, Hungary (Austria-Hungary)
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Hungary:
Budapest:
Start your journey in the capital city, Budapest, known as the "Paris of the East." Explore the Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion, and Matthias Church for breathtaking views of the Danube River and the city.
Danube River Cruise:
Take a leisurely cruise along the Danube River to enjoy panoramic views of Budapest, often considered one of the most beautiful cityscapes in the world.
Thermal Baths:
Hungary is famous for its thermal baths. Don't miss the Széchenyi Thermal Bath in Budapest, known for its stunning architecture and healing waters. Gellért and Rudas Baths are also worth a visit.
Chain Bridge:
Stroll across the iconic Chain Bridge, connecting Buda and Pest, and take in the impressive lion statues guarding each end.
Parliament Building:
Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building, an architectural masterpiece. Take a guided tour to explore its stunning interior.
Shoes on the Danube Bank:
Pay your respects at this moving memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. Iron shoes line the bank of the Danube, representing those who were killed.
Great Market Hall:
Explore the Great Market Hall in Budapest for a taste of Hungarian cuisine. Try traditional dishes like goulash and chimney cake.
Andrássy Avenue:
Walk down Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lined with beautiful Neo-Renaissance buildings. It leads to Heroes' Square, which is a tribute to Hungary's national heroes.
Memento Park:
Discover a unique collection of statues from Hungary's communist era at Memento Park, located just outside of Budapest.
Eger:
Travel to Eger, a charming town known for its Baroque architecture and the famous Eger Castle, which played a key role in Hungary's history.
Tokaj Wine Region:
Wine enthusiasts should explore the Tokaj Wine Region, famous for its sweet Tokaji wines. Take a wine tour and visit the cellars.
Hortobágy National Park:
Experience Hungary's unique and vast Puszta landscape in Hortobágy National Park. You can see traditional horse shows and go bird-watching.
Lake Balaton:
Visit Lake Balaton, Central Europe's largest freshwater lake. Enjoy water sports, relax on the beaches, and explore charming towns like Keszthely and Tihany.
Debrecen:
Explore Debrecen, Hungary's second-largest city. Visit the Great Reformed Church and the Déri Museum to learn about the region's history and culture.
Pécs:
Discover Pécs, a city with a Mediterranean vibe and a rich history. Explore the early Christian Necropolis, Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, and the Mosque of Pasha Qasim.
Aggtelek Caves:
Go underground to explore the stunning Aggtelek Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stalactite and stalagmite formations are truly remarkable.
Hollókő:
Visit Hollókő, a traditional Palóc village and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Experience rural Hungarian life and explore well-preserved historic buildings.
Lillafüred:
Head to Lillafüred, a resort town in the Bükk Mountains. Admire the Palota Hotel, set in a picturesque forest by a waterfall.
Szentendre:
Just a short trip from Budapest, Szentendre is a charming riverside town known for its art galleries, museums, and Mediterranean atmosphere.
Tihany Peninsula:
Explore the Tihany Peninsula on Lake Balaton, home to the famous Benedictine Abbey, lavender fields, and stunning views.
Esztergom:
Visit Esztergom, Hungary's former capital. Explore the Esztergom Basilica, one of the largest churches in Europe, and enjoy the view from the Castle Hill.
Dunakanyar:
Take a scenic drive through the Danube Bend, a picturesque region known for its historic towns, castles, and hiking opportunities.
Bukk National Park:
If you're into hiking and nature, Bukk National Park is a great destination with its dense forests and karst formations.
Villány Wine Region:
Sample red wines in the Villány Wine Region, famous for its Bordeaux-style wines. Enjoy wine tastings at local wineries.
Folk Festivals:
Check the local calendar for traditional Hungarian festivals, like the Easter Water-Splashing Festival in Hollókő or the Busójárás in Mohács.
Budapest Ruin Bars:
Experience the unique atmosphere of Budapest's ruin bars, such as Szimpla Kert and Instant, which are housed in derelict buildings.
Music and Opera:
Enjoy classical music and opera in Budapest, home to the famous Hungarian State Opera House.
Paprika Museum:
Discover the history and importance of paprika, a key ingredient in Hungarian cuisine, at the Paprika Museum in Kalocsa.
Equestrian Shows:
Attend equestrian shows, like the Lipizzaner performances at the Royal Lipizzaner Stud in Szilvásvárad.
Taste Hungarian Cuisine:
Don't leave Hungary without savoring traditional dishes like chicken paprikash, Hungarian sausage, and dobos torte.
Visit Hungary (Austria-Hungary)
Discover the people who lived there, the places they visited and the stories they shared.