12 Most Beautiful Places in Hungary to Visit (Updated 2025)

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Budapest gets all the attention, but trust me, Hungary is full of surprises. From colorful towns and rolling wine regions to stunning lakes and thermal pools, this country has become one of my favorite destinations in Europe. Each place feels like discovering something special!

From the incredible Parliament Building on the Danube to the peaceful shores of Lake Balaton, these are the most beautiful places to visit in Hungary that captured my heart. Here are my 12 favorite spots that show why this country deserves more love!

👉 Find Your Perfect Hungary Accommodation
👉 My Favorite Tour in Hungary

#1 tip to save money on your trip to Hungary

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Hungarian adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Budapest for just $350 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save by buying meals or ingredients from supermarkets like Lidl, Aldi, and Spar. Local markets like the Great Market Hall offer fresh produce and traditional foods at great prices. You’ll find ready-to-eat meals, sandwiches, and traditional pastries for under 1500 HUF ($4). Lunch menus (menü) at restaurants are also fantastic value.
• Transport: I recommend getting a Budapest Card if you’re staying in the capital. It covers all public transport and gives you free entry to many museums. For intercity travel, book MÁV trains in advance through their website – I’ve found discounts of up to 50% this way.

Hungary is one of Central Europe’s most budget-friendly countries. With these money-saving strategies, you can explore this fascinating country at an even better value. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Hungary:

1. Aggtelek National Park

• 📍 Location: Northern Hungary, near the Slovakian border
• 🏆 Best For: 🌌 Cave explorers, 🌿 hikers, 📷 nature photographers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Baradla Cave, hiking the Red Trail, spotting rare bird species
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for mild hiking weather and cave access 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Rózsa Apartman Aggtelek – Apartment with hot tub access

Aggtelek National Park is Hungary’s premier destination for cave adventures and geological wonders. The park’s limestone terrain holds more than 200 caves, including the massive Baradla Cave, which stretches over 15 miles. Guided tours take you through illuminated chambers filled with striking rock formations and underground rivers.

Above ground, there’s plenty to do for hikers and wildlife watchers. The Red Trail connects scenic points through forests and hills, while open meadows attract rare birds like black storks and eagles. The park feels wild in the best way, offering both quiet solitude and rugged landscapes.

This area is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shared with Slovakia’s Domica Cave. It’s ideal for travelers who like to mix science, nature, and a bit of offbeat adventure. Local guesthouses and eco-lodges give you easy access to trails and early-morning starts.

2. Baradla Cave

• 📍 Location: Aggtelek, Northern Hungary
• 🏆 Best For: 🪨 Geology fans, 🧭 adventurers, 🌍 UNESCO site collectors
• 📸 Top Experiences: Guided tours through illuminated chambers, visiting the Domica Cave connection, hearing live music in the concert hall
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for full access to extended cave routes 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Szakál Vendégház – Charming guesthouse near the cave entrance with peaceful gardens and mountain views

Baradla Cave is the crown jewel of Aggtelek’s underground world. This massive stalactite cave system stretches for over 15 miles and even crosses into Slovakia. It’s part of a shared UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers some of Europe’s most dramatic cave scenery.

Guided tours lead you through different sections depending on how much time you have. The short route near Aggtelek shows off towering rock formations and echoing chambers, while the longer trek from Jósvafő includes the international connection to Domica Cave. Some areas even host acoustic concerts deep underground.

The air inside stays cool year-round, so bring a light jacket even in summer. Tour options range from one hour to full-day excursions, and most include helpful info about the cave’s history, geology, and legends. It’s an easy highlight if you’re already exploring northern Hungary.

3. Budapest

• 📍 Location: Central Hungary
• 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ History lovers, 🛁 spa seekers, 🌉 city explorers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Soaking in Széchenyi Baths, walking across Chain Bridge, exploring Buda Castle
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June or September to October for pleasant city weather 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Prestige Hotel Budapest – Stylish central hotel close to the Danube with elegant interiors

Budapest delivers big on contrasts and charm. The city is split by the Danube River into Buda and Pest, giving you two distinct personalities to explore in one trip. Buda’s hilly side has historic castles and panoramic views, while Pest offers grand boulevards, cafés, and buzzing nightlife.

One of the city’s signature experiences is visiting its thermal baths. Széchenyi and Gellért are the most famous, with indoor and outdoor pools fed by natural hot springs. You can also take a sunset cruise along the river to see landmarks like Parliament lit up at night.

The city is walkable but has a strong tram and metro network. Be sure to explore beyond the tourist spots—neighborhoods like the Jewish Quarter and Újlipótváros offer great street food, murals, and local flavor. Budapest mixes culture and relaxation better than most capital cities.

4. Castle Visegrád in the Danube Bend

• 📍 Location: Visegrád, Pest County
• 🏆 Best For: 🏰 History lovers, 📸 photographers, 🚶‍♀️ scenic walkers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the Citadel, hiking to panoramic viewpoints, visiting the Royal Palace ruins
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for clear skies and river views 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Honti – Comfortable hillside hotel with spa facilities and views over the Danube Valley

Castle Visegrád stands high above the Danube Bend, offering one of the most iconic views in all of Hungary. This medieval fortress once housed royalty and now gives visitors an unforgettable vantage point over the river and forested hills below.

The hike up is part of the experience, but there’s also a road if you prefer a ride to the top. Inside the citadel, you’ll find historical displays, old stone walls, and wide-open lookouts perfect for photos. Nearby, the ruins of the Royal Palace show off early Renaissance architecture and give more insight into Hungary’s royal past.

After exploring the castle, wander through the charming town of Visegrád. There are riverside cafés, small museums, and scenic walking trails that loop around the hills. The Danube Bend is great for a day trip or weekend escape, especially if you enjoy pairing history with nature.

5. Debrecen

• 📍 Location: Hajdú-Bihar County, Eastern Hungary
• 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ Culture lovers, 🌳 park goers, 🎶 festival seekers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Reformed Great Church, relaxing in Nagyerdő Park, attending the Flower Carnival
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: August for festivals or spring for fewer crowds and blooming parks 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Centrum Hotel – Central hotel steps from Kossuth Square with modern rooms and city views

Debrecen is Hungary’s second-largest city, but it has a much more relaxed vibe compared to Budapest. Known for its deep Protestant roots, it’s home to the Reformed Great Church, a bright yellow landmark that dominates the main square.

Nagyerdő Park is a green space that locals love. It’s ideal for walks, cycling, or visiting the city’s thermal baths. The park also includes the city’s zoo and botanical garden, making it a good place to spend a full afternoon without needing to rush.

In August, Debrecen hosts the Flower Carnival, one of the city’s biggest events. Colorful floats, concerts, and parades take over the city and bring a festive feel to its streets. The city also has plenty of cafés and student energy, thanks to the University of Debrecen’s large population. It’s a good base for exploring Hungary’s eastern plains.

6. Eger

• 📍 Location: Heves County, Northern Hungary
• 🏆 Best For: 🏰 Castle fans, 🍷 wine lovers, 🛁 spa seekers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Eger Castle, wine tasting in the Valley of the Beautiful Women, soaking in Turkish baths
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for warm weather and open cellars 🌿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Senator-Ház Eger – Historic hotel right on Dobó Square with elegant rooms and courtyard dining

Eger blends medieval charm with rich wine traditions and steamy thermal baths. At the heart of the town stands Eger Castle, which offers panoramic views and a glimpse into battles from Hungary’s past. The town center is full of baroque buildings and pedestrian streets perfect for wandering.

A big part of Eger’s identity comes from its wine. Just outside the center is the Valley of the Beautiful Women, where you can hop between cozy wine cellars built into the hillside. Bull’s Blood red wine is the local specialty, and most tastings are affordable and low-key.

After castle climbs and wine sips, relax in one of Eger’s Turkish-style bathhouses. They’re less crowded than those in Budapest and offer a peaceful way to recharge. With so many experiences packed into a walkable area, Eger makes for a well-rounded and memorable stop.

7. Esztergom

• 📍 Location: Komárom-Esztergom County, Northern Hungary
• 🏆 Best For: ⛪ Architecture lovers, 🇭🇺 history buffs, 🚣‍♂️ Danube explorers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Esztergom Basilica, crossing the Maria Valeria Bridge, cruising the Danube
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for sightseeing and boat trips 🚤
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Bellevue – Peaceful hotel with river views and easy access to the city center

Esztergom is one of Hungary’s oldest cities and the former royal capital. Its skyline is dominated by the Esztergom Basilica, the largest church in the country. The basilica sits on a hill and offers sweeping views over the Danube River and the town below.

Inside the church, visitors can climb to the dome or admire the massive altarpiece and underground crypts. Right next door, the Christian Museum holds a strong collection of medieval and Renaissance art. The atmosphere is calm, yet full of stories that shaped Hungary’s history.

You can also walk across the Maria Valeria Bridge into Slovakia for a quick border-crossing adventure. River cruises depart from the banks, or you can enjoy a meal with a view at one of the nearby terraces. Esztergom is ideal for a relaxing yet enriching day trip.

8. Hollókő

• 📍 Location: Nógrád County, Northern Hungary
• 🏆 Best For: 🏡 Folk culture fans, 🎭 festival goers, 📷 heritage photographers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the preserved village, watching folk performances, hiking to Hollókő Castle
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring, especially Easter, for traditional celebrations 🐣
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Castellum Hotel Hollókő – Modern wellness hotel with views of the historic village and nearby hills

Hollókő feels like stepping into a living museum. This UNESCO World Heritage village preserves traditional Palóc architecture, with whitewashed houses, wooden porches, and cobbled streets that date back centuries. Locals still wear traditional dress during special occasions, adding to the storybook vibe.

During holidays like Easter, the village comes alive with folk music, dancing, fantastic food, and playful traditions like the “sprinkling” of women with water. It’s a great time to try local food, see handmade crafts, and experience Hungary’s rural customs firsthand.

The surrounding hills have easy trails that lead to the ruins of Hollókő Castle. From the top, you’ll get a sweeping view of the valley and village below. It’s a quick escape from Budapest and a chance to see a slower pace of life that still thrives.

9. Keszthely

• 📍 Location: Western shore of Lake Balaton, Zala County
• 🏆 Best For: 🏖️ Lake vacationers, 🏰 palace lovers, 🧠 museum fans
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Festetics Palace, relaxing at the lakeside promenade, visiting the Balaton Museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for warm lake days and outdoor events 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kristály Hotel – Centrally located hotel with spa services and easy access to Lake Balaton

Keszthely is a laid-back lakeside town packed with culture and summer fun. It sits on the western edge of Lake Balaton, making it a top spot for swimming, paddleboarding, or just lounging along the promenade.

One of the town’s highlights is Festetics Palace, a grand baroque building with manicured gardens and an impressive library. Inside, you’ll find restored rooms and exhibitions about aristocratic life and the town’s rich history. The Balaton Museum nearby dives into the lake’s natural and cultural history.

The vibe in Keszthely is relaxed but never dull. There are cafés with lake views, summer concerts, and local markets selling lavender goods and regional wines. You can also rent a bike and ride along the shoreline toward nearby towns or even take a ferry to explore more of the Balaton region.

10. Lake Balaton

• 📍 Location: Western Hungary
• 🏆 Best For: 🌊 Swimmers, 🚲 cyclists, 🍷 wine lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Sunbathing at Siófok, exploring Tihany Peninsula, wine tasting in Badacsony
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for sunny beach weather and lake activities 🏖️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Mala Garden Design Hotel – Stylish lakeside hotel with spa and Thai-inspired décor in Siófok

Lake Balaton is Central Europe’s largest freshwater lake and one of Hungary’s most loved summer destinations. Its long shoreline offers a mix of beach towns, wine hills, and family-friendly resorts. The vibe shifts depending on which side you visit.

Siófok, on the southern shore, is known for its nightlife and lively beaches. On the north side, towns like Tihany and Balatonfüred lean quieter and more scenic, perfect for cycling or lakeside strolls. Ferries run between towns, so it’s easy to hop around without needing a car.

Beyond swimming and boating, Balaton is a great place to explore Hungary’s wine culture. The volcanic hills of Badacsony produce rich whites, and many wineries have tasting rooms with panoramic views. You can enjoy the lake during the day and sip local wine as the sun sets over the water.

11. Pécs

• 📍 Location: Baranya County, Southern Hungary
• 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ Art lovers, 🏺 history buffs, 🧘‍♂️ relaxed travelers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the Pécs Cathedral, seeing Roman ruins, visiting the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June or September for ideal city exploring weather 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Corso Hotel Pécs – Contemporary hotel close to major sights and museums

Pécs is a creative and cultural hub tucked into southern Hungary. With roots stretching back to Roman times, the city blends history, art, and Mediterranean flair. Its narrow streets, pastel buildings, and open squares give it a warm, welcoming vibe.

The Pécs Cathedral stands tall on the edge of the old town, and nearby you’ll find early Christian tombs and medieval walls. The city’s past also includes Ottoman influences, with the Mosque of Pasha Qasim now serving as a unique church in the town square.

Don’t miss the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, which highlights Hungary’s famous ceramics and design traditions. It’s also a center for concerts, art galleries, and cafés. Pécs is walkable and less touristy than larger cities, making it a perfect place to slow down and explore at your own pace.

12. Szeged

• 📍 Location: Csongrád-Csanád County, Southern Hungary
• 🏆 Best For: 🌇 City lovers, 🎭 festival goers, 🍲 foodies
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Dóm Square, relaxing in Anna Thermal Baths, eating fish soup at local markets
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for festivals and sunny afternoons ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Art Hotel Szeged – Modern hotel next to the cathedral with bright rooms and an on-site bistro

Szeged is one of Hungary’s sunniest cities and feels full of life, especially in the warmer months. It’s known for its bold architecture, welcoming energy, and long tradition of open-air festivals that fill Dóm Square with performances and art. The city’s layout is flat and walkable, making it easy to explore at a relaxed pace.

The twin-spired Votive Church is the city’s most famous landmark, surrounded by stately buildings and leafy promenades. Inside the square, events range from classical music concerts to modern theater shows. You’ll also find murals, fountains, and cafés that invite you to linger.

Szeged’s food scene stands out too. The local halászlé, a spicy fish soup, is a must-try at the central market or riverside restaurants. With a large student population, the city has a youthful vibe alongside its deep cultural roots. It’s lively without feeling hectic, perfect for a short getaway or longer stay.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Hungary

Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic spots in Hungary? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best Hungary attractions and activities.

What is the most beautiful city in Hungary?

Hungary boasts several stunning cities, each with its unique charm. Budapest, the capital, is often considered the most beautiful due to its rich history, architectural marvels, and the picturesque Danube River that bisects it. However, cities like Pécs, Eger, and Szeged also offer incredible beauty and cultural richness, making them top contenders as well.

Is Hungary worth seeing?

Absolutely! Hungary, with its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, is definitely worth seeing. Here are some reasons why:

1. Budapest: Often referred to as the “Paris of the East,” the Hungarian capital is renowned for its beautiful architecture, historic thermal baths, and the Danube River that splits the city into Buda and Pest. The city’s nightlife, with its famous “ruin bars,” is also a major attraction.
2. Historical Significance: Hungary boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Buda Castle, Hortobágy National Park, and the early Christian Necropolis of Pécs.
3. Thermal Baths: Hungary is famous for its thermal springs. The Széchenyi and Gellért Baths in Budapest are among the most famous, but there are many others throughout the country.
4. Wine Regions: Hungary has 22 wine regions, producing a variety of wines, including the world-famous Tokaji.
5. Festivals: Hungary hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the Budapest International Documentary Festival and the Szeged Open Air Festival.
6. Cuisine: Hungarian cuisine is flavorful and hearty, with dishes like goulash, chimney cake, and pörkölt being popular among locals and tourists alike.
7. Natural Beauty: Beyond its cities, Hungary offers beautiful landscapes, including the Balaton Lake – Central Europe’s largest freshwater lake – and the Hortobágy National Park, known for its traditional pastoral use and as the home of the Hungarian Grey cattle.

What is Hungary most famous for?

Hungary is renowned for a variety of things. It’s famous for its thermal baths, unique cuisine (especially dishes like goulash and chimney cake), world-class wines, and the vibrant festivals like the Budapest Wine Festival. Additionally, Hungary has a rich history, evident in its castles, palaces, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Where are Hungary’s beautiful places located?

Hungary’s beauty spreads throughout the country. From the bustling streets of Budapest to the serene landscapes of Lake Balaton and the enchanting caves of Aggtelek National Park, there’s beauty at every turn. The Danube Bend, the vineyards of Eger, and the historic sites of Pécs are also must-visit spots.

What are the best places to visit in Hungary during summer?

Lake Balaton is a top summer destination, offering water sports and beach relaxation. The festivals in cities like Budapest and Szeged also draw crowds, celebrating music, art, and culture.

How is the traditional cuisine in Hungary?

Hungarian cuisine is hearty and flavorful. It’s known for dishes like goulash, pörkölt, and chimney cake. Paprika is a staple spice, and you’ll find it in many dishes. Hungary also has a rich tradition of winemaking, with regions like Tokaj and Eger producing world-renowned wines.

Are there any unique traditions or festivals in Hungary?

Hungary is home to numerous festivals and traditions. The Budapest Wine Festival, Busójárás in Mohács, and the Szeged Open Air Festival are just a few examples. These events showcase Hungary’s rich cultural heritage, music, dance, and culinary delights.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Hungary

Hungary, with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, beckons travelers from all corners of the globe. From the bustling streets of Budapest to the serene landscapes of Lake Balaton and the enchanting caves of Aggtelek National Park, there’s a myriad of experiences waiting to be discovered.

Each city, town, and village tells a story, offering a unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day vibrancy. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, Hungary promises an adventure that’s both enriching and unforgettable.

As you plan your journey to this Central European gem, remember that the true essence of Hungary lies not just in its beautiful places but also in the warmth of its people and the richness of its traditions. So, pack your bags, set your spirit of adventure free, and embark on a journey to discover the many wonders of Hungary.