Visiting Hungary and wondering where to go after Budapest? There are many worth visiting places in this country, from cities to wineries and lakes. I invite you for a journey around highlights of Hungary.
Parliament building in Budapest
As I am from Poland, I visited Hungary several times as it was on my way while hitch-hiking south. After admiring the capital I wanted to discover more, taste Hungarian wine and see nature. This little guide on where to go after Budapest, will help you choosing the best places according to your preferences.
Where to go after Budapest? Highlights of Hungary
Most of the people come to Hungary and just visit the capital, which is indeed an incredible city. Stunning views on Buda part from where you can see the Pest on the other side of the river. I have to admit it’s my second favorite city in Europe, after Prague – which stole my heart and definitely one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. So after staying for 2 days in Budapest, where can you go?
Szeged – paprika, students and festivals
Szeged is a lovely city on the South of Hungary, which could be a perfect stop for a weekend. Lovely architecture plus chill vibe in the evenings, made my stay in Szeged enjoyable. The city of Szeged is famous for the students vibe, as there are several universities as well as paprika, a spice made from dried, powdered capsicum fruits. Being there one week, I ate as much pepper as I normally eat during few years. Szeged is also known for many festivals during the summer season. The biggest is Open Air Festival of Theater held every May. Check what to see in Szeged?
Balaton lake – the sea of Hungary
The Balaton lake is often called the sea of Hungary as it’s the biggest lake in the country and the biggest fresh water lake in central Europe. Balaton Lake in only one hour away from Budapest. During summer is full of tourists coming for vacations on the beach, while winter in Balaton is less crowded. There are plenty of hotels as well as resorts and camp sites. The nice beaches are man-made and private, but getting the entry ticket for the whole day in one of the resorts is super cheap. For cycling lovers – there is a trail around the whole lake – 77 km with no traffic at all! Worth considering, right?
Győr – one of the highlights of the North of Hungary
North of Hungary is definitely a good direction to head after Budapest. Gyor is a lovely baroque town on te north of the country. The most beautiful is the town hall, as it looks like a castle. I loved that there are so many fountains in the old part, so beautiful and refreshing during summer. I had to step in each one, as it was crazy hot, when I was there in July. Gyor is half way between Vienna, Austria and Budapest and not far from Bratislava, Slovakia, which makes it a perfect stop for travelers on their Europtrip.
Eger – red wine and history
Eger, on the north of Hungary is the most famous for its castle, cathedral, red wine, Baroque palaces and Turkish remains, including the northernmost minaret in Europe. Founded in the 10th century by the first Hungarian king, St. Stephen. The city flourished during the Middle Ages when winemaking became the main source of income. Later, during the Turkish occupation, Eger’s architecture radically changed. Most churches were converted into mosques. Turks built lots of minarets and public baths, which they adore.
Tokaj – vineyards and white wine
Another place famous for wine, this time white one. Tokaj is a bit off the beaten path on the north-east of Hungary, close to the border with Romania. However, the amateurs of good wine should surely put this place on their list. I am not a specialist in this matter but love wines and above all love to support local producers whenever I travel. Responsible travel in one of my main objectives, therefore I encourage you for buying locally during your trips.
PL Pszczoła kocha przyrodę, kwiaty oraz herbatę. Najbardziej sprawia jej przyjemność życie i podróże w rytmie slow, bez pośpiechu. Stara się podróżować bardziej ekologicznie i inspirować do tego innych. Lubi poznawać inne kultury, tradycje, spędzać czas z lokalnymi i kosztować ich przysmaków. Jej ulubione miejsca w każdej podróży to uliczne bazary.
ENG The Bee is a nature lover and tea addict. Loves the idea of slow life and responsible traveling, constantly trying to improve to bee more eco-friendly. Appreciates old cultures and traditions, loves to immerse with locals, listen to ethnic music as well as taste regional food and drinks. Her favorite spots while traveling are family houses and street markets.
I am a big fan of visiting wineries around the world and would be very interested in visiting Tokaj. Balaton Lake looks a scenic place to visit. I have not visited Hungary as yet but you have given some great options. Thank you.
You are welcome Jane, hope you will visit one day and I am sure you will enjoy the numerous wineries! Happy travels!
Yes Please! I love a destination that is famous for its castles, cathedrals, and red wine. All it’s missing is a lot of coffee. I really liked some of the more scenic photos you have — felt like it was a hike off the path, but one with a lot to explore and gain from. I love travels with really historic spots, so that plus some good wine everywhere sounds like it makes for a great trip.
I love to visit vinyards, and hungary has a lot of them and I like when a nation drinks more wine than coffee haha
Ah, I really loved Szeged- I think it’s one of the more underrated destinations in Hungary. I’ve also been to the Balaton lake and I can definitely understand why they call it the Sea of Hungary. I still didn’;t visit Győr and was thinking whether I should this year but after your recommendation, I think I’ll definitely visit 🙂
Gyor is a cute town, I am sure you will like it. I am looking forward to visit Pecs, I heard it’s beautiful too, have you been?
Ok, as a wine lover I need to go to Tokaj!! It’s so great to read about places other than Budapest, and what a selection of places there are to see in Hungary. I love the sound of Gyor, and the baroque features about the town. I’d never think it got so hot there, but now I’m curious! Would love to visit these places for myself.
I still cannot pronouce the name Gyor 😛 It sounds so difficult to me and many Hungarian words. 😛
I was in Budapest this summer and I wish I would’ve explored more of Hungary! I was such a fan of the food and culture, but I didn’t have a clue where to go. Now, if I could redo it, I would go back and visit Szeged and Eger. I’m a huge foodie so the paprika tours and wineries would be the selling point for me.
Great choice Martha, I am sure you will enjoy your next trip to Hungary.
I’ve never been to Budapest but it’s definitely near the top of my European must visit list! I’ll definitely be using this as a plan for my visit. The Balaton lake is right up there, lovely pictures!
Thank you David!
I visited Budapest this time last year, and had an amazing time, exploring the city on foot. As I was short on time, couldn’t explore anyplace else in Hungary. But next time, I am surely going to go to Szeged and Balaton lake for sure.
Balaton Lake and Szeged it is – lovely places they are. Have heard and read about them a lot lately. Gyor will also in my list but after these two and if I have enough time.
Wow.. Never knew there’s so much to do and see around Budapest. Balaton Lake seems like a place I would love. I would also love to explore the vineyards of Tokaj. Great list of places. Thanks for the insight.
Wow there are so many places to visit after Budapest in hungary. Sea, history, vineyards – Hugary has it all. And they are so close to Budapest as well, so most of them can be done on a day-trip if we dont get good accomodations. I would love to include Balaton lake on my itinerary
Balaton is really beautiful, you will love it!
Great post! I am yet to visit Hungary but am always keen to find out about more off the beaten track destinations. I particularly like the sound of Tokaj, who doesn’t love white wine after all?!
Thank you for the tips 💕