Hungary is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of its capital to the serene landscapes of its smaller towns, there's something for every traveler. Whether you're looking for architectural wonders, culinary delights, or just a peaceful place to relax, Hungary's cities offer a diverse range of experiences. Here are nine cities that travelers absolutely love, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Budapest Budapest, the capital city, is often called the Paris of the East for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Divided by the Danube River into Buda and Pest, the city boasts the historic Buda Castle, the picturesque Fisherman's Bastion, and the iconic Chain Bridge. Don't miss the thermal baths, such as Széchenyi and Gellért, for a relaxing soak. The Central Market Hall is a must-visit for foodies looking to sample traditional Hungarian cuisine and purchase local crafts. When to Visit: The best time to visit Budapest is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the city isn't overcrowded. A fun time to visit is during the Budapest Spring Festival, which showcases a variety of arts and music. Travel Tip: Make sure to take a cruise on the Danube River, especially at night when the city's landmarks are beautifully illuminated. It's a breathtaking way to see the city's skyline. Where to Stay & Eat: For accommodation, consider the Aria Hotel Budapest for luxury or the Hotel Palazzo Zichy for a more boutique experience. For dining, try the traditional Hungarian dishes at Gundel or the contemporary cuisine at Borkonyha Winekitchen. Eger Eger is known for its historical significance and its wine. The Eger Castle offers a glimpse into the city's past, while the Valley of the Beautiful Women is the perfect spot for wine tasting Eger's famous Bull's Blood red wine. The city also features thermal baths, like the Turkish-era Eger Thermal Bath, and the beautiful baroque architecture of the Eger Basilica. When to Visit: Visit in late spring or early autumn to enjoy mild weather and fewer tourists. The Egri Bikavér Festival in July is a great time to enjoy local wines and festivities. Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to explore the underground cellars in the Valley of the Beautiful Women, where you can taste and learn about the region's wines directly from the producers. Where to Stay & Eat: Stay at the Hotel Eger & Park for comfort close to the city's attractions, and dine at Macok Bistro and Wine Bar for a modern twist on Hungarian cuisine. Pécs Pécs is a cultural hub in the south of Hungary, known for its Mediterranean atmosphere and rich history. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Early Christian Necropolis is a fascinating place to explore. The city's main square, Széchenyi Square, is surrounded by historical buildings and cozy cafes. Pécs also has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, a center for contemporary arts and culture. When to Visit: The ideal time to visit Pécs is late spring or early fall. The Pécs Wine Festival in May is a delightful event for wine enthusiasts. Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Zsolnay Porcelain Museum within the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter to see the exquisite ceramics that made Pécs famous. Where to Stay & Eat: The Corso Hotel Pécs offers modern amenities with easy access to the city center, and for dining, try Jókai Bistro for a taste of local Hungarian dishes. Szeged Szeged, known as the City of Sunshine, is famous for its open squares, university life, and the Votive Church, one of the largest churches in Hungary. The city is also renowned for its paprika and salami. The Szeged Open-Air Festival during the summer months is a highlight, featuring theater performances in the stunning Dóm Square. When to Visit: The best time to visit Szeged is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. The Szeged Open-Air Festival in July and August is a cultural treat. Travel Tip: Don't miss the Pick Salami and Szeged Paprika Museum to learn about two of Hungary's most iconic culinary products. Where to Stay & Eat: Art Hotel Szeged is a great choice for its central location and artistic decor, while Régi Posta Étterem offers traditional Hungarian dishes in a historic setting. Debrecen Debrecen, the second-largest city in Hungary, is a blend of traditional and modern. It's home to the Great Reformed Church, the symbol of the city, and the Hortobágy National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Debrecen Flower Carnival in August is a colorful and lively event that showcases the city's cultural heritage. When to Visit: Spring and early fall are the best times to visit Debrecen for pleasant weather. The Debrecen Flower Carnival is a unique event worth planning your trip around. Travel Tip: Explore the Great Forest Park, which includes a zoo, amusement park, and the Aquaticum Mediterranean Pleasure Baths, offering fun for the whole family. Where to Stay & Eat: Hotel Lycium Debrecen provides contemporary comfort, and IKON Restaurant serves up modern Hungarian cuisine with a twist. Gy?r Gy?r is a charming city located halfway between Budapest and Vienna, making it a perfect stopover. The city's Baroque downtown, with its narrow streets and colorful buildings, is delightful to explore. The Gy?r Basilica and the Bishop's Castle are notable landmarks. Gy?r is also known for its thermal waters, with the Rába Quelle Bath offering a relaxing experience. When to Visit: Visit Gy?r in the spring or fall to avoid the summer crowds. The Gy?r Summer Cultural Festival offers a range of performances and events. Travel Tip: Take a walk along the Danube, Rába, and Rábca rivers, which converge in Gy?r, providing picturesque views and peaceful walking paths. Where to Stay & Eat: Hotel Klastrom is a unique choice, set in a former monastery, and for dining, La Mareda Restaurant & Bistro offers excellent Hungarian and international dishes. Kecskemét Kecskemét is a city that blends the old with the new, known for its Art Nouveau architecture and as the birthplace of Zoltán Kodály, a famous Hungarian composer. The Kodály Institute and the Kecskemét Art Gallery are cultural highlights. The city is also surrounded by Hungary's famous fruit orchards, particularly apricots. When to Visit: The best time to visit Kecskemét is during the late spring or early fall. The Kecskemét Animation Film Festival in June is a fun event for film lovers. Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Hungarian Museum of Photography, which celebrates the work of Hungarian photographers, including the renowned Robert Capa. Where to Stay & Eat: Four Points by Sheraton Kecskemét Hotel and Conference Center offers modern amenities, while Kecskeméti Csárda provides a traditional Hungarian dining experience. Sopron Sopron, near the Austrian border, is known for its well-preserved medieval and Baroque architecture. The Firewatch Tower is a symbol of the city, offering panoramic views. Sopron is also part of the wine-producing region, with local vineyards offering tastings of the famous Sopron wine. The city's proximity to the Fert?/Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, makes it an attractive destination for nature lovers. When to Visit: The best times to visit Sopron are late spring and early fall. The Sopron Festival Weeks in June and July feature classical music concerts and cultural events. Travel Tip: Explore the historical city center on foot to fully appreciate the intricate details of Sopron's architecture and hidden courtyards. Where to Stay & Eat: Pannonia Hotel offers a blend of historic charm and modern facilities, while Erhardt Panzió and Restaurant serves up gourmet Hungarian cuisine with a contemporary flair. Hévíz Hévíz is famous for Lake Hévíz, the world's second-largest thermal lake, which is open year-round. The healing properties of the lake's waters attract wellness seekers from around the globe. The town itself is quaint and peaceful, perfect for a relaxing getaway. The nearby Keszthely offers cultural attractions like the Festetics Palace, adding to the region's appeal. When to Visit: Hévíz can be visited any time of the year due to its thermal lake, but spring and fall offer the most comfortable climate. The Hévíz Wine Festival in October is a great time for wine lovers. Travel Tip: Take advantage of the various wellness treatments available in Hévíz, from mud therapy to water aerobics, for a rejuvenating experience. Where to Stay & Eat: Lotus Therme Hotel & Spa provides luxury accommodations with direct access to the lake, and for dining, try Borpartika Wine Terrace for excellent local wines and Hungarian dishes. Each of these cities offers a unique slice of Hungarian life, from the grandeur of Budapest to the tranquility of Hévíz. When planning your trip, consider these destinations for an authentic and memorable Hungarian experience.