Discovering Szeged: A Gem of Southern Hungary
Szeged, Hungary’s fourth-largest city, is a vibrant cultural hub located near the borders of Serbia and Romania. Known for its sunshine, relaxed atmosphere, and charming architecture, Szeged is often called "the city of sunshine" due to its record-high annual sunshine hours. From its stunning historical sites to its rich culinary traditions, Szeged has something for everyone.
Things to Do in Szeged
Votive Church and Dóm Square: The iconic Votive Church (Szeged Cathedral) is a must-see. This impressive Neo-Romanesque structure, completed in 1930, is one of Hungary’s largest churches. Dóm Square, where it stands, is a lively area that hosts the famous Open-Air Festival every summer, featuring concerts, plays, and cultural performances.
Anna Thermal Baths: For a relaxing experience, head to the Anna Thermal Baths, which offer a unique combination of wellness and therapeutic treatments. The baths, dating back to the 19th century, feature indoor and outdoor pools fed by natural thermal waters.
Szeged Synagogue: The stunning Szeged Synagogue is one of the most beautiful in Europe. Built in 1903, this Art Nouveau masterpiece blends Hungarian Secessionist architecture with Moorish and Romanesque elements.
Tisza River and Sándor Rerrich Park: The Tisza River is perfect for leisurely walks or bike rides. You can also enjoy a boat ride, which offers a picturesque view of Szeged’s skyline. Sándor Rerrich Park, located nearby, is ideal for a peaceful afternoon, with its greenery and fountains.
Museums and Galleries: Szeged is home to several museums, including the Móra Ferenc Museum, which showcases local history, archaeology, and art. For modern art enthusiasts, the REÖK Palace is a must-visit, displaying contemporary Hungarian and international art exhibitions.
Culinary Delights
Szeged is famous for its halászlé, a traditional Hungarian fish soup. The Szeged version is made with freshwater fish, primarily carp, and is known for its rich, spicy paprika broth. Another local specialty is paprikás krumpli, a paprika-spiced potato stew often served with sausage.
For dessert, try the szegedi túrós csusza, a pasta dish with cottage cheese, sour cream, and bacon. Szeged is also known for its excellent local wines from nearby wine regions, such as the Kiskunság area.
Day Trips from Szeged
Szeged’s location makes it a perfect base for day trips:
Ópusztaszer National Heritage Park: A 30-minute drive from Szeged, this open-air museum showcases Hungary’s rich cultural history. The highlight is the Feszty Panorama, a massive 120-meter-long painting depicting the Magyar conquest of the Carpathian Basin.
Kiskunság National Park: Less than an hour’s drive away, this park offers a glimpse into Hungary’s Great Plain landscape. You can explore wetlands, sand dunes, and spot rare bird species.
Makó: Famous for its onion fields, Makó is just 30 km from Szeged. The town’s Hagymatikum Spa is an architectural gem designed by the world-renowned Imre Makovecz and offers thermal waters for relaxation.
Affordability and Travel Tips
Szeged is relatively affordable compared to Budapest and other European cities. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around 3,500 HUF ($10-12), while accommodation can range from 10,000 HUF ($28) for budget options to 25,000 HUF ($70) for more luxurious hotels.
Public transportation in Szeged is efficient and inexpensive, with a single tram or bus ticket costing around 350 HUF. Walking and biking are also popular ways to explore the compact city center.
Travel Tips:
Szeged is a year-round destination, but visiting during summer gives you a chance to enjoy the outdoor festivals and events.
Make sure to try the local paprika, which you can purchase as a souvenir. Szeged is one of Hungary's key paprika-producing regions.
English is widely spoken, but learning a few basic Hungarian phrases can go a long way in making your experience smoother.
