Hungary is an underrated destination for families. There are less crowds than Italy and France, it’s architecturally gorgeous like Paris, the food is delightful for adults and kids alike, and it is way more affordable than so much of Europe. And we know traveling with a family requires more money, more space, and more patience! Almost everyone speaks English and German and are quite friendly towards foreigners. Yes, Hungarian is one of the hardest languages in the world, which means Hungarians won’t assume you will speak it (though knowing a few phrases will go a long way to get a friendly smile!). Most Hungarians know at least 3 languages!
Timing and things to do:
Here’s an overview of what families visiting Hungary can expect in terms of activities and average weather in each season:
Spring
- Blooming City Parks: Enjoy picnics and outdoor activities in Budapest’s vibrant parks.
- Easter Festivals: Traditional celebrations with folk customs in villages.
- Mild Weather Sightseeing: Explore historical sites comfortably.
- Danube River Cruises: Ideal for scenic cruises.
- Average Weather: Mild and pleasant, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
Summer (our favorite!)
- Beat the Summer rush in Europe, Hungary is a hidden gem and doesn’t have the crazy crowds that Italy and France will have.
- Lake Balaton Fun: Ideal for beach and water sports.
- Outdoor Festivals: Budapest Summer Festival and other events.
- City Explorations: Vibrant street life, markets, and outdoor cafes.
- Countryside Adventures: Horseback riding, hiking, and national parks.
- Average Weather: Warm and sunny, typically 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). With balmy weather it is a great summer destination that takes advantage of this great temp: thermal spas, waterparks, and lake fun.
Autumn
- Wine Harvest Festivals: Grape harvests and festivals in wine regions.
- Colorful Nature Walks: Hiking amid autumn foliage.
- Cultural Events: Budapest Autumn Festival with arts and music.
- Thermal Baths: Relaxing experience in Hungary’s famous baths.
- Average Weather: Crisp and cool, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), with early autumn being warmer.
Winter
- Christmas Markets: Magical markets with crafts and festive activities.
- Ice Skating: Outdoor rink in Budapest’s City Park.
- Winter Cuisine: Traditional hearty dishes.
- New Year Celebrations: Fireworks and street parties.
- Average Weather: Cold, often below freezing, around -1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F), with potential snowfall.
- fireworks and street parties, welcoming the new year with joy and excitement.
10 Day Summer Break Family Itinerary in Hungary
Day 1-4: Lake Balaton – Hungary’s Picturesque Lakeside
I like Balaton upfront because of jetlag. This part of your trip will be relaxing and you won’t feel the need to get up and see everything, you can just relax and unwind as you adjust to the timezone (9 hours ahead of California). And while Balaton has much to offer, you and the kids might have a blast just relaxing beach/pool/boat-side. Nothing here is an absolute must except relaxing and enjoying famous Hungarian food! If you would rather jump right in, you can easily move Budapest to the beginning and leave Balaton for the end to relax.
Hotel recommendations:
Marina Port Balaton Kenese is our absolute favorite Hungarian hotel! It is very modest and simple for rooms, but the property is sure to be a hit for everyone. There are adjoining rooms as well as multiple family rooms. We opt for the water view so we can spot the kids easily. It’s a small but mighty property which means you can easily find your family members. It’s on the beach with shallow water, there are go karts, ball pits, an indoor swimming pool and kiddy pool, kids activity centers, sauna/gym and massage, and breakfast and dinner included buffet options. Our kids beg to go back here on a yearly basis.
Day 1: Arrival at Lake Balaton
- Morning: Travel to Lake Balaton (3-hour drive from Budapest airport).
- Afternoon: Settle in and enjoy beach activities at Balatonkenese.
- Evening: Relaxing lakeside dinner.
Day 2-3: Balaton Adventures
A) Tihany Adventures
- Morning: Explore the Tihany Peninsula for its natural beauty.
- Afternoon: Visit Annagora Aquapark for thrilling water slides and pools.
- Evening: Dine at a local restaurant in Tihany village.
B) Discovering Keszthely
- Morning: Visit Keszthely, including the Festetics Palace.
- Afternoon: Explore the Balaton Museum for regional history.
- Evening: Enjoy leisure time at a beachside café in Keszthely.
C) Siófok and Balaton Uplands
- Morning: Hike in the Balaton Uplands National Park.
- Afternoon: Relax and play in the town of Siófok.
- Evening: Sample Siófok’s culinary delights.
D) Cruise Around the Lake
- Charter a boat from the harbor next door and cruise around the lake
Day 4-6: Budapest – The Heart of Hungary
Accommodation Recommendations:
Budapest is broken into numbered Districts and below are the districts best for families, as well as top rated but extremely affordable accommodation.
- District V (Belváros-Lipótváros): The heart of Budapest, ideal for first-time visitors. It’s home to major landmarks like the Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Chain Bridge. The area is bustling with restaurants, cafes, and shops. Perfect for those who want to be in the center of action.
- Parliament Dream Apartments: Close to many sights, this apartment is modern with a washing machine, and rated 9.9/10 for families!
- District I (Castle District): Offers a more historical and quieter experience. The area is known for Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church. It’s great for those interested in history and scenic views of the city.
- Gold Hour is close to the Buda Castle with updated 2 bedroom apartments, airport shuttle, rated a 9.7/10 by families
- District VI (Terézváros): Known for Andrássy Avenue, the Hungarian State Opera House, and close proximity to Heroes’ Square and City Park. This district is ideal for those who appreciate architecture, culture, and a vibrant nightlife.
- 7 Seasons Apartments: Studio, One and Two bedroom apartments, these are clean and very close to major attractions including the Parliament on the Danube river, which is so scenic day and night that it’s worth being close to it. Very highly rated by families at 9.7/10.
- District VII (Erzsébetváros): The Jewish Quarter, famous for its historic synagogues, including the Dohány Street Synagogue. It’s a lively area with trendy bars, restaurants, and the famous “ruin bars.” Suitable for younger travelers and those looking for a hip, vibrant atmosphere.
- Netizen is a hostel technically, but hostels can be a lot of fun for families because there will be bunk beds, common spaces, games, food, and good vibes. Families rated this 9.1/10.
- District XIII (Újlipótváros – Angyalföld): A more residential area, known for its Art Nouveau buildings and relaxed atmosphere. It’s close to Margaret Island, perfect for families or those seeking a quieter stay but still want to be close to the city center.
- PANNONIA Budapest Center DELUXE has 2 rooms, parking, an indoor play area, bicycle rentals, and is rated 9.7/10 by families.
- District IX (Ferencváros): This area can be a good option for families, especially those looking to experience a more local side of Budapest. It’s less touristy, offering a genuine feel of daily life in the city.
- Mt Suites Budapest – Extremely highly rated by families, this junior suite is extremely affordable with a great location and even offers car rental. 9.8/10 rating by families.
Day 4: Journey to Budapest
- Morning: Travel to Budapest.
- Afternoon: Visit the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden.
- Evening: Stroll along the Danube River.
Day 5: Exploring Budapest
- Morning: Tour the historic Buda Castle and its surroundings.
- Afternoon: Hungarian National Gallery visit and a playground
- Evening: Traditional Hungarian dinner with folk music.
Day 6: More Budapest Wonders
- Morning: City Park adventures, including Vajdahunyad Castle.
- Afternoon: Hungarian National Museum exploration and a playground
- Evening: Danube River cruise like this one with bottomless bubby or this one with live music.
Day 7-9: Eger and Tokaj – Historical Charm, Castles, and Vineyards
Day 7: Depart for Eger
- Morning: Drive to Eger (2-hour journey).
- Afternoon: Visit Eger Castle and its historical exhibits.
- Evening: Unwind in Egerszalók thermal baths.
Day 8: Eger’s Cultural Exploration
- Morning: Explore the city’s architectural landmarks.
- Afternoon: Valley of Beautiful Women (Szépasszony-volgy) for family-friendly wine tasting. Great wine, cool caves.
- Evening: Enjoy Eger’s local cuisine.
Day 9: Day Trip to Tokaj
- Full Day: Excursion to Tokaj. Vineyard tours, wine tasting for adults, and grape juice tasting for kids. Note there is a 0 tolerance policy on drinking and driving, yes zero! So if the adults are planning on partaking I would recommend a tour or driver
- Note: If you need to skip this day, you could do a Tokaj wine tasting in Budapest like this instead.
- Evening: Return to Budapest.
Alt Day 7-9 for Animal Lovers: The Great Plains and Debrecen
Accommodation note:
In Debrecen stay either on the Piac Street near the Great Church or by the Aquatic Park in the Great Forest Park. The photo below is from a fabulous stay at Visit Debrecen Apartman. An absolute gem for location, air-conditioning, kitchen, washer/dryer, comfortable beds, and this great view!
Transportation:
While the Tram is very accessible in the city of Debrecen, renting a car can be convenient for traveling between Debrecen and Hortobágy.
Day 7: Exploring Debrecen
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Great Church in the heart of Debrecen. Climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city.
- Afternoon: Head to the Debrecen Zoo and Amusement Park located in the Great Forest Park. It’s a perfect spot for kids with a wide variety of animals and fun rides.
- Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at one of the local Hungarian restaurants in the city center, trying out traditional dishes like goulash or lángos. I love a summer evening in Hungary. The air is perfect and warm, great for walking around.
Day 8: Adventure in Hortobágy National Park
- Morning: Take a short drive to Hortobágy National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start with the Hortobágy Wild Animal Park to see native Hungarian animals.
- Afternoon: Experience a traditional Hortobágy horse show, showcasing the skills of the Hungarian horsemen. Later, explore the park’s unique flora and fauna, maybe even spot the famous Hungarian grey cattle.
- Evening: Dine at a local csárda (inn) in Hortobágy, offering traditional Hungarian cuisine in a rustic setting.
Day 9: Cultural Exploration in Debrecen and Aquatic Fun
- Morning: Visit the Déri Museum, famous for its rich collection of Hungarian art. Don’t miss the Munkácsy trilogy, a series of large-scale paintings.
- Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at the Aquaticum Mediterranean Pleasure Baths in Debrecen’s Great Forest Park. This modern water complex offers various pools, slides, and a relaxing thermal bath section.
- Evening: Conclude your trip with a leisurely stroll through Debrecen’s historic city center, perhaps enjoying some local ice cream or pastries.
Alt Day 7-9 for the Art Lovers: Pecs
- Accommodation: Choose a centrally located hotel or guesthouse in Pécs for easy access to the city’s attractions.
- Transportation: While much of Pécs is walkable, renting a car can be convenient for day trips to places like Orfű.
Day 7: Discovering Pécs
- Morning: Begin your exploration in the historic city center of Pécs. Visit the Pécs Cathedral to admire its stunning architecture. Then, stroll through the main square, Széchenyi Square, to soak up the lively atmosphere.
- Afternoon: Head to the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, a hub for arts and culture. Here, families can enjoy interactive exhibits, beautiful ceramics, and a children’s play area.
- Evening: Dine at a local restaurant, trying out Pécs specialties like Pécs cake (Pécsi torta) or local game dishes.
Day 8: Adventure and Relaxation
- Morning: Take a short drive to Orfű, a charming village just north of Pécs. Enjoy the beautiful lake, perfect for boating or swimming in the summer.
- Afternoon: Explore the Orfű Aquapark, offering water slides and pools for a fun family afternoon. Alternatively, visit the nearby Mill Museum or enjoy a hike in the scenic hills around Orfű.
- Evening: Return to Pécs for a relaxing evening. Consider visiting a local ice cream parlor – a great way to end the day for kids.
Day 9: Cultural Immersion in Pécs
- Morning: Visit the Early Christian Necropolis of Pécs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient tombs with their fascinating murals offer a glimpse into the city’s Roman past.
- Afternoon: Spend time at the Csontváry Museum, dedicated to the works of Tivadar Csontváry Kosztka, one of Hungary’s most famous painters. It’s both educational and visually appealing for all ages.
- Evening: Enjoy your last night in Pécs by taking a leisurely walk in the Király utca, a pedestrian street lined with shops and cafes, perfect for souvenir shopping and sampling local pastries.
Day 10/11: Return to Budapest and Departure
- Morning: Jewish Quarter and street art discovery.
- Afternoon: Enjoy last minute shopping and eating in Budapest. Interactive fun at the Palace of Wonders.
- Evening: Leisurely evening in Budapest or departure.
7-Day Spring Break Family Itinerary in Hungary
Day 1-3: Budapest – The Heart of Hungary
Accommodation Recommendations:
Budapest is broken into numbered Districts and below are the districts best for families, as well as top rated (9+/10) and extremely affordable accommodation.
- District V (Belváros-Lipótváros): The heart of Budapest, ideal for first-time visitors. It’s home to major landmarks like the Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Chain Bridge. The area is bustling with restaurants, cafes, and shops. Perfect for those who want to be in the center of action.
- Parliament Dream Apartments: Close to many sights, this apartment is modern with a washing machine, and rated 9.9/10 for families!
- District I (Castle District): Offers a more historical and quieter experience. The area is known for Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church. It’s great for those interested in history and scenic views of the city.
- Gold Hour is close to the Buda Castle with updated 2 bedroom apartments, airport shuttle, rated a 9.7/10 by families
- District VI (Terézváros): Known for Andrássy Avenue, the Hungarian State Opera House, and close proximity to Heroes’ Square and City Park. This district is ideal for those who appreciate architecture, culture, and a vibrant nightlife.
- 7 Seasons Apartments: Studio, One and Two bedroom apartments, these are clean and very close to major attractions including the Parliament on the Danube river, which is so scenic day and night that it’s worth being close to it. Very highly rated by families at 9.7/10.
- District VII (Erzsébetváros): The Jewish Quarter, famous for its historic synagogues, including the Dohány Street Synagogue. It’s a lively area with trendy bars, restaurants, and the famous “ruin bars.” Suitable for younger travelers and those looking for a hip, vibrant atmosphere.
- Netizen is a hostel technically, but hostels can be a lot of fun for families because there will be bunk beds, common spaces, games, food, and good vibes. Families rated this 9.1/10.
- District XIII (Újlipótváros – Angyalföld): A more residential area, known for its Art Nouveau buildings and relaxed atmosphere. It’s close to Margaret Island, perfect for families or those seeking a quieter stay but still want to be close to the city center.
- PANNONIA Budapest Center DELUXE has 2 rooms, parking, an indoor play area, bicycle rentals, and is rated 9.7/10 by families.
- District IX (Ferencváros): This area can be a good option for families, especially those looking to experience a more local side of Budapest. It’s less touristy, offering a genuine feel of daily life in the city.
- Mt Suites Budapest – Extremely highly rated by families, this junior suite is extremely affordable with a great location and even offers car rental. 9.8/10 rating by families.
Day 1: Welcome to Budapest
- Morning: Arrive and check into a family-friendly hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit the City Park, including Vajdahunyad Castle and the Budapest Zoo.
- Evening: Danube River cruise to see the city lights.
Day 2: Discovering Budapest
- Morning: Explore Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion.
- Afternoon: Hungarian National Museum visit.
- Evening: Traditional Hungarian dinner in the city center.
Day 3: More of Budapest
- Morning: Stroll along Andrássy Avenue, visiting the Hungarian State Opera House.
- Afternoon: Relax at Széchenyi Thermal Baths.
- Evening: Explore the local cuisine at a street food market.
Day 4-5: Eger and Tokaj – Wine and History
Day 4: Journey to Eger
- Morning: Travel to Eger (2-hour drive).
- Afternoon: Visit Eger Castle and the Minaret.
- Evening: Unwind in the thermal baths at Egerszalók.
Day 5: Eger and Tokaj Exploration
- Morning: Explore the Valley of Beautiful Women for family-friendly wine tasting.
- Afternoon: Day trip to Tokaj. Vineyard tours and wine tasting for adults, grape juice tasting for kids.
- Evening: Return to Eger for dinner at a local csárda.
Day 6-7: Return to Budapest
Day 6: Last Day in Budapest
- Morning: Visit the Great Market Hall for souvenirs.
- Afternoon: Explore the Jewish Quarter and street art.
- Evening: Farewell dinner on a Danube riverboat.
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Last-minute shopping in Budapest.
- Afternoon: Departure from Budapest.
Travel Tips
Accommodations
Accommodations are very affordable whether hotels or home rentals like VRBOs. Note that when renting an apartment, they count rooms as any room you could sleep in, including a living room – so a 2 bedroom might be a 1 bedroom + Living room with a pullout couch or a bed. Floor 1 is usually called Ground or F for “Foldszint”, which means floor 2 is called floor 1.
Getting there and around:
There are direct North America flights to Budapest from:
- New York City (usually from JFK International Airport).
- Chicago (typically from O’Hare International Airport).
- Toronto (from Toronto Pearson International Airport).
Airport (Ferihegy) to Budapest: I recommend a taxi or the city bus shuttle if you are not renting a car. The train is difficult to get to from the airport.
Transportation:
- Car rental is recommended for flexibility, especially for countryside visits. Note that most cars will be a manual, so pay special attention when renting. You won’t need a car in Budapest, trams and public transport are accessible, and parking isn’t very user friendly.
- Trains from the national train company (MAV) are a great affordable option as well with 150 stations across this small country. Budapest to Eger is about $7 per person. You would likely still need a bus/taxi to get from the station to where you are headed, but taxi stands are plentiful at train stations.
- Public transport: Trams are usually new, clean, and easy. Busses are a little harder to navigate and older/grungier.
- There are taxis around, look for Taxi Stands on Google maps. Note Uber/Lyft is banned from Hungary, but the Bolt app provides the most comparable service to ride share.
Language
- Hungarian is very difficult to master, but the basic phrases are pretty easy and will go a long way to get a smile from a local. Learn Hello (Hello!), Goodbye (Viszlat), Please (Kerem), Thank you (Koszi).
- Get Google Translate: This free app will save you on translating signs and menus real time.
- For bonus points on getting used to the language, you can listen to popular shows like Friends in Hungarian. Many are available on youtube in shorter clips.
Food
Embrace Hungarian gastronomy; it’s diverse and kid-friendly. Unfortunately, a lot of traditional Hungarian food can only be found in homes, food stalls, or in a traditional touristy restaurant, as Hungarians have really embraced a western diet for restaurants. Google Maps ratings are pretty accurate on reviews and another great option is to invite yourself to someone’s home on Eat With, a platform that hosts tourists in locals homes for meals and cooking classes. I love this concept, Traveling Spoon does something similar, as well as Airbnb Experiences. If you are going to do a food experience (which I do in every country!) do it sooner than later because you’ll learn so much about the culture through a local’s eyes and tastebuds.
A few things to know about Hungarian meals: they are usually served with bread and something fermented or sour (cucumber salad, pickles, sauerkraut), even if it seems vegetarian it probably has lard or bacon in it, and it’s all quite delicious! Some items bend the norms, like a meaty crepe (Husos Palacsinta) or a cold cherry soup, but it’s worth a try. Turo is a very common ingredient in sweet and savory food, it is a soft mild curd cheese like a ricotta.
Notes on water: tap water doesn’t taste great though it is safe. Most folks drink mineral water (Asvany Viz), which can be bubbly (buborekos) or still (sima). Kids can be finnicky about bubbly mineral water, so the still is a safer choice. I love the mineral water from Hungary, I always feel more energized throughout the day drinking it.
Some must try highlights of Hungarian food:
- Gulyás (Goulash): A classic Hungarian soup or stew with beef, vegetables, and paprika. It’s hearty and loved by people of all ages. For some reason this is the most known dish, though it’s not as high on my list as some of the ones below.
- Pörkölt: Similar to goulash but thicker, this stew is made with meat (usually beef or chicken), onions, and lots of paprika. I would compare it to a curry without the Indian spices and more paprika.
- Húsleves (Chicken Noodle Soup), while this sounds basic, it is something I could eat everyday, it is a simple, comforting, and wholesome dish– featuring tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and delicate noodles, simmered to perfection, making it a beloved staple in Hungarian households, especially cherished during colder months.
- Lángos: A deep-fried flatbread typically topped with garlic sauce, sour cream, and grated cheese (you can choose your toppings). It’s a popular street food and a hit with kids. This is our kids favorite and we still attempt to make it at home.
- Chicken Paprikash (Paprikás Csirke): A creamy, paprika-flavored dish served with chicken and usually accompanied by nokedli (dumplings).
- Töltött Káposzta (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls): Cabbage leaves stuffed with a mix of meat and rice, seasoned with paprika and cooked in a tomato-based sauce.
- Főzelék: A type of thick Hungarian vegetable stew, often made with peas, lentils, or spinach, and served with boiled eggs or fried meatballs.
- Túrós Csusza (Cheesy Bacon Pasta): is a delightful Hungarian noodle dish, combining soft egg noodles with creamy, fresh curd cheese, topped with crispy bacon bits – a comforting and authentic taste of Hungary’s culinary heritage, perfect for families seeking a traditional yet simple meal.
- Halászlé (Fisherman’s Soup): A spicy river fish soup, seasoned with paprika. It’s especially popular in regions near the Danube and Tisza Rivers.
- Jókai Bableves (Bean Soup á la Jókai): A rich bean soup named after the famous Hungarian writer Mór Jókai, often containing smoked meats and vegetables.
- Erős Pista, a staple in Hungarian cuisine, is a robust and spicy paste made from ground hot peppers, offering a fiery kick to traditional dishes like goulash and stews, and beloved by those who appreciate a bold and piquant flavor enhancement in their meals. I compare it to the Sriracha of Hungary.
- Sweets:
- Kürtőskalács (Chimney Cake): A sweet, spiral-shaped pastry that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often coated with sugar, cinnamon, or nuts.
- Somlói Galuska (Somló Sponge Cake): A trifle-like dessert made with layers of sponge cake, chocolate sauce, rum, and whipped cream.
- Palacsinta, Hungary’s answer to the crepe, is a must-try for tourists, offering thin, delicate pancakes rolled with an array of fillings, from sweet jam and rich chocolate to savory meat, capturing the versatile and indulgent spirit of Hungarian cuisine.
- Fagyi (Ice cream): while not Hungarian, ice cream stands are very popular and common in Hungary. Scoops tend to be smaller and lighter (and cheaper) than the US.
- Turo Rudi: A sweet dessert popular among children that can be found at any supermarket, consisting of a chocolate-covered bar filled with sweetened cottage cheese. This is the first thing I buy off the plane, though I will say most foreign adults don’t quite take to it 🙂
Adult Beverages
When exploring the rich world of Hungarian alcohol, there are several iconic drinks that you must try:
- Pálinka: A traditional Hungarian fruit brandy, typically made from plums, apricots, apples, pears, or cherries. It’s a strong spirit, deeply embedded in Hungarian culture. It’s very strong, and a very Hungarian spirit – you’ve been warned!
- Szilvapálinka (Plum Pálinka): A popular variant of Pálinka, this spirit is known for its smooth, fruity flavor and is often enjoyed as an aperitif or digestif.
- Unicum: A herbal liqueur, often enjoyed as a digestif, Unicum is a national treasure with a unique, bitter flavor, made from a secret recipe of over 40 herbs.
- Tokaji Aszú: Hailing from the Tokaj region, this world-famous sweet dessert wine is known for its rich flavors and complexity, a result of the unique noble rot process. Remember that this is a sweet dessert wine, sip it after a meal in small doses.The number of puttonyos (ranging typically from 3 to 6, and sometimes even 7) added to a barrel of base wine determines the sweetness and richness of the final product. A higher number of puttonyos indicates a sweeter wine with more residual sugar. For example, 3 puttonyos is less sweet, while 6 puttonyos is very sweet and more concentrated (and usually more expensive). Tokaji is amazing, and much more affordable than the states, a good place to stock up!
- Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood of Eger): A robust red wine blend from Eger, known for its deep color and rich taste, steeped in legends and history.
- Villány Wines: From one of Hungary’s most prominent wine regions, Villány is famous for its high-quality red wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and local varieties like Kékfrankos.
- Soproni Kékfrankos: A wine from the Sopron region, known for its Kékfrankos grape, producing red wines that are flavorful yet light, ideal for those who prefer a less intense red wine.
- Somlói Juhfark: A unique white wine from the small Somló region, made from the rare Juhfark grape. It’s known for its minerality and complexity.
- Törley Sparkling Wines: Hungary’s answer to champagne, Törley offers a range of sparkling wines that are perfect for celebrations or as an aperitif.
- Fröccs: A popular summertime drink, Fröccs is a refreshing spritzer made with white or rosé wine mixed with sparkling water, perfect for a hot day.
If interested in my food adventures around the globe, follow me on Atmosfy @rebellfoods. It’s like a TikTok for Yelp and I love discovering new places, dishes, and experiences through here. Disclosure: I am an advisor and investor for Atmosfy that’s how much I love it!
On Eat With, I would recommend the following Budapest based classes based on my experience as a Hungarian and having American partner and kids. Note that I haven’t taken these personally, but they are very highly rated and I would recommend it based on the reviews and the content.
- Grandma’s Dinner : 3-course meal cooked by a granny, served with wine. This is more to enjoy than to cook along.
- How to Make Langos: Hungary’s No.1 Street Food. Be warned, these are amazing and addictive! It is my kids favorite food of all time and we make it at home on special occasions. How fun to have a class of it!
- Small-Group Food Tour of Budapest’s Last Authentic Farmers Market. I love a good market tour led by a local- the smells, the flavors, and the real local vibe. I like this one because it’s a small group so you can easily follow along and have personalized questions and attention.
- Hungarian Cooking Class with a Professional Chef (4-course menu, drinks), this might be better as a date night or with older kids that love cooking since it’s 4 hours. But it hits all the highlights of Hungarian traditional food and you can also learn so much.
Get in the mood: Movies that feature Hungary
- “Spy” (2015): This comedy-action film starring Melissa McCarthy features several scenes shot in Budapest, which doubles for Paris and Rome in the movie.
- “Children of Glory” (2006): This film dramatizes the events of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution against Soviet rule, intertwined with the story of the Hungarian water polo team at the 1956 Olympics.
- “I Spy” (2002): with Eddie Murphy and Owen Wilson. The city’s most beautiful backdrops where used as locations, including the Buda Castle, the Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, the Chain Bridge, and the majestic, Gothic building of the Hungarian Parliament.
- Red Sparrow (2018) and Atomic Blonde: Another two spy Hollywood Blockbuster movies, what is it about Budapest and spy movies?
Conclusion
This vibrant country offers an abundance of experiences perfect for families. From the historical grandeur and urban charm of Budapest to the rolling vineyards of Eger and Tokaj, Hungary presents a tapestry of cultural, culinary, and natural wonders.
Hungary’s mix of majestic architecture, immersive history, and diverse landscapes makes it an ideal destination for families seeking both education and adventure. The country’s affordability and the warm hospitality of its people only add to its allure. Whether it’s exploring the enchanting streets of Budapest, indulging in the rich sweetness of Tokaji Aszú, or unwinding in the therapeutic waters of a thermal bath, Hungary promises a journey filled with memorable experiences.
I hope you found this guide helpful, and would love to hear from you on how you enjoyed your trip! Tag us @rsparksflying on Insta/Tiktok/Facebook
