Things To Do
in Barcs

Barcs is a small town located in southwestern Hungary, near the Croatian border. It is known for its picturesque natural surroundings, including the Drava River and Barcs-Drava Landscape Protection Area. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with several historic buildings and monuments scattered throughout the area.

Barcs also offers outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

  • "Szia" - Hello
  • "Kérem" - Please
  • "Köszönöm" - Thank you
  • "Igen" - Yes
  • "Nem" - No

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
  • Coffee: $2 - $4
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Barcs!
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the town center to admire the local architecture. Visit a café for a traditional Hungarian breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the Barcs Museum to learn about the area's history and culture. Later, take a walk along the Drava River for some scenic views and fresh air.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that serves delicious Hungarian dishes. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk near the river or watch the sunset from a park bench.

day 2
Nature Day Adventure!
morning
:

Head out early to explore the surrounding nature trails. Bring a packed breakfast and enjoy it surrounded by the beauty of nature.

afternoon
:

Go hiking in the nearby Drava National Park, where you can observe local wildlife. Have a picnic lunch amidst the trees.

evening
:

Return to Barcs for dinner at a restaurant. Spend the evening relaxing at your accommodation or enjoying local entertainment.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes surrounding the town.
  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites.
  • Low cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Access to recreational activities like hiking and fishing.
  • Limited employment opportunities in specialized fields.
  • Public transport options may be less frequent.
  • Fewer amenities and services compared to bigger cities.
  • Potentially limited access to education and healthcare facilities.
  • Language barrier for non-Hungarian speakers.

Best Activities in Barcs

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in the Barcs Wildlife Area

Explore the natural beauty of the Barcs Wildlife Area, featuring scenic trails suitable for hiking and nature observation.

Cycling along the Danube River

Enjoy cycling along the picturesque paths by the Danube River, offering stunning views and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.

Fishing in the Drava River

Try your hand at fishing in the Drava River, known for its rich biodiversity and peaceful surroundings.

Camping at local campsites

Spend a weekend camping at designated campsites near Barcs, perfect for families and groups looking to enjoy the outdoors.

Birdwatching

Visit local wetlands and parks for birdwatching, where numerous species can be observed, making it a great activity for enthusiasts.

Places to Visit in Barcs

Visit one of these nice places.

Barcs Riverbank

The banks of the Drava River offer stunning views, especially during sunset, with the flowing river and surrounding nature providing excellent photo opportunities.

Barcs Town Park

A well-maintained park in the center of Barcs, ideal for capturing pictures of local flora, the park’s lake, and recreational areas.

St. Michael's Church

This historical church features beautiful architecture and is surrounded by a picturesque landscape, perfect for architectural photography.

Drava Bridge

The bridge provides panoramic views of the Drava River and the surrounding area, making it a great spot for landscape photography.

Barcs Cultural Center

This center often hosts events that can provide colorful and dynamic photo opportunities, along with interesting structure for exterior shots.

Local Market Square

The bustling market square of Barcs offers vibrant scenes of daily life, ideal for street photography and capturing the essence of the town.

Food in Barcs

Barcs, Hungary offers a delightful mix of traditional Hungarian cuisine with influences from the Croatian and Serbian culinary traditions. The local dishes are known for their bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and a generous use of paprika. The town is also renowned for its delicious pastries, hearty stews, and a variety of street food offerings.

Barcs Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fisherman's Soup (Halászlé)

A rich paprika-infused fish soup made with freshwater fish, onions, and plenty of Hungarian paprika, often served with a side of bread. Best enjoyed at local fish restaurants along the Drava River.

Must-Try!

Lángos

A popular Hungarian street food, lángos is deep-fried dough, typically topped with sour cream, cheese, and garlic. Look for street vendors or stalls around the town center for this crispy delight.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Barcs Town Square Farmers Market

Take a stroll through the lively Barcs Town Square Farmers Market to sample an array of local produce, cheeses, cured meats, and freshly baked bread. Additionally, you'll find stalls offering traditional pastries and street food delights such as kürtőskalács (chimney cake) and lángos.

Weather

The climate in this part of Hungary is classified as a continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers tend to be warm to hot, with average high temperatures reaching around 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). Nights are generally cooler. Winters can be quite cold, with average temperatures often dropping to around -2 to 2 degrees Celsius (28 to 36 degrees Fahrenheit), and occasional frost and snowfall are common. Precipitation is relatively well-distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months during spring and summer. The region experiences moderate humidity levels, and sunshine is abundant during the warmer months, contributing to the overall pleasant summer climate. Spring and autumn serve as transitional periods, with spring seeing the revival of greenery and blooming flora, while autumn showcases beautiful seasonal colors as temperatures gradually decline. Overall, the climate supports a variety of agricultural activities, making it suitable for crops, vineyards, and orchards typical of the area.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

In Barcs, it's customary to greet people with a friendly handshake and maintain eye contact. When meeting someone for the first time, a polite 'hello' in Hungarian ('Helló' or 'Jó napot' for 'Good day') is appreciated.

Dining Etiquette

When dining with locals, it's polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin. If invited to someone's home, bringing a small gift such as flowers or sweets is considered a thoughtful gesture.

Dress Code

Hungarians generally dress well for social occasions and appreciate neat appearance. While casual wear is acceptable in everyday settings, it’s advisable to dress smartly for formal events.

Safety

The town is generally considered safe, with a low crime rate typical of many small towns in Hungary. Residents and visitors often feel secure while walking around, and common safety issues, such as petty crime, are infrequent. Local law enforcement is present, and community engagement often fosters a sense of safety. However, like any place, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas or during the night. For travelers, it's wise to follow standard safety precautions, such as keeping personal belongings secure and being cautious in unfamiliar areas. Overall, both locals and visitors can enjoy their time without significant concerns about safety.

Tipping in Barcs

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Barcs, Hungary, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if the service was satisfactory. Tippers may round up their bill or leave some change as a gesture of appreciation. In bars and cafes, leaving small change is common, while in taxis, rounding up to the nearest whole number is encouraged.

Payment

Payments in Barcs can be made through various methods, including cash and credit/debit cards. While larger establishments typically accept card payments, smaller shops and local markets may prefer cash. It's advisable to carry Hungarian Forint (HUF) for smaller transactions. Digital payment methods are also becoming more popular, with some businesses accepting mobile payment apps.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Barcs is mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20°C. Expect blooming flowers, lush greenery, and various outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. It's a great time to explore local parks and enjoy the fresh air.

Summer

Summer is warm, with temperatures often exceeding 25°C. Visitors can enjoy outdoor festivals, swimming in nearby lakes, and plenty of sunshine. It's a popular season for locals to gather and socialize in open-air settings.

Autumn

Autumn brings cool weather with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20°C. The foliage changes colors, offering picturesque views. It's an excellent time for wine tasting and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Winters in Barcs can be cold, with temperatures dropping below 0°C. Expect occasional snowfall and a tranquil atmosphere. It's a cozy time to experience local traditions and holiday festivities, with opportunities for winter sports in nearby areas.

Barcs at Night

The nightlife in this small town offers a unique blend of local charm and cultural experience. As the sun sets, the streets come alive with a relaxed atmosphere, where residents and visitors alike gather in cozy bars and eateries. Pubs and cafés are popular spots for socializing, often featuring live music or traditional folk performances that highlight the region's rich cultural heritage. Dance and social gatherings may take place in community centers or local venues, where people of all ages enjoy folk dances and music. For those looking for a quieter evening, strolls along the riverside can provide a peaceful way to take in the tranquil beauty of the landscape. While the nightlife may not be as vibrant as in larger cities, it offers an authentic and warm experience filled with local flavors and community spirit.

Hiking in Barcs

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Koppányvár Hiking Trail

A scenic hiking trail near Barcs that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and historical significance related to the Koppányvár ruins.

Drava River Trail

This trail follows the banks of the Drava River, providing a peaceful hiking experience with opportunities for bird watching and enjoying the river's nature.

Dombóvár Hiking Area

Located a short drive from Barcs, this area features various trails that wind through forests and hills, suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Zselic Landscape Protection Area

A nearby protected area known for its diverse flora and fauna, featuring numerous hiking trails that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty.

Pécselyi Hills

A bit further from Barcs, the Pécselyi Hills provide a variety of hiking paths with stunning views of the region and opportunities to encounter local wildlife.

Aiports

How to reach Barcs by plane.

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)

The largest and busiest international airport in Hungary, located approximately 200 km from Barcs.

Zagreb Airport (ZAG)

An international airport located in Croatia, about 100 km from Barcs.

Osijek Airport (OSI)

A regional airport in Croatia, located roughly 40 km from Barcs.

Pécs-Pogány Airport (PEV)

A small international airport located around 60 km from Barcs, offering limited international flights.

Walkability

Walkability in a small town like Barcs can be characterized by several factors, including the layout of streets, the presence of pedestrian infrastructure, and the overall accessibility of amenities. In such towns, the compact nature often allows residents to reach essential services, shops, and recreational areas on foot. The streets are typically designed for mixed use, with residential areas interspersed with small businesses, making daily errands more convenient without the need for a car. Sidewalks and pedestrian crossings are important components of walkability, ensuring safety for those walking through the town. Additionally, parks or green spaces contribute to a pleasant walking environment, providing places for relaxation and leisure. Public transportation options also play a role in enhancing walkability, as they allow residents to access nearby areas without relying solely on driving. Overall, a walkable community encourages a healthier lifestyle and fosters social interactions among residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hungarian Ethnic Group

The majority population of Barcs, primarily Hungarian speakers.

Roma Community

A significant minority group, contributing to the cultural diversity of Barcs.

Croatian Community

A smaller group with historical ties and cultural roots in the region.

German Community

A historical community that has contributed to the local culture.

Other Ethnic Minorities

Includes individuals from various ethnic backgrounds who reside in Barcs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Barcs, with numerous local teams and a strong community following.

Handball

Handball enjoys a significant presence in Barcs, with many youth teams participating in regional leagues.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played in schools and local clubs, contributing to the sports culture in Barcs.

Athletics

Athletics events are popular, with opportunities for local athletes to participate in competitions.

Swimming

Swimming is a favored activity both for recreational purposes and as a competitive sport in the local area.

Traffic

In the small town of Barcs, traffic tends to be relatively light compared to larger cities. The roadways are often used by local residents, as well as travelers passing through the area. The main routes primarily serve the daily commute and local errands, resulting in moderate congestion, especially during peak hours. The town is well connected by its local streets, which accommodate both cars and bicycles. Parking is usually available near shops and residential areas, making it convenient for visitors and locals alike. Additionally, Barcs is located near important transit routes, which can see more significant traffic volume, particularly during peak travel seasons or local events. Overall, while not heavy, the traffic in Barcs reflects the town's community-oriented atmosphere and its role in regional connectivity.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Barcs.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many local restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan choices, with plenty of flavorful dishes featuring fresh produce, stews, and savory pastries.

Gluten-free Options

While traditional Hungarian cuisine heavily features bread and pastries, some eateries in Barcs provide gluten-free alternatives, especially in the form of hearty meat and vegetable stews.

Healthcare

In this small town, healthcare services are provided through a combination of primary care facilities, local hospitals, and specialized clinics. The healthcare system is primarily public, funded by the national health insurance scheme, which provides residents access to various health services. The local hospital serves as the main center for emergency care and offers a range of medical services. General practitioners (GPs) play a crucial role in primary care, and residents typically have a GP they can consult for routine health issues. In addition, there are specialized medical practitioners available for more specific health concerns. Community health initiatives are also in place, focusing on preventative care and public health education. Health campaigns often address issues such as vaccination, maternal and child health, and chronic disease management. Despite these services, challenges remain, including access to specialized care and the availability of resources. Residents may sometimes need to travel to larger cities for advanced medical treatments or specialized procedures. Overall, while the healthcare system in the area provides basic services, there is ongoing work to enhance the quality and accessibility of care for all residents.

Discover Hungary

Read more in our Hungary 2024 Travel Guide.

Hungary Travel Guide