whatdo

Things To Do
in Szekszárd

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Szekszárd is a charming town located in southern Hungary known for its rich agricultural heritage and picturesque vineyards. The town boasts a beautiful historic center with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets. Szekszárd is also famous for producing quality red wines, particularly from the local Kadarka grape variety.

Visitors can enjoy wine tastings at the many cellars and vineyards in the area, as well as explore the surrounding lush countryside.

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Sailing at Lake Balaton

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Mineral Museum Entrance Ticket

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Pécs - Budapest Transfer

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

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $60
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
  • ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Szekszrd
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Trója Winery to learn about local wine production. Enjoy a tasting session of their best wines paired with delicious pastries.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful Szekszárd Cathedral and admire its architecture. Afterward, stroll through the nearby park and enjoy a picnic lunch.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant tasting Hungarian dishes. End the evening with a casual walk along the riverside.

day 2
Cultural Day
morning
:

Visit the Textile Museum to gain insight into the local history and craftsmanship. Participate in a guided tour to deepen your understanding.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a traditional Hungarian eatery. Dive into the local culture by attending a workshop on traditional crafts.

evening
:

Catch a performance at the local Szekszárd Theatre for an authentic cultural experience. Enjoy a nightcap at a nearby bar afterward.

Szekszárd Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and cultural heritage with numerous historical sites.
  • Famous for its red wines, particularly the Bikavér (Bull's Blood).
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and vineyards, ideal for outdoor activities.
  • A relatively lower cost of living compared to larger Hungarian cities.
  • Welcoming community and vibrant local traditions.
  • Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
  • Public transportation options may be less frequent than in bigger urban areas.
  • Some amenities and services may not be as developed as in larger cities.
  • Can be less touristy which may limit international dining and entertainment options.
  • Seasonal weather variations might not appeal to everyone, particularly cold winters.

Best Activities in Szekszárd

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in the Gemenc Forest

Explore the scenic trails and diverse wildlife in Gemenc Forest National Park, located not far from Szekszárd.

Wine tasting at local vineyards

Visit the renowned vineyards and wineries in the Szekszárd wine region to taste delicious regional wines.

Cycling along the Danube

Enjoy a bike ride along the Danube River, which offers beautiful views and pleasant paths for cycling.

Picnic at Szekszárdi Termálkert

Relax and enjoy a picnic at the Szekszárdi Termálkert, a lovely park with thermal springs and a peaceful atmosphere.

Places to Visit in Szekszárd

Visit one of these nice places.

Szekszárd Old Town

Explore the historic old town area for picturesque streets and charming architecture.

Szekszárd Wine Hill

Enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside, with vineyards and natural beauty.

Szekszárdi Dam

Capture stunning shots of the dam and its scenic surroundings, especially during sunset.

Szent István Lookout Tower

Ascend the tower for breathtaking views of Szekszárd and the Danube River in the distance.

Food in Szekszárd

Szekszárd, Hungary, offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich and diverse cuisine influenced by Hungarian traditions. The local dishes are a wonderful reflection of the region's agricultural heritage and the creativity of its people.

Szekszárd Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Szegediner Gulasch

A hearty stew made with pork, sauerkraut, and paprika, often topped with sour cream. An excellent place to enjoy this dish is at Kérim Hotel Étterem.

Must-Try!

Halászlé (Fisherman's Soup)

A spicy fish soup usually made with carp or mixed river fish, paprika, and onions. Head to Halászcsárda to savor the authentic taste of this local specialty.

Libamáj (Goose Liver)

A delicacy in Hungarian cuisine, often served as a pâté or in various gourmet dishes. You can relish this exquisite dish at Áfonya Étterem.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Szekszárdi Vásárcsarnok (Szekszárd Market Hall)

This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local cheeses, sausages, and artisanal products. Visitors can sample authentic street food like lángos (deep-fried flatbread) and kürtőskalács (chimney cake) from the stalls outside the market.

Weather

The climate is characterized as a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Average temperatures in the summer months typically reach around 25-30°C (77-86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -1 to -5°C (30 to 23°F). Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter conditions in late spring and early summer. The annual rainfall averages about 600-700 mm (23-27 inches). Frost can be expected in the colder months, and snow is occasionally seen during winter. Overall, the area experiences four distinct seasons, contributing to the beauty of its landscape and the rich agricultural activities in the region. The warm climate is conducive to vineyards, making the area known for its wine production.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

In Szekszárd, it is important to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It is also common to address people using their titles and last names as a sign of respect.

Gift Giving

When invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers, chocolates, or a good bottle of wine. This gesture is seen as a sign of appreciation and respect for the host.

Table Manners

When dining in Szekszárd, it is polite to wait for the host or the eldest person to start eating before beginning your meal. It is also considered good manners to keep your hands visible on the table and to say 'jó étvágyat' (good appetite) before starting to eat.

Safety

Szekszárd is generally considered a safe city for residents and visitors. Like many towns in Hungary, it has a low crime rate, particularly in terms of violent crime. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing or scams, may occur, especially in crowded areas or during festivals, but they are relatively uncommon. The community is close-knit, which contributes to the overall sense of safety. Local law enforcement is visible and accessible, enhancing the feeling of security amongst the residents. Public transportation is also regarded as reliable and safe, making it easy to navigate the city. Visitors should still exercise standard precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings, securing personal belongings, and avoiding poorly lit or isolated areas at night. Overall, Szekszárd offers a welcoming and secure environment for both residents and tourists.

Tipping in Szekszárd

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Szekszárd, Hungary, it is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% at restaurants if the service was good. Tipping in other service industries such as hair salons, taxis, and hotels is also appreciated but not mandatory.

Payment

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Szekszárd, especially in larger establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and stores. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash, as smaller businesses and market vendors may prefer cash payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Szekszárd with blooming flowers and mild weather. It is also the time for wine festivals, outdoor events, and cultural activities.

Summer

Summer is hot and sunny in Szekszárd, perfect for exploring the outdoors, enjoying local festivals, and visiting nearby vineyards.

Autumn

Autumn is the harvest season in Szekszárd, offering beautiful fall foliage, wine tastings, and traditional Hungarian events.

Winter

Winter brings a festive atmosphere to Szekszárd with holiday markets, Christmas decorations, and cozy indoor activities.

Szekszárd at Night

Nestled in Hungary's renowned wine country, the nightlife in Szekszárd offers a unique blend of local traditions and modern entertainment. The city boasts a vibrant atmosphere, especially for wine enthusiasts, with numerous wine bars and cellars where you can savor the region's famous reds, particularly the robust Bikavér (Bull's Blood). These intimate venues often feature live music, ranging from traditional Hungarian folk to contemporary genres, creating a pleasant backdrop for socializing and tasting exquisite wines. In addition to the wine culture, Szekszárd's nightlife includes a variety of cozy pubs, stylish cocktail bars, and trendy cafes that cater to a diverse crowd. Many of these establishments provide outdoor seating in warmer months, allowing patrons to enjoy the pleasant evening air. Local eateries and bistros extend their hours, offering late-night bites and traditional Hungarian dishes alongside international cuisine. For those looking to dance the night away, there are a few nightclubs in Szekszárd that host local DJs and themed parties, ensuring a lively atmosphere on weekends. The city also holds various seasonal festivals and cultural events, such as wine festivals and harvest celebrations, where locals and visitors alike can enjoy special nighttime activities, performances, and market stalls. Overall, Szekszárd's nightlife is characterized by its convivial and relaxed vibe, making it a perfect destination for those who appreciate good wine, good company, and a touch of local charm.

Hiking in Szekszárd

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Szekszárdi Hills

A beautiful hiking area with diverse trails that offer stunning views of the Szekszárd vineyards and surrounding countryside.

Bátai Hills

Located just a short drive from Szekszárd, this area features scenic routes and is ideal for both casual hikers and those looking for more challenging climbs.

Gemenci Forest

A vast forest area nearby that provides various hiking paths through lush greenery, rich wildlife, and picturesque floodplain landscapes.

Tenkes Mountain

Offers a series of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, providing an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Tojmás Hill

A popular spot for hiking with panoramic views of the surrounding area, known for its tranquil environment and well-marked paths.

Aiports

How to reach Szekszárd by plane.

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)

The largest and busiest airport in Hungary, located approximately 160 km from Szekszárd. It serves as a major international gateway to the country.

Osijek Airport (OSI)

An airport located in Croatia, approximately 100 km from Szekszárd. It serves both domestic and limited international flights.

Zagreb Airport (ZAG)

The main international airport in Croatia, roughly 190 km from Szekszárd. It offers connections to various international destinations.

Vienna International Airport (VIE)

Located in Austria, around 220 km from Szekszárd, this is one of the major international airports in Central Europe with a wide range of global connections.

Bratislava Airport (BTS)

Situated in Slovakia, approximately 210 km from Szekszárd. It serves both international and regional flights.

Walkability

Walkability in this charming Hungarian town is characterized by a mix of pedestrian-friendly areas, accessible public spaces, and the overall inviting atmosphere for walkers. The town center features narrow streets with shops, cafes, and local markets that encourage strolling and social interaction. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and there are pedestrian zones that prioritize foot traffic, making it safe and pleasant for residents and visitors to explore. Additionally, the presence of parks and green spaces enhances the walkable experience, offering areas for relaxation and recreation. The scenic surroundings, coupled with a relatively compact layout, make it easy to navigate on foot, allowing individuals to visit essential services, schools, and recreational areas without the need for a vehicle. However, as with many small towns, some outlying areas might be less walkable, particularly those that are primarily residential or commercial. Overall, the town promotes a lifestyle where walking is a viable and often preferable mode of transportation for many residents, contributing to a sense of community and well-being.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hungarian

The majority ethnic group in Szekszárd, comprising over 90% of the population.

Romanian

A smaller demographic group present in the region, often linked to historical migration.

Serbian

This group reflects the historical connections and presence of Serbian communities in the area.

Romani

A minority group with a distinct cultural identity, traditionally associated with various regions in Hungary.

Other Ethnicities

Includes various smaller groups such as Slovaks, Croats, and others who may reside in the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is one of the most popular sports in Szekszárd, with local clubs and a strong following among residents.

Basketball

Basketball has a significant presence in Szekszárd, with various teams competing at different levels and engaging the community.

Handball

Handball is played actively in Szekszárd, with local teams and events that attract both players and fans.

Volleyball

Volleyball is another popular sport, with clubs and community programs that promote participation and competition.

Athletics

Athletics is well-represented in Szekszárd, with local events and training opportunities for various age groups.

Traffic

Traffic in this charming town is generally manageable, especially compared to larger cities. The road network consists of a few main routes that connect local neighborhoods and traverse the town. During peak hours, traffic can experience some congestion, particularly near commercial areas and schools. The volume of vehicles tends to increase, but overall, it maintains a relatively calm pace. Public transportation is available, with buses providing a link to neighboring areas and towns. Cycling and walking are also popular due to the town's size and friendly atmosphere. Local authorities have been working to enhance pedestrian pathways and cycling lanes to promote sustainable transport options. Parking can be limited in the town center, so residents and visitors often seek out designated parking areas or utilize public transport. While the streets are usually safe for drivers and pedestrians alike, care should always be taken, especially in busier areas. Overall, navigating the town by car, bike, or on foot allows for a pleasant experience amidst the beautiful surroundings.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Szekszárd.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many eateries in Szekszárd offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as stuffed peppers, lecsó (vegetable stew), and creative salads. Restaurants like Harangvölgyi Restaurant and Kispatak Büfé are known for their diverse vegetarian and vegan options.

Gluten-Free Choices

Visitors with gluten restrictions can indulge in gluten-free lángos, soups, and salads at various restaurants and cafes in Szekszárd. Kispatak Büfé, for instance, provides a selection of gluten-free pastries and sandwiches.

Healthcare

In this Hungarian town, healthcare is provided through a combination of public and private services. The local healthcare system typically includes a range of facilities such as clinics, hospitals, and general practices. The primary hospital in the area is the Szekszárd Medical Center, offering various medical services including emergency care, outpatient services, and specialized departments such as pediatrics and surgery. This facility is part of the national healthcare system, which is funded by the government and provides services to residents at little to no cost at the point of access, assuming they are covered by the national insurance system. In addition to public healthcare, there are also private healthcare providers available for those seeking quicker access to specialists or additional comfort and amenities. These private practices can offer more personalized care and often have shorter waiting times for appointments. Healthcare professionals in Szekszárd, including doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals, are trained through Hungary's educational institutions and typically have a good level of expertise. Preventive care, including regular health screenings and vaccinations, is promoted as part of the national health policy. There are local initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles within the community as well. Overall, residents of Szekszárd have access to a range of healthcare services that cater to their medical needs, combining both public and private sectors to enhance accessibility and quality of care.

Discover Hungary

Read more in our Hungary 2024 Travel Guide.

Hungary Travel Guide