Welcome to Szeged, a city in the southern part of Hungary known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a memorable travel experience, Szeged has something for everyone. From grand buildings and museums to charming parks and bustling markets, this city is a treasure trove of attractions waiting to be explored.
In this blog post, we'll take you on a virtual tour of some of the top sights and experiences that Szeged has to offer. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, our guide will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful city. So, let's get started and discover the best things to see and do in Szeged!
Discover with us:
What not to miss?
Votive Church
The Votive Church of Our Lady of Hungary, also known as the Szeged Cathedral, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Szeged. It is a magnificent example of Hungarian art nouveau architecture and one of the largest churches in Hungary. The church was built in the early 20th century as a symbol of gratitude for the city's survival from a devastating flood in 1879.
The interior of the Votive Church is equally impressive, featuring stunning stained glass windows, intricate murals, and ornate decorations. Visitors can also climb to the top of the bell tower for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. The Votive Church is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and historical attraction that draws visitors from all over the world.
Dom Square
The Dom Square, or Dóm tér in Hungarian, is the main square of Szeged and a hub of activity in the city. Located in the heart of Szeged, the square is surrounded by several important landmarks, including the Votive Church, the Reök Palace Art Museum, and the Dömötör Tower.
The Dom Square is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike, with many outdoor cafes, restaurants, and street performers creating a lively atmosphere. It's a great place to relax and people-watch, or simply take in the stunning architecture and history of the city.
Throughout the year, the Dom Square also plays host to a variety of events and festivals, including music concerts, food and wine festivals, and Christmas markets. Whether you're looking for a relaxing afternoon or a festive night out, the Dom Square is a must-visit destination in Szeged.
Széchenyi Square
Széchenyi Square is another must-visit destination in Szeged, located just a short walk from the Dom Square. This vibrant and bustling square is named after István Széchenyi, a famous Hungarian politician and writer, and is home to several important historical and cultural landmarks.
One of the main attractions of Széchenyi Square is the impressive City Hall, a stunning neo-baroque building that dates back to the early 20th century. Other notable buildings on the square include the Móra Ferenc Museum, which houses an impressive collection of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts, and the National Theater of Szeged, which hosts a variety of plays and performances throughout the year.
In addition to its historic buildings, Széchenyi Square is also a popular gathering place for locals and visitors, with many outdoor cafes, shops, and markets. During the summer months, the square comes alive with concerts, festivals, and other cultural events, making it a hub of activity in the city.
Overall, Széchenyi Square is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Szeged, with its impressive architecture, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere.
The Reok Palace
The Reök Palace is a beautiful art nouveau building in Szeged that now serves as an art museum. It was built in the early 20th century and is known for its stunning stained glass windows, ornate decorations, and intricate carvings. The museum houses a collection of Hungarian and international art, including works by famous artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec and Gustav Klimt. The Reök Palace is a must-see destination for art lovers and anyone interested in the history and culture of Szeged.
Szeged Synagogue
The Szeged Synagogue is a magnificent building located in the heart of Szeged, and is one of the largest synagogues in Europe. It was built in the late 19th century and features a stunning mix of architectural styles, including Romantic and Moorish elements. The synagogue is not only a place of worship, but also an important cultural and historical site, with a museum that houses exhibits on Jewish history and culture in the region. The Szeged Synagogue is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or Jewish culture.
What else to visit?
Móra Ferenc Múzeum
The Móra Ferenc Museum is a fascinating museum located on Széchenyi Square in Szeged. It is dedicated to the history and culture of the region, with a wide range of exhibits that cover everything from archaeology and natural history to ethnography and fine arts.
The museum's collections include ancient artifacts, fossils, and taxidermy specimens, as well as traditional costumes, tools, and handicrafts from the region's various ethnic groups. Visitors can also see works by famous Hungarian artists, such as Mihály Munkácsy and Tivadar Csontváry Kosztka.
One of the highlights of the Móra Ferenc Museum is its impressive permanent exhibition on the history of Szeged and the surrounding region. The exhibition features interactive displays, multimedia installations, and a range of artifacts that help bring the history of the region to life.
Overall, the Móra Ferenc Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the culture, history, and natural beauty of the Szeged region.
Reök-Palota
Reök-Palota, also known as the Reök Palace, is a striking Art Nouveau building located in the heart of Szeged, Hungary. It was designed by the Hungarian architect Ede Magyar in the early 20th century and is known for its stunning stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and ornate decorations.
Today, the palace houses an art museum that features works by both Hungarian and international artists. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from the 19th and 20th centuries, and is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the art and culture of Szeged.
Dömötör Tower
The Dömötör Tower is a historic landmark in Szeged, Hungary, named after Saint Dömötör, the patron saint of the city. The tower is located on the south side of the Votive Church and was built in the 13th century as part of the city's medieval fortifications.
Today, the Dömötör Tower is one of the few remaining structures from Szeged's medieval period and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and enjoy stunning views of the city and its surroundings.
In addition to its historical significance, the Dömötör Tower is also associated with various legends and myths. For example, according to one legend, a princess was once imprisoned in the tower and, upon her release, promised to build a church in honor of Saint Dömötör
if her wish was granted.
City Hall
The City Hall in Szeged is a beautiful neo-baroque building that serves as the seat of local government. It was designed by the Hungarian architect Béla Lajta and built in the early 20th century.
The building's exterior features ornate decorations, intricate carvings, and a striking central dome, while the interior is decorated with colorful frescoes, stained-glass windows, and other artistic touches.
Today, the City Hall is not only a hub of local government, but also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can admire the building's stunning architecture and learn about the history of Szeged and the region. The City Hall also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and festivals.
University Botanical Garden
The Universal Botanical Garden is a beautiful green space in Szeged that serves as a hub of biodiversity and plant research. The garden covers an area of over six hectares and is home to a wide variety of plants from all over the world.
Visitors to the Universal Botanical Garden can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, taking in the sights and scents of the many different plants. The garden features several distinct sections, including a tropical greenhouse, a cactus house, and a butterfly garden.
In addition to its role as a tourist attraction, the Universal Botanical Garden also plays an important role in plant research and conservation. The garden is home to several research projects focused on plant ecology, evolution, and taxonomy, and is an important center for plant conservation efforts in the region.
How to travel there?
There are several ways to travel there:
By Air: The nearest airport to Szeged is the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, which is about 170 km away. From the airport, you can take a train, bus, or taxi to Szeged.
By Train: Szeged has good rail connections to other cities in Hungary, as well as neighboring countries. The train station is located in the city center, and there are several daily trains to Budapest, which take approximately 2.5 hours.
By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Szeged and other cities in Hungary and neighboring countries. The bus station is located in the city center, and there are several daily buses to Budapest, which take approximately 2.5 hours.
By Car: If you have your own car, you can easily reach Szeged by taking the M5 motorway from Budapest. The journey takes approximately 2 hours, and there are several petrol stations and rest areas along the way.
When to travel there?
The best time to travel to Szeged depends on your personal preferences and interests.
Summer (June to August) is a popular time to visit Szeged, as the weather is warm and sunny, and many outdoor festivals and events take place during this time. The city is also at its busiest during the summer months, with many tourists visiting the area.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) can also be great times to visit Szeged, as the weather is mild and pleasant, and the city is less crowded than during the peak summer months. During these seasons, you can enjoy the city's parks and gardens as they come to life with blossoming flowers and changing colors.
Winter (December to February) can be a quieter time to visit Szeged, with fewer tourists and colder temperatures. However, the city is still beautiful during the winter months, with festive holiday decorations and a cozy atmosphere. Plus, you can warm up with some delicious hot mulled wine and hearty Hungarian cuisine.
Overall, Szeged can be a great destination to visit year-round, depending on your preferences and interests.
Average Costs
The average costs for traveling to Szeged can vary depending on your travel style and budget. Here are some rough estimates to give you an idea of what to expect:
Accommodation:
Budget: 4,000-8,000 HUF per night for a hostel dorm bed or budget hotel room.
Mid-range: 10,000-20,000 HUF per night for a mid-range hotel or private apartment.
Luxury: 30,000-50,000+ HUF per night for a high-end hotel or luxury apartment.
Food:
Budget: 1,000-2,500 HUF per meal for street food or budget restaurants.
Mid-range: 2,500-5,000 HUF per meal for mid-range restaurants.
Luxury: 10,000-20,000+ HUF per meal for high-end restaurants.
Transportation:
Local buses and trams: 350 HUF per ticket, 3,000 HUF for a 10-ticket pack.
Taxi: Starting fare of 600-700 HUF, with additional charges for distance and time.
Bike rentals: Around 1,500 HUF per day.
Attractions:
Most museums and galleries cost around 1,000-2,000 HUF for entry.
The Votive Church and Dömötör Tower are free to visit.
Guided tours and excursions may cost more, depending on the tour operator and itinerary.
Overall, budget travelers can expect to spend around 15,000-20,000 HUF per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around 25,000-30,000 HUF per day. Luxury travelers should expect to spend 50,000+ HUF per day.
Where to eat?
Szeged is a great place for foodies, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors to choose from. Here are some recommendations for where to eat in Szeged:
Gogolak: This popular restaurant serves traditional Hungarian dishes with a modern twist, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes classic dishes like goulash, as well as more contemporary options like roasted duck breast and grilled salmon.
Fehér Ló Vendéglő: This cozy restaurant specializes in classic Hungarian cuisine, with hearty dishes like beef stew, paprikash, and stuffed cabbage. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable.
Szeged Vendéglő: This historic restaurant has been serving traditional Hungarian food since 1881, and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The menu features dishes like fisherman's soup, pork knuckle, and beef tenderloin, as well as a variety of vegetarian options.
Kiskakas Bistro: This casual bistro serves up creative dishes with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The menu changes regularly, but may include items like roasted duck breast with pumpkin puree and grilled octopus with chorizo.
Pálinka Museum: If you're looking to sample some of Hungary's famous fruit brandy, head to the Pálinka Museum, which also has a cozy restaurant serving traditional Hungarian dishes. Try the goulash soup, chicken paprikash, or stuffed peppers, paired with a glass of pálinka.
These are just a few of the many great dining options in Szeged. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a fancy night out, you're sure to find something to suit your tastes in this foodie-friendly city.
Events
Szeged is a city that hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from music and theater festivals to cultural and sporting events. Here are a few popular events in Szeged:
Szeged Open Air Festival: This annual event takes place from mid-July to mid-August and features a variety of theater and music performances, including classic operas, modern plays, and concerts by local and international musicians.
Szeged Wine Festival: Held in September in Dóm Square, this festival celebrates the rich wine culture of the region, with tastings of local wines, live music, and food stalls serving traditional Hungarian dishes.
Szeged National Theatre Festival: This festival takes place in October and features a range of theater performances from both Hungarian and international companies, as well as workshops and discussions.
Szeged International Jazz Festival: Held in November, this festival brings together jazz musicians from Hungary and around the world for a series of concerts and jam sessions.
Szeged Half Marathon: This popular sporting event takes place in May and attracts runners from across Hungary and beyond, with a half marathon, 10K, and 5K race.
These are just a few examples of the many events that take place in Szeged throughout the year. Be sure to check the city's events calendar for the latest information and upcoming events.
We've reached the end of the article about Szeged. This city has a fantastic atmosphere, and we believe you will love it as much as we did! In the meantime, you can read other articles on our blog. How about Poprad or Kosice? Remember to follow us @thewalkingparrot to be continuously updated on the new releases. We will be back soon with a new article!
Commentaires