5 Reasons Why You Should Travel to Hungary

What do you think of when you imagine Hungary? While the country does have delicious food, exciting traditions, a unique language, and a distinctive culture rooted in folk traditions. Any season is a good time to visit Hungary, the warm weather of summer brings more tourists to the area, but in the fall and winter, you can experience one of the many Christmas markets.

Delicious Food & Local Wines

Hungarian culture is deep-rooted in its culinary traditions, and the best example is a piping hot bowl of Goulash, a hearty stew packed with meat and vegetables. Goulash can trace its origins back thousands of years to a soup made by Hungarian shepherds and is just one of Hungary's nationally prized dishes.

It's easy to find a locally grown wine to pair with your meal, as Hungary boasts seven wine-growing regions. The many vineyards offer tours complete with tastings, making Hungary an appealing destination for wine enthusiasts and couples.

Culture in Budapest (including folk culture)

Budapest is a hub of culture and offers all the amenities of a European capital city with the charm of a small town. Chic pubs and trendy stores dot the streets of this architectural wonderland. Everyone is sure to find something of interest. Hungary's rich folk culture is still going strong, too, with many museums and local artisans keeping alive craft techniques that have been passed down through the generations.

Start of a Danube River Cruise

For those looking to take a European River Cruise, Budapest is an embarkation and disembarkation port for a luxury Danube River Cruise. In addition, the Christmas Market cruises are a great way to Winter markets in Budapest, Hungary. With countless vendors, free concerts by local Hungarian bands, and a variety of delicious food, these markets are a place you won't want to miss!

Filled with beautiful nature

The Hungarian countryside is a picturesque postcard, complete with rolling hills and idyllic farmhouses. Hortobágy National Park in eastern Hungary is a World Heritage Site located in a steppe environment. Habitat to cattle, sheep, horses and a few hundred species of birds, unspoiled expanses like these are Hungary's claim to fame among nature-lovers.

In summer, Lake Balaton opens its waters to those wanting to soak in the sun or participate in water sports. The largest lake in the region, Balaton is just a short drive to the nearby vineyards. Because of its size, it offers a little something for everybody -- the north shore provides a quiet family getaway, while the south shore is more well-known for its nightlife.

Thermal baths

Hungary draws in thousands of visitors yearly with its thermal waters, and various thermal spas are located throughout the country. Besides providing bathers with a relaxing dip, thermal baths also possess numerous health benefits. They can minimize muscular pains, improve metabolism, and reduce stress -- not to mention all those essential minerals! Baths can be found in all locales, from Budapest's City Park (Széchenyi Baths) to the world's second-largest thermal lake, situated in a volcanic crater (Hévíz Thermal Lake).