The Ultimate Hungary Road Trip

Embark on an exciting road trip around Hungary, a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. This 10-day itinerary will take you through picturesque towns, historic sites, and scenic landscapes, providing a comprehensive experience of Hungary’s diverse offerings.

Day 1: Budapest to Szentendre

• Distance: 25 km (16 miles)
• Highlights: Begin your journey in the bustling capital of Budapest, soaking in its vibrant atmosphere before hitting the road. A short drive brings you to Szentendre, a picturesque riverside town known for its Mediterranean ambiance, art galleries, and baroque architecture. Wander through the cobblestone streets, visiting the many museums and art galleries, such as the Margit Kovács Ceramic Museum and the Ferenczy Museum. Don’t miss the open-air Skanzen Village Museum, which offers a glimpse into traditional Hungarian rural life. Enjoy a meal at one of the town’s charming cafes or restaurants along the Danube River.

Day 2: Szentendre to Esztergom

• Distance: 50 km (31 miles)
• Highlights: Head to Esztergom, one of Hungary’s oldest towns and the former royal capital. Esztergom is the center of the Catholic Church in Hungary and home to the monumental Esztergom Basilica, the largest church in Hungary. Climb to the top of the basilica’s dome for breathtaking views of the Danube River and the surrounding region. Explore the Christian Museum, which houses a significant collection of ecclesiastical art, and visit the medieval Royal Palace, offering a journey through Hungary’s royal history.

Day 3: Esztergom to Visegrád to Vác

• Distance: 55 km (34 miles)
• Highlights: Drive along the scenic route to Visegrád, a small town renowned for its medieval heritage. Visit the Visegrád Citadel, perched high on a hill, offering panoramic views of the Danube Bend. Explore the Renaissance Palace, where you can learn about the opulent lifestyle of Hungarian royalty. Continue to Vác, a charming town known for its baroque architecture and vibrant town square. Stroll along the picturesque streets, visit the Vác Cathedral, and explore the unique Tragor Ignác Museum, which showcases local history and culture.

Day 4: Vác to Eger

• Distance: 140 km (87 miles)
• Highlights: Travel to Eger, a historic town famed for its castle, thermal baths, and wine. Begin your visit with a tour of Eger Castle, which played a crucial role in the defense against the Ottoman Turks. Visit the impressive Eger Basilica and the 40-meter-high Minaret, the northernmost Turkish minaret in Europe. Relax in the town’s thermal baths before heading to the Valley of the Beautiful Women (Szépasszonyvölgy) to sample the region’s renowned wines, including the celebrated Bull’s Blood (Egri Bikavér).

Day 5: Eger to Miskolc to Lillafüred

• Distance: 85 km (53 miles)
• Highlights: Drive to Miskolc, where you can experience the unique Cave Bath in Miskolctapolca, a thermal bath inside a natural cave system. Afterward, continue to Lillafüred, a picturesque resort town nestled in the Bükk Mountains. Enjoy the serene beauty of Hámori Lake, take a walk to the Lillafüred Waterfall, and explore the historic Palace Hotel, which resembles a fairytale castle. Don’t miss the Szent István Cave, known for its beautiful stalactites and healing microclimate.

Day 6: Lillafüred to Hortobágy National Park

• Distance: 140 km (87 miles)
• Highlights: Head to Hortobágy National Park, Hungary’s largest protected area and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This park is part of the Great Hungarian Plain and is famous for its unique Puszta landscape, traditional Hungarian horsemanship, and diverse wildlife. Visit the Nine-Arch Bridge, an iconic symbol of the region, and explore the Hortobágy Shepherd Museum to learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Hungarian herdsmen. Enjoy birdwatching and take a guided tour to see the indigenous animal species.

Day 7: Hortobágy to Debrecen to Nyíregyháza

• Distance: 110 km (68 miles)
• Highlights: Visit Debrecen, Hungary’s second-largest city, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant university atmosphere. Explore the Great Reformed Church, a symbol of Hungarian Protestantism, and visit the Déri Museum, which houses impressive collections of art, archaeology, and ethnography. Continue to Nyíregyháza, where you can explore the Nyíregyháza Zoo, one of the best in Hungary, featuring a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits. Relax at the Sóstó Thermal Baths, enjoying the therapeutic waters and beautiful surroundings.

Day 8: Nyíregyháza to Tokaj

• Distance: 70 km (43 miles)
• Highlights: Travel to Tokaj, a historic wine region renowned for its sweet dessert wine, Tokaji Aszú. Visit local vineyards and wineries for tastings and tours, learning about the traditional methods of wine production. Explore the Tokaj Wine Museum to delve into the history of this famous wine region. Take a scenic walk along the Tisza River, enjoying the peaceful landscape and charming town atmosphere. Consider a boat tour on the Bodrog River to see the region from a different perspective.

Day 9: Tokaj to Kecskemét

• Distance: 180 km (112 miles)
• Highlights: Drive to Kecskemét, a vibrant city in the heart of Hungary’s Great Plain. Discover the city’s unique Art Nouveau architecture, including the colorful Cifra Palace and the ornate Town Hall. Visit the Hungarian Museum of Photography, which showcases a rich collection of historical and contemporary photographs. Spend some time at the Kecskemét Zoo, home to a variety of exotic and native animals. Stroll through the city’s beautiful parks and enjoy the local cuisine at one of the many traditional restaurants.

Day 10: Kecskemét to Szeged to Budapest

• Distance: 180 km (112 miles)
• Highlights: On your final day, head to Szeged, known as the “City of Sunshine” for its sunny climate. Visit the Votive Church, a stunning example of Neo-Romanesque architecture, and explore the Synagogue, one of the most beautiful in Europe. Enjoy a walk along the Tisza River and explore the Szeged Open-Air Festival area, where cultural events and performances are held. Return to Budapest in the evening, completing your memorable road trip around Hungary.

This 10-day road trip around Hungary offers a perfect blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, ensuring an unforgettable adventure through this fascinating country.