I’ll make no bones about it, I am a huge F1 fan. I have been to a few races in the last few years but have not yet made it to the Hungaroring in Hungary. Whilst the track is only approximately 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Budapest, we are looking beyond the classic city break.
Combine going to this great race track with exploring Hungary in a hire car. Think mountain roads, stunning lakes and spa towns. Never considered a visit to Hungary before? Let us inspire you…
Photo by: TTstudio/Fotolia
Beyond Budapest
Budapest is an amazing city, which is definitely worth exploring! It is also a Spa Town, so head over to Szechenyi Bath and Spa whilst you’re here.
Now we can let the real fun begin; hop in your car and away you go!
Starting at Lake Balaton
You may or may not be aware, but Hungary has its own epic lake, Lake Balaton. Bustling in summer, try and spend one night on the north side and one at the south.
Typified by mountainous backdrops, the northern side offers the benefit of spa towns, ancient architecture and wine producing areas. Stay in Keszthely for historical wonders or Tihany for somewhere a little quainter.
The south side is a little more touristy, which may not float your boat. That said, Balatonföldvár is worthy of a visit. An appealing resort town with an Iron Age hill fort, relax here before heading off once again.
Explore the Transdanubian Mountains
The Transdanubian Mountains are actually a series of mountain ranges, leading from Lake Balaton to Budapest.
Drive over to Badacsony and scale the Badacsony Volcano. Spot the numerous vineyards surrounding it on your ascent.
Top tip: Before you get started, we advise that you grab a map from one of the local tourist offices.
You can hike or bike, choosing the path that suits your fitness levels. If you’re up for the challenge, you could even try and see more volcanos in the area on the same day.
Photo by: klagyivik/Fotolia
Heading in the opposite direction
Drive towards Pecs and use this as your base for a day or two. The city itself is cultured and varied. Explore the Mosque Church and relax in the Pasha Memi Baths. Once you’ve exhausting city living, head out to the hills.
The Mecsek Hills are only a stone’s throw away. Marvel at the red sandstone of Western Mecsek, scale the limestone of Middle Mecsek then traverse over Eastern Mecsek. Scale the highest point named Zengő.
Ending in Baja
Top tip: Baja is also home to the Cross-Country Rally World Cup, which is usually in August if you fancy watching a little more motorsport on your trip.
Whilst the River Danube flows through Budapest, it also runs throughout Hungary, running next to Hungary’s second largest city, Baja. Packed full of museums and churches, Baja is a fantastic place to spend a day or two. Discover more about traditional Hungarian life in Bács-Kiskun County. The terrain is a little flatter (much like that of my home county of Norfolk!) Take a trip to one of the farms, then travel to Kiskunság National Park specifically Bugac where there’s a juniper grove as well as the Shepherd Museum.
Share your Hungary experiences
I hope that we have demonstrated why you should book a trip to Hungary. Whilst Budapest is no doubt a special city, Hungary has an awful lot of stunning scenery to enjoy.
Have you visited any of our recommended places in Hungary? Do you have any tips or experiences to share? Please let us know in the comments below.
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