Hungary

Types of trips: Relaxation, Entertainment, Nature, Geographical, Exploration

Best known for: Rubik's cube, Ballpoint Pen, Komondor dogs, Inventors, Thermal lakes

Why Go?: Hungary is a country of a different personality - with it's own specific language, architecture and culture, this destination would be great for getting a taste of Europe at it's most delightful.

Fact File

Population: 10,000,000

Capital: Budapest

Language(s): Hungarian

Ties to the UK?: Good political relationship, increasingly popular travel destination

Landscape: Two main waterways (Danube & Tisza rivers) that split the country into sections; hilly in the east and flatter in the south, with the Caparthian mountain range starting in the north.

Climate/Seasons: Hot summer period with low humidity levels, but frequent rainfall and cold/snowy winters.

When to Go: Good activities all year round; the warmest weather is around August, but spring and autumn are both pleasant and would be a great opportunity for a city break.

Reasons to Visit: The gently sweeping landscape of Hungary is offset by the beautiful cities, whose streets and buildings are some of the most impressive in Europe. With venues both old and new, Hungary has so much to explore and things that will entertain everybody. 

How to Get There: Good international airport in Budapest, but other cities have good links so there are many options depending on your exact destination.

Places to Go: Shoes on the Danube Bank, Buda Castle, Matthias Church, Fisherman's Bastion

Famous People: Laszlo Biro, Viktor Orban, Erno Rubik, Edward Teller

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Kiskunsag National Park, Bukk National Park

History: Occupied by the Soviet Union 

Architecture: Hungarian State Opera House, St Stephen's Basilica, Chain Bridge, Great Synagogue

Culture: Grand architecture, traditional Hungarian folk/classical music

Sport: Water sports, Ice Hockey, Football, Sabre

Events: Budapest Spring Festival, Miskolc Opera Festival

Watch Out For: The city centres can get extremely busy, so be careful of crowd risks and pickpockets.

Medical Issues: No specific vaccinations advised, but check with your doctor if you have health concerns