40 Attractions in Hungary Worth Seeing

Hungary is a country with immense tourist potential, located in the heart of Europe. Tours to Hungary are gaining popularity each year, as this country can be described as an open-air museum.

There are palaces and fortresses, castles and cathedrals, caves and thermal springs. Every tourist will find leisure activities to their liking, and we will tell you which attractions in Hungary deserve your attention.

The Parliament building was erected in Budapest on the left bank of the Danube. This majestic building was constructed between 1885 and 1904 based on the design of Imre Steindl. It is rightly considered one of the great architectural works at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries in Europe, both in its exterior design and interior decoration. It is the second largest parliament building in Europe and the third largest in the world.

The architectural ensemble of the Hungarian Parliament is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Its design features elements of Baroque, Renaissance, and Neo-Gothic styles. Vaulted ceilings and stained-glass windows, exquisite carvings, and unique furniture made of precious woods leave visitors in awe, as do the dimensions of this magnificent building.

Its length along the waterfront is 268 meters, the width is 123 meters, and the height of the dome is 96 meters. Approximately 40 kilograms of gold were used for gilding and decoration. You can visit the Hungarian Parliament building with a guided tour.

Address: Parliament, Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055 Hungary. Website: https://www.parlament.hu Entry: paid.

Another monumental building in Budapest is the Royal Palace. It is situated on a hill in the Buda Fortress, which is located in the historical center of the Hungarian capital. The fortress area can be conditionally divided into two zones.

The southern part houses the Royal Palace and its nearby surroundings. The northern part contains historical city districts. The Royal Palace is one of Budapest's main cultural and tourist centers, which has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1987.

The palace is home to the Hungarian National Gallery, the Museum of History of Budapest, and the Széchényi National Library. The Buda Fortress area contains museums, historical monuments, residential buildings, public buildings, shops, and souvenir stalls. Here, tourists can stroll for an entire day, either alone or with a guide, as there is something interesting to discover in every corner of the fortress.

Address: Castle Hill, Vár, Budapest, Hungary.

Located in the City Park of Budapest, Vajdahunyad Castle is a favorite spot for many tourists. It was constructed in 1896 as a temporary exhibition pavilion in preparation for the millennium of the Hungarian state.

However, this eclectic structure designed by Hungarian architect Ignác Alpár became so beloved by the residents of Budapest that a few years later it was decided to build it in stone. Construction was completed in 1908, and the castle immediately became one of the capital's attractions.

Vajdahunyad Castle reflects various architectural styles - Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. Today, the castle houses the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture, the largest agricultural museum in Europe.

Here, tourists can see a vast collection of hunting trophies and the largest collection of Hungarian wines in the country. In the castle courtyard stands a statue of the chronicler Anonymous, who wrote the chronicle "The Deeds of the Hungarians."

Address: Vajdahunyad Castle, Budapest, Vajdahunyad stny., 1146 Hungary. Website: https://www.mezogazdasagimuzeum.hu Entry: paid.

This bridge over the Danube connects the western and eastern parts of Hungary's capital - the historic districts of Buda and Pest. Opened in 1849, it was the first permanent bridge over the Danube in Hungary.

The bridge is named after Count István Széchenyi, a Hungarian politician and writer, who initiated its construction. However, it is better known as the "Chain Bridge," as the roadway is supported by massive metal chains.

At the time of its construction, the Széchenyi Bridge was considered a marvel of modern engineering. Today, this 375-meter-long bridge is one of the most recognizable attractions in Hungary's capital.

The image of the bridge can be seen on numerous souvenir postcards, and no tourist visiting Budapest would refuse to take photos against its backdrop. In the evening, the Széchenyi Bridge is dramatically illuminated by powerful floodlights.

Address: The Chain Bridge, Budapest, Széchenyi Lánchíd, 1051 Hungary.

This is the largest bath complex not only in Budapest but in all of Europe. Its construction was completed in 1913. The complex, which has been repeatedly expanded, renovated, and updated, today presents itself in all its glory. The bath is designed for active recreation regardless of the season.

There are saunas, Jacuzzis, solariums, hydro massage devices, and 18 pools (15 indoor and 3 outdoor) that are filled with healing waters from two hot thermal springs.

Visiting the Széchenyi Baths can be likened to a visit to a museum. The bathhouse building, constructed in classical style with elements of neo-Renaissance, is considered an architectural masterpiece. Its decoration includes motifs related to water, images of mermaids and sea monsters, fish, and shells.

The outdoor pools are adorned with fountains and statues. The halls with indoor pools are decorated with sculptures, stained glass, and mosaics depicting scenes from Roman and Greek mythology.

Address: Széchenyi Thermal Baths, Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146 Hungary. Website: https://www.szechenyifurdo.hu Entry: paid.

This museum, known as Memento Park, is located in Budapest. In 1989, following the fall of the communist regime in Hungary, many monuments and sculptures from the socialist era were demolished. They were not sent for melting down, as is usually the case, but gathered in one area of Budapest.

These formed the basis of the "Memento" park collection. The exhibition was officially opened on June 29, 1993, the second anniversary of the withdrawal of Soviet troops from Hungary.

Memento Park was designed by Hungarian architect Akos Eleod, who won the competition announced by the General Assembly of Budapest. The area of the Memorial Park is divided into two parts: the Statue Park and the Witness Square.

There are 42 sculptures and monuments collected from all over the country, including statues of Lenin, Marx, Engels, and Hungarian communists. The most famous exhibit is the "Stalin's boots," which have become a symbol of the Hungarian Revolution of 1956.

Address: Memento Park, Budapest, Balatoni út - Szabadkai utca sarok, 1223 Hungary. Entry: paid.

The House of Terror is a museum located in Budapest. It opened in 2002 in building number 60 on Andrássy Avenue. Once, this grim building housed the Hungarian State Security Office. Now, there is a museum dedicated to the tragic chapters of the country's history.

The museum's exhibition includes materials related to the fascist and communist regimes in Hungary in the 20th century. Even the building itself is considered a monument to the victims of totalitarian regimes who were detained, interrogated, tortured, or killed within its walls. Among the exhibits, visitors can see photographs, documents, torture devices, and even a T-54 tank.

Address: House of Terror, Budapest, Andrássy út 60, 1062 Hungary. Website: https://www.terrorhaza.hu Entry: paid.

The Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, more commonly known as Matthias Church, is a historic monument with centuries of history. Construction of this majestic structure in the early Gothic style began under King Béla IV, between 1255 and 1269.

The construction of the northern bell tower dates back to this period. The frescoes of the church were painted by Bertalan Székely and Károly Lotz. In the chapel, you can see the legendary 16th-century marble sculpture of the Madonna.

The grand tower of Matthias Church stands 78 meters tall. The lower balcony of the tower is open to visitors at a height of 46 meters, which can be accessed by climbing 197 steps. The church houses a Museum of Church Art, preserving relics and precious items, medieval stone carvings, and copies of the Holy Crown. The church has excellent acoustics and frequently hosts organ concerts.

Address: Mátyás Templom, Budapest, Szentháromság tér 2, 1014 Hungary. Website: https://www.matyas-templom.hu Entry: paid.

Debrecen is Hungary's second-largest city by population. The Great Reformed Church is the most famous building in this city, located in the historical center. The church, built in the classicism style, acquired its modern appearance in the early 19th century.

It was constructed on the site of a destroyed church. The church has an area of 1500 square meters and is the largest Protestant temple in Hungary. It can accommodate up to 3,000 worshippers. The massive building is adorned with two towers, each standing 61 meters tall.

The Reformed Church has become the "business card" of Debrecen. Its characteristic twin towers are easily recognizable from a distance. One of them has an observation deck open to visitors. Since there is no elevator in the tower, getting up there requires climbing two hundred steps.

Within the church, you can see a copy of the first Bible printed in Hungarian. Periodically, impressive organ concerts take place here.

Address: Great Reformed Church, Debrecen, Kossuth tér 1, 4026 Hungary.

Diósgyőr Fortress, built in the early 13th century, is one of the oldest structures in Miskolc. The fortress reached its peak in the 14th century, and by the early 20th century, the castle had become quite dilapidated.

Since the 1960s, restoration of the fortress has been ongoing for several decades, after which the structure became a well-known tourist attraction.

The popularity of Diósgyőr Castle is evidenced by the following fact: its image can be seen on the Hungarian 200 forint banknote. In 2021, the Hungarian authorities allocated funds for another reconstruction of the castle, after which Diósgyőr will once again present itself to guests in all its medieval beauty.

Currently, the fortress is closed for visits, but tourists can inspect the powerful walls of the structure from the outside.

GPS coordinates: 48.09781, 20.68941

This museum is the largest in the Hungarian city of Miskolc. The Natural History Museum, founded in 1889, was named after the zoologist, ethnographer, archaeologist, and Hungarian politician Otto Herman several decades later. The museum complex includes the house-museum, exhibition hall, and gallery.

The collection includes more than 600,000 artifacts. A significant portion of the collection consists of minerals (over 20,000 specimens), applied art, paintings, household items, and jewelry - from the Stone Age to the present day.

Address: Otto Herman Museum, Miskolc, Görgey Artúr u. 28, Hungary.

In the vicinity of Miskolc, in a place called Lillafüred, lies the picturesque Hámori Lake. Its average depth is 9 meters. Surrounding the lake are the hills of the Bükk National Park and dense forests with trekking trails.

There are no equipped beaches along its shores, and swimming is not allowed. However, boating on the lake is popular, offering beautiful views. There is a marina where boats can be rented for cash. One boat accommodates three people.

GPS coordinates: 48.10742247734474, 20.616596535967965

The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul is a Roman Catholic church built in the city of Pécs. The foundation of the first church-chapel was laid here as early as the late 4th century. It acquired its modern appearance in the late 19th century after reconstruction according to the plans of Austrian architect Friedrich von Schmidt. The building of the church is constructed of white limestone (facade) and yellow sandstone (towers).

The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul is an important landmark in the city of Pécs. The four 60-meter towers of the church shape the cityscape and are its symbols.

As the building of the cathedral has undergone several reconstructions, its appearance reflects elements of classicism, Romanesque, and Gothic styles. The organ located in the cathedral is the 100th work of famous master József Angster.

GPS coordinates: 46.07847241763212, 18.223617811414407 Website: https://pecsiegyhazmegye.hu Entry: paid.

This interesting castle is located in the city of Székesfehérvár. The sculptor, artist, and architect Jenő Bory designed it and actively participated in its construction and decoration. It took the master several decades. He began building in 1923 and worked on the castle until 1959 - until the end of his life.

The building features a mixture of various styles with 30-meter towers. The castle served not only as the home of the Bory family but also as a workshop where the architect and his wife, artist Ilona Komócsin, worked.

Bory Castle is often referred to as the "Taj Mahal of Székesfehérvár." Jenő Bory intended to create a work of art as a tribute to his marital love and creative dreams. Today, Bory Castle is one of the most popular attractions in the city, attracting thousands of tourists each year.

Although some descendants of the architect still live within its walls, from March to November, nearly the entire complex is open to visitors. The castle has about 30 rooms, which are decorated with sculptures and paintings.

GPS coordinates: 47.210697759301, 18.451346568834705 Website: https://bory-var.hu Entry: paid.

Balaton is a freshwater lake and the largest in Central Europe. Due to its size, it is often referred to as the Hungarian Sea.

Its beauty is stunning: the water in the lake has a turquoise-blue hue, surrounded by picturesque hills, and in windy weather, waves can be seen across the surface-just like at the sea. The lake's shallowness means that the water is warm, and the shores offer well-equipped beaches with developed infrastructure.

People come to the Balaton beaches not only from Hungary but also from Austria, Germany, and other European countries to sunbathe, swim, fish, and engage in water sports. Wineries are located on the northern shore, while nightclubs are found on the southern side.

Bicycle paths run along the shores of the lake. Although the peak tourist season is during the summer, Balaton is also popular in winter when you can skate, sled, or try ice fishing when the lake freezes over.

GPS coordinates: 46.832640261364595, 17.724236228387667

Near the small town of Héviz, located in western Hungary, lies the lake of the same name. This is the largest thermal lake in Europe-a true natural gift. The water at a temperature of +38°C flows into the lake from a depth of 38 meters. The lake's surface is covered with beautiful water lilies, which were brought from India in 1898 by Professor Lajos Kesthely.

The picturesque Lake Héviz is a popular destination for recreation and healing. The first bathing establishment was built here in the 18th century, and since then, people have come to improve their health. The lake, together with the surrounding forests, creates a microclimate beneficial to health. The mineral-rich water and sediment have therapeutic effects. The water in the lake remains warm even in winter, allowing swimming all year round.

GPS coordinates: 46.78727848911742, 17.19283496964605

Kékes is the highest mountain in Hungary, standing at 1,015 meters above sea level. This peak belongs to the Mátra mountain range, located in the northern part of the country. Kékes is the third most popular natural attraction in Hungary after Lake Balaton and the Danube.

There are many hotels and ski runs of varying difficulty levels, and on top, a 187-meter-high television tower stands. A viewing platform is located in the tower at a height of 45 meters, offering amazing views of the surroundings. Two cycling routes and dozens of hiking trails are laid out along the slopes of the mountain.

GPS coordinates: 47.87193648094574, 20.013055000111013

This mountain range is referred to as the Zemplén or Tokaj Mountains. The height of the highest peak does not exceed 895 meters. Four peaks of the Zemplén massif are included in the list of the 100 highest mountains in Hungary.

On some peaks of the Zemplén Mountains, castles were built long ago. These include Rákóczi Castle in Sárospatak and the fortresses of Boldogkő, Regék, Serencs, Füzér, and Sárospatak. Some of these have been restored today, while others stand in ruins.

The Zemplén (Tokaj) massif can be admired from one of its many viewing points, or you can walk along one of the hiking trails laid out here. There are several trekking routes, all of different lengths.

The shortest route takes about an hour and a half, while traveling on the longest path may take several days. There is a park in the eastern part of this mountain system where you can try your hand at rock climbing in summer, or ski in winter when a ski resort is open.

GPS coordinates: 48.40022003635786, 21.41635598361835

The Benedictine Abbey of Pannonhalma, founded in 996, has operated continuously until the present day. The impressive complex of monastic buildings was built on St. Martin's Hill.

Over the centuries, structures in Romanesque style and the Gothic basilica were complemented by buildings in Baroque and Classicism styles, which define the modern appearance of the abbey. The entire building complex features one of the most famous works of Hungarian classicism-a tower that stands 55 meters tall.

The monastery of the Order of Saint Benedict is one of Hungary's outstanding historical monuments, a center of ecclesiastical and artistic history. The monastery library has 400,000 volumes, many of which are rare books.

The abbey features a gallery with paintings and sculptures, collections of engravings and coins, a treasury, an antiquities museum, and a dendrological garden. The monastery also has its own winery, the Viator Abbey restaurant, the Pausa Abbey Café, and a brewery that produces four types of Belgian beer.

GPS coordinates: 47.55236731997033, 17.761090357672582 Website: https://pannonhalmifoapatsag.hu Entry: paid.

This small village, home to only a few hundred people, is known as an open-air ethnographic museum. In 1987, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The village of Hollókő is located in a mountainous valley. Most of its houses are made of adobe, and the locals carefully preserve the traditions of their ancestors and folk crafts. They engage in embroidery, wood carving, pottery, prepare Hungarian dishes, and organize daily performances.

Located in northern Hungary, what can you see in Hollókő? There are several attractions here, including a wooden Catholic church from the 16th century, reconstructed in 1889, and the fortress of Sárhíd that sits atop a hill above the village.

Several museums are open to tourists, including the Post Museum, the Doll Museum, and the Ethnographic Museum, whose exhibits introduce visitors to the life and customs of the village's residents in the 18th and 19th centuries.

GPS coordinates: 47.998924908640845, 19.58840674688466 Website: https://holloko.hu

In Hungary, Baradla Cave refers to part of the Baradla-Domica cave system. This major cave formation stretches more than 25 kilometers and is located in northern Hungary, near the Slovak-Hungarian border.

The entrance to the system from Slovakia is called Domica, while from Hungary it is Baradla. It is the most thoroughly researched and well-known stalactite cave in the country.

Due to its impressive cave structure, Baradla was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995 along with other caves of the Aggtelek and Slovak Karst.

In the cave, you can see fantastic stalactites and stalagmites; places where bats inhabit; and even a hall where classical music concerts occasionally take place.

Visitors can only enter the cave as part of a guided tour. Tourists can choose from several routes of varying lengths.

GPS coordinates: 48.47169709925417, 20.495298432544402 Website: https://anp.hu Entry: paid.

Hungary has a vast number of thermal springs, but the most unusual one is probably located in a cave at the Miskolctapolca resort. The cave with a thermal spring has been known since ancient times, but the transformation of Tapolca into a resort only began after the Turkish rule in the 18th century. Since then, the resort has undergone multiple renovations, expansions, and reconstructions. In 2016, it was awarded the title of "Spa of the Year."

Water of 30-35°C and the unique microclimate of the cave provide therapeutic effects, especially for joint diseases. However, its salinity is lower than that of other mineral waters, which allows for unlimited bathing. Since most of the bath is covered, and the water is warm, the resort can be visited year-round.

You can engage in aqua fitness and aqua aerobics, undergo massage and relaxation therapy, and visit the sauna. In the summer, outdoor pools operate, but the main gem of the resort is the cave bath with thermal water and fantastic lighting, making it one of the most visited tourist attractions in Miskolc.

GPS coordinates: 48.06023495665738, 20.745087125138713 Website: https://www.barlangfurdo.hu Entry: paid.

Located in northern Hungary is the Aggtelek National Park, established in 1985. This area became famous for its numerous caves which, winding and looping, form extensive tunnels and intricate labyrinths.

In 1995, the park, along with the adjacent Slovak Karst National Park, was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. In temperate zones, there are no cave systems in the world that match its complexity, extraordinary richness of forms, relative untouchedness, and concentration over a small area.

Some caves can be explored independently, but it is much more exciting to go with a guided tour. The staff of Aggtelek National Park conducts themed tours for visitors.

One of the caves is equipped with a concert hall boasting excellent acoustics, where "underground" concerts by famous performers are held. The caves are always cool, with temperatures not exceeding +6-12°C. This microclimate positively impacts health, which is why speleotherapeutic facilities have been set up in the caves.

GPS coordinates: 48.507571784901536, 20.539687979192337 Website: https://anp.hu Entry: paid.

Szent István Cave is one of the caves open to tourists. It is located in the Bükk National Park, in the charming resort area of Lillafüred. The limestone cave lies 101 meters deep.

Due to the clean and almost 100% humidity cold air here, a health resort for those suffering from respiratory diseases was opened in one part of Szent István Cave in 1988.

Szent István Cave was discovered in 1913. Speleologists examined it, and an entrance was constructed with lighting installed. In 1931, the cave was opened for visitors. It is consistently damp and cool (+10°C) and extremely beautiful.

Stalactites hang from the cave's ceilings, forming fantastic sections known as "Fairy Land," "Column Hall," and "Theatre." You can only visit the cave as part of an organized tour.

GPS coordinates: 48.09924204129481, 20.620702307210852 Website: https://www.bnpi.hu

Selim is one of Hungary's most protected caves, surrounded by legends. Its length is 45 meters and height is 14 meters. Interestingly, the cave is not underground but located on a hill, at an elevation of 289 meters.

This important archaeological and paleontological site is situated in the Gerecse Mountains. In 2013, the cave was declared a national natural treasure. It has four entrances and two "ceiling" openings.

Selim Cave is a popular hiking destination. A trekking trail through the forest leads to it. Further along the path, you will encounter a high tower with an observation deck.

300 meters from the cave stands a statue of Turul, a bird from Hungarian mythology. Several scenes from the TV series "The Witcher" were filmed in Selim Cave. Visiting the cave is free and does not require speleological equipment.

GPS coordinates: 47.59051243579195, 18.406979742327415

Visegrád Fortress is situated at a bend of the Danube in the town of Visegrád. The fortress is the main attraction of this small town located in central Hungary. It was built of stone between 1246 and 1251.

In the Middle Ages, the citadel played an important role, as it housed one of the wealthiest palaces of Hungarian kings. Over time, the structure fell into disrepair and was destroyed, and the ruins of the former royal palace were demolished in the 18th century.

Restoration of the castle began in 2017 as part of a national program. Today, the fortress has several exhibits and exhibitions. Here, you can see presentations of medieval weapons and a replica of the Holy Crown, visit the Torture Museum, and learn about the history of the castle.

GPS coordinates: 47.793751033628766, 18.980441742454314 Website: https://parkerdo.hu Entry: paid.

The medieval fortress located atop a cliff stands in the valley of the Ernád River, near Miskolc. This impressive structure is one of the best-preserved medieval castles.

According to archival documents, the oldest part of the castle was constructed in 1280. The beauty of the surrounding landscapes and the good condition of the castle have made it a popular place among tourists. The hill on which the fortress stands is part of the Zemplén landscape reserve.

Popular guided tours and knightly duels are held here every weekend in spring, summer, and autumn (from April to November). The view from the fortress' main tower over the town at the foot of the cliff is equally striking.

The castle hosts several exhibitions. Here, you can see household items from the 15th century, a 16th-century smelting plant, an exhibition of tin soldiers, and a collection of minerals.

GPS coordinates: 48.34498975573425, 21.23208891022434 Website: https://boldogkovara.hu Entry: paid.

Located on the western shore of Lake Balaton is the city of Keszthely. One of its main attractions is Festetics Palace, built in the Baroque style. Construction began in 1745 and was completed in the 1880s.

Festetics Palace is one of the three largest country houses in Hungary. It belonged to the Festetics family, who were progressive landowners. The palace is surrounded by a landscape English park.

The mansion resembles French palaces of past centuries and is famous for its splendid facade and luxurious interior decoration. Today, it houses the "Helikon" palace museum, which is annually visited by 200,000 people.

It contains a vast collection of books - the only major aristocratic library preserved in Hungary. The walls of the palace are adorned with portraits of the Festetics family. The stable houses a collection of carriages and coaches.

GPS coordinates: 46.77091707581483, 17.241841714412047 Website: https://festeticskastely.hu Entry: paid.

Barbakan is a circular fortification typical of European medieval architecture. One such impregnable structure is the mighty Barbakan Bastion, located in the Hungarian city of Pécs.

This fortress has gates located in the northwest corner of the medieval city wall surrounding the city center. The bastion was previously part of the wall system of the former Episcopal castle.

Built in 1498 in gothic style, Barbakan Bastion is one of the symbols of the city of Pécs. In 1968, the building was restored along with the rest of the old fortress wall, and it returned to the city center. This mighty structure is clearly visible from anywhere in the city, and from its top, you can enjoy an unparalleled view of downtown Pécs.

GPS coordinates: 46.077856798239814, 18.221444639947915

Eger Castle is a fortress with a long historical past. The most famous event is the siege of 1552 when the castle's defenders repelled the attack of an army from the Ottoman Empire that was nearly 20 times greater. In summer, fairs and knightly battles take place in the fortress. Several museums and exhibitions are located within the castle grounds.

The "Egri Képtár" museum is an art gallery showcasing paintings by Austrian, Dutch, and German artists. The "Dobó István War Museum" exhibits the history of the castle. The "Kazamaták" museum includes a system of cellars and tunnels located beneath the castle.

The castle also features a wax museum and an exhibition of antique vases. Visitors can try their hand at minting coins in a reconstructed mint and receive them as souvenirs. Additionally, the castle offers the opportunity to practice archery and visit the cellars for wine tasting.

GPS coordinates: 47.90452415575782, 20.37989446886611 Website: https://www.egrivar.hu

The beautifully scenic Shashvar Castle is located near the town of Mátraház. This castle complex is surrounded by magnificent parkland.

It was built in the second half of the 19th century in a neo-Renaissance style for the aristocratic Károly family and originally served as a country house. In 1998, a renovation was undertaken, transforming Shashvar Castle into a luxurious five-star hotel complex. The hotel has 53 rooms, 5 suites, and 1 apartment.

Guests here receive premium-class services that ensure personalized relaxation. Shashvar Hotel is conveniently located for those planning to visit Eger or the healing thermal spring at Egerszalok, the glass-blowing factory of the Orczi family, or the Ilon Waterfall.

You can also visit the Hollókő Ethnographic Museum and the Carriage Museum, explore the Szépasszony Valley, the Aggtelek stalactite cave, the "Paloz" house-museum, and other attractions.

Address: Shashvar Castle, Parádsasvár, Kossuth Lajos út 1, Hungary. Website: https://khs.hu Entry: paid.

The small town of Sümeg in Hungary is known for its fortress-one of the largest and oldest in the country. It sits atop a high hill ("Castle Hill"), 30 kilometers north of Lake Balaton.

The Šumeg Fortress was founded during the reign of King István in the 11th century. Subsequently, the citadel, which withstood numerous sieges by Mongols and Turks, was demolished by Austrians in the 19th century.

Despite this, many buildings of the fortress have survived to this day, including a 13th-century tower. Throughout the 20th century, several restoration efforts took place, resulting in the fortress being restored.

Today, tourists can see Sümeg Fortress almost in its original form. The fortress hosts theatrical performances on historical themes, and the fortress walls also house a Weapons Museum.

GPS coordinates: 46.9823124209423, 17.282376373159146 Website: https://sumegvar.hu Entry: paid.

Gellért Baths is a bath complex located in Budapest. It is part of the hotel complex of the same name. The building, built in Art Nouveau style, resembles a palace more than a spa, constructed during the hotel's establishment from 1912 to 1918.

The bath complex uses healing waters, the first mentions of which date back to the 13th century. In 2008, the Gellért Baths underwent a major renovation that restored its original appearance.

The most famous part of the complex is the main hall with a gallery and a glass roof. The complex also includes thermal pools adorned with beautiful mosaic tiles, filled with mineral water from hot springs.

There is a pool with artificial waves and a jacuzzi. An inhalatorium and a Finnish sauna with a contrast pool are available. Massages and wellness services are also offered. Guided tours are conducted a few days a week at Gellért Baths.

GPS coordinates: 47.48375162379084, 19.051599632938142 Website: https://www.gellertfurdo.hu Entry: paid.

This national park is named after the village located within its territory. It was established in 1973 and covers an area of over 80 hectares, making it the largest in Hungary. Since 1999, Hortobágy has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Various ethnographic festivals and other events take place annually within the park.

One of the attractions of Hortobágy Park is its unique "bird fund." Here, you might encounter over 340 species of birds, half of whom nest in the protected area.

The park's symbol is the nine-arched bridge built in 1833. The 167-meter-long bridge is not built over a river but over swampy backwaters. Nearby, there is an inn with an ethnographic exhibition. Several museums in the Hortobágy National Park would be interesting for tourists to visit.

GPS coordinates: 47.52253585481658, 21.091589328893136 Website: https://www.hnp.hu Entry: paid.

This is one of Hungary's ten national parks. It covers the area of the not-so-high Bükk mountain range located in the northeastern part of the country. The park got its name from this mountain range.

The park spans 43,000 hectares and was founded in 1977. 94% of Bükk National Park is covered with forests, primarily beech, oak, and hornbeam trees. The word "Bükk" translates from Hungarian as "beech."

In the mountains of Bükk National Park, karst phenomena are pronounced. Here, there are terraced waterfalls and 52 caves, including the deepest cave in Hungary, István-Lapa, at a depth of 250 m. The park also has thermal springs.

The temperature of the water in some of them reaches +28°C. A narrow gauge railway runs through the valley of one of the rivers. Therefore, tourists can travel through the wilderness on a mini-train with open carriages.

GPS coordinates: 48.0556307712346, 20.403790097709273 Website: https://www.bnpi.hu Entry: paid.

30 kilometers from Budapest lies Brunsvik Castle, situated in the beautiful town of Martonvásár. This is one of Hungary's most renowned aristocratic residences. Originally built between 1783 and 1785, both the palace and the estate's temple were constructed in Baroque style. During the 1820s, the castle underwent a reconstruction into Neoclassical style.

Following another renovation between 1872 and 1875, the castle was transformed into a Neo-Gothic venue. The estate is surrounded by a beautiful English landscape park covering 70 hectares.

Brunsvik Castle is linked to the life of Ludwig van Beethoven. The composer was friends with the Brunsvik family and stayed in their home while visiting Hungary. It is believed that it was here that Beethoven composed his famous "Moonlight Sonata."

Today, the first floor of the palace complex houses the Beethoven Museum. Inside the castle, you can see antique pianos, other rare musical instruments, and antique furniture.

GPS coordinates: 47.315819876293084, 18.785327490419338 Website: https://agroverzum.hu Entry: paid.

The Danube flows through Hungary. After the Volga, it ranks second in length and water volume in Europe. The Danube is often called the Royal River, as it passes through several European capitals, including Budapest.

Traveling along the river offers an opportunity to admire architectural monuments and natural sites included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.

There are cruise liners that operate on the Danube. You can take an excursion by train or bus along the river. Bicycling routes and well-established walking paths run for hundreds of kilometers along the Danube's banks.

These routes are interesting for tourists wishing to see the attractions of the Hungarian towns along the Danube and the nature parks.

GPS coordinates: 46.31054790963194, 18.925718973981844

Tisza Lake is an impressive example of human effort. It is the largest reservoir formed on the Tisza River, and the second largest lake in the country, which is part of the Hortobágy National Park.

Covering 127 square meters with a maximum depth of 17 meters, the conditions on the lake's open beaches and water sports areas attract holidaymakers.

Here, you can not only observe the local flora and fauna but also fish (about 50 fish species inhabit the lake), sunbathe on the beaches, swim, paddle boats or canoes, ride water slides, bike, or take walks. Nearby, you'll also find thermal bathing establishments with healing water.

In the artisans' workshops surrounding Tisza Lake, you can learn local crafts-working on a potter's wheel, weaving rugs from rushes, or making products from willow.

GPS coordinates: 47.56225631529094, 20.630638496829985

Grashalkovich Castle is located in the town of Gödöllő, a half-hour drive from Budapest. It is the largest Baroque palace complex not only in the country but in Europe. The area of the palace park covers 29 hectares, while the palace itself occupies 17,000 square meters. The palace-park ensemble in Gödöllő is the second largest after the French Versailles.

The palace buildings of Grashalkovich Castle were erected in the 18th century in the Baroque style. In a pure form, this style has been preserved here, without the addition of any other architectural elements. Due to its stylistic completeness, Grashalkovich Castle served as a model for the construction of many Hungarian castles.

Restorers meticulously restored the interior of the palace to reflect the 18th and 19th centuries. Here, you can see antique furniture, period paintings, and sculptures, which are considered the "calling card" of the castle.

GPS coordinates: 47.59602707084017, 19.347585957879343 Website: https://kiralyikastely.hu Entry: paid.