Things To Do
in Szombathely
Szombathely is a charming city located in western Hungary, near the Austrian border. It is known for its rich history, with Roman ruins such as the Iseum Savariense and the Temple of Isis dating back to the ancient Roman settlement of Savaria. The city also features beautiful Baroque and Renaissance architecture, as well as several museums and galleries showcasing its cultural heritage.
Szombathely is a lively place with a vibrant local arts scene, traditional festivals, and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for exploring and enjoying a taste of Hungarian culture.
- "Szia" - Hello
- "KĂ©rem" - Please
- "Köszönöm" - Thank you
- "Igen" - Yes
- "Nem" - No
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- â Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Roman ruins in Szombathely. Discover the rich history of this city at the Savaria Museum.
Visit the stunning Cathedral of Szombathely and admire its architecture. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café and take a stroll through the city park.
Dine at a traditional Hungarian restaurant. End your day with a leisurely walk enjoying the local atmosphere.
Head to the KĂĄm-puszta Nature Reserve for a refreshing hike. Enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of this beautiful area.
Pack a picnic lunch and relax by the Verbiczi Lake. Spend the afternoon kayaking or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Return to Szombathely and grab dinner at a lakeside restaurant. Reflect on the day while watching the sunset over the lake.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage and cultural sites, including Roman ruins and the Cathedral of Szombathely.
- A peaceful, small-town atmosphere combined with easy access to larger cities like Vienna and Graz.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Hungarian cities like Budapest.
- A strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Various parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields compared to larger urban areas.
- Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment options than bigger cities.
- Fewer international amenities and services.
- Public transportation options may be less frequent or less extensive.
- Possibly limited access to modern healthcare facilities compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Szombathely
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic sites and landmarks of Szombathely on a guided city tour.
Experience the ancient Roman era through interactive exhibits and reconstructed buildings.
Visit the museum housed in a medieval castle to learn about local history and culture.
Enjoy nature walks and wildlife spotting in the scenic Deer Park located in Szombathely.
Places to Visit in Szombathely
Visit one of these nice places.
Explore the charming streets and architecture of Szombathely's Old Town for picturesque views and photo opportunities.
Visit Széchenyi Square to capture stunning images of the historical buildings and vibrant atmosphere of the city center.
Head to Iseum Savariense and the Temple of Isis to photograph ancient ruins and archaeological sites with a unique historical background.
Food in Szombathely
Szombathely Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Hungarian dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce, often served with nokedli (dumplings).
Must-Try!
A spicy fish soup made with fresh river fish, paprika, and onions, offering a burst of flavors that reflects the region's fishing heritage.
Indulge in flaky pastry filled with sweet apple, cherry, or cottage cheese, a beloved dessert in Szombathely enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant hustle and bustle of the local market, brimming with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade sausages, and traditional pastries. Don't miss the lĂĄngos (fried dough) topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese.
This dynamic food hub offers an array of street food delights, from chimney cake (kĂŒrtĆskalĂĄcs) to lĂĄngos and gourmet burgers, providing a delightful culinary journey through local and international flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to show respect for elders in Szombathely, Hungary. This can be demonstrated through polite language and showing deference in interactions.
Greetings are an important part of Hungarian culture. It is polite to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact while speaking.
When dining in Szombathely, it is important to observe proper table manners such as waiting for the host to begin eating before starting, and keeping your hands visible on the table during the meal.
Safety
Tipping in Szombathely
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Szombathely, Hungary is generally not obligatory, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a 10% tip if the service was exceptional.
In Szombathely, Hungary, cash is widely used for small transactions, while credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and stores. It is advisable to carry some cash 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 Szombathely, Hungary, as the weather is mild and the city comes to life with blooming flowers and vibrant festivals. It's a perfect time for exploring the city's historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Szombathely, Hungary. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and visiting the nearby Lake Balaton. The city also hosts many cultural events and lively outdoor concerts during this time.
Autumn in Szombathely, Hungary brings cooler weather and beautiful fall colors. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and surrounding countryside, as well as to enjoy the local gastronomy and wine festivals.
Winter in Szombathely, Hungary can be cold, but the city's festive atmosphere and Christmas markets make it a charming time to visit. Visitors can enjoy winter sports in the nearby Alps and indulge in warm Hungarian comfort foods like goulash and strudel.
Szombathely at Night
Hiking in Szombathely
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The KĆszegi Mountains offer a variety of hiking trails with stunning views and scenic landscapes, perfect for both beginner and experienced hikers.
This national park features well-marked trails, diverse wildlife, and picturesque views, ideal for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
CserhĂĄt Mountains provide several hiking routes, featuring lush forests and panoramic vistas, making it a great destination for outdoor activities.
A popular local hiking spot, SĂĄg Hill offers a relatively easy hike with beautiful hilltop views, perfect for families and casual hikers.
This mountain has a range of hiking trails that showcase the area's natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and historical significance.
Aiports
How to reach Szombathely by plane.
Located in Vienna, Austria, approximately 200 km from Szombathely, it's one of the largest airports in Central Europe.
Located in Budapest, Hungary, about 215 km from Szombathely, it is the largest airport in Hungary.
Located in Graz, Austria, approximately 120 km from Szombathely, serving both domestic and international flights.
Located in Brno, Czech Republic, around 150 km from Szombathely, it serves as a regional airport with international connections.
Located in Malmö, Sweden, approximately 600 km from Szombathely, serves international and charter flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Szombathely, making up a significant portion of the population.
A minority ethnic group that contributes to the cultural diversity of the region.
A smaller ethnic group with historical roots in the area, contributing to the local culture.
Another ethnic minority, representing the Croatian community in Szombathely.
A historical community that has been part of Szombathely's demographic landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Szombathely, with a strong local club, HaladĂĄs Szombathely, which has a rich history and a passionate fan base.
Basketball is also widely played and followed in Szombathely, with local teams participating in competitions and a growing number of youth programs fostering talent.
Handball enjoys significant popularity in Szombathely, featuring local clubs that compete at various levels and contribute to the sport's community engagement.
Athletics is promoted in Szombathely, with various track and field events organized and local athletes representing the city in regional and national competitions.
Swimming is a favored recreational and competitive sport in Szombathely, supported by local swimming clubs and facilities that cater to both children and adults.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Szombathely.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as stuffed peppers (töltött paprika) and vegetable stews, alongside fresh salads and plant-based variations of traditional meals.
Several eateries in Szombathely provide gluten-free options, including gluten-free pasta dishes, salads, and desserts, ensuring a diverse culinary experience for visitors with gluten sensitivities.