This rural Hungarian town among the best in the world: a cheap pearl for tourists

The world is filled with stunning yet lesser-known cities that hold hidden treasures for travellers. One of these gems is Eger, a historic town in northern Hungary, which has now made its way into the spotlight thanks to Architectural Digest. The magazine’s latest compilation highlights the world’s most exciting travel destinations, with Eger featured for its medieval castle and baroque architecture.

Discover hidden gems worldwide

The world is brimming with beautiful but under-the-radar cities, waiting to be explored by curious travellers, Pénzcentrum writes. In a recent feature, Architectural Digest presented 13 such places, from medieval Hungarian towns to vibrant Italian islands, and even ancient Incan settlements. These destinations, though often overlooked, are worth the extra attention they are now receiving.

In this collection, Eger stands out as the first mentioned “hidden treasure”. The northern Hungarian town is praised for its medieval castle and baroque buildings. In the 18th century, it was often referred to as the “Hungarian Rome” due to its many religious structures. Below the city, an impressive 60-mile tunnel system was historically used for wine cellars and is still in use today.

Affordable accommodations in Eger

Eger offers a range of accommodation options for two people, depending on the chosen stay. Here are a few examples to provide an idea of what to expect:

• 1552 Boutique Hotel: Around HUF 30,000 (EUR 75) per night, including breakfast, with excellent reviews.
• Imola Hotel Platán: Approximately HUF 32,000 (EUR 80) per night, offering wellness services such as pools and saunas.
• Excalibur miniHotel: Roughly HUF 24,000 (EUR 60) per night, including breakfast, close to the city centre.

Prices, of course, can fluctuate based on the season and the number of bookings, so early planning is recommended.

Must-see attractions in Eger

Eger boasts a variety of sights to explore. The Eger Castle is a top tourist attraction, presenting significant local historical events. After exploring the castle, the Turkish Bath offers a unique experience, where visitors can try a traditional Turkish steam bath. The Eger Basilica, Hungary’s second-largest church, is another must-see, especially for its stunning baroque architecture.