Plan a trip to Central Hungary

This region is the most important in the country from an economic, governmental, and tourism perspective as it includes Budapest, the capital, though the city is officially a separate entity.

Budapest, the beautiful capital of Hungary, is home to close to two million residents -about a fifth of the country's population. It is a center of tourism and one of the most important and popular cities in Europe. In addition to the extraordinary sites in Budapest that we’ll describe below, Budapest has a unique distinction - it is the only capital that sits on a treasure of thermal springs. So, as you travel, you can also stop to luxuriate in one of the city’s many wellness spas, some of which are located in hotels and offer wonderful treatments.  

Because of the abundance of unique historic landmarks in Budapest, the city received UNESCO recognition as a World Heritage Site. Among its outstanding highlights are Buda Castle and the Fisherman's Bastion in Buda; the magnificent Hungarian Parliament Building; Heroes' Square; the imposing St. Stephens Basilica; the Dohany Street Synagogue that tells the story of Hungarian Jewry; impressive museums and galleries; and commemorative sites from World War II.

The Pest district is located outside Budapest, and together they comprise what is known as Central Hungary. The area is filled with charming towns, villages, palaces, fortresses, museums, national parks, and many more points of interest. For example, the town of Gödöllő is home to one of the most beautiful palaces in the area – the Royal Palace of Queen Sisi, aka Elizabeth, who was the wife of Emperor Franz Josef. In the town of Rackeve, you’ll find the Savoyai Castle, the first Baroque castle in Hungary.

Along the Danube River is the picturesque town of Szentendre, known for its Baroque central square, extensive art scene, and Mediterranean atmosphere. There are several well-known museums in Szentendre including the Margit Kovacs Ceramics Museum which exhibits the works of the famous Hungarian artist, potter, and sculptor, and the Skanzen Museum which presents houses typical of different regions in Hungary. Stroll down the town’s main street and you’ll be impressed by the many artisans presenting their craft. 

The castle town of Visegrad, located north of Budapest in the Danube Bend, is another highlight in Pest. The town is home to the remains of the 13th century summer palace of King Matthias Corvinus of Hungary as well as a medieval citadel, the Fellegvar Fortress, which means the “Castle in the Clouds.” 

Esztergom, a town which is also located in the Danube Bend, serves a harbor for ships sailing on the Danube. As the home of The Great Cathedral from 1856, the most important Catholic Church in Hungary, and the residence of the Bishop of Hungary, Esztergom also provides its visitors with an impressive religious experience.

The town of Vac on the left bank of the Danube is known for its most interesting and beautiful Baroque church which was built in honor of the Empress Maria Theresa and dedicated in 1772.

Another town worth visiting is the resort town Nagymaros. Located in the Danube Bend, the area offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views on the Danube River as well as hiking, biking, and walking trails through stunning nature. 

Central Hungary in a nutshell? Beautiful, lush nature, green parks, outstanding culture, fascinating history – not to mention the finest Hungarian cuisine!