Hungary

Hungary: general info for travelers

Hungary is a landlocked country located in Central Europe. It has a rich and varied history, with various peoples settling and ruling the region over thousands of years. Today, Hungary is known for its beautiful architecture, rich cultural heritage, world-renowned thermal baths, and delicious cuisine. Major attractions in Hungary include the capital city of Budapest, the scenic Danube Bend, the charming town of Eger, the breathtaking Lake Balaton resort area, and the historic city of Debrecen. The official language is Hungarian, which is a unique language that's not related to any other language in the world. The currency used in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF).

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Hungary, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Hungary: places to visit

Here are some main places to visit in Hungary and details about each of them: 1. Budapest - This is the capital city of Hungary and offers a lot of attractions to visitors such as the Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion, Parliament Building, and the famous thermal baths.
2. Lake Balaton - This is the largest lake in Central Europe and is a popular destination for tourists in Hungary. It's a great place for swimming, sailing, and soaking up the sun.
3. Hollókő - This is a beautiful little village in Northern Hungary and is one of the few places where you can see traditional Hungarian architecture and ways of life.
4. Eger - This is a historical town with beautiful architecture, thermal baths, and great wine. It's home to the famous Egri Bikavér, or Bull's Blood of Eger, which is a popular wine in Hungary.
5. Pecs - This is a beautiful city in Southern Hungary that has a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the early Christian burial chambers or take a walk through the city's winding streets lined with beautiful buildings.
6. Hortobagy National Park - This is the largest protected area in Hungary and is home to many unique species of plants and animals. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the area on foot, by bike, or on horseback.
These are just a few of the many exciting and beautiful places to visit in Hungary. Enjoy your trip!
There is more to see and do in Hungary: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Hungary: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Hungary, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Hungary has four distinct seasons with varying temperatures and weather conditions. Spring (March to May) is typically mild with occasional rain showers. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C.
Summer (June to August) is hot and humid with temperatures often reaching above 30°C. It is the peak season for tourists due to the many summer festivals, outdoor activities, and the warm weather.
Autumn (September to November) is mild and pleasant with colorful foliage. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, and it is an ideal time to visit for those who prefer cooler temperatures and thinner crowds.
Winter (December to February) is cold with occasional snowfall. Temperatures often drop below zero, and there are many winter activities such as ice-skating and thermal baths.
Overall, the best time to visit Hungary is during the spring and the autumn months as the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists than during the summer season.

Hungary: activities and what to do

Hungary is a great destination for active travelers looking for a variety of activities and sports. Here are some popular options: 1. Water sports - Hungary has several large lakes and rivers, including Lake Balaton, which is the largest lake in Central Europe. You can go kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, water skiing, paddleboarding, and swimming.
2. Cycling - Hungary has over 4,000 km of cycling trails that range from easy to challenging. You can explore the countryside on two wheels and see the beautiful landscapes and historic landmarks.
3. Hiking - Hungary has several mountain ranges and national parks that offer numerous hiking trails and scenic routes. You can hike in forests, hills, and valleys and see breathtaking views and wildlife.
4. Horseback riding - Horse riding is popular in Hungary and is a great way to explore the countryside. There are many riding schools and stables that offer lessons and guided tours.
5. Golf - Hungary has several top-notch golf courses, including the Pannonia Golf and Country Club, which hosted the European Tour in 2015.
6. Skiing and snowboarding - Hungary has several ski resorts that offer a range of slopes suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
7. Thermal baths - Hungary is famous for its numerous thermal baths and spas that offer relaxing and therapeutic treatments. The waters are said to have healing properties and are great for soothing tired muscles after a day of activities.

Hungary: few words on history and culture

Hungary has a long and rich history that dates back to the 9th century when the Magyar tribes settled in the Carpathian Basin. Throughout the centuries, Hungary has been influenced by various cultures and peoples, including the Romans, Turks, and Austrians, which contributed to the country's diverse cultural heritage.
Hungary's cultural identity is characterized by its unique language, which belongs to the Finno-Ugric language family, and its traditional folk art, music, and dance. Hungary is also renowned for its vibrant literary and visual arts scenes and has produced numerous world-famous artists, musicians, and writers, such as Béla Bartók, Zsigmond Móricz, and László Moholy-Nagy.
In terms of religion, Hungary is predominantly Catholic, although there are also significant Protestant and Jewish communities. The country celebrates numerous cultural events throughout the year, including the Budapest Wine Festival, the Budapest Contemporary Arts Festival, and the Budapest International Documentary Festival.
Overall, Hungary offers travelers a fascinating mix of history, tradition, and culture to explore and enjoy.

Hungary: how to move around on holiday

Hungary is well connected with various means of transportation as it is a popular tourist destination. Here are some of the best means of transport to reach and visit Hungary: 1. By Air: Hungary has several airports which receive international flights from major cities across the world. The three major airports in Hungary are Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, Debrecen International Airport, and Sarmellek International Airport.
2. By Train: Hungary is well connected with various European cities via train. The train service in Hungary is efficient and comfortable, making it a popular means of transportation.
3. By Bus: Several bus companies operate in Hungary and provide service to various major cities in Europe. The buses in Hungary are modern and comfortable.
4. By Car: If you are traveling from neighboring countries, you can rent a car and drive to Hungary. The road network in Hungary is well-maintained, making it easy to travel by car.
Once you are in Hungary, you can use several means of transportation to visit different places in the country. You can use buses, trains, trams, taxis, or rent a car. In Budapest, you can also use the metro, which is a quick and cost-effective way of traveling around the city. To hire a car to visit Hungary, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Hungary: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Hungary with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some typical Hungarian dishes: 1. Goulash (gulyás): A hearty meat stew made with beef, onions, paprika, and potatoes, seasoned with caraway seeds and other spices. It is traditionally served with a dollop of sour cream.
2. Paprikash (paprikás): Another stew made with meat (usually chicken or veal), onions, paprika, and sour cream. It is usually served with homemade pasta or dumplings (nokedli).
3. Langos: A popular street food made from deep-fried dough, topped with sour cream, cheese, and various meats or vegetables.
4. Dobos torte: A layered cake made with thin layers of sponge cake and a rich chocolate buttercream, typically topped with caramel.
5. Chicken paprikash (Csirkepaprikás): Similar to the paprikash described above, but made with chicken instead of beef.
6. Töltött káposzta: Stuffed cabbage rolls filled with meat, rice, and spices, served with a tomato sauce and sour cream.
7. Chimney cake (kürtőskalács): A sweet, doughy pastry baked over an open fire and rolled in cinnamon sugar, nuts, or other toppings.
Hungarian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and generous use of paprika, which gives many dishes their distinctive red color and spicy taste.

Hungary: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Compared to other European destinations, Hungary can be considered an affordable country for tourists. However, prices can vary depending on the region and city you are visiting. Budapest, which is one of the major tourist destinations in Hungary, can be slightly more expensive than other parts of the country. That being said, you can still find budget-friendly options for accommodation, food, and transportation throughout Hungary. It is always advisable to plan your budget according to your travel preferences and needs.

Hungary: where to find accodation

There are many options for accommodation in Hungary. Here are some popular websites to search for accommodation: 1) Booking.com - This website offers a wide range of accommodation options with user reviews and ratings to help you choose.
2) Airbnb - This website allows you to book unique accommodations offered by locals, such as apartments, houses, and even castles.
3) Hostelworld - This website is a great resource for finding budget-friendly hostels in Hungary.
4) Agoda - This website offers a variety of accommodation options and often has deals on hotel bookings.
5) Expedia - This website offers packages with flights and accommodation, as well as individual hotel bookings.
It is always recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
You can check hotel prices in Hungary here:
Booking.com

Hungary: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Hungarian Tourism Agency, Hungary received approximately 31.5 million tourists in 2019. Yes, Hungary has some crowded periods, especially during the summer months, from June to August, when many tourists visit the country to enjoy the warm weather and activities such as festivals, concerts, and outdoor events. Also, Christmas markets in Budapest and other cities attract a lot of visitors during the winter months, typically from November to early January. It is always advisable to check the local events calendar and make accommodation and travel arrangements well in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid any inconvenience.
Overall, Hungary is considered a safe country for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take some precautions and remain aware of your surroundings. Some areas of Budapest, particularly the outer districts, may have higher crime rates than others, so it's a good idea to speak to locals or your hotel staff to get a better idea of which areas to avoid at night. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can also occur in tourist areas so it's important to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. That being said, Hungary is generally safe and welcoming to visitors, and most travelers don't experience any issues during their stay.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Hungary on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Hungary: events for tourists

Here are some popular events for tourists in Hungary: 1. Budapest Wine Festival - held annually in September, this festival showcases the finest wines from Hungary and other countries.
2. Budapest International Documentary Festival - is held annually in May, it showcases the best documentary films from all over the world.
3. Sziget Festival - is one of the largest music festivals in Europe and is held every August on Óbudai Island in Budapest.
4. Budapest Christmas Fair and Winter Festival - is held every year in Vörösmarty Square from mid November until the end of December. Visitors can enjoy traditional crafts, delicious food and drink and a festive atmosphere.
5. Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix - for sports fans, this is one of the most exciting events in Hungary which takes place annually in July or August.
6. Hungarian National Gallop - this event is held every year in September on Heroes Square in Budapest and showcases traditional Hungarian horse riding and culture.
These are just a few examples, but there are many other events and festivals throughout the year in different parts of Hungary.

Hungary: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Hungary, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here is a suggested itinerary for a two-week trip to Hungary: Day 1-3: Budapest Start your trip with two or three days in the beautiful capital city of Budapest. Explore the famous landmarks such as the Parliament building, St. Stephen's Basilica, and the Fisherman's Bastion. Take a dip in one of the city's famous thermal baths, like the Gellert or Szechenyi baths. Enjoy Hungarian cuisine at a traditional restaurant and take a boat ride down the Danube River for a stunning view of the city.
Day 4-5: Eger Travel to the town of Eger, known for its historic castle and thermal baths. Walk around the charming old town, visit the Baroque-style Basilica of St. John the Apostle, and taste the local wine at the Egri Bikaver Wine Cellar.
Day 6-8: Tokaj Drive to the small town of Tokaj, known for the world-famous sweet Tokaji wine. Visit local wineries, stroll through the vineyards, and take a hot air balloon ride to fully appreciate the stunning landscape.
Day 9-11: Lake Balaton Head to the largest lake in Central Europe, Lake Balaton, which is surrounded by charming towns and lovely beaches. Relax on the shores, take a swim or go fishing, and explore the stunning areas nearby.
Day 12-14: Pecs Travel to Pecs, the capital of the Baranya region in southern Hungary. Visit the UNESCO-listed Early Christian Necropolis, stroll around the historic downtown area, and admire the architecture of the Mosque of Pasha Qasim and the Gothic-style Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul. Take a hike through the forested Mecsek Hills, or relax at the nearby thermal baths.
This itinerary covers the highlights of Hungary and will give you a chance to experience the diverse mix of culture, history, and natural beauty that the country has to offer. Enjoy your trip!

Hungary: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Hungary described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Abaliget is a small village located in Baranya County, Hungary. It is famous for its thermal bath and cave system. The thermal bath features several indoor and outdoor pools with different temperature... CONTINUE here for a trip to Abaliget
- Aggtelek is a small village located in northern Hungary, near the Slovakian border. It is part of the Aggtelek National Park, which encompasses the largest and most impressive cave system in Hungary, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Aggtelek
- Badacsony is a small town located on the shores of Lake Balaton, in the western part of Hungary. It is famous for its picturesque landscape of vineyards and volcanic hills, which provide stunning view... CONTINUE here for a trip to Badacsony
- Balaton is a large freshwater lake located in western Hungary, about 100 kilometers southwest of Budapest. It is also known as the "Hungarian Sea" as it is the largest lake in Central Europe and attra... CONTINUE here for a trip to Balaton
- Békéscsaba is a city located in southeastern Hungary, near the border with Romania. It is the capital of Békés County and has a population of approximately 60,000 residents. The city is famous for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bekescsaba
- Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén is a county located in northeastern Hungary. It is the third-largest county in Hungary, both in terms of area and population. The county is known for its stunning natural beauty, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Borsod-Abauj-Zemplen
- Budapest is the capital and largest city of Hungary, located in the central part of the country. It was formed in 1873 by the merger of the cities of Buda and Pest, situated on opposite sides of the D... CONTINUE here for a trip to Budapest
- Cegled is a small city located in central Hungary, about 70 kilometers southeast of Budapest. It has a population of around 35,000 people and is the second largest city in Pest County. Cegled is known... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cegled
- Debrecen is the second-largest city in Hungary after Budapest and is located in the eastern part of the country. It has a population of approximately 200,000 people and is known as a major cultural, e... CONTINUE here for a trip to Debrecen
- Dunaujvaros is a city located in central Hungary, on the banks of the Danube River. It has a population of approximately 46,000 people and is known for its industrial heritage, as it was a major hub o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dunaujvaros
- Eger is a beautiful historic town located in northern Hungary, known for its baroque architecture and thermal baths. It is also famous for its wine production, particularly the red wine blend known as... CONTINUE here for a trip to Eger
- Gyor is a city located in the northwestern part of Hungary, near the Slovakian border. It has a population of approximately 130,000 people and is the sixth-largest city in Hungary. Gyor has a rich his... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gyor
- Hajduszoboszlo is a town located in the eastern part of Hungary, near the Romanian border. It is a popular spa destination known for its thermal baths and medicinal waters. The town is home to one of ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hajduszoboszlo
- Harkany is a small town located in southern Hungary, known for its thermal spas and healing waters. It is situated in the heart of the Villany wine region, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Harkany
- Hévíz is a small town in Hungary, located close to the western tip of Lake Balaton. It is famous for its thermal lake, which is the largest biologically active natural thermal lake in the world, and f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Heviz
- Hortobagy is a vast plain in Hungary, located in the eastern part of the country. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the largest natural grassland in Europe. The area is known for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hortobagy
- Kecskemét is a city in central Hungary, located approximately 80 km south of Budapest. It is the eighth-largest city in Hungary and is known for its rich cultural heritage, wine production, and therma... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kecskemet
- Keszthely is a town in western Hungary, located on the shore of Lake Balaton, the largest lake in Central Europe. It is the cultural and economic center of the region and a popular destination for tou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Keszthely
- Kiskunhalas is a town located in the southern part of Hungary, in the region of Bács-Kiskun. It has a population of approximately 17,000 people. The town's history dates back to the 15th century and i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kiskunhalas
- Komarom-Esztergom is a county located in the northwestern part of Hungary. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Danube River and the Pilis Mountains. The county seat is Komárom, whi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Komarom-Esztergom
- Miskolc is a city located in northeastern Hungary, near the Slovakian border. It is the fourth-largest city in Hungary, with a population of around 160,000 people. Miskolc is known for its rich cultur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Miskolc
- Nyíregyháza is a city located in north-eastern Hungary, near the border with Ukraine. It is the seventh-largest city in Hungary with a population of around 120,000 people. The city is known for its cu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nyiregyhaza
- Pannonhalma is a small town located in western Hungary, about a 2-hour drive from Budapest. It is most famous for its stunning Benedictine abbey, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pannonhalma
- Paradsasvar is a small town located in northeastern Hungary, near the border with Slovakia. It is known for its natural beauty, including the nearby Mátra Mountains, which offer opportunities for hiki... CONTINUE here for a trip to Paradsasvar
- Pécs is a city located in the south-west of Hungary, close to the Croatian border. It has a population of around 150,000 people and is the fifth largest city in the country. Pécs is known for its rich... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pecs
- Sarvar is a town located in western Hungary, close to the Austrian border. It is known for its thermal baths and spa treatments, making it a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuve... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sarvar
- Siofok is a popular tourist destination located on the southern shore of Lake Balaton in Hungary. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and numerous water sports activities. The to... CONTINUE here for a trip to Siofok
- Soltvadkert is a small town located in the southern part of Hungary, near the city of Szeged. The town has a population of about 5,000 people and is part of the Bács-Kiskun county. It is known for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Soltvadkert
- Sopron is a historic town in northwestern Hungary, located close to the Austrian border. It is known for its well-preserved medieval old town with Baroque and Gothic architecture, cobblestone streets,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sopron
- Szeged is a city located in the southern part of Hungary, near the border with Serbia. It has a population of approximately 170,000 and is the third-largest city in the country. Szeged is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Szeged
- Szekesfehervar is a city in central Hungary, located about 60 kilometers southwest of Budapest. It is the ninth largest city in the country, with a population of around 100,000 people. It is considere... CONTINUE here for a trip to Szekesfehervar
- Szentendre is a town located in northern Hungary, just 20 kilometers north of Budapest. It is a popular destination for tourists due to its beautiful location on the banks of the Danube River and its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Szentendre
- Szolnok is a city located in central Hungary, on the banks of the Tisza river. It has a population of around 75,000 people and is the administrative center of Jász-Nagykun-Szolnok county. Szolnok is k... CONTINUE here for a trip to Szolnok
- Tapolca is a small town located in the western part of Hungary, near Lake Balaton. It is famous for its unique cave system, which features underground lakes and boat tours. The town also has several t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tapolca
- Tata is a small town located in the northwestern part of Hungary, around 70 kilometers from Budapest. It is situated at the foot of the Gerecse Mountains, on the shore of Lake Öreg. The town is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tata
- Tihany is a small village located on the northern shore of Lake Balaton in Hungary. It is known for its beautiful landscape, historical monuments, and cultural heritage. Some of the major attractions ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tihany
- Veszprem is a city located in western Hungary, in the Central Transdanubia region. It has a population of around 60,000 people and is known for its well-preserved old town and historic castle. Veszpre... CONTINUE here for a trip to Veszprem
- Visegrad is a small town located in northern Hungary, situated on the right bank of the Danube River. It is famous for its medieval castle, which overlooks the town and the river. The town has a popul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Visegrad
- Zalakaros is a small town in southwestern Hungary, known for its thermal spa and wellness facilities. It has a population of around 1,800 people, but attracts many tourists throughout the year due to ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zalakaros


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