1. Gyor

Gyor, which dates back to the Celtic and Roman ages, has been ruled by the Mongols, Magyars, Czechs, and Ottomans, but city fathers set fire to prevent the Turks from capturing the Turks. Gyor, located halfway between Budapest and Vienna, is a pleasant place to stroll around simply. You'll come across statues and magnificent antique structures practically wherever you go. At the confluence of the Danube, Raba, and Rebca rivers, the old settlement of Kaptalan Hill may be located. The beautiful Benedictine cathedral of St. Ignatius of Loyola, which visitors have characterized as a "meal for the soul," is a must-see.

2. Hortobagy National Park

Hortobagy National Park was Hungary's first national park, founded in 1973. The alkaline steppe dates back 10,000 years is the country's largest protected area and Europe's most extensive semi-natural grassland. During the Ice Age, animals such as wild horses roamed the steppe. The terrain is still grazed by horses, cattle, oxen, and water buffalo. Because the park is home to 342 species, it's a great area to go bird watching. The Nine-Arch Bridge, erected in the mid-nineteenth century to help people traverse the heavily flooded meadows, is a must-see. The Karega Windmill, built in the 19th century, is also a must-see.

3. Debrecen

Debrecen is an important cultural center that has served as Hungary's capital at various times during the century. Debrecen, which was heavily damaged during World War II, is regarded as the country's intellectual hub, dating back to the creation of Calvinist College in 1538. The college, currently known as the University of Debrecen, is noted for its architecture. The Bela Bartok International Choir Competition is held in the city, with a thriving music scene. The Reformed Great Church, Hungary's largest Protestant church; the Deri Museum, an ancient Egyptian artifact collection; and the annual Flower Carnival are all popular attractions.

4. Heviz

If relaxing in hot springs water is your thing, head to Heviz, which is home to one of the world's largest thermal lakes. The water temperature ranges from 24 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit (71 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit), ideal for a relaxing dip. The water flows rapidly enough from its source to change every 3-1/2 days, ensuring clean water. Heviz, near Lake Balaton, is known for its baths and has a thriving resort industry. You might want to go for a trek in the neighboring forest after a swim in these healing waters or attend a culinary festival or outdoor music. Heviz is a popular year-round getaway due to its Mediterranean-like climate.

5. Aggtelek National Park

Hungary's Aggtelek National Park should be on your bucket list if you enjoy spelunking. The park is located in northern Hungary, about a three-hour drive from Budapest, and contains Europe's largest stalactite cave. There are guided tours offered that are tailored to your physical abilities. Listening to concerts inside Baradla is a unique underground experience. The park is a protected region, with specific areas off-limits to tourists and others requiring visitors to stay on established hiking trails. Aggtelek National Park is a great spot to explore flora and fauna and visit beautiful settlements.

6. Pecs

Pecs is a cosmopolitan city where diverse ethnic groups coexist peacefully, and migrants are welcomed into the city's heart, earning it the title of UNESCO City of Peace. Pecs was ruled by Romans, Christians, and Ottomans and is home to Hungary's first university, built-in 1367. Pecs is a renowned tourist destination due to its moderate temperature, excellent museums, medieval buildings, and fine wines. Pecs Cathedral, Szchenyi Ter, Pecs Synagogue, and Pasha Gazi Kassim Mosque are among the city's historic religious structures.

7. Sopron

Sopron was founded in Roman times and has been both an Austrian and a Hungarian city. After a vote in 1921, Sopron earned the moniker "Most Loyal Town," which is commemorated by the Gate of Allegiance. It's near the city's most famous landmark, the Firewatch Tower, in the main square. World War II wreaked havoc on the town, although many medieval structures were spared. Sopron is now one of Hungary's most important wine-producing districts and one of the few that produces both red and white wines. The neighboring Alps offer excellent trekking opportunities.

8. Eger

Eger, Hungary's second-largest city in the north, is notable for several things. The town, founded in the 10th century by Hungary's first Christian king, Saint Stephen, is known for its spectacular baroque buildings. The king established an Episcopal cathedral in Eger, still a significant religious center today. The city grew up around the cathedral built on Castle Hill. The city's top attractions continue to be the castle and basilica, followed by the Valley of the Women, a series of wine cellars and restaurants built into the surrounding hills. The Torok Kori Minaret is Europe's northernmost Turkish minaret; the 150-step climb to the top is challenging, but the views are well worth it.

9. Lake Balaton

Head to Lake Balaton when relaxing at a resort seems more enticing than strolling along another cobblestone street to visit another old building. Hungary's most popular summer resort is Europe's largest freshwater lake. Because it is so large, it is sometimes referred to as the "Hungarian Sea," which is a hilarious mistake given that Hungary is a landlocked country. Many beaches are covered in grass. However, other resorts have constructed artificial sandy beaches. The party headquarters of the lake is Siofok, while ferries from Fonyod transport tourists to Badacsony, a prominent wine-growing region. More wineries may be found on the north shore and the historical bathing town of Balatonfured, and the baroque Festetics Castle.

10. Budapest

Budapest, Hungary's capital and largest city, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Budapest is one of the best destinations to visit in Hungary, with the world's most extensive thermal water cave system, the world's second-largest synagogue, and the world's third-largest Parliament building. Fisherman's Bastion, once part of the city wall, offers fantastic views over the Danube and the city. At Shoes of the Danube, a heartbreaking tribute to Jews slaughtered during WWII can be discovered, where Jews removed their shoes before being shot and washed away by the river.

Budapest comprises two cities, Buda and Pest, separated by the Danube River but merged into a spectacular city. On the western bank of the Danube in Buda, Castle Hill is home to the Royal Palace, which was built in 1265 and has been refurbished numerous times. The 800-year-old Matthias Church, the National Gallery, and other institutions representing Hungary's imperial heritage are housed in the modern neo-Baroque building complex.