The mummies of Vác – a fantastic exhibition about life and death in the 18th century

Vác is a cute little town on the left bank of the Danube, it’s some 25 minutes drive from Budapest. The visit of Vác can be included in a customised Danube Bend day trip. It’s such a beautiful Baroque jewellery box, I strongly recommend a short visit. We had been fortunate to tour Vác with my travellers before the borders of Hungary got closed again on the 1st of September.

The mummified remains of 265 people were found in 1994 in the crypt of the Dominican church, they had been laid to rest in hand painted, wooden coffins in the 18th and 19th centuries. The bodies didn’t decompose but were mummified naturally because of the favourable air conditions and dry settings.

The findings were extraordinary and not only because it’s a veritable gold mine for ethnographers about 18th century Hungarian everyday life and funeral traditions. It’s also a fantastic source for medical researches, a large number of tests have been performed by scientists on the mummified remains related to tuberculosis, HIV researches and they could also confirm C section had been performed as early as in the 18th century in Hungary.

The coffins are simply beautiful, all colourful, all hand-painted, all prepared with a lot of care, it’s very much like the fascinating celebration of life and death in a small Vác museum.

 

 

Must-See: The Upper Castle of Visegrád

If you are planning a day trip from Budapest, the Danube Bend is one of the most rewarding regions to explore — and the Upper Castle of Visegrád (Citadel) is without question one of its highlights.

The Danube Bend tour is one of my most popular private tours, as it combines three very different villages along the Danube River, each with its own character, history, and atmosphere. Among them, Visegrád stands out for its dramatic hilltop fortress and breathtaking panoramic views.

A Fortress Born After Invasion

Visegrád is best known for two historic sites: the Royal Palace and the Upper Castle, both part of a vast system of fortifications built in the 13th century. These defenses were constructed after the devastating Mongol invasion, when Hungary began reinforcing strategically important locations throughout the kingdom.

Perched high above the river, the Upper Castle was designed not only for defense, but also as a safe refuge. According to historical sources, its construction was financed by the wife of King Béla IV, and the site originally served as a place of protection and seclusion.

What You Can See Today

Today, visitors can walk among the impressive remains of the thick stone walls and towers, gaining a real sense of medieval military architecture. The climb up to the citadel is rewarded generously: from the top, the view over the Danube Bend is one of the most iconic panoramas in Hungary.

On a clear day, you can see the river making its dramatic curve between forested hills, with small towns and villages dotting the landscape below. It is an ideal spot for photography — and one of my favorite places to pause during a private tour.

Why Visit the Upper Castle of Visegrád?

  • One of the best panoramic viewpoints in Hungary

  • A key site for understanding medieval Hungarian history

  • Perfectly combined with nearby towns on a Danube Bend day trip

  • Easily accessible from Budapest, yet surrounded by nature

Visiting Visegrád on a Private Tour

The Upper Castle of Visegrád fits beautifully into a full-day Danube Bend itinerary. Visiting with a private guide allows you to move at your own pace, avoid unnecessary crowds, and understand the historical context behind what you are seeing — not just admire the view.

If you are interested in exploring Visegrád together with other highlights of the Danube Bend, this stop is an essential and unforgettable part of the journey.

Royal Palace of Visegrád: A Journey into Hungary’s Medieval Royal Life

The Royal Palace of Visegrád is one of the most fascinating stops in the Danube Bend and a highlight I always try to include when touring the area. Together with the Upper Castle, the palace forms a remarkable castle complex that offers insight into how Hungarian royalty lived at the height of their power.

Located above the Danube, in the historic town of Visegrád, this palace allows visitors to step directly into the world of 15th-century royal life.

From ruins to royal splendour

The fact that we can admire the palace today is thanks to the work of a passionate Hungarian archaeologist, who discovered the ruins hidden beneath an orchard. Thanks to decades of archaeological research and careful reconstruction, the palace has been brought back to life as a stunning example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.

We owe a great deal to the archaeologists and historians who recreated the lavish interiors, gardens, and fountains that once impressed visiting dignitaries from across Europe.

A royal residence fit for King Matthias

The original stone residence, built in the 14th century, was relatively modest — just under 5,000 square feet. However, under the reign of Matthias Corvinus, the palace was transformed into a spectacular royal residence with around 350 rooms.

According to legend, during grand celebrations in the 15th century, marble fountains flowed with red wine — a detail that perfectly captures the wealth and prestige of the Hungarian royal court at the time.

What to see in the Royal Palace of Visegrád

Today, visitors can explore:

  • elegant Gothic cloisters

  • a refined Renaissance loggia

  • reconstructed living quarters of Hungarian kings and queens

  • decorative fountains and palace gardens

  • original artefacts and relics from the Middle Ages

The palace is beautifully laid out and easy to explore, making it both educational and visually impressive.

Visiting the Royal Palace on a Danube Bend tour

The Royal Palace of Visegrád is an essential stop on many Danube Bend day trips and works especially well as part of a private countryside tour from Budapest. Combined with the Upper Castle and views over the Danube, it offers a perfect balance of history, architecture, and scenery.

 

Pécs tour with a lot of sunshine, history and diverse architecture

Yes, Pécs is one of my favorite destinations so I’d like to encourage you to book a tour at your earliest convenience. Once you have a look at the pictures below I’m sure you’ll fall in love with the city, too.

Pécs is very unique because the entire Hungarian history is on display in the city’s architecture, spirit and charm. You can learn so much while just walking around the cobblestoned streets.

We start the tour discovering the 1700-year-old Early Christian Necropolis, the well preserved burial chambers of the Romans fron the 4th century. We continue in the 11th century Basilica on Dóm square, an important symbol of the continuous fight of the Hungarians for Christianity. We tour the ruins of the Turkish baths, the only Turkish age mosque in Hungary that has remained intact together with its minaret and the 13th century Catholic church converted into a mosque in the 1540’s and reconverted into a Catholic church in the 1680’s. I’m sure you’ll be surprised to notice the special combination of the Muslim crescent moon and the Christian cross topping the church, reminding us of the peaceful coexistence of different religions. We admire the harmonious Baroque architecture and also have a look at the Vasarely museum.

After the city tour I take you to the Zsolnay quarter, the completely renovated and restored Zsolnay factory buildings where the most beautiful Hungarian porcelain and ceramic products have been manufactured since 1853.

 

Szentkút – the Holy Fountain

We visited this cute little village last week as it was part of a family research I was working on for my guests arriving from Australia. I’ve never been to Szentkút before but I’m very much impressed by this enormous pilgrimage site, it’s just too bad it was deserted this part of the year. I understand it’s much more crowded in August when open air masses are held for hundreds of thousands of people.

The fountains have been famous for their healing power for some 700 years now and is declared a National Shrine since 2006.

 

 

Sopron, the “most loyal” Hungarian town

Located near the Austrian border, Sopron has quickly become one of my guests’ most loved day-trip destinations in western Hungary — and it’s easy to see why. Rich in medieval heritage and elegant Baroque architecture, Sopron is a beautifully preserved town that feels both intimate and historically layered.

After guiding several tours in northern Hungary, Sopron naturally became part of my Győr and Sopron private tour, combining two of the region’s most charming historic towns in one memorable itinerary.

Why Sopron Is Called “The Most Loyal Town”

Sopron is often referred to as Hungary’s “most loyal” town, a title earned after World War I. When two-thirds of Hungary’s territory were detached from the country, Sopron’s citizens were offered Austrian citizenship in a referendum.

In 1921, the people of Sopron voted to remain Hungarian — a decision that is still commemorated every year and remains a strong part of the town’s identity and local pride.

Medieval Churches and the Iconic Fire Tower

A guided walk through Sopron reveals architectural treasures from multiple eras. Highlights include:

  • 13th-century churches featuring Romanesque and Gothic elements

  • the iconic Fire Tower, the symbol of the town since the 17th century

  • elegant 18th-century Baroque townhouses lining narrow streets and hidden courtyards

From the top of the Fire Tower, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views over Sopron’s rooftops and the surrounding countryside.

Kings, Composers, and Roman Roots

Sopron’s streets have hosted remarkable historical figures. During the tour, you’ll see:

  • where Matthias Corvinus stayed while besieging Vienna in 1482

  • buildings associated with concerts given by Franz Liszt in the 19th century

Beneath the medieval and Baroque layers lie even older foundations. Sopron was built on the remains of a Roman settlement, and visitors can still see the ruins of the ancient Roman town hall and market, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s earliest past.

Visiting Sopron on a Private Tour

Sopron is an ideal destination for travelers interested in:

  • medieval and Baroque architecture

  • Hungarian history beyond Budapest

  • quiet, walkable historic towns

  • meaningful countryside experiences

It pairs perfectly with a visit to Győr, making the Győr and Sopron tour a well-balanced journey through western Hungary’s cultural highlights.

 

 

Hungarian Wines: Discover the Villány Wine Region

Often considered the most beautiful wine region in Hungary, the Villány Wine Region is famous for its high-quality red and rosé wines, scenic vineyard-covered hills, and outstanding wineries. Located in southern Hungary, Villány is the country’s leading destination for wine tourism and a perfect addition to a Pécs and Villány day tour.

Hungary’s Premier Red Wine Destination

At the heart of the region lies the Villány Wine Trail (Villányi Borút), the first official wine route in Hungary, created to showcase local producers, cellars, and traditions.

If you’d like to explore this region in depth, the Pécs and Villány Tour by Car offers an ideal combination of culture, history, and wine.

Climate and Geography: Ideal Conditions for Wine

The Villány wine region covers approximately 1,800 hectares and enjoys a sub-Mediterranean climate, unusual in Hungary. Summers are hot, winters are mild, and the area benefits from abundant sunshine throughout the year.

The southernmost mountain range of Hungary shelters the vineyards from cool northern winds, creating optimal conditions for ripening grapes — especially red varieties.

A Wine Region with Ancient Roots

Archaeological excavations show that the Romans cultivated grapes here over 2,000 years ago. Hungarian winemaking in the area likely began as early as the 11th century, around the 1060s.

Villány experienced its first golden age in the early 19th century, following the arrival of German settlers. They introduced advanced agricultural techniques and new grape varieties, including Kékoportó, which remains one of the region’s signature grapes today.

From Nationalization to Modern Excellence

During the second half of the 20th century, Villány’s vineyards were nationalized. Large-scale, quantity-focused production left a visible legacy: wide vine rows and low-density plantations designed for heavy machinery.

Today, these contrast clearly with privately owned vineyards, where quality-driven, small-scale production dominates. The revival of craftsmanship and terroir-focused winemaking has played a key role in Villány’s international success.

Villány Grape Varieties and Wines

The Villány wine region is best known for its structured reds, but also produces elegant whites. Key grape varieties include:

  • Kékoportó

  • Kékfrankos

  • Cabernet Sauvignon

  • Hárslevelű

  • Italian Riesling

  • Leányka

Award-Winning Winemakers

Villány winemakers are among the most successful in Hungary, frequently earning top honors at national and international wine competitions. Local producers and cellars have received the titles “Wine Producer of the Year” and “Wine Cellar of the Year” on multiple occasions — clear proof of the region’s prestige.

Visiting Villány on a Private Tour

Villány pairs beautifully with a visit to Pécs, one of Hungary’s most atmospheric historic cities. Together, they create a perfect wine, culture, and gastronomy experience in southern Hungary.

The Pécs and Villány wine tour is ideal for travelers interested in:

  • Hungarian wines and winemaking traditions

  • Scenic countryside and vineyard landscapes

  • Boutique wineries and cellar visits

 

Hungarian Wines – the Etyek-Buda Wine Region

Etyek–Buda Wine Region is often referred to as Budapest’s vineyard, thanks to its close proximity to the Hungarian capital. Although the wine region was officially established in 1997, local wine production dates back to the Middle Ages, making Etyek one of Hungary’s most historic yet forward-looking wine areas.

A Terroir Made for Freshness and Elegance

The defining feature of the Etyek–Buda Wine Region is its calcareous clay soil, which gives the wines their signature freshness and vibrant acidity. Combined with the region’s clean ecological environment and cool climate, these conditions make Etyek particularly well suited for crisp white wines and high-quality sparkling wines.

It’s no coincidence that Etyek has become one of Hungary’s most important centres for traditional-method sparkling wine production.

The Wines of Etyek

Etyek wines are known for their lightness, precision, and lively character. The most important grape varieties of the region include:

  • Chardonnay

  • Sauvignon Blanc

  • Pinot Gris

These grapes thrive in the local terroir, producing elegant, aromatic wines with refreshing acidity.

Red wines remain relatively rare, but curious wine lovers can still discover interesting Pinot Noir and small quantities of Cabernet, offering a different perspective on the region’s potential.

Sparkling Wine: Etyek’s Signature Style

One of the greatest strengths of the Etyek–Buda Wine Region is its exceptional suitability for sparkling wine production. The region’s cool climate, limestone-rich soils, and naturally high acidity create ideal conditions for traditional-method sparkling wines. Grapes such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are harvested early to preserve freshness, resulting in elegant, crisp sparkling wines with fine bubbles and vibrant structure. Today, Etyek is widely regarded as Hungary’s leading sparkling wine region, supplying base wines for some of the country’s most respected producers.

Meet the Winemakers of Etyek

One of the greatest charms of Etyek lies in its welcoming, family-run wineries. Local winemakers are known not only for their wines, but also for their hospitality. Visits often include generous tastings and, in many cases, a simple, seasonal lunch made with local ingredients.

This personal connection between winemaker and visitor is what makes Etyek such a rewarding destination.

Explore Etyek on a Guided Wine Tour

Thanks to its location just outside Budapest, Etyek is perfect for a half-day or full-day escape into the countryside.

You can experience the region on my Etyek Tour with Wine Tasting, focusing on local wineries, vineyards, and sparkling wines — or combine it with Budapest’s culinary scene on the Budapest Food Tour & Etyek Wine Tour, a more immersive experience that connects city flavours with rural winemaking traditions.

Why Visit the Etyek–Buda Wine Region?

Etyek offers a unique contrast to Hungary’s larger wine regions:

  • Close to Budapest, yet deeply rural

  • Historic, yet innovative

  • Relaxed, personal, and refreshingly elegant

For wine lovers seeking authentic Hungarian wines without long travel times, Etyek is an ideal choice. Do not hesitate to let me know if you are interested in a local tour!

 

 

Lake Balaton: Discover Hungary’s Beloved “Hungarian Sea”

Lake Balaton has been affectionately called the Hungarian Sea for almost a century. For Hungarians, this vast lake is deeply woven into childhood memories and summer traditions: school camping trips, long family holidays, sailing afternoons, and even ice skating during cold winters.

For decades, Lake Balaton has also been Hungary’s favourite holiday destination — a place where generations return again and again.

Central Europe’s Largest Freshwater Lake

Stretching nearly 80 kilometres in length, Lake Balaton is the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe. Its shallow depth gives the water a unique greenish hue and a soft, silky feel — one of the reasons it warms quickly in summer and remains ideal for swimming.

It’s no surprise that Balaton is the number one domestic tourist destination in Hungary, offering something for every pace of travel.

A Lake for Every Mood

Lake Balaton is many things at once:

  • A holiday resort for families and sun-seekers

  • A paradise for sailors, windsurfers, and kitesurfers

  • A lively venue for summer music festivals

  • And, just as easily, a peaceful escape for slow travel, nature lovers, and wine enthusiasts

Whether you’re looking for vibrant lakeside life or quiet vineyard views, Balaton delivers both.

The Northern Shore: Volcanoes, Vineyards & Views

The most diverse and dramatic part of the lake is the Northern Shore, where rolling hills rise from the water and extinct volcanoes shape the landscape. This region is known for its highlands, basalt formations, and historic wine regions, making it ideal for exploration beyond the beach.

Highlights of the Veszprém & Lake Balaton Tour

My Veszprém & Lake Balaton Tour focuses on this picturesque northern side and combines natural beauty with history, architecture, and local flavours.

Charming Towns & Lakeside Walks

We also visit some of the most beloved towns around the lake:

  • Tihany, famous for its abbey and rich cultural heritage

  • Balatonfüred, where we stroll along the marina and lakeside promenade

Each stop reveals a different face of Balaton life — historic, elegant, and deeply local.

Local Food, Wine & the Flavours of Balaton

No visit to Lake Balaton is complete without tasting the region. Along the way, I introduce you to:

  • Local farmers from the Káli Basin

  • Winemakers from the Badacsony Wine Region

This is where volcanic soil meets crisp white wines, seasonal dishes, and a slower rhythm of life.

Experience Lake Balaton Beyond the Beach

Lake Balaton is far more than a summer swimming spot — it’s a landscape shaped by history, nature, and everyday Hungarian life. Exploring it with a local guide allows you to see what lies beyond the shoreline.

 

Hungarian Wines: Discover the Eger Wine Region

Eger Wine Region is one of Hungary’s most historic and characterful wine areas, with a wine culture that stretches back more than a thousand years. For centuries, viticulture has shaped everyday life here, and today Eger stands proudly among the country’s most important wine destinations.

A Unique Terroir Shaped by Nature

The climate of the Eger wine region is defined by relatively late springs and generally dry conditions, which help grapes ripen slowly and evenly. The soil is equally distinctive: brown forest soil layered over volcanic rhyolite tuff.

This combination of climate and geology gives Eger wines their fresh acidity, mineral backbone, and excellent ageing potential, especially in reds.

From Decline to Renaissance

Like many Central European wine regions, Eger’s story was deeply affected by the Communist era. Following nationalisation, quality-focused winemaking was replaced by mass production. As a result, wines lost their finesse, reputation, and international recognition.

By the late 1970s, many Eger wines were overly acidic, bitter, or diluted. Fortunately, the region experienced a true renaissance in the mid-1990s, when dedicated winemakers returned to traditional methods, lower yields, and quality-driven production. Today, Eger wines once again rank among Hungary’s finest.

Bull’s Blood: Eger’s Most Famous Wine

No introduction to the region would be complete without Bull’s Blood of Eger (Egri Bikavér), Hungary’s best-known red wine style.

Bull’s Blood is a medium-bodied red cuvée with a deep ruby colour and lively acidity. Its smooth texture comes from extended ageing—usually at least 12 months—in oak barrels. By regulation, authentic Bull’s Blood must be made from at least three different grape varieties, creating a complex, well-balanced wine that reflects both tradition and terroir.

White Wines You Shouldn’t Miss

Although Eger is best known for its reds, the region also produces excellent white wines. Visitors can taste a wide range of styles made from grapes such as:

  • Riesling

  • Chardonnay

  • Muscat Ottonel

  • Traminer

  • Zenit

These whites are typically fresh, aromatic, and elegant, making them perfect companions to Hungarian cuisine.

Experience the Eger Wine Region in Person

The best way to understand Eger wines is to walk among the vineyards, meet the winemakers, and taste the wines where they are made.

On my Eger Wine and History Tour, you’ll explore the historic wine region, talk with local farmers and winemakers, and learn the stories, traditions, and secrets behind the legendary Bull’s Blood—all while discovering the cultural and historical heritage of Eger itself. Contact me for more information or details!

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