Hungary is a picturesque place. I visit the best 10 places in Hungary. When I visit in Hungary’s palaces, I enjoyed every spot. With statuesque castles, shimmering lakes, extraordinary cave systems, dense forests, and magnificent churches, Hungary offers far more than its glittering capital, Budapest. Today, Hungary’s diverse attractions are drawing global travelers in record numbers, turning this Eastern European gem into a vibrant and must-visit destination. Shaped by centuries of conquests and cultural influences, the country’s architecture, traditions, and cuisine tell a fascinating story at every turn. From historic towns and thermal spas to scenic countryside escapes, discovering the many places to visit in Hungary promises a rich, memorable, and thoroughly modern travel experience.
Amid breathtaking natural landscapes and the warm hospitality of its people, many travelers begin to wonder: what is Hungary really famous for? From historic landmarks and charming towns to hidden natural wonders and cultural treasures, Hungary offers far more than meets the eye. Before planning your trip, explore the country’s most remarkable destinations and uncover the secrets that make Hungary one of Europe’s most rewarding and increasingly popular travel experiences today.
1. Budapest
Budapest is one of the must-visit destinations in Hungary, offering a perfect window into the country’s rich history and its confident stride into modern times. Here, grand historic landmarks and ancient structures stand proudly beside striking contemporary architecture, creating a cityscape that feels both timeless and vibrant.
It’s no surprise that the Banks of the Danube River, the Royal Castle Quarter, and Andrássy Avenue are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond sightseeing, Budapest has also emerged as a foodie hotspot in recent years. Alongside classic Hungarian dishes, you’ll find a growing number of excellent international options, including plenty of Indian restaurants across the city.
Places to Visit in Budapest: Buda Castle (Royal Palace), Great Synagogue, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Hungarian Parliament Building, Memento Park, Hungarian State Opera House, and House of Terror Museum.
Budapest is famous for: scenic cruises along the Danube River, Authentic Hungarian cuisine, and thermal spa culture, as well as World-Class performances at the Budapest Opera House.
Travel Tip: Avoid changing money on the street; it’s illegal, and tourists are often targeted for scams. Always use official exchange offices or banks for safe transactions.
Read: Best 10 Places to Visit in Djibouti | Unmissable 2026 Guide
2. Szentendre
Szentendre, also known as St. Andrews, is located just 20 km from Budapest and is one of the best places to visit in Hungary for a short and scenic day trip. This charming riverside town is a long-time favorite among tourists and feels almost storybook-like, with its cobblestone streets, colorful Baroque houses, and relaxed artistic vibe.
Szentendre is especially popular with art lovers, thanks to its lively creative scene. A wide variety of galleries, museums, cozy cafés, and local craft shops keep visitors engaged, making it a perfect blend of culture and leisure.
Places to Visit in Szentendre: Art Mill, Belgrade Cathedral, Hungarian Open-Air Museum, Ferenczy Károly Museum, and Blagoveschensk Church.
Szentendre Is Famous For: Museums and cultural heritage, an artists’ colony with galleries and cafés, A laid-back, creative atmosphere near Budapest.
Tip: If you’re short on time, consider taking a boat ride to Szentendre in the afternoon. Traveling upstream in the morning usually takes much longer, while the return journey is quicker and more relaxing.
Read: Best Places to Visit in Spain 2026 | Gorgeous Destinations
3. Eger
Situated along the Eger River, Eger is one of the top places to visit in Hungary, especially for travelers who love history, architecture, and wine culture. The town still carries visible traces of the Ottoman Turkish invasion, which has left a lasting mark on its architecture and cultural identity.
Just a short distance from the city lies the famous Valley of Beautiful Women, home to some of Hungary’s finest vineyards. This is where you can taste Eger’s legendary red wine, Bikavér (Bull’s Blood), a must-try for wine enthusiasts visiting the region.
Places to Visit in Eger: Eger Castle, Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Apostle, Magic Tower, Lyceum, County Hall, and Kossuth Lajos Street.
Eger Is Famous For: Renowned vineyards and Eger wine culture, Elegant Baroque and neoclassical architecture, A rich blend of Hungarian and Ottoman history.
Tip: Don’t skip the churches; many offer breathtaking interiors and elevated viewpoints that provide some of the best panoramic views of the city.
Read: Best Places to Travel in Colombia This Year
4. Esztergom
Esztergom is one of the best places to visit in Hungary to understand the deep influence of Christianity on the country’s history and culture. Once the capital of Hungary between the 10th and 13th centuries, Esztergom played a central role in shaping the nation’s religious and political identity.
The city is home to the iconic Esztergom Basilica, the largest church in Hungary and one of the most impressive religious buildings in Central Europe. Its museum complex houses the country’s largest collection of Christian relics, artworks, and historical treasures, making Esztergom a must-visit destination for history lovers and cultural travelers alike.
Places to Visit in Esztergom: Esztergom Basilica, Christian Museum, Castle Museum, and Danube Museum
Esztergom Is Famous For: The magnificent interiors of Esztergom Basilica, Extensive collections of Christian relics and sacred art, and its historic role as Hungary’s former capital.
Travel Tip: The Esztergom Basilica may be partially closed during the winter months, so it’s best to check opening times in advance and plan your visit accordingly.
Read: Belgium’s Most Beautiful Places You Must Visit
5. Debrecen
After Budapest, Debrecen is Hungary’s second-largest city and an important cultural hub in the east of the country. While Debrecen has a rich and distinct history of its own, it is best known as the gateway to the Great Hungarian Plain and the ideal base for exploring the nearby Hortobágy National Park, a UNESCO-listed natural treasure.
Often called the “Calvinist Rome,” Debrecen blends tradition with a modern cultural scene, offering museums, historic landmarks, and contemporary art spaces that appeal to both history lovers and curious travelers.
Places to Visit in Debrecen: Calvinist College, Great Reformed Church, Déri Museum, Timár Ház (Crafts House), and Centre of Modern & Contemporary Art (MODEM).
Debrecen Is Famous For: Day trips to Hortobágy National Park, the vibrant Flower Carnival is held every August, and relaxing nature spots like Lake Fancsika.
Travel Tip: Make time to eat at local food joints for an authentic Hungarian lunch. Thick beef soup (gulyás-style) paired with fresh pasta or dumplings is a local favorite and perfect after a day of sightseeing.
Read: Discover Beautiful Places to Visit in Switzerland
6. Tihany
Tihany is a charming village located on the shores of Lake Balaton, known for its scenic beauty and deep historical roots. Ranked among the top places to visit in Hungary outside Budapest, Tihany is especially famous for its historic abbey, where the earliest written records of the Hungarian language were discovered.
The village’s iconic Benedictine Abbey of Tihany is still a functioning church and remains one of the most visited landmarks in the Lake Balaton region. Alongside its cultural heritage, Tihany has gained even more popularity in recent years for its lavender fields, nature trails, and peaceful lakeside atmosphere.
Places to Visit in Tihany: Benedictine Abbey Church, Lavender House, Visszhang Hill (Echo Hill), Open-Air Folk Museum, and Benedictine Abbey Museum.
Tihany Is Famous For: Fragrant lavender gardens and festivals, Birdwatching at Inner Lake and Outer Lake, and Scenic walks along the Lóczy Nature Trail.
Tip: Plan your visit to the abbey during the evening hours to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a quieter, more atmospheric experience.
Read: Most Popular 10+ Best places to visit in The Netherlands
7. Lake Balaton
Lake Balaton is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Hungary and a favorite summer escape for both locals and international travelers. Often called the “Hungarian Sea,” the lake boasts an impressive 197-kilometer shoreline, much of which is linked by a well-maintained cycling path perfect for leisurely rides with stunning lakeside views.
Surrounded by charming resort towns, vineyards, and lush landscapes, Lake Balaton offers more than just beaches. The nearby Balaton Uplands National Park adds a scenic contrast with its rolling hills, volcanic formations, and forested hiking trails, making the region ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Places to Visit Around Lake Balaton: Herend Porcelain Factory, and Festetics Palace (Keszthely).
Lake Balaton Is Famous For: Historic landmarks like Szigliget Fortress, relaxing thermal experiences at Hévíz Spa, and Popular summer events such as the Balaton Sound Festival.
Travel Tip: Public transport to Lake Balaton is affordable and reliable. For a smooth trip, always check official bus and train timetables in advance when planning your day.
Read: 10 Best Weekend Breaks on a Budget in Norway
8. Aggtelek
Aggtelek is a small village that serves as the main gateway to the renowned Aggtelek and Slovak Karst, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Hungary’s most fascinating natural attractions. For travelers who love nature and geology, Aggtelek is among the most interesting places to visit in Hungary.
The highlight of the region is the spectacular Baradla Cave, famous for its dramatic stalactite and stalagmite formations. The massive cavern known as the Giant’s Hall is particularly breathtaking, offering an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Places to Visit in Aggtelek: Aggtelek Cave System
Aggtelek Is Famous For: Baradla Cave and its impressive formations, Rákóczi Cave (Rákóczi-barlang), and Unique underground landscapes within the karst region
Travel Tip: Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and secure a spot on guided cave tours, especially during peak travel seasons.
Read: Best Weekend Getaways from Singapore for Travel Lovers
9. Lillafured
The Bükk Mountains are among the most beautiful natural destinations in Hungary, known for their untouched landscapes and outdoor adventures. Nestled within this region, Lillafüred makes the perfect base for exploring the scenic Bükk National Park, one of the country’s most important protected areas.
The park is home to over 1,000 caves, crystal-clear freshwater lakes, and dense forests that are ideal for hiking, trekking, and nature photography. Nearby, the iconic Lillafüred Waterfall stands as the highest waterfall in Hungary and remains a major highlight for visitors year-round.
Places to Visit in the Bükk Mountains: Bükk National Park, Lillafüred Waterfall, Lake Hámori, and Anna Cave.
The Bükk Region Is Famous For: Trekking and hiking trails in Bükk National Park, Cave bathing experiences near Miskolc, and Family-friendly attractions like Miskolc Zoo.
Tip: Cave bathing is one of the most popular experiences in the region, so try to visit early in the day to enjoy it without crowds.
Read: Amazing Budget-Friendly Weekend Getaways in Denmark
10. Sopron
Sopron is one of the most historic places to visit in Hungary and a true cultural gem in Europe. The city has witnessed centuries of history, having been settled by Celts, Romans, Germans, Avars, Slavs, and Magyars, each leaving a distinct mark on Sopron’s architecture, traditions, and identity.
While Sopron has gradually expanded over time, its beautifully preserved inner town, Belváros, remains wonderfully atmospheric. With its medieval lanes, pastel-colored buildings, and quiet squares, it’s a joy to explore on foot and feels refreshingly authentic compared to busier tourist cities.
Places to Visit in Sopron: Lake Neusiedl (Lake Fertő), Storno House, Firewatch Tower, Old Synagogue, and Harrer Chocolate Factory.
Sopron Is Famous For: Fertő–Hanság National Park and Lake Fertő, the iconic Fire Tower, with its 200-step climb, and Well-preserved medieval streets and city walls
Travel Tip: Take your time strolling through Sopron’s cobblestone streets. The city is best experienced slowly, with frequent stops at cafés, viewpoints, and historic corners.
Read: Best amazing places at newzaland that you can visit
11. Tapolca
Few towns in Europe can boast a vast underground cave system right beneath their streets, but Tapolca is a rare exception. This charming town is famous for its unique Tapolca Lake Cave, a stunning subterranean lake that places Tapolca among the most fascinating places to visit in Hungary. Located in the heart of the town, the cave is open to visitors year-round and is also known for its clean air and therapeutic properties, making it popular with both tourists and wellness seekers.
Amid the natural beauty of Hungary’s landscapes and the warmth of its people, destinations like Tapolca perfectly answer the question: What is Hungary famous for? It’s the blend of natural wonders, hidden experiences, and small-town charm that truly sets the country apart.
Places to Visit in Tapolca: Lake Malom-tó, Szent György Hill, and Tapolca Lake Cave.
Tapolca Is Famous For: The Little Princess Statue, Kőtenger (Stone Sea rock formations), and Underground boating experiences inside the cave.
Travel Tip: Never explore caves alone. Across Europe, travel safety guidelines strongly advise visiting caves only with official guides, and Tapolca’s Lake Cave tours make the experience both safe and unforgettable.
Read: Top 12 Dreamy Destinations Close to Germany for Your Vacation.
12. Tokaj
Tokaj sits at the heart of Hungary’s most celebrated wine country and is one of the best places to travel in Hungary for wine lovers. This picturesque town is dotted with charming houses and surrounded by rolling vineyards, offering beautiful views of the Zemplén Hills.
Renowned worldwide, Tokaj has been producing its famous sweet wines since the 15th century, earning a reputation that continues to attract wine connoisseurs from around the globe. Today, the region blends centuries-old winemaking traditions with modern tasting experiences, making it a must-visit destination for both casual visitors and serious oenophiles.
Places to Visit in Tokaj: Tokaj Museum, Guided wine tasting tours, and Local vineyards and historic cellars.
Tokaj Is Famous For: The Tokaj Wine Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Historic landmarks like Sárospatak Castle, and World-famous Tokaji sweet wines.
Tip: There’s no strict dress code for wine tastings, but it’s best to avoid white outfits spills happen, especially when sampling rich dessert wines.
Feel free to visit my other article for more travel info around the world.
Read: Best Budget-Friendly Destinations in Sweden
Why Trust TourGid
Short breaks consistently prove more practical than week-long trips, not just because they squeeze into your schedule more easily, but because they do less damage to your bank account. TourGid contributors have hit the road to explore wallet-friendly spots across the country: forgotten state parks, coastal communities that fly under the tourism radar, you name it. Every time out, we’ve tracked what we actually spent and figured out where you can cut corners without sacrificing the parts of a trip that matter. The destinations you’ll find here aren’t algorithmic suggestions; they’re places we’ve visited ourselves, with help from readers who’ve nailed the art of the weekend getaway
We’ve double-checked the numbers, confirmed current rates, and featured them because they deliver real experiences minus the usual sticker shock that comes with planning time away. However, if you want to read about
If you have any questions about this blog, its content, or any travel destination, please feel free to comment below. We are trying to discuss this place in our next content. and know more to read Unforgettable Day Trips From Luxembourg