One of Miskolc’s best-known attractions, the Szinva Waterfall in Lillafüred, has received further international recognition, featuring as the world’s 17th most beautiful waterfall in Worldworthy’s 2026 ranking. This recognition further strengthens the international reputation of Miskolc-Lillafüred as a tourist destination. Alongside the natural treasures of the Bükk Mountains, the city’s historic city centre, the spas of Miskolctapolca, the Avas Wine District and the ever-expanding range of culinary delights all contribute to making Miskolc a rewarding destination for a stay of several days.
The Szinva Waterfall in Lillafüred has been included in this year’s edition of The Worldworthy 100, which showcases the world’s best-rated waterfalls. According to the organisation, the ranking is compiled using independent criteria such as online reviews, press coverage and travelogues; it is not possible to apply for inclusion on the list or to pay to be included.
The Iguaçu Falls in Brazil topped Worldworthy’s 2026 ranking, with Mexico’s Cascada El Chiflón taking second place and the world-famous Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe coming third. The Szinva Falls in Lillafüred came 17th in this prestigious international ranking, representing Hungary as the only Hungarian site on the TOP 100 list, which features 42 countries.
The Miskolc attraction even outperformed such world-famous waterfalls as the Kuang Si Falls in Laos (18th place), the Rhine Falls in Switzerland (38th place), Yosemite Falls in the United States (40th place) and Seljalandsfoss in Iceland (50th place).
The unique spectacle of the Lillafüred waterfall is complemented by the forest setting of the Bükk Mountains. Hungary’s highest waterfall is situated next to the hanging gardens of the Palotaszálló, just a few steps from Lake Hámori. Thanks to the area’s romantic atmosphere, the historic hotel, the forest narrow-gauge railway and the walking trails, as well as the caves with their spectacular chambers, Lillafüred offers enough to keep visitors occupied for several days in its own right.
Visitors can also combine their nature walks with a visit to the thermal baths in Miskolctapolca, another popular holiday resort in the Miskolc area. The Cave Baths, built within natural cave passages, and the Ellipsum Adventure Baths offer a variety of bathing experiences all year round, making the town an attractive destination not only for excursions and active pursuits but also for those seeking relaxation; it can be an appealing destination for school holidays or even a week-long summer break.
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Miskolc took centre stage on the international stage in 2026
In 2026, Miskolc’s Edible Forest – Forest Gastro Express programme won the award for the world’s best sustainable tourism initiative at the Green Destinations international competition. This unique experience combines the natural treasures of the Bükk Mountains with local gastronomy. Under expert guidance, participants can learn about the forest’s edible plants and then sample dishes made from local ingredients. The programme was also included in the 2026 Green List, an international selection by the British travel magazine Wanderlust.
In Time Out magazine’s 2026 international selection, Lillafüred was ranked as the 19th most beautiful place in the world. The Palotaszálló, Lake Hámori, the waterfall and the Bükk forest complex form a natural and built environment that stands out even by international standards.
Similarly, according to Time Out’s 2026 guide, Miskolc is Europe’s 4th best value-for-money destination worth discovering. This ranking draws attention to the town’s affordable yet rich range of tourist attractions. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities and experiences, whilst the city is becoming an attractive alternative for an increasing number of international travellers.
The success of the Miskolc Advent Tram has also extended far beyond the country’s borders. This special festive tram was voted Europe’s most beautiful Advent tram for the ninth time running in 2026 in an international public poll. The tram is one of Miskolc’s best-known attractions during the Advent season, drawing many visitors to the city every year.
Miskolc has become one of the key regional centres for gastronomic tourism in Hungary, and its range of restaurants has elevated it to the status of one of the country’s most significant gastronomic destinations. Many of the city’s restaurants feature in the recommendations of the international Michelin Guide and the Hungarian Street Kitchen guide, meaning that Miskolc now offers travellers a remarkable gastronomic experience on a par with the capital and Lake Balaton.
The character of the local dining scene is defined by creative chefs, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, and dishes drawing on the flavours of the Bükk Mountains. The unique atmosphere of the Avasi Wine Quarter adds further experiences to the city’s gastronomic offering.
The Szinva Waterfall’s inclusion on the world list presents a further opportunity to further strengthen Miskolc’s position on the international tourism map. International recognition is showcasing Miskolc’s attractions to an ever-wider audience.
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