Situated in the very heart of Europe, this wonderful country surprises visitors with its rich historical and cultural heritage and natural wonders. Due to its location on the borderline between East and West, Hungary had to cope with more wars and conflicts than most other European states. Despite losing much of its land, the country's current area of roughly 100.000 km2 packs a whole lot to see and experience in all of its regions.
Within just a few hours of travel time, visitors can reach and experience all of Hungary's beauty. The Danube Bend attracts many with its charming villages like Szentendre, Visegrád or Esztergom. Pannonia features Lake Balaton and several other prominent cities. Northern Hungary boasts the world heritage village of Hollókő - the living museum, and the historic wine regions of Tokaj and Eger. Finally, the Great Plain offers the largest continuous natural grassland in Europe, the Hortobágy National Park - also home of the Hungarian cowboy.
The capital city -declared the Pearl of the Danube by UNESCO - represents the diversity that characterizes the entire country's landscape. The river dramatically splits Budapest in two: Buda lying on the West with hills and valleys, and the flatlands of Pest on the East.
Hungary is blessed with the world's second largest reserve of surface thermal water. The hundreds of natural springs make the country the perfect destination for relaxation and recovery. Central Europe's largest lake, Lake Balaton, awaits fans of sailing and lovers of the beach. Those looking for an active holiday will be happy to find Hungary's countless marked routes for hiking, cycling and horse-riding, through stunning scenery.
Tradition and modernity encounter brightly in the country. This is evident as one finds 2000-year old Roman ruins, 400-year-old Turkish minarets and baths, Romanesque churches, royal palaces (now functioning as luxury hotels), the unique Hungarian version of Art Nouveau, and the gems of modern architecture all existing side-by-side.
In addition to its extraordinary museums, Hungary hosts numerous events and exhibitions, which help ensure every visitor enjoys a colorful experience.
Hungary will also not fail to impress its guests at night. In every large city, pedestrian streets and main squares offer a diverse collection of pubs, bars and restaurants. Imagine anything from mysterious locales on demolished properties to the most hip lounges and highclass venues on docked boats that provide breathtaking views. College Towns have their unique atmosphere during the year, but as summer arrives numerous festivals steal the crowd away. While Siófok -at Lake Balaton- is the official summer party capital, Budapest competes for the best nightlife with its grandiose open-air clubs, with some located on islands. This vibrant city never ceases to amaze fans of art, music, fashion and gastronomy.
The „soul of the continent" is the birthplace of world-famous inventors, scientists, explorers, composers and sports stars. For example, Albert Szent-Györgyi discovered vitamin C after extracting it from paprika, László József Biró invented the ballpoint pen, while Ernő Rubik came up with the world's best-known toy - the coloured cube puzzle. Although many know about Hungarians being world leaders in waterpolo, it is less common knowledge that the idea of the Red Bull Air Race came from a Hungarian pilot, Péter Besenyei.
For all useful information on this enchanting country, and for hot deals, visit www.hungary.com!
