Are you planning a trip to Hungary and wondering how to make the most of your time there? Hungary is a beautiful country in Central Europe that offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of Europe’s most captivating destinations.
Day 1: Exploring Budapest
Morning
- Start your day with a visit to the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building, known for its stunning architecture. Take a guided tour inside to learn about Hungary’s rich history.
- Head over to Fisherman’s Bastion, located in the Castle District. Enjoy panoramic views of Budapest from this unique vantage point and explore the medieval-style towers.
Afternoon
- Cross the famous Chain Bridge and take a leisurely stroll along Andrassy Avenue, lined with elegant buildings and boutiques.
- Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of Budapest’s most important religious sites. Marvel at its grandeur and don’t forget to climb up to the dome for breathtaking views.
Evening
- Explore Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of Europe’s largest thermal bath complexes. Relax in the healing waters or indulge in a spa treatment.
- Experience Hungarian cuisine at a traditional restaurant like Gundel or Karpatia. Savor dishes such as goulash soup, langos (fried dough), and chimney cake.
Budapest offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will captivate you throughout your stay. Make sure to check out our detailed itinerary for more exciting activities during your trip!
Day 2: Discovering the Historic Castle District
After a delightful first day exploring Budapest, it’s time to dive deeper into the city’s rich history. On day two of your Hungary itinerary, you will be immersing yourself in the charm and grandeur of the historic Castle District.
Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Buda Castle: Begin your day with a visit to Buda Castle, perched on top of Castle Hill. This magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views of the city and is home to several noteworthy attractions.
- Matthias Church: One of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks, Matthias Church awaits you within the castle complex. Marvel at its Gothic architecture adorned with vibrant ceramic tiles as you step inside this centuries-old masterpiece.
- Fisherman’s Bastion: Just beside Matthias Church lies Fisherman’s Bastion, an enchanting terrace offering panoramic vistas over the Danube River and the Pest side of Budapest. Explore its seven fairytale-like turrets and enjoy picture-perfect moments.
- Castle Labyrinth: Delve into underground mysteries by visiting the Castle Labyrinth located beneath Buda Castle. This maze-like network consists of caves that hide intriguing historical tales waiting to be discovered.
- Hospital in The Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum: Uncover a hidden chapter from Hungary’s past by venturing into this unique museum situated within a former nuclear bunker system deep under Buda Castle Hill. Learn about life during WWII and Cold War era through captivating exhibits.
- Walking Tour: Take some time to wander along the charming cobblestone streets within the district while soaking up its medieval atmosphere—don’t miss exploring quaint shops, cafes, and galleries along your way!
Remember: Wear comfortable shoes as there might be some uphill walking involved within this hilly district.
Enjoy your second-day uncovering Hungarian history in all its glory!
Day 3: Relaxing in Hungary’s Thermal Baths
Immerse yourself in the healing waters and let go of all your stress at one of Hungary’s renowned thermal spas.
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath: Located in Budapest, Széchenyi is one of Europe’s largest medicinal bath complexes. With its stunning neo-baroque architecture and numerous indoor and outdoor pools, it offers an unforgettable experience. Take a dip in the warm waters, try out various saunas, or enjoy a rejuvenating massage.
- Gellért Thermal Bath: Another gem located in Budapest, Gellért Thermal Bath combines Art Nouveau style with therapeutic treatments. Soak yourself in natural hot springs while admiring beautiful mosaics and sculptures adorning the building’s interior. Don’t miss their steam rooms, plunge pools, or relaxing underwater massages.
- Hévíz Lake: If you’re willing to venture outside Budapest, head towards Hévíz—the world’s second-largest thermal lake situated near Lake Balaton. The lake’s warm mineral-rich water provides soothing relief for both body and mind year-round.
- Rudas Baths: For a traditional Turkish bathing experience mixed with Hungarian culture, visit Rudas Baths in Budapest—a historic bathhouse dating back to the 16th-century Ottoman era that blends old-world charm with modern amenities.
- Dandár Baths: This lesser-known gem offers an authentic local experience away from tourist crowds while still providing all the comforts you need for relaxation.
Remember: Bring swimwear and towels when visiting these thermal baths as they might not be provided onsite (unless specified). Also, check if any pre-booking or reservation requirements exist due to limited capacity or ongoing events.
After a day of pampering and rejuvenation, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to continue exploring the wonders of Hungary.
Day 4: Venturing into the Wine Regions
Hungary is known for its excellent wines and picturesque vineyards that produce a wide variety of grape varietals.
- Eger: Start your day by heading to Eger, one of Hungary’s most famous wine regions. Known for its red and white wines, Eger offers beautiful landscapes dotted with vineyards and charming wineries.
- Valley of the Beautiful Women: Explore the Valley of the Beautiful Women (Szépasszony-völgy), located on the outskirts of Eger. This unique area features around 200 cellars where you can taste local wines directly from producers.
- Wine Tastings: Indulge in a variety of tastings throughout the day, sampling different styles such as Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood) or Egri Csillag (Star of Eger). Don’t forget to try some delicious Hungarian snacks like lángos or töltött káposzta alongside your wine.
- Villány: After enjoying Eger, make your way to Villány, another prominent wine region in Hungary renowned for its full-bodied reds made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes.
- Winery Tours: Take advantage of guided tours offered by local wineries in Villány and learn about their winemaking processes firsthand while exploring stunning vineyards.
- Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Finish off your day with a delightful dinner at one of Villány’s traditional restaurants specializing in pairing exquisite cuisine with exceptional local wines.
- Accommodation Options: If you wish to extend your stay in these enchanting wine regions, there are various accommodation options available, including cozy guesthouses or luxurious wine hotels.
Embark on this wine adventure in Hungary’s Eger and Villány regions to savor the flavors of Hungarian wines while enjoying breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality. Cheers!
Please note: Itineraries may vary based on personal preferences and availability. It is recommended to check for any specific requirements or restrictions before visiting wineries or booking accommodations.
Day 5: Savoring Hungarian Cuisine in Eger
Hungarian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and hearty dishes, and Eger offers a perfect opportunity to indulge in some authentic culinary delights. On day 5 of your Hungary itinerary, take the time to savor the local food scene in this charming town.
Here are some must-try Hungarian dishes that you shouldn’t miss:
- Goulash: Start your culinary adventure with Hungary’s most famous dish – goulash. This flavorful soup made with tender chunks of beef, paprika, onions, and vegetables is a true comfort food.
- Lángos: For a delicious street food experience, try lángos. These deep-fried bread doughs topped with garlic butter or sour cream and grated cheese are simply irresistible.
- Dobos Torte: Indulge your sweet tooth with Dobos Torte, a traditional Hungarian layer cake consisting of multiple layers of sponge cake filled with chocolate buttercream and topped with caramel glaze.
- Chicken Paprikash: Another classic Hungarian dish worth trying is Chicken Paprikash. It features tender chicken cooked in a creamy paprika-infused sauce served over homemade dumplings called nokedli.
- Tokaji Wine: Don’t forget to pair your meal with Tokaji wine – Hungary’s world-renowned dessert wine produced in the nearby Tokaj region. Its complex flavors will perfectly complement your dining experience.
In addition to these mouthwatering dishes, Eger also boasts several cozy restaurants where you can enjoy an unforgettable meal while soaking up the local atmosphere:
| Restaurant | Cuisine |
|---|---|
| Macok Bistro | Modern Hungarian |
| Imola Udvarház | Traditional |
| Csillagvár Étterem | Fine Dining |
Whether you choose to dine in a trendy bistro or opt for a more traditional setting, Eger will undoubtedly satisfy your cravings for authentic Hungarian cuisine.
Day 6: Cruising along the Danube River
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Budapest.
- Make your way to the riverfront and embark on an unforgettable cruise along the majestic Danube River.
- As you sail through the heart of Budapest, marvel at the stunning architecture lining both sides of the river. Admire iconic landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and Chain Bridge from a unique perspective.
- Take in panoramic views of Pest and Buda as you glide under several beautiful bridges that connect these two parts of the city.
- Enjoy onboard amenities such as comfortable seating, refreshments, and informative commentary about Budapest’s history and landmarks.
- Capture memorable photos of this scenic journey or simply relax and soak up the beauty surrounding you.
- Cruise past Margaret Island, a tranquil oasis in the middle of the Danube River known for its lush gardens and recreational facilities. Marvel at its magnificent musical fountain before continuing your voyage.
- Indulge in a delightful lunch served onboard while enjoying uninterrupted vistas of Budapest’s skyline passing by.
- After disembarking from your cruise, take some time to explore Margaret Island on foot. Rent bikes or electric carts to discover hidden gems like medieval ruins, Japanese gardens, or thermal baths if time permits.
| Highlights |
|---|
| – Sail along iconic landmarks including Hungarian Parliament Building |
| – Enjoy panoramic views of Pest and Buda |
| – Pass under beautiful bridges connecting both parts of Budapest |
| – Discover Margaret Island’s attractions |
Immerse yourself in this relaxing experience on Day 6 as you uncover more treasures Hungary has to offer during your 10-day itinerary.
Day 7: Unwinding at Lake Balaton
Lake Balaton, also known as the “Hungarian Sea,” is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. This picturesque lake offers a relaxing setting where you can unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Hungary.
- Morning: Start your day by taking a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Balaton. Breathe in the fresh air and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a bicycle and exploring some of the scenic cycling routes around the lake.
- Afternoon: After working up an appetite, head to one of the many lakeside restaurants or cafes for a delicious lunch with panoramic views. Indulge in local specialties such as fisherman’s soup (halászlé) or langos (deep-fried dough topped with various savory ingredients).
- Relaxation Time: Spend your afternoon lounging on one of Lake Balaton’s beautiful beaches. Whether you prefer sandy stretches or grassy areas, there are plenty of options to choose from along its 197-kilometer shoreline.
- Water Activities: Cool off from the summer heat by engaging in various water activities available at Lake Balaton, such as swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for beginners to try their hand at these sports.
- Sailing Excursion: Consider joining a sailing excursion to explore more secluded parts of Lake Balaton while enjoying gentle breezes and breathtaking scenery.
- Sunset Delight: As evening approaches, find yourself a cozy spot along the shore to witness a spectacular sunset over Lake Balaton – an experience not to be missed!
Remember: Lake Balaton has several charming towns located around its shores; if time allows, venture out to places like Siofok or Balatonfured for a taste of the local culture and nightlife.
With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views, Day 7 at Lake Balaton will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated before continuing your Hungarian adventure.
Tips
Here are 5 tips for traveling in Hungary:
- Get familiar with some basic Hungarian phrases before you go. It’s always a good idea to learn a few key phrases like “hello” and “thank you” to help you get around and make a good impression on the locals.
- Try some traditional Hungarian food. Hungary is known for its hearty and flavorful cuisine, so make sure to try some goulash, chimney cake, and other local delicacies while you’re there.
- Take a dip in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths. Budapest is home to a number of beautiful and relaxing thermal baths, which are a great way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
- Explore some of Hungary’s historic castles and palaces. Hungary has a rich history, and there are plenty of impressive castles and palaces to explore throughout the country.
- Be prepared for the weather. Hungary can experience some extreme weather conditions, so make sure to pack accordingly. In the summer, temperatures can soar, while in the winter, it can get quite cold. Check the forecast before you go and bring appropriate clothing and accessories, like sunscreen, hats, and gloves.