Hungary - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips
Hungary is popular for its spa culture with its massive number of thermal water springs all over the country, easily accessible public baths and renowned grand spas like Gellért Baths in Budapest. The tagline for tourism in Hungary is “A love for life!” which explains the overall vibe of the country with its fine food, wine, diversity of the culture and the natural beauty. For history enthusiasts, this country is a treasure of resources, and they expose their knowledge generously to the tourists in their museums. Popular tourist attractions in the country consist of the wonder that is the Budapest Chain Bridge, The Great Synagogue, Buda Castle, Place of Arts and the Hungarian Parliament Building known for its unique architecture.
Situated in the middle of the continent surrounded by 7 other countries, Hungary is considered to be one of the oldest countries in Europe. It is the birth land of the Rubik’s cube and has produced many mathematicians to the world. Budapest, the capital city is picturesque with the river Danube flowing in the middle allowing 15 bridges to majestically connect the two parts of the city.
Tour Highlights
- Learn about Hungarian folklore at Hortobágy National Park
- Soak in the famous Széchenyi thermal baths
- Explore the fantastical grounds of Bory Castle in Székesfehérvár
- Have a drink in the ruin pubs of Budapest
- Swim in Lake Heviz
- Reflect on history alongside the Shoes on the Danube Bank art memorial
- Eat (and Instagram) a flower-shaped ice cream from Gelarto Rosa
Travel Tips
- You will be immediately identified as a tourist if you pronounce the capital city’s name as “boo-da-pest”. The correct pronunciation is “boo-da-pesht”.
- Be sure to pack a swimsuit on your trip to Hungary so you can take advantage of the country’s 150+ thermal baths.
- Even though Hungary is part of the European Union, it uses its own currency: the Hungarian forint. Some shops and tourist destinations will accept your euros, but it’s always best to carry the local currency.
- Never refuse a shot of Pálinka. The fruit brandy, often homemade, is said to have healing properties and can cure all ails, from headaches to nerves.
- Don’t clink beer glasses together while in Hungary. It is said that the Austrians celebrated their win of the 1848-49 war of independence by clinking their beer glasses. The Hungarians vowed not to do so for 150 years, and the tradition remains today. It’s fine to ‘cheers’ with other beverages, however.
Hungary has seasonal weather so please do check up on best time to visit Hungary before planning your tour.