When you are considering a trip to Hungary, you are doing yourself a disservice if you confine yourself solely to Budapest, as many travelers do. While Budapest has many beautiful sites and historic sites, traveling around Hungary during your trip is desirable because it is relatively easy and cheap.

Pecs

Pecs, a city in southern Hungary, is a five hour bus ride from downtown Budapest. It is one of the older cities in Hungary, and is a bastion of Turkish architecture and old Roman ruins from centuries before. It is also the education capital of Hungary and hosts the oldest university in the country. The town is renowned for its beauty, and filled with beautiful mosques, baths, ruins and museums.

Up The River

Esztergom is a short ferry ride from Budapest and is known for its ancient palaces and churches. The first king of Hungary was born here. Visegrad is also along the river near Esztergom, and holds an old fortress poised on a cliff high above the water. Tourists must hike to get up to the fortress, and they can also visit an old Roman town hall in the city. Szentendre is a short boat ride away, and walking on its cobblestoned streets and viewing its ancient buildings are like stepping back into the Middle Ages. All three cities can be visited in one day, and all are well worth the travel.

Lake Balaton

Lastly, Lake Balaton is the largest freshwater lake in Europe, and it is only a three hour train ride away from Budapest. Lake Balaton is a mineral lake that is sparkling blue and absolutely gorgeous. Lining its coasts are ancient towns, some of which were founded in the Roman period. Hiking along some of the peninsulas jutting into the lake, you stumble upon ruins from many different eras. Plus, in the summer, the waters make an amazing swim.

Next time you plan a vacation to Hungary, instead of sticking to Budapest, you should take day trips and explore these amazing places. The metro in Budapest connects you to the train and bus terminals that go to the other cities, and you can buy tickets on the spot for good prices. Not only will you get to see more sites during your trip, but you will be able to learn more about the history and culture of Hungary as it pertains to the whole country, not just the capital. Traveling in these places also enables you to meet more locals and really get to know the people of this beautiful country.