Things To Do
in Szombathely
Szombathely sits on the banks of the Rába River in western Hungary, blending Roman history with Baroque and modern life. The city is known for its tranquil squares, historic churches, and a thriving market scene. It serves as a gateway to the countryside and the nearby Kőszegi Mountains for day trips and hikes.
Visitors will find a compact, walkable center with friendly locals and a growing culinary scene.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Main Square, where the stunning Cathedral of Szombathely offers a glimpse into the city's rich history. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Hungarian pastries and coffee. Take a stroll through the nearby park, appreciating the sculptures and greenery that adorn this beautiful area.
After lunch, explore the Roman ruins at the Iseum, which provides fascinating insights into Szombathely's ancient past. A guided tour will enhance your understanding of the city's Roman heritage and its significance in history. Visit the Szombathely Art Gallery to admire some local artwork and perhaps pick up a souvenir.
Conclude your day with dinner at a traditional Hungarian restaurant, tasting homemade goulash or a delightful chimney cake for dessert. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic streets, soaking in the nighttime ambiance. Consider catching a performance at the local theater or a musical event, adding a cultural touch to your evening.
Spend your morning in the picturesque Szombathely Forest, where you can connect with nature while exploring the numerous walking and biking trails. Bring a picnic basket to enjoy at one of the serene spots amid the trees, with a chance to observe wildlife. The fresh air and tranquil atmosphere will invigorate your senses.
After your nature experience, head to the nearby Savaria Museum to delve deeper into Szombathely's archaeological treasures. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Roman era, allowing visitors to understand the region's rich historical significance. Enjoy lunch at a café nearby before dedicating your afternoon to more discoveries.
For dinner, choose a cozy local restaurant that specializes in Hungarian cuisine, where you can indulge in seasonal dishes. Walk back through the charming streets, maybe stopping to sample some local wine at a bar. Take in the pleasant evening atmosphere, perhaps enjoying an outdoor concert if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-5 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $1-2 |
| 🍽️Three-course mid-range dinner for two | $25-40 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center
- Rich local culture and history
- Easy day trips to nature and nearby towns
- Relatively affordable compared with Western Europe
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Some older locals may speak limited English
- Limited direct international flight options to Szombathely
- "Jó napot kívánok" - Good day/hello (formal)
Places to Visit in Szombathely
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking blend of Gothic and Baroque architecture with a central square that offers dramatic long shots and street scenes.
Classic façades and the adjacent historic lanes provide strong architectural contrasts for photography.
A lush green space with seasonal colors, ideal for nature photography and tranquil landscapes.
Colorful façades, boutique shops, and daily life captured in candid street photography.
Food in Szombathely
Szombathely Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy river fish soup commonly found near the river Rába; try it with a rustic slice of bread.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked meat stew served with soft egg noodles, a Hungarian staple.
A vibrant pepper and tomato ragout often enjoyed with eggs or sausage.
A decadent trifle-like dessert with cake, cream, and chocolate sauce.
A warm chimney cake rolled in cinnamon sugar, ideal as a street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seasonal produce, local cheeses, meats, breads, and prepared snacks from early morning into afternoon.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshake when meeting; greet with a polite form acceptable in Hungarian culture.
Wait to be seated in most places; dress codes are generally casual in eateries; use polite language and thank the staff.
Safety
Tipping in Szombathely
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving around 5-10% for good service is typical.
Cash (HUF) is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in restaurants and shops, with contactless payments increasingly available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with occasional thunderstorms; carry water, sunscreen, and a light hat. Evenings are pleasant for strolls along the river.
Mild days with turning foliage; great for photography and outdoor walks; rain can appear, pack a compact umbrella.
Cold with possible snow; warm layers and sturdy footwear are essential; indoor cultural events are common.
Szombathely at Night
Hiking in Szombathely
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested mountains with scenic overlooks and multi-day routes.
Rolling hills and traditional villages perfect for easy to moderate hikes.
Gentle riverbank walks with wildlife and pastoral scenery.
Airports
How to reach Szombathely by plane.
Major international hub, roughly 1.5–2.5 hours away by rail or road via Vienna; connects to global destinations.
Hungary’s main airport, about 2.5–3.5 hours away by rail or car; broad international network.
Smaller regional airport about 1.5–2 hours away by car; convenient for Central Europe travel.
Nearby Slovak airport that can be accessed for certain routes; roughly 2–3 hours away by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily ethnic Hungarians with a Roma community and other minority groups; aging population in some districts.
A number of students attend local colleges and form a youthful segment in the city center.
Tourists visiting for culture and nature are common in summer and during festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played locally; clubs and parks around the city.
Popular in Hungarian sports culture; youth programs and clubs exist.
Bike-friendly routes and scenic rides in Vas County.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Szombathely.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable stews, mushroom dishes, salads, and dairy-based dishes; don’t hesitate to ask for egg or cheese additions or substitutions.