Hungary is one of the amazing countries to visit in Europe and needs no introduction! From the city of lights, Budapest, to quaint villages and mesmerizing sunsets, Hungary makes one of the best countries for tourists in Europe. Situated in Eastern Europe, the country has a rich culture, stunning countryside, and mighty castles. It is full of preserved classic and historical attractions.
Hungary is one of the most beautiful countries in the world for sure! This touristy country is full of picturesque towns and glittering cities. Along with its rich tradition, the variety of scenery it has is also incredible. It was the border between the western world and the Ottoman Empire and, in more recent times, between Western and Eastern Europe.
Hungary also has tourist destinations of great importance in Europe. The country is full of castles, baroque cities and small charming towns. Hotels are cheap in Hungary but, outside of Budapest, they do not offer all the amenities that would be desirable. Winters are freezing and not very suitable for sightseeing.
If you are passionate about short scenic train rides, narrow gauge Zsuzsi Erdei route is for you. Dating back to 1882, the railway line is very close to Debrecen, second-largest city of Hungary, historical town, very close to Romania. The railway operates small steam and diesel locomotives, favorite of children and adults alike.
When I planned my trip to Hungary a few years ago, I made sure to research all the tourist spots and attractions. It is better to shortlist the places you want going to visit as you may not have the time to discover things on your own. Another interesting thing I discovered during my thorough research was the abundantly delicious cuisine. Don't miss these places in Hungary!
Here are the top places to explore while in Hungary:
1. Budapest
The shining capital of Hungary is a must-visit. You will witness a classy mix of modern and ancient architectural wonders. If you are a foodie, you should also try the famous Hungarian cuisine here. The Andrassy Avenue, Royal Quarter Castle, and the Banks of the famous Danube River have been declared UNESCO World Heritage.
The capital city of Hungary, Budapest, is one of Europe's most beautiful cities. A considerable part of the city has garnered the status of being a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Fun fact: The city of Budapest is a combination of three cities.
Anyway, there are plenty of fantastic architecture in the city of Budapest that, even if you're not an architecture enthusiast, is something that will inspire you. For example, the Hungarian Parliament Building is sure to inspire awe in you.
Another gorgeous place in Budapest is the grandest spa in the city, the Gellert Bath and Spa center. You should definitely stop by and enjoy a dip in the spa and relax there.
Budapest is also famous for its Opera House. Make time to watch a performance there. Some other attractions are Great Synagogue, Royal Palace, Memento Park, House of Terror and so on. Another memorable experience would be cruising over the Danube River. Long story short, it is only justified to compare Budapest with cities like Paris and Prague. Because it has everything and more.
2. Eger
After spending 2 days in Budapest, go beyond the capital! Eger is a beautiful town in Hungary with some amazing wineries! Witness the serene Eger River, Vineyards of Eger, Magical Tower, Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Apostle, Lyceum, and so much more. The Valley of Beautiful Women, which is the best red wine in the country, is close to Eger. The other name for this wine is Bull's Blood or Bikaver. Lastly, you will love neo-classicist architecture. It reflects the remnants of the Turkish invasion.
3. Lillafured
Love to hike? Explore the beautiful Bukk Mountains from the Lillafured base. The Bukk National Park has many freshwater lakes. It also has around 1000 caves, and stunning woods to make a perfect mix to enjoy hiking. Furthermore, the highest waterfall in Hungary is also here. In addition to Lillafured Waterfall, other attractions are Miskolc Zoo, Lake Hamori, Anna Cave, and so on.
4. Aggtelek
Aggtelek became popular when UNESCO declared it and Slovak Karst as World Heritage Sites. Baradla Aggtelek Cave is a must-visit. If you are a nature lover, witness the mesmerizing stalactite formations. Also, don't miss the Giant Hall.
5. Tokaj
Tokaj is a wine-lovers dream come true! If you want to save some of the best wines in the best wine country, visit Tokaj. It is a picturesque town with scenic views and pretty houses. Moreover, Zemplen Hills add to the beauty of the town.
Tokaj goes back as early as the 15th century in making sweet wines. No wonder it is great for wine connoisseurs. Furthermore, other attractions include Tokaj Museum, Sarospatak Castle, vineyards, and wine tasting tours.
6. Visegrad
Visegrad is home to renaissance monuments. It is a quaint and scenic castle town in Pest County. The most famous castle is the summer palace of Matthias Corvinus, the late king. Moreover, the beautiful town is home to a very small number of people. The population is only around 1,864. Other fun activities in Visegrad are hiking and skiing.
7. Tapolca
Hungary is rich in natural scenery. Tapolca is famous for its massive underground cave. Furthermore, it boasts of a beautiful Lake Cave. It makes Hungary one of the best tourist destinations. Globetrotters from around the world love to visit this unusual underground cave. The lake cave is also famous for its unique medicinal properties. Moreover, other amazing attractions are Szent Gyorgy Hill, Kotenger, Little Princess Statue, Lake Malom-to, and so on.
8. Pecs
Pecs is the second most popular city to visit in Hungary. It is only second to Budapest. The city has a pleasant climate across the year. Furthermore, the city is swamped by tourists. Especially those who are all about exploring historical architectural landmarks.
In addition, there are several stunning attractions. Some are the Mosque Church, Zsolnay Cultural Centre, and Zsolnay Porcelain Museum. The tourists are usually young backpackers. Because the city also boasts of an exciting nightlife scene.
9. Hortobagy
Witness the iconic sunsets and the plainest plain in Hortobagy. Furthermore, tourists love the unique flora and fauna in Hortobagy. Other attractions are Nine Holed Bridge, National Herdsmen Competition, Bridge Fair, and so on. Moreover, don’t miss the Hungarian cowboys flaunting their incredible art of horsemanship.
10. Kékes
If you love high altitudes, you can visit Kékes, Hungary’s tallest mountain peak (1014 m). This may sound a bit disappointing, but remember that Hungary is situated on a large plain and there are little to no significant mountain peaks. The mountain has a very good climate, is not difficult to climb and offers you a nice panorama over the surrounding villages and fields. On top of the mountain, you'll be greeted by the TV tower, which includes a restaurant for hungry climbers.
The Matra mountains have a lot to offer and a break from the hot temperature of the plains will surely have a good impact on you.
11. Debrecen
Debrecen University (founded in 1538 as the Calvinist College, ranked and overhauled as the current-day University in 1912). Other points of interest in Debrecen include the Protestant Great Church and the Old City Hall.
Another smaller pool complex is located in Makó, a small town in Csongrád county, located just 75km away form the border of Romania and 35km away From Szeged, another wonderful city worth giving a visit.
12. Lake Balaton
While in Hungary, don't miss Lake Balaton. One of the top summer destinations of Hungary, Balaton is the largest lake in central Europe! The lake has a shallow depth, allowing for diving and motorboating. The water is very warm and clean - remember this is a lake, the water isn't cold and salty like the sea - this is a huge freshwater lake.
Apart from the lake itself, there are many tourist attractions nearby, including the town of Balatonfüred, a popular yachting and fishing destination. Most of the lake is surrounded by railway lines operated by Hungary's national railway, MAV. You won't have problems jumping around villages or going from an end to another.
This place is home to beautiful forests, resort towns, the Balaton Uplands National Park, and so on. Moreover, other attractions are Festetics Palace, Szigliget Fortress, Balaton Sound Festival, Herend Porcelain Factory, Heviz Spa, and so on.