With World Heritage sites, incredible nature and rich culture dating back to the Stone Ages, Hungary is ripe for discovery. Whatever your tastes and interests, if you’re craving an authentic European vacation, Hungary will deliver in spades. Here’s a taste of what you’ll experience.
Budapest: Quite simply, Budapest is magical. If it hasn’t been on your radar, move it to the top of the list. Hungarian culture sings throughout the city, whether you’re indulging in a soak at the Szechenyi Baths, visiting the numerous historical sites from medieval Buda Castle to the neo-Gothic Fisherman’s Bastion, or soaking up the rich Jewish heritage (don’t miss the second-largest synagogue in the world). The city is split into three distinctive sections by the Danube River - Pest, Buda and Obuda - all of which serve up the perfect juxtaposition of ancient architecture and modern conveniences. A dining scene fit for foodies, world-class museums, great shopping (check out the Grand Market Hall) - and it’s all available at a relatively modest price point for a European vacation, much less than, say, Rome or Paris.
Lake Balaton: Move out of the city for a spell and experience Lake Balaton, one of the largest lakes in Europe and enjoyed year-round. During the warm summer months, the water is pleasant for swimming, while during the winter, the ice is thick enough for ice skating. Locals love cycling around the lake, stopping at the various waterside villages - a great way to soak up Hungarian culture and indulge in fresh cuisine. And don’t miss the many Lake Balaton vineyards, renowned for their white wines.
Cave Bath, Miskolc-Tapolca: Yes, we already mentioned the many thermal baths of Budapest, but in a country rich with therapeutic waters, is one soak really enough? The Cave Bath is particularly enticing for its natural cave system - you can simply wade in and explore to your heart’s content in water that sits at a constant temperature of 30℃. Join the legions who have sublimely soaked here since the 17the century. In addition to several different pools, the site also offers spa treatments.
Photo by Tomasz Przechlewski | Flickr
Danube River Cruises: Consider experiencing Hungary along its lifeblood, the Danube. This way, you’ll unpack only once, while the best of the country is delivered to you daily. A variety of upscale river-cruise operators run week-long sailings - I can help you choose the right one for you. Alternatively, if you’re basing yourself in Budapest, consider a day-long voyage around the Danube Bend to see Visegrad, Estergom and Szentendre, or a beautiful night cruise through the city.
Photo by Susan Tuckey | Penguins2PolarBears
Eger Wine Region: In the foothills of the Bukk mountains, the Eger wine region is a must for oenophiles. In the shadow of a mighty castle, surrounding the historic town of Eger, the region is best known for its Bull’s Blood wine. A number of excellent reds and whites are produced here, all of which you can sample at the various vineyards and wine cellars. Many of the cellars hold special wine-tasting evenings with traditional food, dancing and trips into the cask cellars.
Hortobagy National Park: Take another opportunity to get away from the city and experience this magnificent micro-region, which also happens to be Central Europe’s largest steppe. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hortobagy National Park is an incredible conservation area made up of swamps, lakes, grasslands, pastures, floodplain forests and groves - and home to many endangered ancient Hungarian animal species, including the rare, semi-wild Przewalski horses. Stop by the visitors centre to learn more about the Hungarian shepherds who make their living here farming rare breeds and how agricultural traditions have evolved over the decades.
Image by Tomas Orth | Pixabay
Have we piqued your interest in Hungary and its rich and varied offerings? Come discover for yourself how one accessible, affordable Eastern European destination can cover it all - from nature to history to culture. Let’s connect about a small-group, river cruise or independent travel experience in Hungary. You can sign up to schedule a consultation or sign up for my weekly newsletter for more inspiration.