Hungary is a country full of history, charm, and vibrant life. Located in the heart of Europe, it offers a perfect blend of old-world elegance and modern experiences. Whether you are drawn to stunning architecture, healing thermal baths, or rich cuisine, the Top Places to Visit in Hungary in 2025 will leave a lasting impression.
The capital city, Budapest, often steals the spotlight, but Hungary is far more than its iconic Parliament building and river cruises. From storybook towns to rolling vineyards and dramatic mountain trails, this country is packed with hidden gems and well-loved destinations. The Top Places to Visit in Hungary combine cultural highlights with breathtaking natural beauty.
Travelling across Hungary is easy, thanks to well-connected trains, scenic roads, and welcoming locals. Whether you're planning a short holiday or an extended adventure, the Top Places to Visit in Hungary will offer moments of inspiration, relaxation, and plenty of photo-worthy memories. Let’s explore the must-see destinations that will make your 2025 trip unforgettable.
Budapest – The Pearl of the Danube
Budapest is a dazzling city where elegance meets energy, and history lives side by side with modern life. As one of the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, it offers a rich blend of majestic architecture, vibrant culture, and world-famous thermal experiences.
The city is divided by the mighty Danube River Buda on one side with its historic hills and castles, and Pest on the other with buzzing boulevards and café-lined streets. Stroll across the iconic Chain Bridge or soak in the steaming pools of Széchenyi Baths, one of Europe’s largest and most famous spa complexes.
Admire the neo-Gothic splendour of the Hungarian Parliament Building, then head up to Fisherman’s Bastion for sweeping views across the city’s rooftops. From ruin pubs and live jazz to opera houses and open-air markets, Budapest buzzes with life day and night. It holds its place firmly among the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, offering the perfect introduction to a country full of elegance, warmth, and wonder.
Eger – Baroque Beauty and Red Wine
Eger is known for its historic charm, baroque buildings, and excellent wines. As one of the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, it draws visitors to its medieval castle, thermal baths, and the famous “Valley of the Beautiful Women,” home to centuries-old wine cellars. Stroll its cobbled streets and enjoy a glass of Egri Bikavér, Hungary’s bold red wine.
Lake Balaton – Hungary’s Inland Sea
Lake Balaton, often called the “Hungarian Sea,” is the largest lake in Central Europe and a beloved destination for locals and travellers alike. As one of the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, it offers the perfect mix of leisure, nature, and lakeside charm
The lake’s shimmering waters stretch for nearly 80 kilometres, creating a coastal feel in the heart of the countryside. The southern shore is known for its warm, shallow waters and sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing and swimming. On the northern shore, visitors can explore rolling vineyards, charming villages, and scenic hiking trails with postcard-worthy views.
Balatonfüred, with its elegant promenade, and Tihany, with its lavender fields and Benedictine Abbey, are two highlights that bring timeless beauty and tranquillity. From sailing and cycling to wine tasting and sunset dining, Lake Balaton truly has something for everyone. That’s why it remains one of the Top Places to Visit in Hungary a versatile escape for families, couples, and anyone seeking a relaxing retreat by the water.
Pécs – A Cultural Mosaic
Pécs is a cultural gem in southern Hungary, where layers of history meet a thriving artistic heartbeat. As one of the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, the city invites you to explore a unique blend of Roman, Ottoman, and Hungarian influences that shape its architecture, cuisine, and atmosphere.
Pécs enjoys a gentle Mediterranean climate, which adds a relaxed charm to its sunlit squares and leafy streets. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Early Christian Mausoleum, a remarkable glimpse into Hungary’s ancient past, then admire the striking green dome of the former Mosque of Pasha Qasim, now a church.
The Zsolnay Cultural Quarter is a highlight once a porcelain factory, now a buzzing arts district filled with ceramics, galleries, and open-air performances. Locals and visitors alike gather in Széchenyi Square, where fountains, cafés, and baroque facades frame the day’s rhythm. Pécs proudly stands among the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, offering a colourful and soulful escape for those who appreciate heritage, creativity, and a slower pace of life.
Debrecen – The Calvinist Rome
Debrecen is Hungary’s second-largest city and a cultural hub of the east. As one of the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, it impresses with its grand Reformed Church, local festivals, and thermal spa culture. The city is also the gateway to Hortobágy National Park, a vast area of sweeping plains and traditional Hungarian shepherd life.
Top Places to Visit in Hungary 2025
| Destination | Highlight Features | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Budapest | Thermal Baths, Architecture, Danube Views | Culture + Urban Explorers |
| Eger | Baroque Centre, Wine Cellars, Castle | History + Wine Enthusiasts |
| Lake Balaton | Beaches, Sailing, Vineyards | Summer Holidays + Relaxation |
| Pécs | Roman Ruins, Art Scene, Turkish Heritage | Culture + Creative Travellers |
| Debrecen | Historic Churches, Spas, National Park | Festivals + Nature + Wellness |
| Sopron | Medieval Streets, Vineyards, Border Charm | Quiet Getaways + Wine Routes |
| Hortobágy | Horse Shows, Grasslands, Folk Traditions | Rural Culture + Birdwatching |
| Hollókő | Folk Life, Costumes, Castle Village | Families + Cultural Immersion |
| Győr | Baroque Buildings, River Walks, Café Culture | Architecture + Leisure Seekers |
| Visegrád | Citadel Views, Danube Bend, Forest Hikes | Day Trips + Hikers + Historians |
Sopron – Border Town with Austrian Flair
Sopron, near the Austrian border, is a charming town rich in history and elegance. As one of the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, it features a beautifully preserved medieval centre, scenic vineyards, and lush forests.
Known for its loyalty to Hungary after World War I, Sopron blends cultural pride with peaceful surroundings. Visitors can explore historic streets, climb the Firewatch Tower, and enjoy local wine, making it an ideal stop for heritage and tranquillity lovers.
Hortobágy National Park – Wild Hungarian Plains
Hortobágy, Hungary’s oldest and largest national park, is a vast landscape of wild steppe and timeless traditions. As one of the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, it offers iconic horse shows, grazing grey cattle, and the remarkable Nine-Arch Bridge. This UNESCO-listed area is perfect for birdwatchers and travellers seeking an authentic rural experience. Hortobágy reflects Hungary’s pastoral heritage, offering peace, history, and natural beauty in one unforgettable setting.
Hollókő – Living Folk Village
Hollókő is a UNESCO World Heritage village that captures the spirit of rural Hungary. As one of the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, it showcases traditional whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and a hilltop castle.
The village is known for its vibrant folk festivals, colourful costumes, and local crafts that celebrate centuries-old customs. With its living heritage and welcoming charm, Hollókő offers visitors a step back in time and an authentic cultural experience year-round.
Győr – Riverside Elegance
Győr, located at the confluence of the Danube, Rába, and Rábca rivers, is a vibrant city that balances elegance with energy. As one of the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, it offers a harmonious mix of history, architecture, and youthful spirit.
The city’s baroque centre is filled with beautifully restored buildings, charming cafés, and atmospheric squares that come alive with local festivals and markets. Its riverside promenades are perfect for leisurely strolls, especially in the golden light of late afternoon. Győr is also a thriving university town, giving it a lively buzz and cultural calendar throughout the year.
Visitors can explore the 11th-century cathedral, admire works at the Municipal Art Museum, or simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of life along the water. With its rich heritage and refreshing energy, Győr stands out as one of the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, especially for those venturing into the western part of the country in search of culture, charm, and comfort.
Visegrád – Royal Views and Forest Trails
Visegrád, perched above the majestic curve of the Danube Bend, offers one of Hungary’s most breathtaking landscapes. As one of the Top Places to Visit in Hungary, this small town enchants with a blend of medieval intrigue and natural splendour.
The hilltop Visegrád Citadel stands as a proud reminder of Hungary’s royal past, offering panoramic views that stretch across the river and forested hills. Below, the Renaissance Palace of King Matthias showcases elegant courtyards and historical exhibitions. Hiking trails weave through lush hillsides, leading to scenic lookouts and peaceful woodland paths. Just an hour from Budapest, Visegrád is a favourite for day-trippers seeking a mix of fresh air and cultural richness.
Whether you’re climbing ancient towers, exploring castle ruins, or picnicking along the riverside, Visegrád perfectly unites the past with the present. It’s no surprise that it remains firmly placed among the Top Places to Visit in Hungary a destination where history feels alive and nature offers a peaceful retreat.
Final Words
Hungary is a country where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. The Top Places to Visit in Hungary for 2025 highlight its rich diversity from grand boulevards in Budapest to peaceful lakeside retreats like Balaton. Each destination tells a unique story, offering a glimpse into the nation's vibrant traditions and layered heritage.
With welcoming locals, timeless architecture, and stunning landscapes, Hungary invites you to explore at your own pace. The Top Places to Visit in Hungary promise not just sights, but meaningful experiences. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Hungary delivers it all in style.
