Explore Hungary’s hidden gems by train
New routes from Budapest mean new discoveries: from the Hungarian Riviera to the Calvinist Rome
Most travellers start their Hungarian adventures in Budapest. And, with all the city has to offer, who wouldn’t? The capital’s stunning architecture, lively atmosphere, and best of east-meets-west culture is second to none. The festival scene is legendary (Sziget in August of 2023 features several world-famous performing artists), and the city offers a variety of affordable (and sometimes free!) entertainment and activities for travellers of all ages.
But the adventure doesn’t have to end in the capital! Take advantage of your time in The Heart of Europe and discover what the rest of the country has to offer. Rail Europe’s new Hungarian domestic routes can get you from the capital to the country’s other sites of interest in just a few hours. So, it would be a shame to miss out on the shimmering Lake Balaton, The Calvinist Rome or the local flavour of getting off the beaten track.
Hungary’s second largest city (and former capital) is a bustling cultural and political centre, so there is plenty to discover. Debrecen is easily accessible from Budapest (just under 3 hours by train). Nicknamed the Calvinist Rome, it is home to numerous impressive churches, including The Great Reformed Church (pictured), the largest of its kind in the country. Cultural and intellectual points of interest include The Reformed College with it’s 600,000-volume library, the Déry Museum (an impressive collection of Hungarian and international art and artifacts), and the 19th century Csokani Theatre, which hosts regular concerts and operas.
Debrecen is becoming increasingly international and has a variety of both traditional Hungarian and fusion restaurants to choose from. The city’s signature dish is Debreceni sausage, but puliszka (polenta topped with various sauces) and goulash (meat stew) are also worth trying! Fun and entertainment can be found at the Nagyerdei Water Tower, home to a lookout point, art exhibits, and even a wine bar. If you’re visting at the end of August, don’t miss The Debrecen Flower Festival, complete with parade floats, fun activities, and beautiful flower arrangements, of course.
🗸 Fastest journey time: 2 hours 26 minutes
🗸 Number of trains per day: 19
Known as the Capital of Lake Balaton, Siofok is a popular vacation spot for Hungarians and international tourists alike. This charming town sits on the south bank of Central Europe's largest lake and boasts beautiful landscapes and pristine blue water. Nagystrand (the Grand Beach) has a wide variety of water activities: boating, swimming, sailing and more. Other outdoor options include The Bella Zoo and the lush green Millennium Park. Grab some làngos (deep-fried Hungarian flatbread topped with sour cream and cheese) if you need a little pick-me-up between activities. The local speciality is sold by street vendors in the region.
Like Debrecen, Siofok has its own water tower with great views, located at the centre of town. After taking in the scenery, take advantage of chic shopping and dining and enjoy the local wine. If you’re not ready to hit the hay after dinner, Siofok has a lively party scene. You can dance the night away in the venue of your choice (either on the beach or in town). Siofok is also a great jumping-off point to explore the wonders of the region: think the 10th century Benedictine abbey on the Tihany peninsula (pictured), Festetics Castle in Keszthely and the vineyards of Balatonfüred.
🗸 Fastest journey time: 1 hour 11 minutes
🗸 Number of trains per day: 23
Gyor’s walkability, charming baroque architecture and proximity to other European capitals make it a perfect place to stop on your trip to Hungary. It’s easy to hop on a direct train from Budapest, Vienna or Bratislava and explore this northern Hungarian gem. Stroll down Baross Gabor Utca, a charming pedestrian street, or sit at an outdoor café in the Old Town at Szechenyi Square. Gyor has yet to be overtaken by tourists, so visiting will give you a sneak peak at the local life!
There is plenty to see, of course. The Old Town is located at the junction of the Danube, Raba and Rabca Rivers, boasts charming cobblestone streets and historic architecture. This strategic location means that the city was an important stop on Central European trade routes and that it was subject to its share of foreign invaders. History buffs will enjoy the Kaptalandomb (Chapter Hill) area, dating back to the Middle Ages, the Gyor Synagogue (today used for concerts and events) and the bright yellow Carmelite Church. Take in the fresh air on Rado Island (accessible via foot bridge) and enjoy panoramic views of the city as you snack on fresh-baked rétes (Hungarian strudel) to round out your trip.
🗸 Fastest journey time: 1 hour 20 minutes
🗸 Number of trains per day: 51
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