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Fun + Unique Ways to Take In the History and Culture of Hungary

Writer's picture: Lisa TraynorLisa Traynor

Updated: Oct 23, 2023



Feeling overwhelmed with what to do, see and buy on your travels? You aren't alone! With so many things competing for your precious time in a new destination, it's crucial you pick activities that match your travel style.


But if history was not one of your favorites at school-don’t worry! There are plenty of unique ways to experience Hungary's culture and learn about its rich heritage without having to brave the classrooms again!


Thermal Spas

Hungary's spa culture has been around for two millennia, beginning with the Romans and later revitalized by the Ottoman Empire in the 16th Century. Today it is still possible to experience some of these opulent baths at their original sites-many over a hundred years old!


Budapest's spas are a unique treasure, drawing visitors since the 1800s with their exquisite Art Nouveau design. Experience a touch of luxury and rejuvenation in these complexes, which double as lidos during summer months to create an atmosphere straight out of paradise.


Visitors can expect to be treated not only to physical rejuvenation but also stunning architecture; classic cupolas streaming natural light into octagonal pools create an atmosphere that is truly something special.




Religious Sites

Take an unforgettable journey through Hungary's historic religious architecture–discover centuries-old churches, majestic cathedrals, stately synagogues and ancient abbeys. Explore the remarkable stories behind these buildings; from marking the foundation of Hungarian independence to vestiges of coronations or Ottoman rule!


Six must see sites to add to your list:

1.Saint Stephen’s Basilica

2.Matthias Church

3.Dohany Utca Synagogue

4.Reformed Great Church in Debrecen

5.Benedictine Abbey of Pannonhalma

6.Benedictine Abbey on the Tihany


For visitors interested in Jewish history, consider adding Footsteps of the Wonder Rabbis. It is a pilgrimage of Jewish history in northern Hungary, passing through 10 towns and stretching 150 km / 93miles.



Explore by Horseback

For those wishing to explore Hungary on horseback, the country is a prime destination. From riding farms in almost every town and village, to vast arrays of equestrian accommodations for visitors, Hungarians are an undeniably horse-oriented nation! Whether you’re just starting out as a rider or already experienced at the reins, the Hungarian countryside will offer you an unforgettable experience.

Whether you're a total newbie or already have some experience, horseback riding is an incredible way to explore the outdoors. Get your first lessons with the help of a trained instructor and lunge line at a local farm–then get ready for something truly special.


As soon as you build up confidence in yourself and are approved by your trainer, it's time to hit great trails...where discovery awaits. One of the most popular routes takes riders through Hungary's enchanting Gerecse landscape where you'll have access to breathtaking views that are completely inaccessible by other means.


Similarly exciting adventures also await just beyond Pilis, Bükk Hortobágy & Balaton Uplands. From Máta Stud Farm and the National Equestrian Estate in Mezőhegyes, through Bábolna’s National Equestrian Estate all the way to Szilvásvard’s Lipica Stud Farm–these four locations are key parts of Hungarian horse culture. Saddle up for some truly memorable moments!




Visit a Hungarian Open Air Museum

Venture into a living representation of Hungary's rural past at Szentendre Skanzen! This unique open-air museum provides visitors the opportunity to take an enchanting step back in time, with intimate exploration and discovery of over forty 18th century homes nestled amongst lush gardens where vegetables are still grown as they have been for centuries.


Another popular open-air museum is Ópusztaszer National Heritage Park. It is most famous for housing the Feszty Panorama, a remarkable work of art by Árpád Feszty and his team, which stands as an iconic representation of the Hungarian conquest in 895.


But don’t overlook the rest of the museum. Perfect for families because it brings history into a visual format, you can explore fully decorated and furnished yurts in the “Nomad Park” and also take in a live horse show which features horses and riders in early Magyar costume, and playing hunting games that were popular with the early Magyar people.


If learning history from a book isn’t your thing, open-air museums probably are. Through research and collection, these museums preserve traditional folk architecture, interior furnishings, language relics, and more-providing visitors with a unique look into Hungary's history.





Experience Hungary’s Museum Culture

Budapest is a city with decades of history waiting to be explored. Whether you're interested in Hungary's last century, which was unfortunately marked by two world wars and Communist rule, or the visual arts scene—there are plenty of museums for every interest!


The Hungarian National Museum offers an insightful look into the country's past and present, while those seeking art should make sure to visit both the National Gallery-home to some stunning Hungarian paintings-as well as collections from around the globe on display in places such as Museum Of Fine Arts and Ludwig Museum Contemporary Art.

Those interested in understanding the country's past and present should consider visiting the House of Terror and the Holocaust Memorial Center.




With a never-ending list of activities and destinations, Hungary offers the perfect vacation opportunity. From awe-inspiring attractions to engaging experiences, there is something for every kind of travel enthusiast in this magical country. Whether your passions lie in cultural exploration or outdoor adventure, we can help you craft an incredible Hungarian getaway tailored to fit your personal interests.


 

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