Hungary Travel Guide

Hungary Travel Guide

Hungary acts as a convenient gateway between Western and Eastern Europe from its location near the centre of the continent; culturally and geographically the 'odd one out', the small landlocked country is nonetheless a fantastic European travel destination thanks to its long and fascinating history, stunning countryside, and warm and welcoming people. The Turkish people descend from the Magyars of Russia, and the country has at various points been occupied by the Mongols, the Austrians, and the Communists. This provides for a wealth of historical attractions within the Hungarian countryside, and in its cosmopolitan capital, Budapest.

Indeed, any holiday in Hungary begins in this elegant city, a bohemian metropolis with plenty of attractions in the form of museums, monuments, and historic buildings. Budapest comes alive after dark, with a lively nightlife and restaurant scene that offers something for every traveller.


Outside of the capital however, Hungary's rolling countryside contains charming towns and villages with medieval squares and picturesque castles that are worth visiting. Travellers can explore the vineyards around Eger, relax in the thermal mineral baths of Balatonfured, or wander the quaint towns of the beautiful Danube Bend for an unforgettable Hungary vacation.

Best time to visit Hungary
Summer is the best time to visit Hungary, when the weather is warm and all the restaurants and attractions are open for tourists. Hungary's climate is temperate, but winters are cold and the weather in spring and autumn is unpredictable.

Top things to see in Hungary
-Drive to Eger to tour the heavily-fortified Eger Castle.
-See the monuments of Hungary's Communist history at Memento Park in Budapest.
-Take in the view of Budapest and the Chain Bridge from Fisherman's Bastion.
-Relax and enjoy watersports in the thermal lake at Hévíz.

Top things to do
-Stroll around Vác to see the pretty cathedrals and the macabre Memento Mori Crypt.
-Treat the kids to a day riding the rollercoasters at Vidám Park.
-Spend a day walking around the charming riverside town of Esztergom.
-Take a river cruise around the Danube Bend.

Getting to Hungary
Getting to Hungary from the UK is made easy by direct cheap flights to Budapest from London, Manchester and Edinburgh by a few budget carriers. Direct flights to Hungary from the US are also available from many major cities.
Budapest Airport Guide

Read
Eclipse of the Crescent Moon by Géza Gárdonyi.

Listen
Franz Liszt and Béla Bartók.

Watch
The Shop Around the Corner (1940) and Sunshine (1999).

Drink
Hungarian wine and mineral water.

Eat
Goulash soup, strudel and crepes.

What to buy
Tokaji wine.

What to pack
Pack layers, as the weather in Hungary can be unpredictable.

What's on in Hungary
The Christmas markets held each winter in Budapest's Vorosmarty Square are accompanied by organ and choir concerts.

Did you know?
-The Rubik's Cube was invented in Hungary.
-In 1946, Hungary issued a 'one quintillion pengo' note, the highest denomination ever issued by eny country.

A final word
Hungary's stunning landscape and fascinating history make it a convenient stop on any European holiday.