Things To Do
in Szolnok
Szolnok is a charming city located in central Hungary along the Tisza River. It is known for its rich history, particularly as a former important trading center during the Middle Ages. The city boasts a variety of architectural styles, including beautiful churches and historic buildings.
Szolnok is also a hub for cultural events, with festivals and exhibitions regularly taking place throughout the year.
- "Szia" - Hello
- "Kérem" - Please
- "Köszönöm" - Thank you
- "Igen" - Yes
- "Nem" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $35
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Szigligeti Theater to soak up some local culture. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café, sampling traditional Hungarian pastries.
Take a stroll along the Tisza River, where you can relax or rent a bike for some exploration. Visit the Szolnok Gallery to appreciate contemporary Hungarian art.
Dine at a riverside restaurant, enjoying local dishes with a view. Consider attending a concert or performance at the theater to end your day on a high note.
Begin your day at Szolnok's Botanical Garden, surrounded by vibrant plants and flowers. This peaceful atmosphere is perfect for a leisurely walk.
Head to the Tisza River for a boat tour, enjoying the scenic views and tranquility. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the riverside.
Relax at a local café with a drink and watch the sunset over the river. Try a popular Hungarian dessert for a sweet ending.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage with numerous historical sites.
- Scenic location along the Tisza River, offering recreational activities.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Hungary.
- Strong sense of community and friendly local residents.
- Growing economy with various job opportunities in agriculture and services.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Fewer entertainment and shopping options than in Budapest or Debrecen.
- Less international exposure and fewer expat communities.
- Job opportunities may be limited in specialized fields.
- Occasional challenges with infrastructure and city services.
Best Activities in Szolnok
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk or people-watch in the beautiful surroundings of this central square.
Embark on a river cruise, fishing trip, or simply relax by the water's edge for a peaceful outdoor experience.
Explore this scenic spot for fishing, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Take a stroll, grab a coffee, or admire the architecture and monuments in this charming public space.
Tours
Uncover the best of Szolnok with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Szolnok
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of the Tisza River and the cityscape of Szolnok. Great for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Provides panoramic views of the city. Great spot for capturing the city's skyline and surrounding landscape.
Beautiful botanical garden with scenic walking paths and diverse flora, offering great photo opportunities amidst nature.
Food in Szolnok
Szolnok Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pancake filled with seasoned meat, typically served with a creamy paprika sauce. One of the best places to savor this iconic dish is at Palacsinta Ház, located in the city center.
Must-Try!
A spicy fish soup made from various freshwater fish and paprika, reflecting the region's strong connection to the Tisza River. Try this dish at Tisza-parti Halászcsárda for an authentic experience.
Cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. For a homely rendition of this classic dish, visit Tóth Vendéglője, a beloved local restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Szolnok better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh produce, local meats, honey, and traditional Hungarian delicacies. It's a great place to sample regional specialties such as sausages, cheeses, and pickles, and to experience the vibrant food culture of Szolnok.
Stroll along the picturesque promenade and indulge in various street food offerings such as lángos (fried dough topped with cheese and sour cream), kürtőskalács (chimney cake), and freshly grilled meats. The riverside atmosphere adds to the charm of enjoying these delectable treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Szolnok, Hungary, it is customary to greet others with a handshake, particularly when meeting someone for the first time. It is also polite to address people using their titles and surnames, unless otherwise invited to use their first names.
When dining in Szolnok, it is important to wait for the host to start eating before beginning a meal. Additionally, it is considered polite to keep your hands visible on the table during the meal. It's also customary to express appreciation for the food by complimenting the host or chef.
Hungarians in Szolnok greatly value their traditions and customs. It is respectful to show an interest in Hungarian culture and to avoid speaking negatively about local traditions, history, or customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Szolnok with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Szolnok
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Szolnok, Hungary is generally not compulsory, but leaving a small tip of 10% in restaurants and for good service is appreciated. Tipping in other service industries such as taxis and hair salons is also practiced but not obligatory.
In Szolnok, Hungary, cash is still widely used for everyday transactions, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger stores and restaurants, as well as in hotels and tourist attractions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Szolnok.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Szolnok, with pleasant weather and blooming flowers. You can expect moderate temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Szolnok. The weather is hot and sunny, perfect for enjoying the outdoor attractions and festivals. However, it can be crowded during this time.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage to Szolnok. It's a lovely time to visit for scenic walks along the river and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Winter in Szolnok can be cold, with occasional snowfall. The city has a charming festive atmosphere during the holiday season, and you can experience traditional Hungarian winter activities and markets.
Szolnok at Night
Hiking in Szolnok
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large protected area featuring diverse wildlife, hiking trails, and various landscapes including wetlands, forests, and sandy areas. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and those looking for longer hikes.
A scenic hiking route along the Tisza River, offering beautiful views of the river, lush forests, and opportunities for birdwatching. Suitable for hikers of all levels.
Located a bit further away, this national park provides various hiking trails in the Bükk Mountains, featuring caves, limestone formations, and dense forests. Great for adventurous hikers.
An easy-access hiking path through a botanical garden and surrounding area. Perfect for leisurely walks, educational experiences about plants, and family outings.
A vast park area with hiking trails along rivers and marshes. Rich in biodiversity, it offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring unique ecosystems.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Szolnok through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Szolnok by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Hungary, located about 120 km from Szolnok.
The second largest airport in Hungary, located approximately 160 km from Szolnok.
A smaller international airport located around 170 km from Szolnok.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Szolnok, comprising around 90% of the population.
A significant minority group in Szolnok, often estimated to be around 2-3% of the population.
A smaller ethnic group, historically present in Hungary, with a presence in Szolnok.
Another minority group, reflecting the historical migrations and settlements in the region.
A small community that has grown in recent years due to migration.
The Soul of Szolnok
Discover the essence of Szolnok through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Szolnok is known for its strong water polo tradition, with local clubs competing at national and international levels.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Szolnok, with several local clubs and a dedicated fan base.
Basketball is also among the popular sports, with teams participating in various leagues and community events.
Handball has a significant following, with local clubs fostering youth development and competitive teams.
Athletics is promoted in Szolnok through events and clubs, encouraging participation in various track and field disciplines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Szolnok.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several eateries in Szolnok provide vegetarian and vegan dishes, with Cafe Frei being a standout option for its plant-based offerings alongside a cozy ambiance.
Visitors with gluten-free requirements can explore options at local restaurants like Tóth Vendéglője, where some traditional dishes can be prepared to accommodate gluten-free diets.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Szolnok with these cultural adventures.
