Best Places to Visit in Great Plain | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Great Plain Travel Guide
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Welcome to the Great Plain, Hungary! Located in the southern part of the country, this vast and picturesque region is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Stretching across an area of over 50,000 square kilometers, the Great Plain is home to stunning landscapes, charming traditional villages, and a rich cultural heritage. As you explore this enchanting region, you will be captivated by the endless fields of golden wheat, the majestic rivers that flow through the plains, and the fascinating historical sites that tell the story of Hungary's past. Whether you're interested in horseback riding across the plains, discovering ancient archaeological sites, or simply immersing yourself in the local culture, the Great Plain offers a truly unique and unforgettable travel experience.
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Best Places To Visit in Great Plain
1. Budapest: The capital city of Hungary, Budapest, is a must-visit destination in the Great Plain region. Known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Parliament Building and Buda Castle, Budapest offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and vibrant nightlife. Take a stroll along the Danube River, explore the historic Castle District, and indulge in the city's famous thermal baths for a truly memorable experience.
2. Debrecen: As the second-largest city in Hungary, Debrecen is a cultural and educational hub in the Great Plain. It is home to several universities, museums, and theaters, making it a great destination for art and history enthusiasts. Don't miss the stunning Great Reformed Church, which is the symbol of the city, and explore the charming Nagyerdo Park for a relaxing escape.
3. Eger: Nestled in the northern part of the Great Plain, Eger is a picturesque town known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. The Eger Castle, with its panoramic views, is a must-visit attraction, along with the stunning Basilica of Eger. Wine lovers will also appreciate the town's famous red wine, Egri Bikaver, and can explore the historic wine cellars for a taste of the local flavors.
4. Szeged: Located on the banks of the Tisza River, Szeged is a vibrant city known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. The city's main square, Dom ter, is home to the impressive Votive Church and the famous Szeged Open-Air Festival, which showcases a variety of cultural performances. Don't forget to try the local specialty, Szeged-style fish soup, for a delicious culinary experience.
5. Pecs: Situated in the southwestern part of the Great Plain, Pecs is a charming city with a rich history dating back to Roman times. The city's main attraction is the Early Christian Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which features well-preserved underground tombs and frescoes. Pecs is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and museums showcasing contemporary and traditional works.
6. Kecskemet: Known as the "capital of the Hungarian Puszta," Kecskemet is a town that offers a unique experience of the Great Plain's rural charm. Explore the town's beautiful Art Nouveau buildings, visit the Kecskemet Cultural and Conference Centre, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the local markets. Don't miss the opportunity to taste traditional Hungarian dishes, such as goulash and chimney cake, in one of the town's cozy restaurants.
7. Gyula: Located near the Romanian border, Gyula is a small town with a rich history and a well-preserved medieval castle. The Gyula Castle Spa is a popular attraction, offering thermal baths and wellness treatments for relaxation. Explore the charming streets of the town center, visit the Almasy Mansion, and indulge in the local delicacy, Gyulai sausage, for a true taste of the region.
8. Hajduszoboszlo: Known as the "Mecca of Hungarian spas," Hajduszoboszlo is a town famous for its thermal baths and wellness facilities. The Hungarospa Complex is the largest bath complex in Europe, offering a wide range of pools, saunas, and treatments for visitors to enjoy. Relax in the healing thermal waters, take a dip in the wave pool, and rejuvenate your body and mind in this ultimate spa destination.
9. Nyiregyhaza: Located in the northeastern part of the Great Plain, Nyiregyhaza is a vibrant city with a variety of attractions. The Sosto Zoo and Botanical Garden is a popular destination, housing a wide range of animal species and beautiful gardens. The city also offers cultural experiences, such as the Nyiregyhaza Open-Air Museum, which showcases traditional Hungarian village life.
10. Miskolc: Situated at the foot of the Bukk Mountains, Miskolc is a city known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Explore the stunning Lillafured area, with its picturesque lake and waterfall, and take a ride on the historic Lillafured Forest Railway. The city also offers cultural attractions, including the Diosgyor Castle and the Miskolc National Theatre, making it a well-rounded destination for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
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Tours And Activities In Great Plain
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Food & Drinks To Try In Great Plain
1. Goulash: One of Hungary's most famous dishes, goulash is a hearty stew made with tender beef, onions, paprika, and other spices. It is typically served with a side of bread or dumplings.
2. Langos: A popular street food in Hungary, langos is a deep-fried flatbread topped with various savory ingredients such as sour cream, cheese, garlic, and sausage. It is a delicious and indulgent treat.
3. Dobos Torte: This traditional Hungarian cake consists of multiple layers of sponge cake filled with chocolate buttercream and topped with a caramel glaze. It is a rich and decadent dessert that is often enjoyed on special occasions.
4. Paprika: Hungary is known for its high-quality paprika, which is a spice made from dried and ground red peppers. It adds a distinct flavor and vibrant red color to many Hungarian dishes, including goulash and chicken paprikash.
5. Palinka: A traditional Hungarian fruit brandy, palinka is made by fermenting and distilling various fruits such as plums, apricots, or cherries. It is a strong alcoholic beverage that is often enjoyed as a digestif or used in cooking.
6. Tokaji: Hungary's most famous wine, Tokaji is a sweet dessert wine made from grapes affected by noble rot. It has a rich and complex flavor profile with notes of honey, apricot, and caramel. It pairs well with desserts or can be enjoyed on its own.
7. Kurtoskalacs: Also known as chimney cake, kurtoskalacs is a sweet pastry made by wrapping dough around a cylindrical spit, then baking it over an open fire. The result is a crispy and caramelized exterior with a soft and fluffy interior.
8. Turo Rudi: A popular Hungarian snack, turo rudi is a chocolate-covered bar filled with sweetened cottage cheese. It is a creamy and refreshing treat that is often enjoyed during the summer months.
9. Fisherman's Soup: A specialty of the Great Plain region, fisherman's soup is a spicy and flavorful dish made with various freshwater fish, paprika, and vegetables. It is a must-try for seafood lovers.
10. Porkolt: Similar to goulash, porkolt is a Hungarian meat stew made with onions, paprika, and other spices. However, unlike goulash, porkolt does not contain any vegetables or potatoes. It is typically served with pasta or bread.
11. Unicum: A herbal liqueur produced in Hungary, Unicum is made from a secret blend of more than 40 different herbs and spices. It has a bitter and complex flavor and is often enjoyed as a digestif.
12. Langos: Another popular Hungarian street food, langos is a deep-fried dough topped with various savory ingredients such as sour cream, cheese, garlic, and ham. It is a delicious and filling snack that is perfect for a quick bite.
13. Somloi Galuska: This traditional Hungarian dessert consists of sponge cake soaked in rum and layered with chocolate sauce, vanilla custard, and whipped cream. It is a rich and indulgent treat that is often enjoyed after a meal.
14. Csirkepaprikas: Chicken paprikash is a classic Hungarian dish made with chicken, onions, paprika, and sour cream. It is typically served with dumplings or pasta and is a comforting and flavorful meal.
15. Rakott Krumpli: Also known as layered potato casserole, rakott krumpli is a hearty dish made with layers of sliced potatoes, sausage, eggs, and sour cream. It is baked until golden and crispy and is a popular comfort food in Hungary.
Best Time To Visit Great Plain
The best time to visit the Great Plain in Hungary is during the spring and autumn seasons. During spring, which is from April to June, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The landscape is also vibrant and colorful, with blooming flowers and green fields. In autumn, which is from September to November, the weather is also mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The fall foliage in the Great Plain is stunning, with golden and red hues covering the trees and creating a picturesque scenery. During these seasons, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the national parks in the area. The tourist crowds are also smaller compared to the summer months, allowing for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience. However, it is important to note that the Great Plain experiences extreme temperatures during the summer and winter seasons. Summers can be hot with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher, while winters can be cold with temperatures dropping below freezing. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid visiting during these seasons unless you are prepared for the weather conditions.
Flight Calendar For Great Plain
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Transportation To Great Plain
There are several transportation options to get to the Great Plain in Hungary.
1. By Air: The nearest international airport to the Great Plain is Debrecen International Airport (DEB). From there, you can take a taxi or public transportation to your destination within the Great Plain region.
2. By Train: There are train connections from Budapest to various cities within the Great Plain, such as Debrecen, Szeged, and Kecskemet. The journey time varies depending on the destination, but it typically takes around 2-3 hours from Budapest to reach these cities.
3. By Bus: There are also bus services available from Budapest to different towns and cities in the Great Plain region. The journey time by bus is usually longer compared to trains, but it can be a more affordable option.
4. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Budapest and take the M3 or M5 motorway to reach the Great Plain. The road network in Hungary is well-maintained, and there are several highways connecting Budapest to different parts of the country.
Once you arrive in the Great Plain, you can use local transportation options such as buses, trams, and taxis to get around within the region.