Enjoy grandeur and swim in the azure waters of Lake Balaton from your holiday home in Hungary

Hungary may feel like a distant destination in Eastern Europe to many people. Yet the driving distance from the Netherlands is roughly the same as to northern Italy. In this Central European country, you’ll discover that the cultural-historical reach of baroque architecture certainly doesn’t end with Germany or Austria. Hungary is home to many cities where this elegant building style has left a significant mark. Nature’s beauty is also noteworthy, with waterfalls and a charming low mountain range. And even though the sea is far away, you won’t miss it when you visit the vast Lake Balaton from your holiday home in Hungary!

Budapest: admire grandeur from your holiday home in Hungary

Budapest is a proud metropolis on the Danube. The city boasts a photogenic skyline day and night, with the massive Parliament building and Chain Bridge as iconic landmarks. But the capital offers much more to explore, with attractions that leave a lasting impression. Think of the Castle of Old Buda, a long palace with an aquamarine dome tower on the elevated banks of the Danube. Another highlight is the Fisherman's Bastion, a striking citadel with cone-shaped turrets and a popular lookout spot. Don’t miss the imposing synagogue, where visitors queue to marvel at the high arcades and richly decorated ceiling.

Budapest is a top destination for city trips, so plan enough time to explore. Tip: if you have the chance, visit the Széchenyi thermal baths. This gorgeous bathhouse complex offers a unique experience, where you can soak in neobaroque splendor.

Cool down and relax along Lake Balaton

Visiting Hungary during the summer heat? Then Lake Balaton, Europe’s largest freshwater lake, is the perfect place to be. Swimming and watersports are popular among both locals and tourists. The lake’s characteristic azure blue hue extends far beyond the shoreline. One of the most well-known resort towns is Siófok, with a beach made up mainly of a long, grassy sunbathing area. Even those sensitive to the cold will enjoy swimming here thanks to the relatively warm water.

On the opposite side of the lake, you’ll find a crater lake that's even warmer. In summer, temperatures rise above 30°C, and in winter, the water still hovers around 25°C. Bathing here with snow around you is an idyllic experience! The old pavilions around the lake make for beautiful photo opportunities during a leisurely walk around the crater.

Enjoy the friendly and pure nature of Bükk National Park

In Bükk National Park, few mountains rise above the treetops. That’s exactly what makes the gently wooded hills so visually appealing. Every adventurer and nature lover can indulge in the lush surroundings. It's hard to resist the urge to take photos when you encounter waterfalls like the Fátyol waterfall, a long cascade flowing down a modest incline. Tip: hop on the mountain train at Szilvásvárad and follow the trail down along the Szalajka River.

Baroque in Eger

If you’re not familiar with Hungary, you might be surprised at how richly baroque architecture is represented. Nearly every culturally significant city has churches, abbeys, and buildings in this majestic style. One such city is Eger in the north, known as Hungary’s baroque capital. But you’ll also find traces of Ottoman occupation, which the Hungarians resisted fiercely. The 97-meter-high minaret is a striking reminder, and even though it’s not in the city center, it’s worth the visit—especially since you can climb it.

Visit Pécs and discover the flora and fauna of the Mecsek Mountains

Staying in a holiday home southeast of Budapest? Be sure to visit the ancient city of Pécs. This charming city features stunning architecture, particularly around Széchenyi Square, where you’ll find everything from a domed church to fountains and stairways. A true highlight is the square-shaped cathedral with a tower on each corner. Pécs is also ideally situated at the foot of a mountainous nature reserve. This protected area is home to a wide range of wildlife, including otters, badgers, and a diverse collection of birds of prey and songbirds. It’s said that wild boars and deer are commonly spotted here too.

Northern Hungary: explore the turf houses of the Tokaj wine region

Curious about northern Hungary? A holiday home in this region is certainly worth considering! Here you’ll find vineyards producing the famous national Tokaj wine. If you love sweet wine, don’t leave Hungary without tasting it! In the Tokaj region, you can enjoy scenic walks around the rustic wine cellars of Hercegkút, which resemble turf houses. Naturally, you can also taste the wine in one of the many local tasting rooms.

Rent a holiday home in Hungary

Looking for a budget-friendly holiday destination? Hungary is a fantastic choice! Restaurant prices are typically much lower than in the Netherlands, so dining out often won’t strain your wallet. Don’t underestimate the cultural offerings either—Hungary’s impressive and colorful buildings are more the rule than the exception. Considering a holiday in Central Europe? Rent a holiday home in Hungary—Lake Balaton, the foothills of the Carpathians, and the Tokaj wine will surely win you over!