Hungary

Hungary is a land where ancient Roman ruins and semi-ancient Turkish monuments can be found beside each other and where you can sleep in converted palaces. Aside from Budapest, there are many intriguing towns and cities as well as the famous Thermal Baths near Lake Balaton. Hungary also has a strong tradition in wine. Wine lovers will enjoy the sweet wines of Tokaj, where private cellars offer wine tastings in town. Some of these dessert wines can be incredibly sweet indeed.

Known as the “Pearl of the Danube,” Budapest is the center of Hungary in all ways except for geography. It is a lively city with a rich tradition, and has long been a home for many writers, artists, and musicians. Budapest was originally two cities – Buda and Pest. Pest is the commercial side and contains the Hungarian State Opera House, Parliament and the National Museum. The older Buda is graceful and cobbled, containing the rampart-encircled Castle Hill – the birthplace of Buda. On Castle Hill, you will find the much-reconstructed Royal Palace, the Matthias Church and the National Gallery. Nearby, visitors can check out the views from Gellert Hill and visit the Citadella fortress.

To the north of Budapest is the Danube Bend, containing many historical monuments and palaces. Notable ones include the Royal Palace and Visegrad Citadel at Visegrad and the Esztergrom Basilica at Esztergrom. Located in the south, the city of Pecs was important to both the Romans and the Turks.  Both have left their historical imprint on the city. There are many worthwhile Mosques, Churches, and Museums for visitors to Pecs.

Other historical sights in Hungary include the old town of Sopron and the excellent Esterhazy Palace in Fertod. For relaxation many head to Lake Balaton, which is Central Europe’s largest lake and a popular destination resort. There you can lie on the warm beaches or head to nearby Heviz to soak in the famous Thermal Baths.