Day Trips from Budapest by Train: Discover Hungary’s Hidden Gems
As Hungary’s lively capital, Budapest is full of things to see and do for visitors. But with a go out of town you can find out a more beautiful nature, a historical sites, a cultural treasure. Budapest is served by a major and efficient rail network and so train travel in the surrounding area via rail is very pleasant and exciting. Let’s take a look at some amazing day’s out you can do by train.
1. Szentendre: The Artist’s Retreat
Just a 40-minute train ride from Budapest, Szentendre is an artistic little town famous for its Baroque building and atmosphere. Wander through the charming narrow cobble stone streets surrounded by bright coloured houses, take a look at the local crafts shops and discover the Open-Air Museum to rub shoulders with Hungarian folk culture. Do not miss the grand Marzipan Museum, where marveled at stunning marzipan sculptures.
2. Visegrád: Castle in the Midst of Nature
Getting to the charming Visegrád on a 50-minute train ride is a delight from Budapest. Passing atop a hill looking down on Danube River, Visegrád showcases profound views of surrounding landscape. Visit the Middle Ages Visegrád Castle, which had been the residence of the kings and learn about the Hungary history. Nature lovers will enjoy next to the Danube-Ipoly National Park with swimming trails and multy-being.
3. Eger: Wine and Historical Charm
Get off the train and go northeast for approximately 2 hours and you will be in the pretty town of Eger. Reno because of red wine Eger a Wineyard. Investigate the famous Eger Castle, famous for its courageous resistance to the Ottoman Empire and delve into the cellars of the Valley of Beautiful Women, where you can taste local wines.
4. Lake Balaton: Hungary’s “Sea”
A bit more distant from Budapest, but worth the drive, is Lake Balaton, a.k.a. Hungary’s Lake of the Alps, or simply ‘the Sea’ to Hungarians. Take a train for about 1.5 hours, and you will arrive to this beautiful freshwater lake. Spend on an day at the beach, any number of water sports, any of beauty lakeside towns surrounding Siófok and Tihany. Make sure to try the local well-known fish soup, speciality of the territory
5. Hollókő: UNESCO World Heritage Village
The train + bus combo ride to Hollókő, a UNESCO World Heritage village is a must for all who seek special cultural adventure. Drive for approx. 2 hours and travel back in time while sightseeing in this well-preserved traditional village and getting to know the traditional Palóc culture. Visit Hollókő Castle and experience folk dance shows, folk art and craftsmanship and traditional cooking.
6. Gödöllő: Royal Residence
Auschwaite aussi 30 minute inetrainja most da in Gödöllő, ein Ügrossgödöllő Palace inmig. The palace has been a favorite summer residence of Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) and Franz Joseph I of Austria-Hungary, it is a architectural gem touching with pretty gardens. Join a guided tour to get a glimpse into the royal life and gain insight into Hungary’s monarchical history.
7. Pécs: Cultural Delights
For a longer day trip get on the train and head to Pécs and aproximately 2,5 hour train ride from Budapest. Rich in cultural heritage this lively city is home to plenty of Roman ruins and Ottoman Turkish heritage. Visit the beautiful Pécs Cathedral, the UNESCO listed Early Christian Necropolis, walk in the charming old town with the lively coffee culture.
8. Hortobágy National Park: Nature’s Wonderland
For the nature lovers, a stop in Hortobágy National Park is mandatory. To get to the park from Budapest, take a train to Debrecen (about 2.5 hours) and then bus. Witness Hungary’s most extensive nature reserve, which boasts rather exclusive wildlife as well as a compelling puszta (Great Hungarian Plain) scenery. Have an authentic sheep shepherd experience, birdwatching and engage in untouched nature of Hungarian countryside.
Final Thoughts
With Budapest as your base, there is simple train access to the rich variety of Hungarian beauty. Whether you are looking for a taste of culture, historical points of interest or natural attractions, these day trips have something for everyone. Plan your itinerary, reserve your train tickets, and set off on unforgettably ones a stones throw away from the vibrant town center.
Please check the train schedule and book your return journey well in time to avoid any last minute rush. Take your camera, your comfortable shoes, your open mind and the splendors, which you will go beyond from Budapest!
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