Hungary, a landlocked gem in the heart of Central Europe, offers travelers an incredible mix of architectural wonders, thermal spas, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. While Budapest rightfully steals the spotlight, the country boasts numerous other treasures waiting to be explored. From UNESCO World Heritage sites to charming villages and natural wonders, Hungary rewards those who venture beyond the capital. This comprehensive guide covers the 50 best places to visit in Hungary to help you plan an unforgettable journey through this captivating country.
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Budapest: The Pearl of the Danube
No list of places to visit in Hungary would be complete without its magnificent capital. Budapest, divided by the Danube River into Buda and Pest, offers an incredible blend of history, architecture, and vibrant urban life. The city boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Banks of the Danube, Buda Castle Quarter, and Andrássy Avenue.
Must-See Attractions in Budapest
- Hungarian Parliament Building – one of Europe’s oldest legislative buildings with stunning neo-Gothic architecture
- Fisherman’s Bastion – offering panoramic views of the city from its fairy tale-like terraces
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath – the largest medicinal bath in Europe with 15 different pools
- St. Stephen’s Basilica – a neoclassical cathedral housing the mummified right hand of St. Stephen
- Buda Castle – the historical castle complex of the Hungarian kings
- Chain Bridge – the iconic suspension bridge connecting Buda and Pest
- Matthias Church – a stunning Roman Catholic church with colorful roof tiles
- Central Market Hall – a vibrant indoor market perfect for sampling Hungarian cuisine
Lake Balaton: The Hungarian Sea
Often called the “Hungarian Sea,” Lake Balaton is Central Europe’s largest freshwater lake and one of Hungary’s most beloved destinations. The lake stretches across 48 miles, offering diverse experiences from lively beach resorts on the southern shore to the wine-growing regions and volcanic hills of the northern shore. Balaton is perfect for swimming, sailing, and windsurfing in summer, while the surrounding area offers hiking, cycling, and wine tasting year-round.
Top Destinations Around Lake Balaton
Siófok
Known as the “Capital of Balaton,” Siófok is the lake’s party hub with vibrant nightlife, golden beaches, and water sports. Perfect for younger travelers seeking entertainment and beach activities.
Tihany
This charming peninsula is home to the 11th-century Tihany Abbey, lavender fields, and incredible panoramic views. The peninsula creates the lake’s narrowest point and offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in Hungary.
Balatonfüred
The cultural capital of the northern shore, Balatonfüred is known for its historic spa town atmosphere, beautiful promenade, and annual Anna Ball. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and cultural experiences.
Staying Connected While Exploring Hungary
As you travel across Hungary, from Budapest to the shores of Lake Balaton and beyond, staying connected is essential for navigation, translations, and sharing your experiences. While Hungary offers decent Wi-Fi in urban areas, having reliable mobile data is crucial when exploring more remote destinations.
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Historic Cities and Towns in Hungary
Eger
Located in northern Hungary, Eger is famous for its 13th-century castle, thermal baths, and baroque architecture. The city played a crucial role in Hungarian history when a small group of defenders successfully held off a large Ottoman army in 1552. Don’t miss the northernmost Turkish minaret in Europe, the beautiful Minorite Church, and a visit to the “Valley of the Beautiful Women” where you can sample the region’s famous Bull’s Blood (Egri Bikavér) wine.
Pécs
This vibrant city in southern Hungary boasts a Mediterranean atmosphere and a rich multicultural heritage. Pécs is home to the UNESCO-listed Early Christian Necropolis, the stunning Pécs Cathedral, and the former mosque of Pasha Qasim. The city’s cultural scene thrives with numerous museums, including the Zsolnay Museum showcasing the famous local porcelain.
Szeged
Known as the “City of Sunshine,” Szeged charms visitors with its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, spacious squares, and vibrant university atmosphere. The city was rebuilt after a devastating flood in 1879, resulting in a harmonious urban layout. Highlights include the magnificent Votive Church, the Reök Palace, and the famous Szeged Open-Air Festival held each summer.
Sopron
Located near the Austrian border, Sopron is one of Hungary’s most beautiful medieval towns. Its well-preserved historic center features the iconic Fire Tower, charming cobblestone streets, and excellent local wines. The town is often called the “Jewel Box of Hungary” for its architectural treasures.
Győr
This elegant Baroque city sits at the confluence of three rivers. Győr’s historic center is a treasure trove of architectural gems, including the Town Hall, Bishop’s Castle, and the beautiful Káptalan Hill area. The city also offers excellent thermal baths and a vibrant cultural scene.
Kőszeg
This charming border town is known as the “Jewel of Transdanubia” with its perfectly preserved medieval center. Kőszeg’s Jurisics Castle, Main Square, and colorful burgher houses create a fairy-tale atmosphere that transports visitors back in time.
Natural Wonders of Hungary
Hortobágy National Park
Hungary’s first and largest national park, Hortobágy is a UNESCO World Heritage site protecting Europe’s largest natural grassland. This vast “puszta” (steppe) landscape features unique wildlife, traditional Hungarian Grey cattle, and the iconic Nine-Arch Bridge. Visitors can enjoy horse shows demonstrating traditional Hungarian horsemanship, bird-watching tours, and authentic cultural experiences in this uniquely preserved ecosystem.
Aggtelek National Park
Located in northern Hungary along the Slovak border, Aggtelek National Park is home to Europe’s largest stalactite cave system. The Baradla-Domica cave complex stretches for over 26 kilometers with spectacular formations. The park also features beautiful karst landscapes, forests, and meadows perfect for hiking and nature observation.
Lake Hévíz
The world’s second-largest thermal lake, Lake Hévíz offers a unique bathing experience year-round. The water temperature never drops below 22°C (even in winter), and the mineral-rich water is renowned for its healing properties. The lake is covered with beautiful water lilies and surrounded by a lush park, creating a natural spa experience unlike any other in Europe.
Lillafüred
This picturesque resort area in the Bükk Mountains features the stunning neo-Renaissance Palace Hotel, hanging gardens, waterfalls, and Lake Hámori. The area offers excellent hiking opportunities, cave exploration, and a narrow-gauge forest railway through beautiful landscapes.
Dunakanyar (Danube Bend)
Just north of Budapest, the Danube Bend is where the river curves dramatically through the Visegrád Mountains. This scenic region offers spectacular views, hiking trails, and historic towns like Visegrád, Esztergom, and Szentendre along the river.
Tisza Lake
Hungary’s second-largest lake is actually a man-made reservoir that has developed into an important ecological habitat. The lake’s maze of channels, islands, and backwaters creates a paradise for birdwatching, fishing, and water sports in a tranquil setting.
Cultural and Historical Sites
Esztergom
Hungary’s former capital is home to the country’s largest church, the magnificent Esztergom Basilica. Perched on Castle Hill overlooking the Danube, this impressive neoclassical structure houses incredible religious treasures, including Hungary’s largest altar painting. The town’s rich history as the seat of Hungarian Catholicism is evident in its many religious buildings and museums.
Pannonhalma Archabbey
Founded in 996, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the oldest monastic communities in Europe. The impressive Benedictine complex includes a beautiful basilica, medieval cloisters, and a historic library containing over 360,000 volumes. The abbey continues to function as a religious center while welcoming visitors to explore its architectural and cultural treasures.
Hollókő
This preserved traditional village is a living example of rural life before the 20th century. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hollókő features authentic folk architecture with wooden houses, a small church, and a medieval castle ruin. The village maintains traditional crafts, costumes, and customs, especially during Easter when colorful folk festivals take place.
Visegrád
This small town in the Danube Bend was once a royal seat of Hungary. The impressive Visegrád Castle sits high above the Danube, offering spectacular views, while the reconstructed Royal Palace showcases Renaissance architecture and royal history.
Gödöllő Royal Palace
This magnificent Baroque palace was a favorite residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi). Today, the beautifully restored rooms showcase the elegance of the Austro-Hungarian era, while the surrounding gardens provide a peaceful retreat.
Szentendre
Just outside Budapest, this charming riverside town is known as an artists’ colony with numerous galleries, museums, and colorful Baroque architecture. The cobblestone streets, Serbian Orthodox churches, and Mediterranean atmosphere make it a perfect day trip destination.
Thermal Spas and Wellness Destinations
Hungary’s thermal waters have been enjoyed since Roman times, and the country boasts over 1,500 thermal springs. These mineral-rich waters form the basis of Hungary’s spa culture, offering therapeutic benefits and relaxation opportunities throughout the country.
Hajdúszoboszló
Known as “The Mecca of Rheumatic Patients,” this spa town features one of Europe’s largest spa complexes. The medicinal waters are particularly effective for treating locomotor disorders, while the aquapark offers fun for families.
Miskolctapolca Cave Bath
This unique thermal bath is set within a natural cave system, creating an otherworldly bathing experience. Swimmers can navigate through cave passages filled with thermal water ranging from 27-31°C, enjoying the natural rock formations.
Bükfürdő
One of Western Hungary’s largest spa resorts, Bükfürdő offers 32 pools with waters rich in calcium, magnesium, and hydrogen carbonate. The modern facility includes both medicinal sections and recreational areas in a peaceful setting.
Sárvár
This elegant spa town combines thermal waters with a beautiful Renaissance castle. The spa complex offers two different types of thermal water – one rich in salt and the other containing hydrogen carbonate – providing varied therapeutic benefits.
Gyula
Set within a 200-year-old castle park, Gyula’s thermal bath is housed in a former 19th-century castle. The alkaline bicarbonate waters are excellent for treating inflammatory conditions, while the historic setting adds a unique atmosphere.
Zalakaros
This modern spa town in western Hungary is known for its highly mineralized water containing iodine, bromine, fluoride, and sulfur. The family-friendly spa complex offers both medicinal treatments and recreational facilities.
Wine Regions of Hungary
Tokaj Wine Region
This UNESCO World Heritage site is world-famous for its sweet Aszú wines, often called “the wine of kings and the king of wines.” The unique microclimate and volcanic soils produce exceptional wines, particularly the golden Tokaji Aszú. Visitors can explore historic wine cellars, some dating back centuries, and sample wines in traditional settings throughout the picturesque region.
Eger Wine Region
Home to the legendary Bull’s Blood (Egri Bikavér) red wine blend, Eger offers a charming wine experience centered around the “Valley of the Beautiful Women” (Szépasszony-völgy). This valley houses dozens of wine cellars carved into the rock, where visitors can taste wines directly from local producers in a festive atmosphere.
Villány Wine Region
Often called the “Bordeaux of Hungary,” Villány in southern Hungary is known for its full-bodied red wines, particularly Cabernet Franc. The Mediterranean climate and modern winemaking approaches have established Villány as one of Hungary’s premier wine destinations, with beautiful cellar rows and wine estates open to visitors.
Badacsony
This volcanic region on Lake Balaton’s northern shore produces distinctive white wines, especially from the indigenous Olaszrizling and Kéknyelű grapes. Wine tasting here comes with spectacular views of the lake from terraced vineyards on volcanic hills.
Somló
Hungary’s smallest wine region centers around the extinct Somló volcano. The basalt soil produces mineral-rich white wines with exceptional aging potential. Traditional folklore claims these wines have fertility-enhancing properties!
Etyek-Buda
Just outside Budapest, this cool-climate region specializes in sparkling wines and fresh whites. Its proximity to the capital makes it perfect for day trips, with many wineries offering tours, tastings, and seasonal gastronomy events.
Family-Friendly Destinations
Nyíregyháza Zoo
One of Europe’s best zoos, the Nyíregyháza Animal Park houses over 500 species in spacious, natural-looking habitats. The Oceanarium, Green Pyramid tropical house, and Tarzan Trail offer interactive experiences, while the unique “animal continent” concept allows visitors to explore different geographical regions and their wildlife.
Mogyoród Aquapark
Just outside Budapest, this massive water park offers over 20 slides, wave pools, and children’s areas. The park also features the Hungaroring Formula 1 race track nearby, making it possible to combine water fun with motorsport experiences for a perfect family day out.
Festetics Palace, Keszthely
This magnificent Baroque palace near Lake Balaton houses not only historical exhibits but also a unique Coach Museum and Bird Museum that fascinate children. The surrounding park with its palm house and walking paths offers space for families to relax.
Pécs Zoo
Set in a beautiful forest environment, this compact zoo focuses on education and conservation. The aquarium-terrarium building houses exotic reptiles and fish, while the petting zoo allows children to interact with friendly farm animals.
Szilvásvárad
This village in the Bükk Mountains offers family-friendly activities including a forest railway, trout fishing, the spectacular Szalajka Valley with its waterfalls, and the famous Lipizzaner stud farm where horse shows demonstrate traditional Hungarian horsemanship.
Practical Tips for Visiting Hungary
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is perfect for Lake Balaton and outdoor activities but can be hot in cities. Winter (November-March) brings Christmas markets and thermal bath experiences with snow views.
Getting Around
Hungary has excellent public transportation. Trains connect major cities, while buses reach smaller towns. In Budapest, use the efficient metro, tram, and bus network. For exploring rural areas, consider renting a car. Lake Balaton has good ferry services during summer.
Hungarian Cuisine
Don’t miss trying goulash soup, chicken paprikash, lángos (fried dough), chimney cake (kürtőskalács), and Dobos torte. Hungary’s food is rich and flavorful, with paprika featuring prominently. Wine lovers should sample local varieties beyond the famous Tokaji.
Language
Hungarian (Magyar) is notoriously difficult to learn, but locals appreciate visitors who try basic phrases like “köszönöm” (thank you) and “egészségedre” (cheers). In tourist areas, English is widely spoken, especially among younger Hungarians.
Currency
Hungary uses the Forint (HUF), not the Euro. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns. Credit cards are accepted in most establishments, though smaller villages might require cash. Always have some local currency for small purchases.
Thermal Bath Etiquette
Bring a swimsuit, flip-flops, and a towel (or rent them). Some traditional baths are gender-separated and may require a bathing cap for pools. Follow posted rules about showering before entering pools and respect quiet areas for relaxation.
Conclusion: Your Hungarian Adventure Awaits
Hungary offers an incredible diversity of experiences in a relatively compact country. From the grandeur of Budapest to the tranquility of Lake Balaton, from historic castles to natural wonders, there’s something for every traveler. The country’s rich history, thermal waters, wine culture, and warm hospitality create unforgettable experiences that keep visitors returning year after year.
Whether you’re planning a short city break or an extended exploration of Hungary’s countryside, these 50 destinations provide an excellent starting point for discovering the heart of Central Europe. Pack your bags, brush up on a few Hungarian phrases, and prepare to be charmed by this captivating country.
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