Top 5 Places to Visit Near Budapest
Introduction
Budapest, the capital of Hungary is an interesting place with its great history, magnificent architecture and a dynamic culture. However, if your travels have a little extra leg leeway, venturing to the surrounding areas, can provide you, an alternative viewpoint on this gorgeous country. Here in this article, we are going to give you a virtual tour of the top 5 places to visit near Budapest.
1. Szentendre
Szentendre is an up-market town only 20 kilometres north of Budapest. Celebrated for its vibrant pristine houses and uneven cobblestone streets, the town is an emblematic focal point of locals as well as tourists. Enjoy a casual promenade along the river Danube, wander through the narrow streets holding a number of art galleries and museums, see the best of traditional Hungarian cuisine at a local restaurant.
Highlights:
- Outdoors Ethnographic Museum of traditional Hungarian village architecture
- Micro Museums with quirky collections like marzipan sculptures and Hungarian ceramics
- Szentendre Skanzen, a museum of open air reconstructed Hungarian building
2. Visegrád
Situated around 45 kilometers north of Budapest, Visegrád is a charming riverside village famous for the medieval castle and beautiful views. Hike to the Visegrád Citadel for a view that pans over the Danube Bend and across the entire bend, where the Danube makes a dramatic turn. Besides this, the town has numerous historical reenactments and cultural events that provide the guests with a feeling of what Hungarians lived in past ages.
Highlights:
- Visegrád Citadel with its impressive ruins and panoramic views
- Royal Palace offering exhibitions on medieval life
- One can engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and kayaking in the nearby hills and rivers.
3. Eger
Eger town lies about 130 kilometers northeast of Budapest and really is a delightful town, which combines perfectly history, architecture and wines. Walk through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, visit the imposing Eger Castle and do not miss the chance to taste the famous Bull’s Blood wine, which is born right here. In the vicinity of Eger you can find a range of thermal baths where you can relax and unwind.
Highlights:
- Eger Castle with its fascinating history and panoramic views
- Eger Basilica, an impressive neoclassical cathedral
- Eger Wine Cellars which offers you to taste and to visit.
4. Lake Balaton
If you’re seeking to unwind on the water Be sure to head south west of Budapest to the largest fresh water lake in central Europe Lake Balaton. Crystal clear water, beautiful white sand beaches, and picturesque landscape, it is a holiday drawn to both the locals and the tourists. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing or give a try to lots water sports. Neighboring villages and towns provide lovely place to stay and a delicious seafood.
Highlights:
- Sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding… etc.
- Tihany Peninsula, a nature reserve with stunning views over the lake
- Who does not know Balatonfüred – a town famous for its curative springs and lovely promenade
5. Gödöllő
Just 30 kilometers east of Budapest, Gödöllő is a place rich in the grandeur of its second-largest palace complex in Hungary, the Baroque palace, situated by the town center. Admire the beautiful gardens, admire the beautifully decorated interiors and get to know the history of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. the town is after all also able for horseback riding, the town is surrounded by nice meadows and forests.
Highlights:
- Gödöllő Royal Palace, a former summer residence of Empress Elisabeth (Sisi)
- Exhibition at Antal Grassalkovich Memorial to Display Life and Work of Notable Hungarian Aristocrat
- Countryside horse riding tours to discover the quaint landscapes
Conclusion
Though Budapest is full of more than enough entertainment, traveling outside of town to observe the surrounding areas can add to your trip in Hungary. All of these places near Budapest bring to the table distinctive towns, lush natural wonders, and more. Therefore, when planning your next trip to Hungary, leave a bit of leeway to discover these hidden treasures.
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