This rural Hungarian town among the best in the world: a cheap pearl for tourists

The world is filled with stunning yet lesser-known cities that hold hidden treasures for travellers. One of these gems is Eger, a historic town in northern Hungary, which has now made its way into the spotlight thanks to Architectural Digest. The magazine’s latest compilation highlights the world’s most exciting travel destinations, with Eger featured for its medieval castle and baroque architecture.

Discover hidden gems worldwide

The world is brimming with beautiful but under-the-radar cities, waiting to be explored by curious travellers, Pénzcentrum writes. In a recent feature, Architectural Digest presented 13 such places, from medieval Hungarian towns to vibrant Italian islands, and even ancient Incan settlements. These destinations, though often overlooked, are worth the extra attention they are now receiving.

Eger, Hungary. Photo: depositphotos.com

In this collection, Eger stands out as the first mentioned “hidden treasure”. The northern Hungarian town is praised for its medieval castle and baroque buildings. In the 18th century, it was often referred to as the “Hungarian Rome” due to its many religious structures. Below the city, an impressive 60-mile tunnel system was historically used for wine cellars and is still in use today.

Affordable accommodations in Eger

Eger offers a range of accommodation options for two people, depending on the chosen stay. Here are a few examples to provide an idea of what to expect:

• 1552 Boutique Hotel: Around HUF 30,000 (EUR 75) per night, including breakfast, with excellent reviews.
• Imola Hotel Platán: Approximately HUF 32,000 (EUR 80) per night, offering wellness services such as pools and saunas.
• Excalibur miniHotel: Roughly HUF 24,000 (EUR 60) per night, including breakfast, close to the city centre.

Prices, of course, can fluctuate based on the season and the number of bookings, so early planning is recommended.

Must-see attractions in Eger

Eger boasts a variety of sights to explore. The Eger Castle is a top tourist attraction, presenting significant local historical events. After exploring the castle, the Turkish Bath offers a unique experience, where visitors can try a traditional Turkish steam bath. The Eger Basilica, Hungary’s second-largest church, is another must-see, especially for its stunning baroque architecture.

Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Apostle. Photo: Wikimedia Commons – Thaler Tamás

In the city centre, Dobó Square serves as a popular meeting spot for visitors, with restaurants and cafes lining the area. Often, cultural events are held here, making it a lively hub of activity. For those interested in astronomy, the Eger Planetarium provides fascinating programs. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture, Eger is the perfect place for relaxation and exploration.

Other featured cities: Goslar and Deia

Another town on the list is Goslar, a charming city in Germany’s Harz Mountains, known for its remarkable 13th-16th century buildings. Founded in 922, it was once a favored residence of early Holy Roman Emperors.

Meanwhile, the quiet town of Deia on the Spanish island of Mallorca attracts many Hollywood celebrities and artists. According to a local restaurant owner, “Actors, politicians, musicians, and designers come here because no one cares who you are.” This laid-back atmosphere is part of the town’s charm.

In Deia, autumn accommodation prices vary depending on the type of stay. For example, the La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel in the city center ranges from EUR 350 to 700 per night, offering stunning views and amenities like a wellness center and pool.

For more budget-conscious travelers, various apartments and villas are available for between EUR 150 and 400 per night. These options provide a well-equipped and comfortable alternative, especially for couples.

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• Spending only 3 days in Budapest? Here’s our detailed tour guide!

Featured image: depositphotos.com