Hungary is a landlocked country right in the heart of Central Europe. Apart from beaches this tourist destination has everything to offer to its visitors. It is a country rich in culture and history offering diverse landscapes, stunning architecture and a treasure trove of experiences to explore. The glittering capital city ‘Budapest’ often steals the spotlight, however there are scores of places to visit in Hungary that promise an experience you will never forget.
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10 Beautiful Places To Visit In Hungary
There are a myriad of places to visit in Hungary that are both natural and historical. Here’s a list of some of the most fascinating ones that are a must-see for everyone.
1. Budapest
Budapest, a city that hardly requires an introduction, remains one of Central-Eastern Europe’s top tourist destinations. The town is enigmatic and vibrant, rich in history and food (Hungarian food is known for its hearty, meat-based dishes and the prominent use of paprika). The National Museum is amazing, the House of Terror is terrifying, the parliament structure is imposing, which is one of the best places to see in Hungary, and Fisherman’s Bastion offers breathtaking sunset views. Then there are the steaming and bubbling baths, which range from ornate Kiraly to Art Deco Szechenyi.
Also Read: 18 Amazing Things To Do In Budapest
2. Lake Balaton
With Hungary weather ranging from 23 °C in the summer to -3 °C in the winter, Lake Balaton is a well-liked summer and winter attraction. It covers 77 km across the undulating hills that comprise the verdant areas of western Hungary. In party towns like Keszthely and Siofok, sun worshippers congregate along its broad, grassy banks starting in May. Many of them hold beers and spend the afternoons dancing outside beach bars. Others visit to plunge into the lake’s mineral-rich volcanic waters which are remarkably swimmable. They are excellent for sailing and other water sports activities. The shorelines are dotted with resorts, cottages and camping options.
3. Pecs
Pecs is a cosmopolitan gem in southwest Hungary and is in close proximity to places like Croatia, Serbia, and Slovenia. In addition to the center’s 2,000-year history dating back to the Roman era, the Mecsek Hills’ forested background provides outdoor enthusiasts with an abundance of hiking and mountain biking opportunities on the edge of the Dinaric Alps. A vibrant student population in the town center fuels the pubs, which come together in a welcoming manner between the cobblestone streets. This top tourist destination is one of the best places to visit in Hungary.
4. Buda Castle
Buda Castle, which is situated atop Castle Hill in Buda is one of the top places to visit in Hungary. UNESCO has designated this old castle as a World Heritage site. Its buildings include the Grand Royal Palace, the Budapest History Museum, and the Hungarian National Gallery. It continues to be a representation of royal history and provides sweeping views of the city and the Danube River. Travelers may explore its fascinating past, take in the breathtaking surroundings, and navigate through its twisting streets. For those interested in history and architecture, Buda Castle is a must-see.
5. Esztergom
The cathedral-topped town of Esztergom, which has long been considered the real nerve center of Christianity in Hungary, is situated above a stunning bend in the Danube. The city served as the capital of the Hungarian Kingdom starting in the tenth century and was home to holy Magyar rulers such as the devout Saint Stephen. Today, the major reason people go there is to see its expansive religious structures. The Watertown neighborhood, a charming labyrinth of cobblestone where Baroque and Classical faces contrast with bubbling fountains and sun-drenched squares, is located around this stony church-citadel. Definitely a must on your list of best places to visit in Hungary.
Click Here To Book Your Thermal Bath And Tour In Hungary
6. Szentendre
Just a short drive north from the capital Budapest is Szentendre, a Hungarian town full of stone-clad lanes and old Magyar houses in baroque architecture. The area was completely ignored by the Ottoman invaders but flourished anew in subsequent decades when Serbian and Mediterranean settlers added their own sophisticated Baroque and Balkan styles to the center. Today, tourists come here to browse the numerous independent galleries (the area has become somewhat of a draw for emerging artists), stroll beneath the bulbous church domes, and buy in the many unique small boutiques.
7. Tihany
The peninsula town of Tihany, which gracefully protrudes over the azure waters of Lake Balaton, has long been regarded as one of Hungary’s most romantic getaways. It is embellished with the white walls and spires of the Tihany Abbey, a 1,000-year-old monastery that served as a jail for centuries as well as a place of Benedictine prayer. A chocolate box of an ancient town rises around this, with paprika stands along the streets, independent galleries selling goods made by the Magyars, and the bobbling yachts in the docks luring tourists to the volcanic seas of Balaton itself.
8. Sopron
Though old, weathered and has seen many political upheavals, it still remains one of the most romantic towns in Hungary. The town has acquired a lovely medieval veneer throughout the course of more than 2,000 years of settlement. The dominant Fire watch Tower gleams a bronze-green, Roman ruins rise haphazardly on the streets and the Germanic church spires tower over the cobbled central square. Additionally, the city’s cellar doors boast some of the best Austrian-style wine. Winetasting in Sopron is one of the top things to do in Hungary.
9. Tokaj
Surrounded on all sides by the tumbling acres of vines, this little and quaint village has become a taster’s paradise. The entire place makes up the renowned Tokaj wine region of eastern Hungary. The Tokaj region is home to numerous cellar doors and vineyards. Visitors come here to sample the renowned Furmint, Harslevelu, and Tokay dry. The sweet wine varieties have helped put the country on the viniculture map. However, Tokaj town offers more than just a wine bottle. It also has charming taverns that dish up renowned fish broths, as well as meandering walking routes along the River Tisza and the summit of Bald Mountain.
10. Visegrad
This small castle town is one of Hungary’s most striking and memorable historical sites. Perched on the banks of the Danube River, it was formerly the magnificent residence of the esteemed Slavic King Matthias Corvinus. This historic town in northern Hungary is best known for the Visegrád Castle, breathtaking landscapes, and peaceful riversides. The seemingly limitless collections of the King Matthias Museum is sure to pique the interest of history buffs. Since it is just an hour drive from Budapest, Visegrád makes for a popular day-trip destination and one of the best places to visit in Hungary.
Suggested Reads: Delicious Hungarian Dishes You Have To Try
Conclusion
To experience the true glory of the country it is highly recommended to visit all of the above places while planning a Hungary tour. We bet the combination of natural beauty and historical treasures will leave you asking for more.
FAQs
Hungary is best known for its numerous thermal springs and baths, stunning architecture and its culinary delights. The most iconic landmarks such as Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building are housed here.
There are plenty of day trips that are easily accessible from Budapest. Some of the most popular day trips are Danube Bend, Lake Balaton, Vienna and Bratislava. Other notable trips to villages that can be considered are villages like Szentendre, Eger, Székesfehérvár, Gödöllő and Hollókő.
The top five thermal baths that are a must-visit are, Széchenyi Baths in Budapest, Hagymatikum Baths in Makó, Rudas Baths in Budapest, Gellért Baths in Budapest and Hévíz Thermal Lake in Hévíz.
Some of the offbeat places to visit are a charming city called Gyor, Tram No.2, Margaret Island, Sopron Wine District and Ópusztaszer National Heritage Park.
