Budapest
Budapest is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Hungary. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and stunning architecture. The city is home to many iconic landmarks, such as the historic Chain Bridge, Buda Castle, and the Hungarian Parliament. It also offers various attractions, including museums, restaurants, and shopping destinations.
Budapest is a great place to explore and discover all Hungary offers.
Fisherman’s Bastion
Fisherman’s Bastion is one of Budapest’s most impressive landmarks, located on the city’s Buda (west) side. It is situated atop Castle Hill, which once had a series of ancient defense walls and was the site of some of Hungary’s earliest commercial buildings and homes. The seven-towered white limestone Neo-Romanesque structure was designed by architect Frigyes Schulek in 1905 and is dedicated to the fishermen who defended Buda in medieval times.
The Fisherman’s Bastion provides stunning views up and down both sides of the Danube River, across to Margaret Island and to Margaret Bridge. Accessible by walking or street cable car, visitors can take in two levels, including the Hall of St Stephen, or climb even higher to a viewing platform where they will enjoy one of the best panoramic views in Europe.
Visitors can also dine among picturesque surroundings at any one of its three restaurants offering Hungarian specialties, coffee, ice creams, and drinks with a magnificent view. In addition, fisherman’s Bastion hosts themed concerts frequently during summer, so make sure you’re around for beautiful music!
Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the most distinctive sights in Budapest. Located along the Danube River, this delicately ornate Neo-Gothic building was commissioned in 1885 and completed in 1904. It is widely considered one of Hungary’s proudest accomplishments and can be seen from quite a distance.
The Parliament Building has 691 rooms and ten courtyards and is 268 meters long. The majestic structure was designed by Imre Steindl, although some parts were built at the request of Budapest’s elite citizens; for example, the bell tower was donated by Archduke Joseph August, and it still bears his initials. Moreover, various sculptures depicting figures, such as Gizella Kossuth, adorn its exterior.
A mere glance at this stunning tower will leave you speechless, but there is much more to uncover; guided tours are offered daily, allowing visitors better to understand the process behind its design and masonry work. Tourists should also consider walking around its walls as plenty of noteworthy points showcase its sheer size! For example, pay attention to how details like Gyula Benczur’s statues on Freedom Square echo the overall beauty of the magnificent neo-gothic building!
- Stephen’s Basilica
St. Stephen’s Basilica is a prominent landmark in the historic city center of Budapest, Hungary. The stunning Neo-Renaissance building was built in 1895 and featured a richly decorated interior and an impressive dome nearly 300 feet tall. Its two main facades are adorned with statues of famous Hungarian religious figures. Its central tower contains the mummified right hand of Hungary’s first King, St. Stephen (1097-1131), located in a special chapel at the top.
The vast interior of St. Stephen’s Basilica can seat 8,500 people. It also houses several important works of art and some interesting historical artifacts, including a 15th-century wooden statue of St. Stephen that can be seen in its treasury room. The basilica also features several chapels dedicated to past members of the Habsburg dynasty and other local dignitaries such as Bishop Béla Imrédy, who served from 1871 to 1893, and Bishop János Simor, who served from 1896 to 1917. On the church grounds near the entrance is a memorial to Prime Minister Ferenc Szalasi, who helped launch Hungary’s revolution against Soviet occupation in 1956.
In addition, St. Stephen’s Basilica is also renowned for its excellent acoustics, which makes it an ideal venue for classical music concerts throughout the year – particularly during Advent, when candlelight concerts draw considerable crowds on Fridays throughout December each year. Visitors can reach St. Stephen’s Basilica through underground public transportation or on foot by taking one of the many winding paths in Budapest’s city center known collectively as “The Castle Hill” walkways leading up toward Buda Castle at the top of Castle Hill overlooking central Budapest below.
Lake Balaton
Lake Balaton is one of the most popular attractions in Hungary. With its crystal clear blue waters, lush countryside, and various activities for all ages, it’s no wonder why so many tourists flock to this gorgeous lake every year.
Here you can participate in various water sports, such as fishing, swimming, sailing, and windsurfing. In addition, there are numerous beaches and swimming areas and many historical attractions located around the lake. Let’s take a closer look at everything that Lake Balaton has to offer:
Tihany Peninsula
The Tihany Peninsula is located on the northern shore of Hungary’s largest lake, Lake Balaton. The peninsula is well known for its beauty, lush forests, and stunning lake views. In addition, the area has several historical and cultural attractions, including a Benedictine Abbey dating back to 1055.
The beach on the peninsula is popular among locals and visitors alike, while Lake Balaton offers great opportunities for swimming, sailing, and windsurfing, amongst other recreational activities. Regular ferry services also operate across the lake, allowing easy access to neighboring towns like Badacsony or Keszthely.
The restaurants around the area serve an array of Hungarian specialties, ranging from local fish dishes to international favorites like pasta or pizza. In addition, plenty of winery tours are available where visitors can sample some of the finest wines Hungary offers.
Tihany has something for everyone, from active adventurers looking for adrenaline-filled activities like kayaking and cycling to those seeking a more relaxed stay in a peaceful environment rich with culture and history. Visiting this beautiful peninsula along Lake Balaton is certainly an experience you won’t forget!
Balaton Uplands National Park
Located on the North shore of Lake Balaton, the largest lake in Central Europe, Balaton Uplands National Park is a popular destination for national and international visitors. The park covers an area of 49,943 hectares and this park boasts beautiful landscapes, dense forests, habitats, and species diversity. In addition, one can explore natural attractions such as rolling hills and meadows, pristine vineyards, and sandy bays sinking hundreds of feet deep.
The park also hosts several tourist attractions such as “Calvário” and “Peceli Hill” – two artificial terraces with incredible panoramic views of the Lake Balaton – Haller Garden – with its famous Tihany Ring Monument and Rádpuszta ruin. In addition, numerous historic sites like castle and medieval ruins can also be found here that once belonged to the aristocratic families from Transdanubia during the Roman Empire era.
For leisure activities, tourists have plenty of choices at their disposal:
- sailing or enjoying a cruise on Lake Balaton for sightseeing purposes
- taking a horse carriage ride through the idyllic countryside
- Participating in outdoor activities like hiking or biking along lakeside paths that allow you to admire stunning views of the Tihany peninsula – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- spending some time fishing or kayaking while visiting Lake Balaton
- Visiting Kányavár Island, which houses Vértesszőlős Roman Ruins dating back to 15 BC.
Keszthely
Keszthely is located on the western shore of Hungary’s Lake Balaton and is one of the most popular towns in the region. A popular spot for both locals and tourists alike, Keszthely offers a range of attractions, such as the Festetics Palace, built in 1745 as an aristocrat’s residence. Open throughout the day for visitors to take in the baroque architecture and learn about its royal history. The town’s main square is also home to many cafes and restaurants, perfect for those wishing to relax outdoors with a cool drink.
Besides sightseeing, the lake is world-famous for its watersports like swimming, sailing, and windsurfing. The nearby area also has charming villages and lovely scenery to discover all around. The Balaton Uplands National Park provides a lot of hiking trails that offer spectacular views once you reach the top of the hills – making it one of Hungary’s most precious natural areas.
Eger
Eger is a beautiful Hungary city known as the country’s Baroque Pearl. It is renowned for its stunning old architecture, thermal baths, and diverse cultural attractions. There is something to do in Eger for every kind of traveler. So whether you’re looking to explore the city’s history, take a relaxing break in the thermal baths, or experience the vibrant nightlife, Eger is the perfect destination.
Let’s explore what this city has to offer:
Eger Castle
The Eger Castle, first built in the 13th century, is an imposing and historic landmark of Eger, situated 200 kilometers Northeast of Budapest. Known as one of Hungary’s most popular tourist attractions, this majestic fort rises from the ruins atop a 500-foot hill and boasts dramatic views over the city.
The castle complex covers a vast area and includes a unique system of 24 towers, several museums, and two churches. Once inside its walls, you can fully explore all its rich historical architecture, monuments, and galleries full of valuable antiques, relics, and artworks that give us a glimpse into Hungary’s turbulent past.
Various exhibitions showcased aspects of Hungarian culture and military life during the siege by Turkish forces in 1552. Visitors will also be amazed by the Bishop’s Palace – home to many bishops during its existence – St George’s Chapel with its baroque facade and the large garden where many defining moments from Hungarian history have taken place. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from these heights to take in Eger’s entirety.
Given Eger’s well-conserved medieval look due to numerous renovations made through centuries. It is considered one of not Hungary’s biggest tourist attractions, one that you should visit!
Valley of the Beautiful Women
The Valley of the Beautiful Women (Szépasszony-völgye in Hungarian) is stunning just outside the small city of Eger, Hungary. Located in the Eastern Rhodope mountain range in northern Hungary, it is surrounded by craggy peaks and home to breathtaking views and beautiful wines. In addition, the area features some unique geological features, such as volcanic ash cones from ancient eruptions, as well as magnificent wildlife.
The Valley of the Beautiful Women has long been a favorite destination for visitors to Eger. Hiking trails lead through an expanse of meadows carpeted with wildflowers and along rushing streams and petrified waterfalls that erupt with mineral deposits. An eclectic mix of animals can be spotted roaming their natural habitat: squirrels, foxes, mouflons, groundhogs, and deer, among them.
It’s known for its vineyards, and the valley also offers visitors a chance to sample some unique regional wines at over 50 wineries within walking distance. Some wine cellars offer free tastings and conduct tours so visitors can learn more about traditional Hungarian winemaking methods from knowledgeable guides. Many establishments also serve delicious dishes such as beef goulash or potato pancakes and their Hungarian wines for guests to enjoy a truly local experience.
Offering endless opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and biking alongside stunning panoramas and succulent local cuisine, The Valley of the Beautiful Women provides an unforgettable experience every time one visits!
Szépasszony Valley
Situated near the Slovakian border, the stunning Szépasszony Valley has become a popular tourist destination due largely to the region’s renowned wine. In addition, the valley is home to several connecting caves and is surrounded by limestone hills that loom high above the valley floor, making it one of Hungary’s natural highlights.
Known particularly for its unique climatic conditions that give rise to excellent wines, Szépasszony Valley features an array of vineyards known for producing some of Hungary’s most sought-after vintages. Many visitors come to sample these exquisite local wines and visit nearby historical landmarks, including Eger Castle, Egerszalók Salt Hill, and numerous monasteries erected during the Middle Ages.
While visiting this magical location, you can also go on guided tours with experienced wine stewards and taste your way through favorite regional varieties such as Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood) and Egri Leányka white. There are also many good restaurants nearby Eger offering great Hungarian-style dishes such as specialty beef stews and goulash soup cooked with locally produced paprika. We suggest packing a picnic so you can appreciate this scenic area at your own pace while taking in some of its natural beauty along the way.
Hortobágy National Park
Hortobágy National Park is the largest national park in Hungary. It is located in the East of Hungary and is home to various wildlife, including over 250 species of birds. The park also offers breathtaking natural scenery and unique cultural opportunities.
In addition to its wildlife and natural attractions, Hortobágy National Park also features a vibrant cultural history with archaeological reminders of ancient civilizations.
Nine-Hole Bridge
The Nine-Hole Bridge is a unique architectural marvel located within Hortobágy National Park in Hungary. This bridge, known as Széchenyi Bridge by the locals and sometimes referred to as “The Nine-Arch Bridge,” was built in 1833 and is one of the oldest and most recognized bridges in the world. It is a unique combination of natural elements, such as river waters and old trees, along with man-made components, such as the nine arches which support it.
This bridge spans 325 feet across the Hortobágy section of Hungary’s Tisza River. It was designed by Austrian engineer Christian Hübl, who could not use traditional methods for crossing this deep section of the river due to its location in a marshy area prone to flooding and changeable water levels. Therefore, engineer Hübl proposed a solution inspired by ancient Roman construction techniques that suggested making multiple arches on a bridge instead of one large arch. This unconventional method worked well in constructing this immense bridge and later became an innovative design method that proved helpful in other similar cases around Europe too!
Today, this beloved Hungarian landmark stands proud over the Hortobágy landscape, attracting tourists worldwide. Guided tours offer visitors insights into Hungarian history while offering incredible panoramic views across the Tisza River towards local wildlife, such as herons and egrets who call this fertile marshland home. Besides its aesthetic beauty, Nine-Hole Bridge also serves an important practical purpose today; it serves traffic between the Pusztaszeri settlement on one side of the Tisza River while providing access to Hortobágy National Park on another side!
Great Plain Museum
The Great Plain Museum is located in Hortobágy National Park in Hungary and is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the local area. The museum features original buildings from the 18th century, including a working stable, Manor House, farmhouse, barns, pigsty, and garden. In addition, visitors can try traditional activities like shepherding and reed-cutting, among others.
The museum also showcases exhibitions on local crafts such as horseshoeing, hatchet polishing, and paper cutting. Other attractions include a rare collection of traditional folk art found nowhere else in Hungary. Through hands-on activities, visitors can gain insight into life on the Great Plain during centuries past. There is also a theater where visitors can enjoy regular performances of traditional Hungarian music and dance.
Hortobágy Csárda
Hortobágy Csárda is a traditional inn and restaurant situated within Hortobágy National Park. It was built in the late 18th century and has become an iconic symbol of conventional Hungarian culture and cuisine.
It has a pleasant open-air terrace with panoramic views of the meadows and pastures of the Hungarian Puszta – an area characterized by its typical cultural heritage. Here you can sample traditional dishes such as Hortobágyi-style pancake filled with pork and onion, roasted lamb, crème brûlée of bajai curd cheese, or goulash served in bread.
Moreover, there is a unique collection of artifacts on display inside the inn, which document aspects of ethnic traditions from Hungary’s fertile territories and life in rural Hungary during centuries past.
Debrecen
Debrecen is the second largest city in Hungary and is known for its unique attractions. In addition, it is considered the cultural and religious center of Hungary, which allows for an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
Spend a day at the famous Great Church, the largest Protestant Church in Hungary, or take a stroll through the city’s main squares and visit its unique monuments. Debrecen also offers a rich art and music scene, so visitors can find something to enjoy no matter what they’re interested in.
Great Church of Debrecen
Debrecen, Hungary’s second-largest city and the country’s unofficial “Calvinist Rome,” has a wealth of attractions. One of the most impressive is the Great Church of Debrecen, located in the city center. This religious building was founded in 1538 on top of an ancient Roman site, indicating that Debrecen is an ancient settlement. The original Baroque-style structure underwent renovation over the centuries and now features Gothic and Romanesque elements.
In addition to its impressive architecture, visitors can view works of art inside, including artwork by painters such as Vasarely and large sculptural pieces crafted by native Hungarian artist Elek Followay. Works of applied art made by Kis-Rigó János can also be seen on the Church’s exterior facade, depicting motifs intertwined with Calvinist messages and markings important for Christianity across Hungary.
The Great Church is visited frequently by tourists all year round regardless of whether services are being held; occasionally, concerts and other special events may also be hosted here during weekends or certain holidays throughout the year. So, if you are interested in experiencing this unique Church firsthand, consider adding it to your list when visiting Hungary!
Déri Museum
The Déri Museum, located in the heart of Debrecen, Hungary’s second-largest city, is home to an impressive collection of fine art and historical artifacts. Founded in 1892 by art collector József Déri, the museum boasts various works from different periods. From ancient artifacts to contemporary creations, the museum houses sculptures, paintings, coins, and ceramics depicting all aspects of Hungary’s history and culture.
The permanent collection includes a broad range of works by such prominent Hungarian artists as Aladár Körösfői-Kriesch, János Vaszary, and Pál Deim. In addition, a short but interesting selection of non-Hungarian and international masterpieces complements artwork from Hungarian Baroque through the modern era.
In addition to displaying artwork and artifacts indoors and outdoors throughout the year, The Déri Museum also offers educational programs for students and a program for advancing research into fine arts and culture. For those interested in exploring this unique destination when visiting Debrecen or Hungary, it can quickly become one of your most exciting attractions when sightseeing in this beautiful country.
Hortobágyi National Park
Hortobágyi National Park, located in Debrecen, Hungary, is one of the first national parks in Europe. It covers an area of 780 square kilometers and is home to many species of birds and animals. However, the park’s most prominent feature is the Hortobágyi Puszta – an area of flat grasslands dotted with rural farms, evoking the feeling of a traditional Hungarian village.
The National Park offers numerous activities, including horseback riding and carriage tours around Hortobágy and visiting local farms and villages along the way. Visitors can also explore historical landmarks such as Hradok Castle and various educational centers devoted to Hungarian cultures, such as the Hortobagyi Natural History Museum or the Debrecen Animal Park. In addition to these attractions, visitors can enjoy unique programs related to local customs and traditions. Hortobagyi National Park also has several camping sites, offering some great fishing spots for anglers.