Hungary Holidays & City Breaks

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Hungary Holidays & City Breaks

Best hotels in Hungary

Enchanting history, vibrant culture, and jaw-dropping landscapes: welcome to Hungary holidays. Nestled in the heart of Central Europe, Hungary is a treasure trove of stunning architecture, world-famous thermal spas, and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of picturesque towns, gliding along the Danube River, or indulging in hearty Magyar dishes, holidays to Hungary promise an unforgettable blend of relaxation and discovery.

From the dynamic buzz of Budapest to the serene beauty of Lake Balaton, this is a destination that caters to every traveller’s whim. Dive into Hungary’s rich heritage, marvel at its natural wonders, and immerse yourself in a culture brimming with warmth and tradition. One thing’s for certain: once you visit Hungary, you’ll wonder why you didn’t come sooner.

Things to do in Hungary

Kick off your journey in Budapest, Hungary’s lively capital. Split by the Danube, Buda and Pest are brimming with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from the majestic Buda Castle to the iconic Parliament Building. Take a leisurely stroll across the Chain Bridge or hop on a river cruise to soak in the city’s stunning skyline.

Beyond Budapest, explore the charming baroque town of Eger, home to a medieval castle, thermal baths, and the legendary Bull’s Blood wine. For history buffs, the hauntingly beautiful town of Sopron offers a glimpse into Hungary’s ancient past, with Roman ruins and Gothic architecture aplenty.

Nature lovers will adore Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest freshwater lake, fondly dubbed the ‘Hungarian Sea.’ Whether you fancy a swim, a sailing adventure, or simply sunbathing along its shores, Balaton is a summertime paradise. For something truly unique, venture to Hortobágy National Park, where you’ll find vast grasslands, herds of wild horses, and a slice of authentic Hungarian rural life.

Hungarian food and drink

Hungarian cuisine is a feast for the senses. Rich, hearty, and unapologetically indulgent, it’s a culinary journey like no other. Don’t miss goulash, the nation’s signature dish, a soul-warming stew bursting with paprika-spiced flavour. For something lighter, try a crispy lángos flatbread topped with sour cream and cheese or tuck into a plate of pörkölt, a slow-cooked meat stew served with nokedli (Hungarian dumplings).

Dessert lovers, prepare to swoon. Sample a chimney cake (kürtőskalács), a sweet, doughy treat caramelised to perfection, or somlói galuska, a layered sponge cake soaked in rum and chocolate. Pair your meal with a glass of Tokaji Aszú, Hungary’s world-renowned sweet wine, or a refreshing pint of Dreher beer.

Thermal baths and relaxation

Hungary is famous for its thermal waters, making it a haven for spa enthusiasts. With over 1,000 natural springs, the country offers countless opportunities to unwind and rejuvenate.

In Budapest, soak in the grandeur of Széchenyi Bath, a sprawling complex with outdoor pools, steam rooms, and saunas. Or, for a dose of history, head to Gellért, where art nouveau design meets therapeutic bliss. Want something more intimate? The Miskolctapolca Cave, set within natural limestone, yes you might have guessed it, caves, offers a magical bathing experience you won’t forget.

Nightlife and entertainment

When the sun sets, Hungary comes alive with vibrant nightlife options. Budapest’s famous ruin bars are the crown jewel of its after-dark scene. Built in the remnants of abandoned buildings, these quirky venues combine eclectic decor, live music, and a buzzing atmosphere. Szimpla Kert is the original and still one of the best, while Mazel Tov offers a chic alternative with its Middle Eastern-inspired menu and fairy-lit courtyard.

For a more sophisticated evening, visit a wine bar and sip on a glass of Villány red or Badacsony white while soaking up the cosy ambience. From elegant cocktail bars to lively folk music nights, Hungary has something to suit every taste. 

More city breaks

We also have travel guides available for city break destinations, including: Bruges | Istanbul | Nice | Venice

Map of Hungary

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Hungarian summers bring balmy days perfect for sipping Tokaji wine by Lake Balaton. Winters transform Budapest into a snowy wonderland, complete with twinkling Christmas markets and thermal spas to warm your toes.

2.5 hours
Fly to: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, the gateway to all things Hungary holidays, located just 16km from the city’s iconic Chain Bridge.
Other popular city breaks

Hungary is best for...

Culture enthusiasts: Dive headfirst into Hungary’s rich tapestry of history and art. Stroll through Budapest’s Castle District, marvel at the stunning architecture of Pécs Cathedral, or soak up the melodies of Hungarian folk music at a live performance.

Foodies: Hungry in Hungary? You’re in luck. Indulge in hearty traditional dishes, from walnut roll cakes at bustling markets to toasting your holiday with a shot of pálinka – Hungary’s fiery fruit brandy.

Wellness seekers: Let the stress melt away in one of Hungary’s world-famous thermal waters. With over 1,300 natural springs, you’ll find the perfect spot to relax, rejuvenate, and soak in the good vibes.

Fast facts for Hungary

Language: The official language of Hungary is Hungarian, known as Magyar, and it’s as unique as the country itself. Start practicing “köszönöm” (thank you) – locals will love it!

Currency: Hungary’s currency is the Hungarian forint (Ft). While some places accept euros, you’ll usually get a better deal paying in forints.

Local time: Hungary runs on Central European Time, which is 1 hour ahead of GMT/UK time.

Fly to: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport is your main gateway to Hungary, conveniently located about 16 km from the capital.

Flight time from the UK: A short and sweet 2.5 hours – just enough time for a quick nap or to dive into a travel guide.

Tourist Information: Want more inspiration for your holidays to Hungary? Head to Hungary Tourism for tips, tricks, and travel gems.

Getting around Hungary

Trains: Hungary’s rail network is a dream for those who love scenic journeys. The main hub is Budapest’s Keleti station, where you can hop on trains to charming towns like Eger or Sopron.

Buses: Covering even the smallest villages, Hungary’s buses are your go-to for off-the-beaten-path adventures. They’re punctual, reliable, and a great way to get a glimpse of local life. 

Boat: The Danube isn’t just pretty to look at – it’s also a great way to travel. Ferries and riverboats connect key towns like Szentendre, Visegrád, and Esztergom, making your journey feel more like a mini cruise.

Metro (Budapest only): Hungary holidays often begin in its vibrant capital, Budapest. The metro system here is a gem, especially the historic Line 1, mainland Europe’s oldest underground railway. Riding it feels like stepping into a time machine – who said public transport couldn’t be stylish?

Events in Hungary

Soak up the spring serenity: Hungary holidays in April offer the chance to immerse yourself in the Budapest Spring Festival, a cultural extravaganza celebrating classical music, jazz, theatre, and open-air concerts. It’s like Hungary’s greatest hits, performed live across its vibrant capital.

Get contemporary: October in Hungary isn’t just about autumn leaves, it’s about Budapest’s Contemporary Arts Festival. This event transforms the city into a kaleidoscope of creativity, with performance art, literature, cutting-edge design, and photography stealing the show.

Sziget yourself silly: August is party time in Budapest! The Sziget Festival, one of Europe’s biggest music and arts events, takes over an island in the Danube. With nearly half a million visitors and a line-up bursting with global stars, circus acts, and immersive art installations, it’s a must.

Hungary weather

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Spring and autumn are like nature’s way of giving you a warm hug – expect pleasant temperatures in the mid-teens (°C) and a landscape bursting with life. Fancy a summer escape? With highs of up to 30°C, you’ll be basking in sunshine, sipping zesty pálinka, and perhaps even paddling in Lake Balaton. Winter, on the other hand, brings crisp air and temperatures dropping as low as 0°C. The silver lining? Snow-dusted cityscapes and the irresistible lure of Hungary’s thermal baths. Whether you're wandering Budapest’s streets or toasting your toes in a spa, Hungary holidays are pure magic whatever the season.

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