Swedish Nomad: 55 reasons to visit Hungary

by SWEDISH NOMAD (Guest author)

Ever since I found out about my Hungarian ancestry as a kid, I’ve been inspired to learn more and eager to visit Hungary. In the recent years, I’ve been exploring the country quite a lot, and last summer, especially when Christine and I did a road trip by train from Budapest to Eger, Miskolc, Tokaji, Debrecen and back to Budapest!

This article is a tribute to my Hungarian heritage and my grandfather Géza Waltner, who lives in the small but charming town of Sajószentpéter.

If you haven’t yet been, I urge you to go and experience all that Hungary has to offer. Here are 55 reasons why I think everyone should visit Hungary at least once in their life!

1. FOOD

One of the first things that come to mind when I think about Hungary is the food. There are so many delicious and flavorful dishes to try. Below are some notable dishes that are traditional in the Hungarian kitchen: Pörkölt,  Gulyás, Halászlé, Meggyleves, Rakott Krumpli, Húsleves, Töltött Paprika, Lecsó, Paprikás Csirke, Töltött káposzta.

2. ESZTERGOM

An old city that already existed during Roman times and the former capital of Hungary between the 900’s and 1200’s, before King Bela IV moved the capital to Buda. The famous basilica is also the largest church in all of the country.

Esztergom is surely another good reason to visit Hungary beyond Budapest!

3. FISHERMAN’S BASTION

Few attractions have caught my eyes like the Fisherman’s Bastion and Mathias Church next to it. This place is like taken out of a fairytale, but it’s very real, and you can walk here yourself. If you come here early in the morning, you can almost imagine walking around in a scene from the Lord of the Rings!
fisherman’s bastion

4. TOKAJI ASZU

Probably the best sweet wine in the world. It’s so delicious. The first time you try it, make sure to select a good quality Tokaji Aszu with at least 5 puttonyos. Read more HERE.

5. ARCHITECTURE

Everywhere you go in Hungary, you will see old and beautiful architecture. In Budapest, you can walk around a whole day, just looking at old buildings and still haven’t seen them all. But also in other cities you will see some impressive architecture!
St Stephen’s Basilika

6. LILLAFÜRED

Famous for the natural caves and the Palace hotel in neo-Renaissance style as well as being home to the highest waterfall in Hungary.
lillafûred

7. INTERESTING AND UNIQUE FOLK TRADITION

Hungarian culture and traditions are some of the best-preserved ones in Europe. They go back to the old days, and as a tourist, it will be very interesting to attend events and festivals.