Summer is winding down, and we are slowly moving into autumn. When we look outside our window, the trees change into different shades of yellow, orange and red. The days are getting shorter, and the nights are cooler. During the autumn season, many parts of Hungary become engulfed in a beautiful golden foliage which cannot be missed. The most popular tourist destination is the capital city, Budapest, but there’s so much more to see beyond the city limits. With milder temperatures and picturesque sceneries, it is the perfect time to explore the country. Whether you prefer to rent a car, ride a bus, or take the train, these destinations are accessible. From culturally rich cities to hiking trails, there are places for you to see based on your preference.
Lake Balaton is the largest lake in Central Europe. There are direct trains from Budapest that can get you to the lake within one-and-a-half hours. There are many different towns in the Balaton Riviera. Firstly, Balatonfüred is a small, charming spa town within proximity to the lake and resembles a Mediterranean climate. It is known for its mineral springs, which are believed to have therapeutic properties. Another town by the lake that deserves recognition is Tihany. When you reach the town, you can expect to see a recurring theme of lavender, from lavender ice cream to scented soaps. There is a lookout that allows you to get a good look at the peninsula and a beach to take part in water activities. To get to Tihany, you can take a bus from Balatonfüred. Finally, Siófok, a town on the southern shores of the lake, is the ideal place for a night out. It is known as the party capital of Lake Balaton and it comes to life when the night falls, with many bars and clubs lining the boulevard.
If you want to go on a trip to be one with nature, Danube-Ipoly National Park is the place to be. It is located north of Budapest and includes Pilis, Visegrád, and Börzsöny Mountains, the Ipoly River Valley, and Szentendre Island. The park is rich with greenery, which turns into beautiful autumn colors by mid-October. There are different viewpoints to choose from to admire the colorful landscape, such as Csóványos (the highest peak), Julianus, and Nagy-Hideg-hegy peak. It is a peaceful escape from the bustling city crowds. The national park is accessible by train or car. It is possible to go for a day trip from Budapest and the hiking trails vary by intensity. If you are looking to go with children or simply want a less intense hike, there are family-friendly trails. Meanwhile, there are also options for the more experienced trekkers who are looking for a challenge.
For city lovers, the second-largest city in northern Hungary is just the place to be. Autumn is the best time to visit Eger since the weather is pleasant and the foliage is stunning. If you are a wine lover, you can enjoy visiting vineyards and going wine tasting since grape harvests wrap up around this time of the year. The city is also known for its thermal baths, castles, and baroque buildings. There are many areas in the city where you can enjoy the autumn scenery. The Eger stream borders the Archbishop’s Garden, which is the largest park in the city and is nicknamed by city folk as the “lungs of the town”.
Take advantage of this beautiful season to explore more of what Hungary has to offer. No matter where you decide to visit, you will surely have a memorable experience. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book the train, and wander before the season comes to an end.
Roselle Torres
Image source (in order of appearance) by Robert Balog and Adonis Villanueva from Pixabay.
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