Hungary

Szentendrei Skanzen

Discover the Szentendrei Skanzen, Hungary’s largest open-air museum, established in 1972. Explore nine distinct Hungarian landscapes, featuring over 350 historical buildings, exhibitions, and interactive venues. From 18th-century rural life to 20th-century traditions, the museum offers a deep dive into Hungary’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re a film buff intrigued by its role as a filming location for Netflix’s “Vajak” or a history enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy multiple days of sightseeing, accessible by bike or the museum’s own train, and take advantage of on-site accommodations and dining options.

Budapest through the year

Seasons of Splendor: Exploring Budapest Through the Year Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary, is a city with many faces, each beautifully reflecting the changing seasons. This guide gives a month-by-month breakdown of the main events, traditions, and festivals that breathe life into Budapest, revealing its rich cultural identity and historical legacy. SPRING March ushers in the Spring Uprising (15 Mar), a public holiday celebrating the 1848 rebellion against the Habsburg occupation. Thousands don the national colors of red, white, …

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Churches and Synagogues

A Spiritual Journey Through Budapest: The City’s Best Churches and Synagogues Budapest, the jewel of the Danube, is adorned with architectural treasures that trace the city’s captivating history. A spiritual journey through Budapest’s best churches and synagogues unveils not only the grandeur of their design but also the tales they tell of centuries past. In the wake of the Turkish occupation, when many medieval and Renaissance churches were transformed into mosques and subsequently destroyed, the late 17th century saw the …

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Visegrád

Where History Ascends to New Heights Nestled halfway between Szentendre and Esztergom (45km / 28 miles North-West of Budapest) lies the quaint riverside village of Visegrád. Don’t let its tranquil demeanor fool you, though; this village is a history enthusiast’s dream, boasting a past as grand as the ruins it hosts. The Romans were the first to recognize the strategic significance of Visegrád’s location, erecting a fort here centuries ago. Named “High Castle” by Slovak settlers in the 9th or …

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Vác

A Historic Town on the Outskirts of Budapest Located 34km / 21 miles north of Budapest, along the serene Danube River, Vác is a picturesque retreat brimming with history and beauty. Despite being nine centuries old, its charm and allure remain timeless. According to legend, a hermit monk named Laszlo once resided in the forest now known as Vác. He prophesied that Prince Géza would triumph over King Solomon. After a miraculous sighting of a deer with candles on its …

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Visa and Entry Requirements

Visa and Entry Requirements for Budapest, Hungary Traveling Budapest, the Hungarian capital, has its own rules and regulations. As with any international travel, it’s vital to understand the visa and entry requirements before your trip. Here are the crucial points to note: Visa Requirements: Entry Requirements: Remember, these requirements can vary depending on your nationality and the current political climate, so it’s essential to check with your local Hungarian embassy or consulate before you travel.

Local Customs and Etiquette

Navigating Cultural Norms for a Respectful and Enjoyable Hungarian Experience Hungary, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is also where local customs and etiquette play a vital role in social interactions. Visitors are encouraged to respect and follow these customs to immerse themselves in the local culture fully. Here’s a guide to understanding the principal customs and etiquette in Hungary. Greetings and Address It is customary in Hungary to greet each other with a handshake. For closer acquaintances, …

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Weather

A Guide to Understanding Weather Patterns in Hungary Hungary’s continental climate is distinguished by hot summers and cold winters. Its geographical position in Central Europe and the variety of its landscapes create a unique tapestry of weather patterns, which visitors and locals must consider while planning their activities. Hot and Long Summers Hungarian summers are typically long and warm, often crossing into the realm of the uncomfortably hot. Temperatures regularly reach high 80–90F/30C from as early as mid-June and can …

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General Information

Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, spans an area of 525 sq km (203 sq miles), with approximately two-thirds in the flat region of Pest and one-third in the hilly area of Buda. It is the home of nearly 1.69 million people, making up about 17% of Hungary’s total population. The city stretches approximately 25 km (15 miles) from north to south and 29 km (18 miles) from west to east. Its geographical coordinates are 47° 5’0″ N, 19° 0’0″ …

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Soviet Power

From Soviet Power to Freedom Interwar Period and World War II (1920-1946) Hungary lost two-thirds of its territory and half of its population due to the Treaty of Trianon in 1920, leading to national resentment and the enactment of anti-Semitic laws. Hungary declared war on the USSR in 1941 and saw power seized by the Arrow Cross (the Hungarian Nazis) in October 1944, leading to the deportation of 700,000 Jews. The country proclaimed a republic in 1946, with Zoltan Tildy …

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