10 Places to visit in Hungary (my personal picks)

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Hollókő

(pronounced: HOL-oh-kuh)

Hollókő felt like stepping into a version of Hungary that has been carefully preserved without losing its sense of everyday life. 

I loved the whitewashed houses, wooden verandahs, and quiet village streets, but visiting at Easter made the experience even more memorable.

My partner and I arrived while the celebrations were in full swing, and the whole village seemed to come alive with music, embroidered costumes, traditional crafts, and families gathering in the streets. 

One of my favourite moments was watching the Easter sprinkling tradition, where men playfully sprinkle women with water or perfume. It was lively, slightly chaotic, and completely unlike anything I had experienced anywhere.

Between the celebrations, I wandered through embroidery workshops and climbed to the castle ruins above the village. From the walls, I could look down across the rooftops and surrounding forested hills, which made the town feel even more removed from modern life.

Hollókő is small, but the combination of architecture, tradition, and community gives it far more character than its size suggests.

How Hollókő fits into your Hungary itinerary

Hollókő makes a rewarding day trip from Budapest and works especially well for travelers who want to experience Hungarian culture beyond the capital.

A half day is enough to explore the village and castle, although Easter celebrations can easily fill an entire day.

Hortobágy

(pronounced: HOR-toh-bahj)

Hortobágy is unlike anywhere else I visited in Hungary. After driving through rolling hills and historic towns, suddenly the landscape opened up into an endless horizon where the sky seemed to stretch forever. 

It felt wild, peaceful, and completely different from what I expected Hungary to look like.

One of the highlights of my visit was watching the famous csikós horsemen perform the incredible Puszta Five. 

Seeing someone standing on the backs of five galloping horses is one of those moments you almost can't believe is real until you're watching it with your own eyes. It's an amazing display of horsemanship and a tradition that's been passed down for generations.

I also spent time exploring the national park, spotting Hungarian grey cattle and the distinctive spiral-horned Racka sheep grazing across the plains. 

The landscape may appear simple at first glance, but the longer I spent there, the more I appreciated its quiet beauty. If you visit in autumn, you'll also have the chance to witness hundreds of thousands of migrating cranes filling the sky, one of Europe's most impressive wildlife spectacles.

Hortobágy gave me a completely different perspective on Hungary and reminded me just how diverse this country really is.

How Hortobágy fits into your Hungary itinerary

Hortobágy is an easy day trip from Debrecen and pairs well with eastern Hungary or a visit to Tokaj.

If you're looking to experience a completely different side of the country beyond its cities and castles, I think it's well worth adding to your itinerary.

Visegrád

(pronounced: VEE-sheh-grahd)

Visegrád gave me one of my favourite views in all of Hungary. Standing on the citadel walls and looking out across the Danube Bend, I could see the river making its dramatic turn through the forested hills, with tiny villages scattered along the shoreline below. It's the kind of view that makes you stop talking for a few minutes and simply take it all in.

One of the things I enjoyed most was arriving by boat from Budapest. Cruising up the Danube before climbing to the fortress made the whole day feel like an adventure rather than just another sightseeing stop. 

After exploring the citadel, I wandered through the Royal Palace ruins, imagining what this medieval royal residence must have looked like at its height before settling into a café for lunch in the village below.

The combination of history, scenery, and a relaxed riverside atmosphere made Visegrád one of my favourite day trips from Budapest. 

If you visit in autumn, the surrounding hills become a patchwork of red, orange, and gold, making an already spectacular view even more memorable.

How Visegrád fits into your Hungary itinerary

Visegrád is one of the best day trips from Budapest and pairs perfectly with nearby Szentendre or Esztergom if you have a car.

I recommend setting aside a full day so you can enjoy both the boat ride and plenty of time exploring the fortress and village.

Tokaj

(pronounced: TOH-kai)

Tokaj completely changed the way I think about dessert wine. Before visiting, I'd heard of Tokaji Aszú, but I didn't fully appreciate why it's considered one of the world's great wines until I tasted it where it's made.

One of my favourite memories was sitting in a small underground wine cellar, tasting a five-puttonyos Tokaji Aszú by candlelight while learning about the unique conditions that make this wine possible. 

The sweetness was beautifully balanced with fresh acidity, and every sip seemed to tell the story of the volcanic soils, the surrounding rivers, and the centuries of winemaking tradition that have made Tokaj famous.

I also loved exploring the historic wine cellars beneath the town. Walking through the cool tunnels, with rows of barrels disappearing into the darkness and the walls covered in the distinctive cellar mould that thrives in Tokaj's humid conditions, felt like stepping into another world. 

It was one of the most atmospheric wine experiences I've had anywhere in Europe.

Beyond the wine, Tokaj itself is a charming little town that's easy to explore on foot, with peaceful streets and beautiful views where the Bodrog and Tisza Rivers meet.

How Tokaj fits into your Hungary itinerary

Tokaj pairs perfectly with Hortobágy and eastern Hungary, and I'd recommend spending at least one night here so you can fully enjoy the wine tastings without feeling rushed.

Sopron

(pronounced: SHOP-ron)

Sopron quickly became one of my favourite smaller cities in Hungary. 

Sitting right on the Austrian border, it has a unique atmosphere where Hungarian traditions blend seamlessly with beautiful Central European architecture. 

Walking through the medieval Old Town felt like stepping back several centuries, with colourful Baroque buildings, narrow streets, and the iconic Fire Tower watching over the main square.

One of the highlights of my visit was climbing the Fire Tower for panoramic views across the rooftops and toward Austria. From the top, it was easy to appreciate how important Sopron has been throughout history as a crossroads between cultures.

I also made time to visit the magnificent Esterházy Palace at nearby Fertőd. Often called the "Hungarian Versailles," the palace is every bit as grand as its nickname suggests. 

Wandering through its lavish rooms and beautifully landscaped gardens gave me a real appreciation for the wealth and influence of the Esterházy family, and learning that composer Joseph Haydn spent nearly 30 years working here made the visit even more interesting.

Of course, no trip to Sopron would be complete without sampling the local wines. I particularly enjoyed trying Kékfrankos, a rich red wine that thrives in the vineyards surrounding the city and reflects the region's close connection to neighboring Austria.

How Sopron fits into your Hungary itinerary

Sopron fits perfectly into a western Hungary itinerary and combines well with nearby Lake Fertő or a visit to Vienna.

I recommend spending two nights here so you have time to enjoy both the historic city centre and the surrounding wine country without feeling rushed.

Pécs

(pronounced: PAYCH)

Pécs is one of the most fascinating cities I visited in Hungary because it tells the story of so many different civilizations in one place. Roman, Ottoman, and Hungarian influences all come together here, and you can see those layers almost everywhere you walk.

The building that stood out to me most was the Mosque Church of Pasha Gazi Kassim in the main square. I've never visited another place quite like it. 

Walking inside, I found myself looking at a Catholic church that still clearly retained the shape and architectural details of the Ottoman mosque it once was. It's a remarkable reminder of Hungary's complex history and one of the most unique buildings I've explored anywhere in Central Europe.

I also enjoyed wandering through the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, where the city's famous ceramics are still celebrated today. Seeing the colorful tiles that decorate so many Hungarian buildings while learning about the craftsmanship behind them gave me a new appreciation for an art form I'd previously taken for granted.

Another highlight was descending into the Early Christian Necropolis beneath the city streets. 

Walking through these nearly 1,700-year-old burial chambers, with their remarkably preserved painted walls, was an unforgettable experience and a fascinating contrast to the lively cafés and squares above ground.

How Pécs fits into your Hungary itinerary

Pécs is an excellent addition to a southern Hungary itinerary and pairs well with Villány or the surrounding wine region.

Eger

(pronounced: EH-gehr)

Eger ended up being one of my favourite smaller cities in Hungary because it combines so many of the things I love about travel in one compact destination. Within a short walk, I found medieval history, Ottoman architecture, excellent local wine, and one of the friendliest atmospheres anywhere in the country.

One of the first things I did was climb the city's Ottoman minaret. The spiral staircase inside is incredibly narrow and a little nerve-racking in places, but the panoramic views across Eger were well worth the climb. 

It's amazing to think that this tower has stood here for centuries, surrounded today by elegant Baroque buildings that tell the story of the city's changing history.

That evening, I headed to the Valley of Beautiful Women, where dozens of wine cellars are carved directly into the volcanic hillside. 

Wandering from cellar to cellar, sampling Egri Bikavér, or Bull's Blood wine, and chatting with local winemakers was one of the most enjoyable evenings I had in Hungary. The atmosphere was relaxed, welcoming, and refreshingly unpretentious.

Combined with Eger Castle and its fascinating story of the city's famous 1552 siege, Eger offers a wonderful mix of history, culture, and local food and wine that makes it easy to recommend.

How Eger fits into your Hungary itinerary

Eger pairs perfectly with Budapest, Tokaj, and Hortobágy if you're exploring northern and eastern Hungary.

I recommend spending two nights here so you have time to enjoy both the city's rich history and its outstanding wine culture without feeling rushed.

Lake Balaton & Tihany

(pronounced: BAH-lah-ton, TEE-hahn)

Lake Balaton completely won me over. I knew it was Hungary's largest lake, but I didn't expect it to have such a vibrant atmosphere or become one of my favourite places in the country. 

What I planned as a short visit quickly turned into four days of swimming, exploring lakeside villages, enjoying great food and wine, and wondering why more international travelers don't come here.

I based myself on the northern shore, which I think offers the perfect balance of beautiful scenery and excellent wineries. 

Tihany was an easy highlight. Walking through its charming streets before reaching the abbey overlooking the lake was unforgettable, and seeing the famous lavender fields in bloom made the whole peninsula feel even more special. I could have happily spent hours simply sitting on a bench overlooking the water.

Another afternoon was spent in Badacsony, where I enjoyed a glass of the local Olaszrizling while looking across the lake from a vineyard terrace. It was one of those simple travel moments that sticks with you long after you've returned home. 

Between the volcanic hills, the vineyards, and the endless views across the water, it's easy to understand why Hungarians return here every summer.

Lake Balaton isn't just somewhere to visit. It's somewhere to slow down and enjoy.

How Lake Balaton & Tihany fit into your Hungary itinerary

Lake Balaton is an excellent addition to any first-time Hungary itinerary and pairs naturally with Budapest, Pécs, or Sopron.

I'd recommend spending at least three nights here so you have time to experience the beaches, vineyards, charming villages, and relaxed pace that make the region so special.

Győr

(pronounced: DYUR)

Győr taught me a valuable lesson: sometimes the places you almost skip end up becoming some of your favourites.

I actually drove through the city twice on previous trips between Vienna and Budapest without stopping. 

On my third visit, I finally decided to pull off the motorway, and within a few minutes of walking into the Old Town, I was wondering why I'd waited so long. The beautifully preserved Baroque buildings, lively café terraces, and peaceful riverside setting made Győr feel far more charming than I'd expected.

One of my favourite parts of the visit was simply wandering through Széchenyi Square without any real plan. The architecture is remarkably well preserved, and because the city receives far fewer international tourists than Budapest, it felt much more relaxed. It was one of those places where I found myself slowing down, grabbing a coffee, and enjoying the atmosphere instead of rushing between attractions.

I also made the short trip to nearby Pannonhalma Archabbey, which turned out to be another highlight. 

Standing inside a monastery that has been continuously occupied by Benedictine monks for more than a thousand years was an incredible experience, and sampling the wines produced on the estate made the visit even more memorable.

Győr may not receive the attention of Hungary's bigger destinations, but it's exactly the kind of place I love discovering.

How Győr fits into your Hungary itinerary

Győr fits perfectly into an itinerary between Budapest and Vienna and also pairs well with Sopron.

I recommend spending one night here if your schedule allows, giving you enough time to explore the Old Town and visit nearby Pannonhalma Archabbey without feeling rushed.

Budapest

(pronounced: BOO-dah-pesht)

Budapest is one of those cities that somehow manages to be elegant by day and wildly fun by night. 

I've visited more than once, and every trip leaves me wanting to come back because there always seems to be another neighbourhood, café, or viewpoint waiting to be discovered.

One of my favourite memories was spending an evening exploring the famous ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter. 

From the outside, many of them look abandoned, but once you step through the door, you're greeted by sprawling courtyards, quirky decorations, live music, and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else I've experienced in Europe. It felt creative, energetic, and completely unique to Budapest.

The next morning couldn't have been more different. I watched the sun rise over the city from Fisherman's Bastion before the crowds arrived, with Parliament glowing across the Danube in the early light. 

Later that day, I soaked in the warm outdoor pools at Széchenyi Thermal Bath, watching locals play chess in steaming mineral water while the grand Neo-Baroque buildings surrounded us. It was one of those travel experiences I'll never forget.

Budapest has an incredible ability to blend history, culture, relaxation, and nightlife into one unforgettable destination. 

One moment you're touring one of Europe's grandest parliament buildings, and the next you're enjoying dinner beside the Danube before ending the evening in a centuries-old ruin transformed into one of the world's most interesting bars.

How Budapest fits into your Hungary itinerary

Budapest is the perfect place to begin or end your Hungary adventure and deserves at least four days.

It also makes an excellent base for day trips to Visegrád, Eger, and Hollókő, allowing you to experience some of Hungary's best historic towns and landscapes before returning to the capital each evening.

Hungary offers far more than most travelers expect. From Budapest's grand architecture and thermal baths to medieval towns, peaceful wine regions, and lakeside villages, every part of the country has its own personality.

Here is the route I'd personally recommend for a first visit.

Hungary Itinerary: 7 days

Why this route? This Hungary itinerary combines Budapest's famous landmarks with medieval castles, historic wine regions, charming small towns, and the relaxed atmosphere of Lake Balaton, offering a wonderful introduction to the country's history, food, and landscapes.

*Renting a car after Budapest provides the greatest flexibility for visiting Eger, Tokaj, and Lake Balaton. If you prefer not to drive, much of this itinerary can also be completed by train with a few organized day tours.

Why everyone should visit Hungary at least once

Hungary is one of Europe's most underrated destinations. 

While many travelers visit Budapest for a few days and move on, they're only scratching the surface of what the country has to offer.

I found medieval castle towns, world-famous wine regions, peaceful lakeside villages, fascinating Ottoman and Roman history, unique thermal baths, and landscapes that looked completely different from one region to the next. 

Whether I was exploring the vineyards of Tokaj, relaxing beside Lake Balaton, wandering the historic streets of Eger, or enjoying Budapest's incredible nightlife, every stop felt like a different side of the same country.

If it's your first visit, don't feel like you have to see everything at once. Hungary is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Spend time beyond the capital, explore a few smaller towns, and leave room for unexpected discoveries. I think you'll leave wondering why it took you so long to visit in the first place.

FAQs about visiting Hungary

Ready to explore Hungary? Optimise Travel is here to help

Hungary may be best known for Budapest, but there's so much more to discover beyond the capital.

From the thermal baths and grand architecture of Budapest to the vineyards of Tokaj, the shores of Lake Balaton, the historic streets of Eger, and the charming villages and castles scattered across the countryside, every region offers a completely different experience.

At Optimise Travel, we create personalized travel itineraries based on your interests, travel style, and budget. Whether you're dreaming of relaxing in thermal baths, exploring medieval towns, tasting your way through Hungary's renowned wine regions, discovering hidden gems beyond Budapest, or experiencing the country's fascinating history and culture, we'll help you build an itinerary that makes the most of your time.

If you'd like help planning your trip to Hungary, click here to learn more about our concierge travel services.