30 Best Places to Visit in Hungary – Cities, National Parks, Lakes, Caves, Mountains, Spas…

Best Places to Visit in Hungary! Hungary is one of the truly great travel destinations in the world, and millions of people go there each year to relax. There are numerous resorts and fun attractions that you can enjoy while you are here.

Whether it is the natural thermal baths of the countryside or the nightclubs of the city, there is something for everyone. If you are trying to find the right place to travel to, you will need to consider Hungary before making a decision. There are quite a few interesting places to visit here.

Best Places to Visit in Hungary

1. Budapest

As the capital city of Budapest, it is a sprawling metropolis with lots of fascinating things to see and do. Buda Castle is one of the more beautiful historic sites that you don’t want to miss. There is also the Hungarian parliament building, where proposed bills are turned into laws. Scechenyi thermal bath is the perfect place to go for those who want to take a dip and just relax for a bit.

This city has incredible nightlife with a number of clubs, bars, and other places for adults who want to party. The unique combination of the old and the new in this city is something that you will not soon forget. Chain Bridge is one attraction that lots of people flock to here. It was built in the 19th century and lights up at night for a spectacular visual effect.

Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Budapest

• Parliament Building
• Gellért Baths
• Heroes’ Square
• Margaret Island
• Danube Promenade

Parliament Building, Best Places to Visit in Budapest by niki_emmert / Pixabay

Gellért Baths, Best Places to Visit in Budapest by Giraffew / Pixabay

Heroes’ Square, Best Places to Visit in Budapest by Jose Luis Hidalgo R. / Flickr

Danube Promenade, Best Places to Visit in Budapest by moshehar / Pixabay

2. Aggtelek National Park

Aggtelek National Park is located in northern Hungary, and it is one of the best places to visit in the country. In this park, you will find Baradla Cave, which is one of the most expansive stalactite cave systems in Europe. There are a number of other caves that you can explore here if you are feeling adventurous.

This park was established back in 1985 to preserve the beautiful natural landscape. The caves of Aggtelek are along with caves of Slovak Karst National Park (lying nearby in Slovakia) included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. This is definitely one of the more breathtaking natural attractions Hungary has to offer. You can take a guided tour through many of these caves to see them in their full beauty.

Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Aggtelek National Park

• Baradla Cave
• Szádvár castle ruins
• Vörös-tó cave and lake
• World’s Largest Book
• Jósvafő

Szádvár castle ruins, Best Places to Visit in Aggtelek National Park by moscito1 / Pixabay

World’s Largest Book, Best Places to Visit in Aggtelek National Park by János Korom Dr. >17 Milli / Flickr

Jósvafő, Best Places to Visit in Aggtelek National Park by Zajcsik / Pixabay

3. Balaton Uplands National Park

Balaton Uplands National Park was established in 1997 and consists of numerous areas that were already protected by the Hungarian government. This park is made up of a massive 57,000 hectares of land, so there is a lot to explore when you visit. You will find many different animals and plants as well as numerous paths to go hiking on. The rock formations that can be found in Bakony-Balaton Geopark are truly stunning.

Those who come here can rent boats to go paddling around in the Tapolca Basin cave system, which is a truly amazing and unique experience. This place offers some of the best natural wonders in all of Hungary. There is also a lookout place that you can climb to the top of to get an incredible view of the entire area.

Top 5 Things to do in Balaton Uplands National Park

• Tihanyi Bencés Apátság abbey
• Little Balaton
• Lake Cave Tapolca
• Szent György-hill
• Szigliget castle ruins

Tihanyi Bencés Apátság abbey, Best Places to Visit in Balaton Uplands National Park by Pixels4Free / Pixabay

Little Balaton, Best Places to Visit in Balaton Uplands National Park by rozsagab / Flickr

Lake Cave Tapolca, Best Places to Visit in Balaton Uplands National Park by Elstef / Pixabay

Szigliget castle ruins, Best Places to Visit in Balaton Uplands National Park by Gergely Horváth / Flickr

4. Bükki National Park

Bükki National Park is over 400,000 hectares with dense forests and towering mountains that you can hike through to experience the incredible beauty of this country. This is one of the more popular spots for tourists to go when they want to be in nature. The majority of this park is made up of trees, so there are many different species of birds that you will find. Some of these birds are considered endangered, so it’s the only place you will find them.

This park is home to Istvanlapa, one of the deepest caves in Hungary. When you are looking for a great place to visit while in this country, Bükki National Park is an excellent choice.

Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Bukk National Park

• Diósgyőr Castle
• Szalajka Valley
• Lillafüred State Forest Railway
• Hámori Lake
• Szent István Cave

Diósgyőr Castle, Best Places to Visit in Bukk National Park by ArBePa / Wikimedia Commons

Szalajka Valley, Best Places to Visit in Bukk National Park by ML5909 / Pixabay

Hámori Lake, Best Places to Visit in Bukk National Park by János Korom Dr. >17 Milli / Flickr

Szent István Cave, Best Places to Visit in Bukk National Park by Vaclav / Wikimedia Commons

5. Duna-Dráva National Park

Located on the Drava River, you will find that Duna-Dráva National Park is a wonderful place to go when you want to see the amazing nature Hungary has to offer. This park includes Abaliget Medicinal Cave as well as the Bat Museum, which are both very interesting educational centers.

There are multiple cycling paths that you can walk down to see the amazing wetlands that make up this area. You can take a guided tour through this park by horse carriage, canoe, bicycle, or boat. This national park has some of the best scenery in Hungary.

Top 5 Best Places to Visit around Duna-Dráva National Park

• Historical Memorial Park of Mohacs
• Vodica-Mariakert Shrine
• Busóudvar
• Siklos Castle
• Pécs

Historical Memorial Park of Mohacs, Best Places to Visit around Duna-Dráva National Park by Salome mi / Wikimedia Commons

Pécs, Best Places to Visit around Duna-Dráva National Park by Takkk / Wikimedia Commons

Siklos Castle, Best Places to Visit around Duna-Dráva National Park by Naki77 / Wikimedia Commons

6. Debrecen

Debrecen is the second-largest city in Hungary, and it’s also been the capital two different times throughout the years. In this city, you will find many different museums that will afford you the perfect opportunity to learn more about the area. Kossuth Square is where you will find most of the historic buildings, and they are quite a sight, to say the least.

There are festivals in the streets in the warmer months. Summer is really the best time to visit because of all the outdoor activities. The Flower Carnival, which is held in August, is definitely worth checking out when you come here.

Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Debrecen

• Great Reformed Church
• Hortobágyi National Park
• Nagyerdei Water Tower
• Flower Carnival
• Déri Museum

Hortobágyi National Park, Best Places to Visit in Debrecen by This file is lacking author information / Wikimedia Commons

Nagyerdei Water Tower, Best Places to Visit in Debrecen by angyalkaerika / Pixabay

Flower Carnival, Best Places to Visit in Debrecen by Björn Láczay / Flickr

Déri Museum, Best Places to Visit in Debrecen by Róbert Herczeg / Flickr

7. Eger

Eger can be found in the Bukk Mountains, and it is one of the most visually striking places in all of Europe. The old baroque structures here are something that you will definitely need to see before heading back home. This city is well-known for the medieval castle that was once used to fend off the Turks.

It is now a popular tourist attraction where visitors can go all the way to the top of the Ottoman minaret for a relaxing soak in the thermal baths. Anyone who loves wine should consider coming here because of the tours that are given on a daily basis.

Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Eger

• Valley of the Beautiful Woman
• Castle of Eger
• Dobó István Square
• City Under The City
• Egri Road Beatles Museum

Valley of the Beautiful Woman, Best Places to Visit in Eger by Globetrotter19 / Wikimedia Commons

Castle of Eger, Best Places to Visit in Eger by Antissimo / Wikimedia Commons

Dobó István Square, Best Places to Visit in Eger by h_laca / Wikimedia Commons

Egri Road Beatles Museum, Best Places to Visit in Eger by Globetrotter19 / Wikimedia Commons

8. Gyor

The city of Gyor is an important economic center, and it has lots of fun things for visitors to do. It has a gorgeous downtown area with some truly amazing baroque architecture. Located on the banks of the Raba River, you can tour this city by canoe or boat. There is a water park as well, which means fun for the whole family.

The thermal baths and waterslides offer the perfect way to relax. There is also a sauna that you can visit when you want a bit of steam. It is a truly charming city that you do not want to miss out on while you are in Hungary.

Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Gyor

• Rába-Quelle Kft. spa center
• Xantus János Állatkert zoo
• Basilica of Győr
• Xántus János Museum
• Széchenyi Square

Xantus János Állatkert zoo, Best Places to Visit in Gyor by Globetrotter19 / Wikimedia Commons

Basilica of Győr, Best Places to Visit in Gyor by Josef Moser / Wikimedia Commons

Xántus János Museum, Best Places to Visit in Gyor by Glanthor (User:Glanthor Reviol) / Wikimedia Commons

Széchenyi Square, Best Places to Visit in Gyor by Torsten Maue / Flickr

9. Heviz

Heviz is a town that is best known for its incredible spas. It is home to the second-largest thermal lake on the planet. There is a lot of folklore surrounding this lake, and many locals believe that bathing in it can heal the body. There are also mud baths that can be quite relaxing and healing as well. The farmer’s market here is the perfect place to pick up some fresh produce, and there are numerous other shops you can visit.

This place offers something for everyone, and it is usually not too crowded with tourists. There is an aquarium where you can go to see all the different kinds of marine life, which is perfect for families. Romai Kori Romkert is a local park that has walking trails and some really beautiful garden areas. This is one of the true natural wonders of Hungary that you shouldn’t miss.

Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Heviz

• Lake Hévíz
• Szent Magdolna-templom
• Montaro Keszthely mountain
• Church of the Holy Spirit Hévíz
• Deák Mansion, Kehida museum

Szent Magdolna-templom, Best Places to Visit in Heviz by Kaboldy / Wikipédiából

Montaro Keszthely mountain, Best Places to Visit in Heviz by Unknown author / Wikimedia Commons

Church of the Holy Spirit Hévíz, Best Places to Visit in Heviz by Globetrotter19 / Wikimedia Commons

10. Kaposvar

The old tales of Kaposvar claim that this city was constructed on seven hills, and it is a relaxing university town with lots of history behind it. The museums here will provide you with the perfect way to learn more about this place. Nagyboldogasszony Cathedral is truly beautiful, and you’ll be sure to take many pictures of it.

Even the Town Hall building has some very unique and striking architecture. If you want a low-key place to visit in Hungary, Kaposvar is an excellent choice. The Main Street area has some nice little shops, and you don’t want to leave before going to Lake Deseda nearby.

Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Kaposvar

• Lake Deseda
• Zselic mountain and museum village
• Katica Tanya themepark
• Zselici Landscape Protection Area – dark sky preserve
• Zselici Csillagpark – Observatory, forest and planetarium

Lake Deseda, Best Places to Visit in Kaposvar by paulma / Pixabay

Zselic mountain and museum village, Best Places to Visit in Kaposvar by Flander Márton – saját munka (own work) / Wikimedia Commons

Zselici Landscape Protection Area – dark sky preserve, Best Places to Visit in Kaposvar by György Soponyai / Flickr

Zselici Csillagpark – Observatory, forest and planetarium, Best Places to Visit in Kaposvar by Zerind / Wikimedia Commons

11. Keszthely

Keszthely is located on the far west part of Lake Balaton, and it is one of the oldest cities in Hungary. This city attracts many tourists each year with its small but beautiful beaches. You will find that these beaches are the perfect place to relax and forget about all of your worries.

If you want some fun in the sun with the whole family, this is the right place to go. These lakes have shallow waters and are close to Festetics Castle, which has over one hundred rooms. The combination of breathtaking scenery and historic buildings make this a great place to visit on your trip.

Top 5 Things to do in Keszthely

• Festetics Palace
• Municipal Beach
• Montaro Keszthely mountain
• Balaton Museum
• Helikon Beach

12. Kiskunsag National Park

Kiskunsag National Park makes up 50,000 hectares of land and is an important nature/wildlife preserve. The sand dunes and alkali lakes that make up this area are quite spectacular, and a sight you don’t want to miss. First, you will need to head to the visitors’ center before moving on.

You will be able to get some interesting details about the park. The wide variety of animals that you will see here is bound to take your breath away. There are many different species of birds, and top-notch hotels are nearby. This is truly a nature lover’s paradise, so you should strongly consider going here.

Top 5 Things to do around Kiskunsag National Park

• Lake Szelid
• Lake Kolon at Izsák
• Lake Vadkerti-to
• Fülöpháza Sand Dunes
• Wings Of Hungary

13. Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton is the biggest freshwater lake in all of Central Europe. This lake is a great place to go swimming, fishing, and just relax when you want to take it easy. The water here stays warm throughout the summer, and it is a popular place for surfing, sailing, and much more.

If you want to experience nature in Hungary, this is a great place to go. The shores at the southernmost point are usually the warmest. The north end of the lake tends to be cooler, even in the summertime.

Top 5 Things to do in Lake Balaton

• Tihanyi Bencés Apátság
• Lake Hévíz
• Balaton Uplands National Park
• Festetics Palace
• Annagora Aquapark

14. Lake Tisza

Lake Tisza is situated in the center of the Great Hungarian Plain, and it is yet another popular place for tourists to go. You will be able to rent kayaks, boats, and other equipment to have a fun time in the water. This area is made up of 16 different islands, each of which has something unique to offer.

Those who want to do some exploring and have a real adventure should come here. This lake is only a couple of decades old, and it is a wonderful place to enjoy Hungary’s natural beauty. There are 10 water channels in this lake, and it is highly recommended that you explore some of them with a kayak. This is one adventure you won’t soon forget.

Top 5 Things to do around Lake Tisza

• Hortobágyi National Park
• Lake Tisza Ökocentrum
• Tisza-tavi Vízi Sétány Lake
• Szabadvizű Strand és Camping
• Tisza Dam

15. Miskolc

Miskolc has the title of Hungary’s fourth-largest city, and it a fairly large but still quaint place with great museums to visit. You will find that these museums offer everything from contemporary works of art to artifacts that are hundreds of years old.

The Sea Museum in particular is one place that you will want to stop by. The Greek Orthodox Church in this city has some truly impressive architecture. If you ever find yourself here, you should consider visiting the Cave Bath, which is only about an hour away. There are also wine cellars that you can tour in the mountain foothills.

Top 5 Things to do in Miskolc

• Miskolctapolca Cave Bath
• Diósgyőr Castle
• Lillafüred State Forest Railway
• Miskolc Zoo
• Lillafüredi Libegő – Park with a chairlift & mountain biking

16. Orseg National Park

Orseg National Park is close to the Austrian border, and it is known for its hilly thickly forested landscape. The orchards and peat bogs of this area are incredible to explore in the daytime. There are numerous dragonfly species here that are legally protected. You will also find a number of charming little villages that you can go through to do some shopping.

These places have some of the best food in the entire area. The locals are very friendly to tourists, so you will certainly get a nice warm welcome. You can request a full tour of the park, which takes a few hours but is well worth it. This is one of the more beautiful natural attractions in Hungary.

Top 5 Things to do in Orseg National Park

• Hársas tó lake
• Marshlands of Szőce
• Vadása-tó lake
• Church of the Holy Trinity in Velemer
• Pityerszeri Skanzen open air museum

17. Papa

Papa is a little city that is known for its striking Baroque architecture and many important historic sites. A lot of the more impressive buildings are located in the downtown area, though they are spread all over. When you go downtown you will find the Esterhazy Palace and Great Church.

These places have a lot of important historical significance, and they offer you the chance to learn about the area.
The Blue Dyeing Museum is another attraction that you should check out while you are here. There are also numerous thermal baths, which will provide you with the perfect chance to relax outdoors while enjoying nature. There is a camping site here that is second to none, and the castle gardens are a short walk away.

Top 4 Things to do in Papa

• Esterhazy Castle
• Kékfestő Múzeum
• Kerektemplom és Esterházy Mauzóleum Ganna
• Szár-hegyi kilátó Tourist attraction

18. Pecs

The city of Pecs is two thousand years old and has lots of fascinating history behind it. The Mecsek Hills offer the ideal place to go hiking when you want to spend some time in nature. This area can be a bit windy, so you should dress accordingly when visiting. The architecture of the buildings is quite impressive, and it is truly something to behold.

There are a lot of great museums here that display amazing works of art and historic objects. Pecs Cathedral is another place that you want to go to because of its stunning exterior architecture and interior design. The Roman and Turkish ruins are the main attraction in Pecs, and they are quite spectacular.

Top 5 Things to do in Pecs

• Pécs Cathedral
• Pécs TV Tower with a publicly accessible observation deck
• Zsolnay Kulturális Negyed cultural quarter
• Mosque of Pasha Qasim – catholic church
• Széchenyi square

19. Siofok

Siofok is an idyllic location for a summer trip because of its long sandy beaches and warm weather. There are also a lot of interesting attractions, including the Mineral Museum and Great Church. If you are looking for the perfect place to visit over the summer, this one should top your list.

It has plenty of restaurants and cafes that serve delicious food and drinks. There are also a number of fun bars that you can go to at night. Whether you are traveling by yourself or with your family, this is an excellent spot to visit. You will never want to leave the beach, but there is a lot more to explore.

Top 5 Things to do in Siofok

• Siofok Water Tower
• Bella Stables and Animal Park SIÓFOK
• Siófok Óriáskerék
• The Upside Down House
• Siófok Szabadstrand public beach

20. Sopron

Sopron has an interesting and extensive history behind it that you can learn from when you visit some of the museums here. This is among the oldest cities in the country, and it’s also regarded as being one of the most beautiful. The streets are made of cobblestone, and it has a charm to it that you just won’t find in many other places.

If you love wine, there are lots of big vineyards and wineries that you can tour. Firewatch Tower is one historic building that you should try to visit while you are here. Even the City Hall building is quite an impressive sight. This is a wonderful place for history buffs.

Top 5 Things to do in Sopron

• Fire Tower
• Fertőrákosi Steinbruch
• Storno House museum
• Carmelite Monastery
• Károly observation tower

21. Szeged

Szeged is known for a number of things, including its bright sunny weather and booming art scene. The main square of this city has lots of trees and paths that you can walk on. There are some great restaurants that serve a variety of food items, so there is something for everyone.

A lot of people enjoy coffee and other beverages outside the cafes, soaking up the warm rays of the sun. This is a very mellow place that is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the bigger cities. If you love the arts, there are lots of museums here to keep you happy.

Top 5 Things to do in Szeged

• Votive Church of Szeged
• Szeged Zoo
• Dóm Square
• Szeged Synagogue
• Sunshine Aquapolis Szeged

22. Szolnok

Szolnok is nestled right up against the Tisza River, and it is a major cultural hub. The beautiful architecture of the historic buildings in this city is beyond impressive. This place was bombed numerous times during World War II, but it was quickly rebuilt by the devoted townspeople.

The churches here are very beautiful and worth taking a look at while you are here. There are also numerous museums where you will find cultural artifacts and works of art. The three different lakes nearby are excellent for fishing. There is also the Goulash Festival, which is held each year.

23. Tata

Tata has a population of 25,000, and you can reach it through the Vienna-Budapest motorway. The Renaissance Fortress is definitely the most-visited attraction in this area, and it has some fascinating history that you can learn about when taking a tour. The geological museum that is also located in this city is a great destination for those who love science.

There are many different festivals held in this city throughout the year that attracts people from all over. The live music performances are something else that you should look into if you ever find yourself in this city.

24. Visegrad

Visegrad was once a summer home to King Matthias man years ago, and today it is still actually in fairly good condition. You can visit this place to learn about the incredible history of the area, and it’s certainly worth a day trip. Solomon Tower is one interesting attraction that will also provide you with lots of information about the history of Hungary and this city in particular.

The Royal Palace Festival is in full swing during the middle of July, and it’s quite the experience. There is a museum attached to the castle in Visegrad that has all sorts of objects on display. This is certainly one of the more interesting places in the country visit without question.

25. Zalaegerszeg

Zalaegerszeg is a hilly area that will provide you with the peaceful getaway you need to relax. This peaceful city has a lot of interesting attractions, including the Sandor Hevesi Theater, which you can visit to see some amazing performances. There is also Mary Magdalen Church, which is well-known for its tall clock tower.

There are a few different museums here that will provide you with the perfect opportunity to learn more about this area. There are some really beautiful gardens here as well. You can walk through the paths to see the incredible flora on a nice sunny day.

26. Nyíregyháza

Nyíregyháza is located in eastern Hungary close to the borders with Slovakia, Ukraine, and Romania. It is a historic city with many monuments and cultural attractions.

Visitors are coming here also because of the wonderful zoo, the open-air museum and above all the thermal lake and the thermal spa with the Sóstógyógyfürdő water park. Nyíregyháza is a guarantee of amazing holidays!

27. Hajdúszoboszló

Hajdúszoboszló is one of the most visited resorts in Hungary. It is home to one of the largest spa complexes in Europe. In the summer, the Hungarian town turns into a holiday resort with a Mediterranean atmosphere.

The main attraction of the city of Hajdúszoboszló is a spa complex consisting of four parts: an open-air swimming pool, a spa, an Aquapark, and an indoor Aqua-Palace.

28. Floating Houses of Lake Bokodi

You probably never heard of the village of Bokod. Well, it would not be so interesting, if the part of the village was not built on the waters of Lake Bokodi. The houses are built on pylons, interconnected with wooden walkways.

The original reason was fishing, but this has changed. The photographers and moviemakers from all over the world started to come here and taking shots of their lifetime.

29. Hollökö

A perfect example of folk architecture is the village of Hollökö. It is not just a village full of folk architecture, but it is also full of folk costumes and the traditions of the Palóc ethnic group. Since 1987, this village has been listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. You’ll find the village to the north of Budapest.

30. Fort Monostor

Fort Monostor is the largest modern fortress in Central Europe and is part of the Komárom fortress system. The anti-Turkish fortress was built in the 16th century on the site of a medieval castle. The construction of the Fort Monostor took place in 1851 and 1871 and covers an area of 70 hectares.

The number of rooms was 640 and could accommodate up to 8,000 soldiers. After construction, the fort was used to protect the central castle and to control the Danube. The fortress played its role in World War I as a recruiting and training center.

So, here we have listed some of the best places to visit in Hungary – one of the most visited countries in the world! If you know about any of the places we should mention here, please let us know below in the comments!

Hungary, a landlocked country in Central Europe, boasts a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Budapest, its capital city, is famous for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and the majestic Danube River that flows through it.

Hungary’s cuisine is a delight for foodies, with dishes like goulash, chimney cake, and paprika-spiced delicacies. The country’s picturesque countryside offers charming villages, medieval castles, and scenic landscapes, making Hungary an alluring destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and travelers seeking a taste of authentic European charm.