Hungary - more than you expect
General information
Hungary lies in the heart of Central Europe and is one of the countries that combine a rich history, impressive architecture, thermal springs and a lively urban culture. The country is landlocked, but it is crossed by the Danube - one of Europe's most important rivers, which also flows through the capital, Budapest.
Hungary borders Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia. Budapest is the largest city and the political, cultural and tourist centre of the country. Set on both banks of the Danube, it actually unites the historically separate towns of Buda and Pest.
For many visitors Hungary begins and ends with Budapest, but the country offers much more. Lake Balaton is a popular summer destination, old towns and palaces reveal the country's history, and thermal springs have been part of the local way of life for centuries.
Climate
Hungary has a temperate continental climate. Summers are usually warm and winters cold, with temperatures that can drop below freezing. Spring and autumn are pleasant for city breaks, when the weather allows long walks without the summer heat.
July and August are the warmest months, but also the busiest. Spring and early autumn are good for visiting Budapest, especially if your main goal is sightseeing.
Winter has its own charm too. Budapest is famous for its Christmas markets, decorated streets and thermal baths, which are especially enjoyable on cold days.
Culture and history
Hungary's history is closely tied to the development of Central Europe. The foundations of the medieval Hungarian state were laid under King Stephen I, crowned around the year 1000. He became the first King of Hungary and one of the most important figures in the country's history.
In the 16th century much of Hungary came under Ottoman rule, and later the region became part of the Habsburg Monarchy. These periods left different traces in the country's architecture and culture.
Budapest is where this history can be seen most clearly. On Buda Hill stands Buda Castle, with impressive views over the Danube and Pest. In the area are also Matthias Church and the Fisherman's Bastion - among the most recognisable places in the city.
On the other side of the river rises the Hungarian Parliament building. The neo-Gothic building is one of the symbols of Budapest and is especially impressive when seen from the opposite bank or from the waters of the Danube.
One of the city's best-known symbols is the Chain Bridge. Built in the 19th century, it links Buda and Pest and played an important role in the development of the modern capital.
A walk along the Danube embankment is one of the must-do experiences in Budapest. The views are especially beautiful in the evening, when the Parliament, the castle and the bridges are lit up.
Budapest is also famous for its thermal baths. The city sits on an area rich in thermal waters, and the tradition of bathing in mineral springs goes back centuries. The Romans used the local springs, and during Ottoman rule the culture of Turkish baths developed.
Among the best known are the Széchenyi Baths, in a large complex in the City Park. With their outdoor pools, ornate architecture and warm mineral water, they have become one of the defining images of Budapest.
Another famous complex is the Gellért Baths, housed in a historic Art Nouveau building. The thermal baths are part of the city's tourist image, but for locals they are also a traditional place to relax.
Budapest also has impressive architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The economic boom after the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867 led to rapid development of the city. Grand boulevards, public buildings, theatres, cafés and residential buildings were built, shaping the capital's distinctive look.
Among the most interesting urban spaces is Andrássy Avenue, which links the centre with the City Park. Along it are beautiful historic buildings, the opera house and many shops and cafés. Beneath the avenue runs the first metro line in continental Europe, opened in 1896.
Hungarian culture is also known for its musical traditions. The country is the birthplace of composers such as Franz Liszt and Béla Bartók, whose work has influenced music far beyond its borders. Classical music, opera and concert life remain an important part of Budapest's cultural scene.
Cuisine is another important part of Hungarian culture. Paprika is one of its symbols, and traditional dishes include goulash, chicken paprikash, various stews and pastries such as strudel. Hungary is also known for its wines, with the Tokaj and Eger regions among the best known.
Outside the capital, Lake Balaton is one of the most popular holiday spots. Sometimes called "the Hungarian sea", it is the largest lake in Central Europe and in summer attracts visitors with its beaches, water sports and resort towns along the shore.
Tihany is one of the most picturesque places around the lake. The peninsula is known for its Benedictine abbey and beautiful views of Balaton. The area is also known for lavender, which is grown here and has become a local symbol.
Esztergom is another important historic town. It is linked to the early history of the Hungarian state and is one of the centres of Catholicism in the country. Its basilica is among the most impressive religious buildings in Hungary.
Visegrád and Szentendre are also popular for short trips from Budapest. Szentendre is known for its small lanes, art galleries and Mediterranean atmosphere, which sets it apart from other towns in the country.
Hungary also has a darker but important layer of history. The country went through difficult times during the Second World War and the communist era that followed. In Budapest, the "Shoes on the Danube Bank" memorial commemorates the Jews killed during the Holocaust, and the House of Terror museum presents the history of the totalitarian regimes that ruled the country in the 20th century.
These places show another side of Budapest - a city that does not present its history only as a series of beautiful palaces and squares, but also preserves the memory of its most difficult times.
Why and when to visit?
Hungary is suitable both for a short city break and for a longer trip. Budapest is compact enough to be explored in a few days, but it has so many museums, historic buildings, restaurants, cafés and thermal baths that it can easily fill a longer stay.
Spring and autumn are especially pleasant for walks around the capital, and summer is good for combining Budapest with Lake Balaton. Winter has a different atmosphere - the Christmas markets and thermal baths make a good reason to visit even in the coldest months.
For those who have already been to Budapest, Hungary offers plenty of options for a second trip - Balaton, Tihany, Esztergom, Visegrád and Szentendre can all be interesting additions to the route.
