Hungary Escapes
Situated at the heart of Europe, Hungary deserves the nickname “land of waters”, as it holds the largest lake in Europe and is crossed by mighty rivers which divide and define its regions. Despite its relatively small size, Hungary has numerous World Heritage Sites, UNESCO Biosphere reserves and more than thousand thermal water springs ideal for bathing and relaxing. Architecturally it’s a treasure trove, with everything from Roman ruins and medieval townhouses to baroque churches, neoclassical public buildings and art nouveau bathhouses and schools.
This small country, brimming with culture and natural beauty, proudly possesses one of the finest capital cities in the world – Budapest. Uniquely, it is also endowed with two-thousand-year-old roman remains, four-hundred-year-old monuments from the Turkish period, beautiful Romanesque churches, examples of the pinnacle of neo-Gothic and art nouveau architecture, and castles that are still imposing even though they have long since fallen into ruin. Lovers of nature and the great outdoors will relish in exploring Europe’s largest freshwater lake – Lake Balaton – or the many landscape conservation areas, each concealing a wonderful and protected living world. And each year thousands of visitors seeking rest and rejuvenation turn to the country’s many spas, famous for their natural healing spring waters.
In recent years, the resorts themselves have undergone dynamic improvements in the range and quality of services and treatments to others. Budapest is a city where a surprise awaits you on each corner. This metropolis with her 2.1 million inhabitants is more than just the capital of Hungary. Budapest is a unique monument to the past as well as a modern metropolis – a treasury that contains 2.000 years of history and a cultural center in which one sensational events follows the other.
The city extends on both sides of the Danube River – on the right side you find the older, hilly Buda with historic and architectural monuments, on the self side the flat land of the younger Pest with the houses of the well-situated citizens and really busting life. For relaxation go to the “Margitsziger” – an island of some 92 square acres in the middle of the city. Cars are not permitted here and old majestic trees and parks, ruins from monasteries from the days of the Middle Ages, a spa area, two cure hotels and a small zoo as well as restaurants and cafes are conductive for rest an relaxation in the heart of the city.
During your visit you will not only learn why today’s Budapest is the proud heir to the Megyar tribes, who founded Hungary about 1100 years ago. You will also discover the lasting influence of the Romans on the development of the country. You will walk the footsteps of the Turks, who determined the history of Hungary in the 16th and the 17th century and you will be reminded of the days when the Habsburgians ruled the Austrian-Hungarian Empire.
And of course, you will also see the Budapest, that makes today’s history: a blossoming center of international trade, culture, politics, a growing metropolis with the charm of a small town who’s lively presence and gleaming post make her to one of the most dynamic and beautiful cities of Europe.The Magyar thinks of Hungary as the hub of the world “Extra Hungarian non est vita, si est vita, non est ita”… which means: “Outside of Hungary there is no life and if there was, then it would not be the real one”.
BUDAPEST
Budapest, Hungary’s capital and largest city, is considered one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. One of the best places to visit in Hungary, Budapest is home to the world’s largest thermal water cave system as well as the world’s second largest synagogue and third largest Parliament building, the city’s top attraction. You’ll find spectacular views of the Danube and the city from Fishermen’s Bastion, originally part of the city wall. A poignant memorial to Jews killed in World War II can be found at Shoes of the Danube, where Jews removed their shoes before being shot and washed away by the river.
LAKE BALATON
When relaxing at a resort becomes more appealing to you than walking another cobblestone street to see another medieval building, head to Lake Balaton. Europe’s largest freshwater lake is also Hungary’s most popular summer resort. Grass covers many of the beaches, though some resorts have created artificial sandy beaches. Siofok is the lake’s party capital, while ferries at Fonyod take passengers to Badacsony, a major wine-growing region. The north shore offers more wineries, the historical bathing town of Balatonfured and the baroque Festetics Castle.
PECS
A multicultural city where different ethnic groups co-exist peacefully together, where refugees are enfolded into the bosom of the city, making it one of UNESCO’s Cities of Peace. Home to the first university in Hungary, founded in 1367, Pecs has been ruled over by Romans, Christians, and Ottomans. A mild climate, magnificent museums, medieval buildings and fine wines make Pécs a popular travel destination. Historic religious buildings are a big draw, including Pecs Cathedral, Szchenyi Ter, Pécs Synagogue and Mosque of Pasha Gazzi Kassim.
DANUBE RIVER
The spectacular Danube River flows through Hungary from north to south, and as it passes through Budapest splits the city in two. One of the best sunset views of both Buda and Pest is from the lovely Freedom Bridge, a favorite spot among locals. Other great place from which to view this majestic river is at the Danube Bend, one of the country’s most popular recreational and excursion spots. This is where the river winds its way through the heavily wooded Visegrád Mountains before turning sharply south (the river’s “knee”) towards Budapest. The area is popular with hikers and nature-lovers, and is included in the many excellent river cruises that travel the Danube from as far as neighboring Austria.
DEBRECEN
Debrecen, which served as Hungary’s capital various times over the century, is an important cultural center. Heavily destroyed during World War II, it’s considered the intellectual center of the country, starting with the founding of Calvinist College in 1538. The city has a thriving music scene and is home to the Bela Bartok International Choir competition. Top attractions include the Reformed Great Church, the largest Protestant church in Hungary; the Deri Museum with its collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, and the annual Flower Carnival.
AGGTELEK NATIONAL PARK
Located in northern Hungary, the park is home to the largest stalactite cave in Europe. Guided tours, geared to physical capabilities, are available. A special cave experience is listening to concerts inside Baradla. The park is a protected area, with some parts off-limits to tourists, while visitors must remain on marked hiking trails in others. Aggtelek National Park is a good place to see flora and fauna, and visit quaint villages within its boundaries.
EGER
Eger, northern Hungary’s second largest city, is known for several things. Founded by Hungary’s first Christian king, Saint Stephen, in the 10th century, the city is famous for its magnificent baroque buildings. The king founded an Episcopal cathedral, with Eger remaining an important religious center today. The cathedral was built on Castle Hill, with the city growing around it. The castle and basilica remain the city’s top sights, followed by the Valley of the Women, a series of wine cellars and restaurants built into surrounding hills.
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritages – Despite the fact that Hungary is a small country – it boasts with eight world heritage sites, seven in the cultural, one in the natural group, explore all these beautiful places with us. Budapest has joint to the UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network and became the first Central Europian city which awarded the title – “City of Design”
- Wellness & Detox – Spa break Thanks to its natural thermal springs, more people are travelling here to relax their bodies and relieve stress. Enjoy natural treatments with physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, electrotherapy, medical packs and massage to achieve excellent results. A wide range of relaxation and wellbeing treatments in addition to medical treatments, to ensure that you leave feeling relaxed and refreshed.
- Bunker Tour – Explore forgotten places on a very unique way, see the history from a different perspective and be part of a secret story what lays behind the surface.
- Zsolnay – a colorful piece of culture, art and heritage – The Zsolnay Quarter might just be the most beautiful gem of Pecs. One of the most significant developments that took place as part of the European Capital of Culture programme was the renovation of the listed Zsolnay factory buildings, which had become dilapidated and for the most part unused.
- Horse lover tour of Budapest- Hungarians and their horses – it’s a very special relationship. Hungary is an ideal destination for horse-lovers and there aren’t many countries that offer such a wide range of opportunities. For maximum speed, head to Budapest’s horse racing venue, the Kincsem Park.
- Wine – Winemaking has been an old tradition in the country. Bikaver or “Bull’s Blood” and Tokaji wines are two of the best.
- Activities by Danube – The River flows gracefully, caressing the two souls of the city, Buda and Pest, offering suggestive panoramas.
- Festivals Time in Hungary – Whether you want to party like a rock star or sip wine while watching traditional folk dancing, Hungary is the right place where to be.
- National Park Tour – Goulash The national dish of Hungary, it’s particularly enjoyable in winter, as it warms you inwardly, perfect for keeping off the cold while travelling.
- Budapest Christmas Markets – Visit Budapest Christmas Markets on our escorted tours in Hungary. Winter wonderland await you to soak up the festive atmosphere, browse the stalls for shop the special Christmas gift, enjoy Christmas concerts , hearty food and hot wine.
- New Year’s Eve in Budapest – Enjoy spectacular fireworks at midnight and toast to the excitement of ringing in the New Year in the City with impressive beauty.
- Discover Budapest with photographer – If you are looking to capture amazing pictures which are giving a unique opportunity to see the city from a different perspective and if you want to see hidden places and treasures from an eye of a photographer.
- Luxury Hunting – Europe can boast with particularly high wildlife populations and challenging trophies and has lots to offer for hunting and non hunting companions: rich hunting grounds, breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural and historical heritage. Experience old traditional way of hunting by horse carriage in Hungary.