Posted on March 15, 2013 by sguese

The heart of Europe leaves you hungry in more ways than one. Hungary positions right in this heart, littered with both natural and cultural attractions. The kidney shaped country boasts a capital split in two:

 

Magyar heritage, fishing, horse riding, thermal spas and Jewish culture. It makes for a good base for exploring both Central and Eastern Europe.

Begin with the pest of Budapest—Budapest’s name is a bit of a misnomer. There is hardly anything pesky about this city in all of its 19th century grandeur. The romantic Eastern European capital covers in Neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture. The overall standout is the Parliament Building. Colossal in size, structure and design, the building is one example of Hungary’s symbolic architecture.

Eager in Eger—One of Hungary’s loveliest baroque towns, Eger will make anyone eager to reach her. The attractions in the town alone are impressive, including the Archbishop’s Church, the second largest church in the country. Eger also holds the Main Bishopric Library, home to the first book ever published in Hungary along with countless ancient manuscripts. If you need something to sip on after a day spent absorbing all of Eger’s sites, don’t miss the Bull’s Blood of Eger, one of the country’s most famous wines.

Feel Large at Lake Balaton—Most travelers don’t want to feel large on their vacations, but Lake Balaton can’t help but make you see double. Europe’s largest lake is also a popular nature lover’s destination. Watersports take place here in the warmer months. The Lake used to be an exclusive resort area for Hungary’s elite.

Town hop From Sopron to Visegrád—Hungary is home to countless villages and towns that warrant day trips by car, no matter where you are based. Visegrád sits on the Danube’s abrupt loop. Meaning “high castle” in Slavic words, the town warrants a gander for its Renaissance palace and citadel. The town of Sopron enjoys a rivaling location, right at the foot of the Lõver Hills. Thought to be one of the most charming medieval cities in all of Hungary, Sopron impresses with its ways at stepping back in time through Gothic and early baroque architecture.

Park in Pecs—After exploring the big city of Budapest, it might be time to lay low in Pecs, a town in the Transdanubia region of Hungary. The town is known for its history, specifically the Roman tombs. The tombs are a highlight for their second to fourth century decorated scenes, early art at its finest. Pecs is also home to a Christian mausoleum from the 4th century.

Castle hunt—Hungary is littered with castles. You will have a hard time not seeing a castle while in the country. One of the best is easily Sümeg. The castle stands in an imposing fashion. It is known for being an elaborate house of worship.