Top things to do in Hungary
Do you know that Hungary was hailed as the world’s most visited tourist destination country in 2002? And we are not exactly surprised. Home of rich cultural traditions, fascinating history, and some of the most spectacular natural sceneries, Hungary has a long list of destinations for your travel bucket list. If you haven’t visited this country, this travel guide is for you.
From classic tourist spots to the exciting newcomer scene, we have selected top things to do in Hungary. Without further ado, here’s how to have fun in Hungary.
Enjoy the summer shore at Lake Balaton
The Lake Balaton in Hungary is a real natural treasure and also one of the best destinations in Hungary. There are lots of activities you can enjoy in this well-known lake from swimming to fishing, and sailing on the lake. There are lots of hotels in the area that offer wine tasting, thermal spas, and water sports activities. And if you want to elevate your experience to the extreme, you can also jump out of a helicopter to get a better view of the lake.
Cave Bath at Miskolc-Tapolca
There are many ways to pamper yourself in Hungary and Cave Bath at Miskolc-Tapolca can give you the absolute relaxation you need.
Here, you’ll have a chance to swim under a cave system filled with 30°C thermal water. The said water has a healing power that can ease your joint diseases and inflammation. The place has also a sauna and steam cabin inside.
photo: barlangfurdo.hu
Play online casino
You read that right, Hungary is one of the countries with the friendliest regulation on gambling. Land-based casinos have been legal since 1991. If you don’t have time to visit Hungary’s casino, you can also play online casino from Hungary at the hotel after your long hours of the tour. There are more than 250 gambling sites in the country. Definitely, you’ll find the casino games or sports betting games that will gratify your gambling needs.
Buy souvenirs Great Market Hall, Budapest
Your Hungary vacation wouldn’t be complete without visiting the famous Great Market Hall in Budapest. This is a multi-story neogothic designed building where you can get everything you need. On the ground floor, you’ll find local farmers and traders selling different produce from vegetables to fruits and meats. The upper floors are designed for souvenir shops and cafes. The Great Market Hall is opened every day of the week except Sunday.
Meditate at the Biggest Synagogue
The Dohány Street Synagogue in Budapest is the biggest in Europe.
It can host 3,000 people and worshipers. The original synagogue was destroyed by a bomb during World War II. The edifice was restored during the 1990s.
Aside from the worship place, the synagogue also homes a cemetery for those deceased or missing Jew. You’ll also learn a lot about the holocaust at the Hungarian Jewish Museum inside. You can enter Synagogue even if you’re not Jewish, but you have to the admission fee.
Explore Castle Ruins
Hungary has many delightful historic forts and castle that can easily bring you back in time.
Eger Castle is one of the favorite spots in the country.
Tourists can climb over the tower ruins or wander on the garden at the castle ground. There’s also a dungeon and museums inside. On special occasions, historical events are also organized. These usually happen during August and October.
photo: Wikimedia Commons – Thaler Tamás
Feel the chill of House of Terror
There are many museums in Hungary that can easily reflect the past, the House of Terror in Budapest is definitely the quirkiest. The House of Terror is nothing like other museums. It offers exhibitions on the dark period in the country. Inside you’ll find prison cells, photographs, and even videos of those dark times. You’ll also find some equipment that was used for torture, deportations, and genocide.
It is also noteworthy that the building where The House of Terror is standing is where the old barracks of the local Nazi Party, The Arrow Cross. The building was also the headquarters of the much-feared communist called secret police.
Wonder around a Hungarian Open Air Museum
If you are interested in Hungary’s tradition, then the Open Air Museum (Szentendre Szabadtéri Néprajzi Múzeum) is the best place for you. The Hungarian Open Air Museum has eight areas that exhibit life in various areas in the country. Expect to have long walks in the area. You’ll also have a chance to work on stables, barns, blacksmith, and authentic old steam train.
‘Do you know that Hungary was hailed as the world’s most visited tourist destination country in 2002?’
No I did not know that because it was not. It was ranked 13th in 2002 and 12th in 2003. A quick check on the internet is all that is needed to get the facts right.