Hungary is a landlocked country in Central Europe, with Budapest as its capital. The city is divided by the Danube River, and its architecture ranges from medieval castles in Buda to grand neoclassical buildings in Pest. The country’s culture is influenced by Roman and Turkish history, evident in popular thermal spas like Lake Hévíz. The Tihany resort, located on Lake Balaton’s southern shore, and the northern region are known for wine production. Eger, a northern spa town, features Ottoman baths and a medieval castle, while Pécs, in the south, is home to Roman ruins and early Christian sites. Fertőd is known for Esterházy Palace, where composer Joseph Haydn once worked.
Places to visit in Hungary
Buda Castle
Buda Castle is a historic palace complex located in Budapest, Hungary, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was once known as the Royal Palace or Royal Castle. The castle sits on Castle Hill’s southern tip and is surrounded by the Várnegyed area, which is famous for its medieval, Baroque, and Neoclassical architecture. The castle complex includes several museums and offers panoramic views of the city. It has been a center of Hungarian royal history for centuries.
Lake Balaton
Lake Balaton is the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe, located in Hungary’s Transdanubian region. The northern shore is mountainous, rich in history, and a key wine-growing area. The southern shore is flatter and known for its popular resort towns, making it a great destination for vacationers. The lake is often called the “Hungarian Sea” due to its size. It offers a mix of leisure activities, including boating, swimming, and scenic views.
Fisherman’s Bastion
Fisherman’s Bastion is a famous monument in Budapest, Hungary, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its seven picturesque towers that represent the seven Hungarian chieftains from 895. The bastion provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, especially the Danube River and the Parliament Building. The structure is in the Neo-Romanesque style and is a popular spot for photos. It is located in the Buda district, near Matthias Church.
Széchenyi Thermal Bath
Széchenyi Thermal Bath in Budapest is Europe’s largest medicinal bath, supplied by two thermal springs. The water temperatures reach 74 °C and 77 °C, rich in minerals like sulfate, calcium, and magnesium. The bath complex offers both indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and massage treatments. Visitors can also relax while enjoying beverages like beer and wine. Széchenyi is part of Hungary’s long-standing tradition of thermal bathing.
Hungarian Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is a notable landmark in Budapest, housing the National Assembly of Hungary. It is built in the Gothic Revival style with a symmetrical façade and a central dome. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the most iconic buildings in Hungary. Visitors can explore the parliament, which is also home to the Holy Crown of St. Stephen. The building stands along the banks of the Danube River, offering stunning views of the city.
Hősök Tere
Hősök Tere, or Heroes’ Square, is a major square in Budapest, known for its impressive statue complex. The statues represent the seven Hungarian chieftains and important national leaders. At the center is the Memorial Stone of Heroes, often mistaken for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The square is historically significant and has hosted many important events in Hungarian history. It also leads to City Park and various cultural sites.
Matthias Church
Matthias Church, also known as the Church of the Assumption of the Buda Castle, is located in Budapest’s Holy Trinity Square. It was once the coronation site for Hungarian kings and is a prime example of medieval Hungarian architecture. The church houses an Ecclesiastical Art Museum and features beautiful medieval relics, carvings, and replicas of royal coronation jewels. Its colorful roof tiles and striking appearance make it a must-visit landmark in the city.
St. Stephen’s Basilica
St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest is a Neo-Classical Roman Catholic church named after the first King of Hungary. The basilica’s design features a Greek cross layout and two bell towers flanking the façade. Inside, it houses the mummified right hand of St. Stephen, an important religious relic. The basilica is also known for its stunning mosaics and fine arts. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the city from its observation deck.
Gellért Hill
Gellért Hill, rising 235 meters above the Danube River, is one of Budapest’s most famous landmarks. The hill is named after Saint Gerard, who was martyred here. It offers spectacular views of the city, especially the Liberty Bridge and Hotel Gellért. At the foot of the hill is Gellért Baths, known for its thermal pools. The Gellért Hill Cave, a natural cave facing the Danube, is also located here, adding to the hill’s historical significance.
Andrássy Avenue
Andrássy Avenue is a grand boulevard in Budapest, connecting Erzsébet Square with Városliget (City Park). The avenue is lined with stunning Neo-Renaissance buildings, including mansions, embassies, and the Hungarian State Opera House. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its architectural beauty and historical significance. Andrássy Avenue is also a major shopping street, featuring high-end boutiques, cafes, and theaters. It offers a mix of culture, history, and modern urban life.
Top destinations in Hungary
Budapest
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is divided by the Danube River. The 19th-century Chain Bridge links the hilly Buda area with the flat Pest side. A funicular takes visitors up Castle Hill to Buda’s Old Town, where the Budapest History Museum showcases the city’s history from Roman times. Trinity Square is home to Matthias Church, built in the 13th century, and the Fishermen’s Bastion, which offers stunning panoramic views.
Best time to visit Hungary
The best time to visit Hungary is during the spring and summer months. From May to September, the weather is warm and perfect for exploring Budapest and its attractions. July and August are especially popular for enjoying thermal baths at Lake Hévíz. The resorts around Lake Balaton are also busiest during the summer. The pleasant weather makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
