Things To Do
in Hajdúszoboszló

Hajdúszoboszló is a charming spa town located in the Hajdú-Bihar region of Hungary. It is famous for its medicinal thermal waters, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The town is also known for its aqua park, offering fun activities for families and thrill-seekers alike.

With a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and wellness facilities, Hajdúszoboszló provides a peaceful retreat for travelers.

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

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $120
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Relaxation in Hajdszoboszl
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing dip in the famous thermal baths. Enjoy the calming environment with a breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Explore the spacious Aquapark to enjoy various waterslides and pools. Grab a light lunch at one of the on-site eateries.

evening
:

Stroll through the town center and sample local dishes for dinner. Finish your day with a relaxing walk by the lake.

day 2
Adventure Awaits
morning
:

Start with kayaking on the nearby Bodrog River for some adventure. Take in the stunning landscapes as you paddle along.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a riverside restaurant before exploring nearby hiking trails. Enjoy a leisurely walk and capture beautiful photographs.

evening
:

Return to Hajdúszoboszló and relax before dinner at an outdoor terrace. End your day with a nightcap at a local bar.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Famous for its thermal baths and wellness services.
  • Rich in history and cultural attractions.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and green areas.
  • A variety of dining options, featuring local Hungarian cuisine.
  • Accessible location for both domestic and international travelers.
  • Can be crowded during the peak tourist season.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities in Hungary.
  • Language barrier for those not speaking Hungarian.
  • Some facilities may be outdated or in need of renovation.
  • Higher prices for accommodations during peak times.

Best Activities in Hajdúszoboszló

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Aqua Palace

Enjoy a day at the Aqua Palace water park with its thermal spa pools, slides, and various wellness services.

Debrecen Zoo and Amusement Park

Visit the nearby Debrecen Zoo and Amusement Park for a fun day out with a variety of animal species and entertaining activities for all ages.

Great Forest Park

Explore the Great Forest Park, a beautiful natural area with walking and cycling paths, playgrounds, and picnic spots perfect for outdoor relaxation.

Adventure Park Hajdúszoboszló

Experience the thrill of the Adventure Park Hajdúszoboszló, offering exciting rope courses and adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures.

Places to Visit in Hajdúszoboszló

Visit one of these nice places.

Kastély park

The castle park offers a beautiful setting with greenery and ponds, providing great photo opportunities.

Hajdúszoboszló Spa Complex

The spa complex features architectural elements and landscaped areas that offer stunning views and photo opportunities.

Bocskai István Park

This park offers scenic spots and a peaceful environment for capturing memorable photos.

Food in Hajdúszoboszló

Hajdúszoboszló, Hungary, is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine, influenced by traditional Hungarian dishes with a touch of local flavors. The region's culinary scene offers a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes, hearty street food, and vibrant food markets to explore.

Hajdúszoboszló Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hortobágyi palacsinta

Savoury crepes filled with a rich mixture of seasoned meat, typically served with a creamy paprika sauce. A must-try dish often found in local restaurants and cafes.

Must-Try!

Halászlé

A spicy fisherman's soup made with freshwater fish and paprika, offering a delightful blend of flavors. Widely available in eateries across Hajdúszoboszló.

Túrós csusza

A comforting dish made of egg noodles combined with curd cheese and crispy bacon. Usually found in traditional Hungarian restaurants in the area.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hajdúszoboszló Piac

Visit this bustling local market to explore a variety of fresh produce, local spices, and artisanal products. Additionally, indulge in street food delights such as lángos (deep-fried flatbread) and chimney cakes.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm to hot, with average high temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winters can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, averaging around -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F). Spring and autumn serve as transitional periods with mild temperatures and varying rainfall. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter periods in late spring and early summer. This climate supports a variety of outdoor activities and is ideal for the medicinal thermal baths for which the area is famous. The picturesque scenery and seasonal changes enhance the charm of the region throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting customs

In Hajdúszoboszló, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, while maintaining eye contact and offering a polite greeting such as 'jó napot' (good day) or 'jó estét' (good evening).

Respecting personal space

Hungarians generally value personal space and may stand at a slightly greater distance during conversations compared to some other cultures. It's important to be mindful of this and not stand too close, especially with individuals you've just met.

Dining etiquette

When dining in Hajdúszoboszló, it is polite to wait until the host offers a toast before taking the first sip of a drink. Additionally, it is customary to keep your hands visible on the table during the meal, and to say 'jó étvágyat' (good appetite) before starting to eat.

Safety

The town is generally considered safe for both locals and tourists. Like many places in Hungary, it has a low crime rate, and violent crime is quite rare. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur, especially in crowded areas or during tourist seasons, but these incidents are not common. Local authorities maintain a visible police presence, contributing to a sense of security among residents and visitors. It’s advisable to take standard precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping valuables secure, and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Healthcare facilities in the area are accessible, and emergency services are efficient. Overall, visitors often find the environment to be welcoming and friendly, adding to the overall sense of safety in the community. It’s a popular destination known for its thermal baths and wellness tourism, which attracts many visitors each year.

Tipping in Hajdúszoboszló

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Hajdúszoboszló, it is customary to leave a tip of about 10% in restaurants if the service was satisfactory. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also a common practice.

Payment

Most businesses in Hajdúszoboszló accept cash, but credit and debit cards are also widely used. It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller establishments and street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

The best time to visit Hajdúszoboszló is in the summer (June to August) when the weather is warm and ideal for enjoying the city's outdoor thermal spa complex and water park. Visitors can expect sunny days, comfortable temperatures, and vibrant summer atmosphere.

Spring

Spring (March to May) is also a good time to visit Hajdúszoboszló when the weather starts to warm up, and the city's parks and gardens come to life with blooming flowers. It's a quieter time to visit, perfect for those looking for a more peaceful experience.

Autumn

Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an excellent time to visit Hajdúszoboszló for those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere. The city is particularly charming with the fall foliage.

Winter

Winter (December to February) is the off-peak season in Hajdúszoboszló, but it offers a unique experience with the city's thermal spas being particularly inviting in the colder weather. Visitors can enjoy a soothing soak in the thermal waters and experience the festive atmosphere during the holiday season.

Hajdúszoboszló at Night

As evening falls, the atmosphere in this renowned spa town transforms, offering a blend of relaxation and entertainment. The heart of the nightlife is centered around its thermal baths, where night bathing events are common, allowing visitors to enjoy the soothing waters under the stars. For those looking to explore beyond the pools, local bars and pubs provide a cozy setting with a variety of Hungarian beers and wines. Many also feature live music, creating a vibrant yet laid-back ambiance. Restaurants and cafés remain lively well into the night, serving traditional Hungarian cuisine alongside international options, often accompanied by live folk music or modern bands. During the summer months, open-air events and festivals become more frequent, adding to the dynamic nightlife scene. Whether it’s a wine tasting event, a street food festival, or an outdoor concert, there’s always something happening to engage both locals and tourists. For a more high-energy experience, a couple of clubs and discos in the town offer dancing and DJ music that goes on until the early hours. However, the nightlife scene here maintains a charming balance, catering to both those seeking a relaxing evening and those looking for more spirited entertainment options.

Hiking in Hajdúszoboszló

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hajdúszoboszló Thermal Baths Area

While primarily known for its thermal baths, the area offers serene walking paths around the gardens and nearby natural landscapes, allowing for a gentle hiking experience.

Bükkszentkereszt

Located about 50 km from Hajdúszoboszló, this area features various hiking trails in the Bükk National Park, offering beautiful views and diverse flora and fauna.

Lillafüred

Approximately 70 km away, Lillafüred is famous for its scenic trails, including routes around the Hámori Lake and the Lillafüred waterfalls, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Sárospatak

About 80 km from Hajdúszoboszló, this region features the Zemplén Mountains, where you can find a variety of hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Tiszafüred

Located around 45 km from Hajdúszoboszló, the area offers trails along the Tisza River, making it ideal for nature walks and leisurely hikes.

Aiports

How to reach Hajdúszoboszló by plane.

Debrecen International Airport (DEB)

The closest international airport to Hajdúszoboszló, located approximately 20 km away.

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)

The largest airport in Hungary, located about 220 km from Hajdúszoboszló, offering numerous international flights.

Satu Mare International Airport (SUJ)

Located in Romania, approximately 90 km from Hajdúszoboszló, serving flights mainly to Romania and some international destinations.

Cluj-Napoca International Airport (CLJ)

Located about 160 km away in Romania, it offers a variety of international flights.

Košice International Airport (KSC)

Situated in Slovakia, approximately 180 km from Hajdúszoboszló, providing international connections mainly to European cities.

Walkability

This town is known for its pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, making it relatively easy to navigate on foot. The central areas are designed to accommodate walkers, with wide sidewalks, pedestrian zones, and well-marked crossings. The availability of amenities such as shops, restaurants, and parks within close proximity enhances the walkability of the area. Additionally, the presence of thermal baths and wellness facilities contributes to the attractiveness of walking, as many visitors prefer to stroll to these destinations rather than drive. Public transport options are available for those needing to travel farther, but the compact nature of the town encourages a pedestrian lifestyle. Overall, the combination of convenient amenities and a pleasant walking environment makes exploring this town on foot a viable and enjoyable option for both residents and visitors alike.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hungarian Ethnic Group

The majority ethnic group in Hajdúszoboszló, making up the largest percentage of the population.

Romani Ethnic Group

A significant minority group in Hajdúszoboszló, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.

Slovak Ethnic Group

A smaller demographic group with historical ties to the region.

Other Ethnic Groups

Includes a mix of various nationalities and ethnicities, such as Germans and others not classified broadly.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is one of the most popular sports in Hajdúszoboszló, with local clubs and teams participating in regional leagues.

Swimming

Given the city's famous thermal baths and swimming facilities, swimming is a favored recreational activity among residents.

Handball

Handball has a strong following in Hajdúszoboszló, with teams competing at various levels and a vibrant community supporting the sport.

Basketball

Basketball is also popular, with local youth teams and recreational leagues encouraging participation.

Athletics

Athletics, including running and field sports, is promoted through local events and schools, making it accessible for many.

Traffic

Located in eastern Hungary, this town is known for its thermal baths and vibrant tourism industry, which significantly influences local traffic patterns. During peak tourist seasons, especially in summer, the volume of vehicles increases considerably, as visitors flock to enjoy the spa facilities and recreational offerings. The town has a network of roads connecting it to nearby cities and attractions, including Debrecen, which is just a short drive away. In addition to cars, bicycles are a popular mode of transport, particularly among locals. Pedestrian traffic is also common, especially in areas around the main attractions and the spa complex. Parking can become a challenge during busy times, with designated areas filling up quickly. Public transportation options, including buses, provide connectivity for residents and visitors, although many tourists prefer to travel by car for convenience. Overall, the traffic situation fluctuates between quiet during off-peak times and bustling during tourist seasons, reflecting the town's appeal as a holiday destination.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hajdúszoboszló.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Hungarian cuisine often features meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Hajdúszoboszló now provide an array of vegetarian and vegan choices, including hearty salads, vegetable stews, and plant-based alternatives.

Gluten-free Options

Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating eateries offering gluten-free versions of local specialties, as well as international cuisines with gluten-free adaptations.

Healthcare

The healthcare system in this region is characterized by a combination of public and private services. Local hospitals provide general medical care, while specialized facilities and thermal bath complexes offer unique health-related treatments, particularly focusing on hydrotherapy and wellness. There is an emphasis on preventive care and maintaining health through spa treatments, which are popular among both locals and tourists. The infrastructure includes general practitioners, specialists, and outpatient clinics, while larger hospitals are available for more serious medical issues. Pharmacies are readily accessible, providing residents and visitors with medications and health products. Overall, the healthcare services in the area are bolstered by the presence of thermal water, which is believed to have therapeutic benefits, attracting individuals looking for both relaxation and recovery.

Discover Hungary

Read more in our Hungary 2024 Travel Guide.

Hungary Travel Guide