Hungary: A Country of Contrasts
Hungary is a landlocked country in Central Europe with a population of approximately 9.7 million people. Geographically, it covers about 93,028 square kilometers (35,919 square miles).
The landscape in Hungary is predominantly flat with the Great Hungarian Plan to the East of the country and the Little Hungaries Plain in the Northwest.
The Danube River flows through Hungary from North to South.
Hungary is also home to the largest lake in Central Europe, Lake Balaton.
- I visited Budapest as a solo female traveller as part of a 3 country trip. Check out everything I learned so you can plan your visit here too. (My site has affiliate links – I only recommend things I use myself)
- From Buda to Pest—navigate like a local.
Key Destinations
- Budapest: The capital city, often called the “Pearl of the Danube,” features the stunning Parliament Building, Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, Chain Bridge, and numerous thermal baths.
- Lake Balaton: Hungary’s “inland sea” offers beaches, sailing, wineries in the Balaton Highlands, and charming towns like Tihany with its Benedictine Abbey.
- Eger: This baroque city is famous for its castle, thermal baths, beautiful Minorite Church, and the nearby Valley of Beautiful Women with its wine cellars.
- Debrecen: Hungary’s second-largest city known for its Reformed Great Church, Museum, and nearby National Park showcasing traditional Hungarian plains culture.
What Hungary Is Famous For?
Hungary is renowned for its thermal spa culture with approximately 1,500 thermal springs, distinctive cuisine featuring paprika-infused dishes like goulash and chicken paprikash, exceptional wines including Tokaji Asz? (the “wine of kings”) and folk traditions.
The country also boasts a rich architectural heritage spanning Roman ruins, medieval castles, Ottoman-era buildings, and Art Nouveau masterpieces.
Related Hungary Resources
- Check out whether Budapest is worth visiting (in my view)
- Here’s my guide to Budapest safety including stats and my experience
- Check out my guide to Budapest costs based on my trip
- Check out when to visit Budapest so you get the best weather and value
- Here’s how to get to Budapest from the UK by plane, train and bus
- My handpicked selection of hotels in Budapest
- Opera Residence Review – a detailed review of this great apartment I stayed in
My Hungary Travel Resources and Travel Gear
Check out my travel resources for everything you need to plan and book your trip to Hungary
Check out my tried and trusted essential travel gear – everything I use when I travel
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