8 Best Places to Visit in Hungary Before You Die

A relatively young country, with its borders only formally established in 1920, the best places to visit in Hungary before you die have many different influences from all the powers which have ruled the territory. It was under the control of the Soviet Union until 1989, upon which is asserted independence. Now, Hungary is a democratic country with a high human development index, stable economy and bustling tourist trade. It has a rich and diverse history, due to its many influences across history, and features everything from Citadella – a grand old fort – to Budapest, the charming yet surprisingly modern capital city. Hungary also has a diverse range of natural features, from mountains to the Danube river, the latter of which is protected as a World Heritage Site.

np/Shutterstock.com

np/Shutterstock.com

The tourism industry in Hungary is one of the biggest in Europe, meaning Hungary is incredibly popular with tourists both from the European Union and further afield. Check before you travel to see when destinations are most popular, and try and travel outside of those times to avoid the crowds. Also check local travel, news, and weather to make sure all are suitable for your proposed journeys and trips.

If you are looking to travel even deeper into eastern Europe, check out the best places to visit in Russia before you die . If you’ve already booked your trip to Hungary, or would like to book a trip there, then this list of the best places to visit in Hungary before you die is just the thing for you.

 

8. Bakony

Bakony is a mountainous region, forming the largest part of the Transdanubian Mountains. In the center of northern Bakony is a town called Zirc, which features a museum designed to introduce visitors to the animals, plants, and biodiversity of the region.

Klagyi/Shutterstock.com

Klagyi/Shutterstock.com

 

7.Castle of Diósgyőr

Located in the northern city of Miskolc, the castle has been built and rebuilt many times during the course of its history. In 2014 it was completely restored to its medieval glory, and contains examples of medieval furniture. There are tours daily to introduce you to the history of this magnificent castle.

np/Shutterstock.com

np/Shutterstock.com

 

6.Hajógyári Island

Technically located inside Budapest, this island is the largest Danubian island in the city. It was formed from debris in the Danube river, and has been an important shipyard in its past. It is now a home of the Sziget Fesztivál, an extremely popular music festival.

lcepparo/Shutterstock.com

lcepparo/Shutterstock.com

 

5. Citadella

Finished in 1854, this citadel was built as a strategic military position in Hungary. It has been occupied by the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and later the Soviet Union, but now stands as a tourist attraction. There are beautiful panoramic views of the Danube river from the citadel’s top.

M. Shcherbyna/Shutterstock.com

M. Shcherbyna/Shutterstock.com

 

4. Mecsek

This mountain range is located in southern Hungary. The area is home to 20-to-30 plant species otherwise unknown in the surrounding mountainous area. Mecsek is rich in minerals, making it an important location for Hungary’s economy. It is covered in dense forest, perfect for hiking.

Gelner Tivadar/Shutterstock.com

Gelner Tivadar/Shutterstock.com

 

3. Pannonhalma Archabbey

This territorial abbey is one of the oldest historical landmarks in Hungary, founded in 996. It is located near the town of the same name, on top of a large hill, and is still a functioning monastery – although it is open to the public. It features a basilica and crypt, cloisters, and the Baroque Refectory to explore.

Mark Borbely/Shutterstock.com

Mark Borbely/Shutterstock.com

 

2. Castle of Eger

Located near the town of the same name, the Castle of Eger features four different museums displaying the history of the castle, art, the dungeons, and a wax museum. It was used as an active army barracks until 1957, but is now a popular tourist attraction.

Pecold/Shutterstock.com

Pecold/Shutterstock.com

 

And, the best place to visit in Hungary before you die is: Budapest

The capital city of Hungary, this city features the second-oldest metro line in the world. It has 18 universities, but this city is far from being a student centre; it is a financial hub, the seat of power in Hungary, and features an extensive World Heritage Site encompassing the banks of the Danube and the castle. Charming yet modern, this city has something for everyone.

waku/Shutterstock.com

waku/Shutterstock.com

Hungary, a young country, has a diverse and interesting history – both military and cultural. Falling under the command of various empires and unions, before becoming an independent republic in 1989, this country has a lot of influences on its cultural and architectural style. You have experienced some of them in this list of the best places to visit in Hungary before you die, but if you are lucky enough to visit the country make sure to explore all it has to offer! Check local news and weather before traveling, as well as any advice from your travel agent, and you’ll have a wonderful time in Hungary!