the town’s inclusion in Hungary. The Allegiance Gate recognises this.
It stands on the town centre, close to the iconic Firewatch Tower. World War II wreaked havoc on the city, although many of its mediaeval structures were spared. One of the few places in Hungary known for both its red and white wines, Sopron has emerged as a prominent player in the wine industry. The neighbouring Mountains provide excellent trekking opportunities.
8. Eger
Located in northern Hungary, Eger is the second-largest city there. The city was founded in the 10th century by Saint Stephen, the first Christian ruler of Hungary, and is well-known for its beautiful baroque architecture. Because to the king’s efforts, Eger now serves as a major religious hub. The city grew up around the cathedral, which was constructed on Castle Hill.
The city’s most popular attractions are the castle and basilica, followed by the Valley of the Women, a collection of wineries and eateries nestled into the hillsides. The Torok Kori Minaret is the most northern Turkish minaret in Europe. It has 150 steps, but the view from the summit is well worth the effort.
9. Lake Balaton
Lake Balaton is the place to go when the thought of lounging at a resort is more attractive than trudging through more mediaeval streets. The largest freshwater lake in Europe is also the most visited summer destination in all of Hungary. It’s so huge that it’s a fun misnomer to call it the “Hungarian Sea,” despite the fact that Hungary has no coastline.
Several resorts have constructed artificial sandy beaches, however many of the beaches feature grass. Ferries from Fonyod take visitors to Badacsony, a significant wine-growing region, while Siofok is known as the lake’s party centre. There are more vineyards and the old spa town of Balatonfured on the north shore, as well as the baroque Festetics Castle.
10. Budapest
Budapest, the capital and largest city of Hungary, is widely regarded as one of the loveliest urban areas in all of Europe. Budapest is one of the best destinations to visit in Hungary, and it is home to some of the country’s most notable landmarks, including the third-largest Parliament building in the world and the second-largest synagogue in the world.
Fishermen’s Bastion, once a fortification, now offers breathtaking panoramas of the city and the River. Shoes of the Danube is a moving memorial to Jews who lost their lives during World War Two. It was here that many Jews took off their shoes before being shot and swept away by the river.
Buda and Pest are two distinct cities separated by the Danube River, but together they form the great city that is Budapest. The Royal Palace, originally constructed in 1265 and located on Castle Hill on the Buda side of the Danube, has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries. The modern neo-Baroque architectural complex houses the National Gallery and other institutions showcasing Hungary’s imperial past, as well as the 800-year-old Matthias Church, which is a must-see.
Because Buda is steep, the eastern part of Pest is flat and full of endless boulevards. Pest is home to the city’s commercial core, educational institutions, and infamous landmarks like the House of Terror. The mansion, which is now a museum, served as the Nazi party’s headquarters during World War Two and as the headquarters of the Soviet Union’s secret police when Hungary was a Soviet satellite.
Budapest is noted for its relaxed approach to modern living, despite the city’s rich history. This is most obvious in the kerts, also known as “ruin pubs,” which appear in the city’s less developed areas when the weather improves. It may be difficult to track down the outdoor restaurants and bars, but the food and drinks are well worth the effort.
Relaxation-seeking tourists frequent Budapest’s many spas, which have thermal pools heated by the city’s underlying hot springs. Taking the waters is a traditional Hungarian pastime, and it is a necessity if you visit Budapest. After a day of sightseeing in one of Eastern Europe’s top tourist spots, this is the ideal way to unwind.
