Things To Do
in Pécs
Pécs is a charming city located in southern Hungary, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is famous for its well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Early Christian Necropolis, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pécs is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and festivals showcasing local and international talent.
The city's picturesque architecture, lively atmosphere, and friendly locals make it a popular destination for tourists and students alike.
- "Szia" - Hello
- "Kérem" - Please
- "Köszönöm" - Thank you
- "Igen" - Yes
- "Nem" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Pécs Cathedral, a stunning representation of Romanesque architecture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café and soak in the charming atmosphere of the city center.
Head over to the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter to explore its art galleries and museums. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the iconic Zsolnay porcelain and relax in the lush gardens.
Stroll along the charming streets of Pécs as the sun sets. Choose a local restaurant for dinner to indulge in Hungarian specialties.
Visit the Early Christian Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to learn about Pécs' rich history. Take time to admire the early Christian tombs and their intricate decorations.
Explore the nearby Mosque of Pasha Gazi Kasim, which reflects the city's Ottoman heritage. Enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery that serves traditional Turkish cuisine.
Head to the Jakovali Hassan Mosque for a different perspective of Pécs’ architectural diversity. Wind down the day with a leisurely walk through the city’s vibrant squares.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites, including the early Christian necropolis and the Mosque of Pasha Qasim.
- Vibrant arts scene including theaters, galleries, and music festivals.
- Beautiful landscapes and nearby natural attractions, such as the surrounding hills and lakes.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Hungarian cities like Budapest.
- Friendly and welcoming local community for visitors and expatriates.
- Limited job opportunities, especially for non-Hungarian speakers.
- Public transportation options may not be as extensive as in larger cities.
- Some infrastructure may be outdated compared to more developed urban areas.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to fluctuations in local business activities.
- Language barrier for those who do not speak Hungarian, as not all locals speak English fluently.
Best Activities in Pécs
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the Mecsek Mountains for beautiful hiking trails and scenic views.
Visit the Baranya Caving Center to explore caves and underground formations.
Discover the city and its surroundings by bike, with various cycling routes available.
Visit local vineyards and wineries in the nearby wine region of Villány for wine tasting tours.
Places to Visit in Pécs
Visit one of these nice places.
The top of the cathedral offers stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
This central square provides great photo opportunities with its historical buildings and lively atmosphere.
This iconic tower offers panoramic views of Pécs and is a popular spot for capturing cityscapes.
This charming street is lined with colorful buildings and offers scenic photo opportunities.
A hilltop lookout point offering breathtaking views of the city and the Mecsek Mountains.
A tranquil location with a picturesque lake and surrounding nature, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
The museum's courtyard and neighboring buildings provide excellent photo opportunities with their unique architecture.
This serene garden provides a beautiful backdrop for capturing the city's natural beauty and historical landmarks.
Food in Pécs
Pécs Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy fish soup made with paprika and various freshwater fish, best enjoyed at the traditional Csaba Bácsi Halászcsárda restaurant.
Must-Try!
A delicious dish of cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful mix of ground meat and rice, typically found at local eateries like the Malom Hotel Restaurant.
A refreshing summer soup prepared with fresh fruits such as sour cherries or strawberries, often served as a starter at restaurants like Kálvária-Rácz Hotel & Restaurant.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal products. Visitors can sample authentic Hungarian street food like lángos (fried dough) and kürtőskalács (chimney cake) from the various vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Pécs, Hungary, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal situations. It is also polite to use titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.' when addressing someone until invited to use their first name.
When dining in Pécs, it's important to wait for the host or hostess to start eating before you do. It is also considered courteous to use utensils rather than eating with your hands, and to keep your hands visible on the table at all times.
Pécs is known for its rich religious history and has several important religious sites. It is essential to show respect when visiting churches or other religious landmarks by dressing modestly and behaving in a quiet and respectful manner.
Safety
Tipping in Pécs
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Pécs, Hungary, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill or leave a 10% tip at restaurants and for other services.
Cash is widely accepted in Pécs, especially in smaller establishments, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used. It's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and in case some places do not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Pécs, as the weather is mild and the city comes to life with blooming flowers and lively outdoor events. It's an ideal time for exploring the city's historic sites and enjoying the local cuisine at outdoor cafes.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Pécs, with warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy festivals, concerts, and open-air markets. It's also a good time to explore the nearby vineyards and take day trips to the surrounding countryside.
Autumn in Pécs is characterized by beautiful fall colors and harvest festivals. The weather is still pleasant, and it's a great time to explore the city's parks and gardens. Visitors can also take part in grape harvest events and taste the local wines.
Winter is a quieter time in Pécs, but it has its own charm with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and traditional Hungarian winter activities. Visitors can explore indoor attractions such as museums, thermal baths, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the city's cafes and restaurants.
Pécs at Night
Hiking in Pécs
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak of the Mecsek mountain range, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area along with several hiking trails.
A protected area with a variety of trails that showcase the natural beauty of the Mecsek mountains, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
Located on the peak of Misina hill, this area features trails with stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
A popular hiking destination with well-marked trails leading to beautiful viewpoints, suitable for all skill levels.
A longer hiking route that connects various points of interest around Pécs, offering both natural and historical sites to explore.
Aiports
How to reach Pécs by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Hungary, located approximately 200 kilometers from Pécs.
Located near Nice, France, this airport is about 800 kilometers from Pécs and is one of the major international airports in Southern Europe.
Located in Vienna, Austria, this airport is approximately 250 kilometers from Pécs and serves as a significant international transit hub.
The main international airport serving Zagreb, Croatia, located about 300 kilometers from Pécs.
Located closer to Pécs than many others, this airport serves domestic and some international flights and is approximately 100 kilometers away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, making up approximately 80% of the population.
A minority group with a significant presence in Pécs, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.
A smaller ethnic group, historically present in the region.
Another minority with historical connections to the city.
A smaller demographic group, with some residents having Slovak heritage.
A minority group with historical roots in the area.
Includes various other groups and immigrants, contributing to the multicultural environment of Pécs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Pécs, with a strong local tradition and several amateur clubs, as well as the professional team Pécsi Munkás Testedző Club.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Pécs, featuring both men's and women's teams competing at various levels, including the top leagues in Hungary.
Handball is widely played in Pécs, with local clubs participating in various regional competitions, contributing to the sport's popularity.
Volleyball is also popular in Pécs, with local clubs participating in both men's and women's competitions, fostering a vibrant volleyball community.
Swimming is a favored activity in Pécs, with many facilities available for training and competitions, highlighting the city's commitment to water sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pécs.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Pécs offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options like lecsó (Hungarian ratatouille) and vegetable-based stews being widely available.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find an array of gluten-free goodies at dedicated bakeries like Pécsi Pékség, as well as at restaurants offering gluten-free versions of classic Hungarian dishes.