7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Budapest

Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary, is not only a hub for digital nomads who enjoy its cosmopolitan atmosphere and affordable living but also a perfect starting point for exploring the surrounding regions. Whether you're looking for a quick escape into nature, a deep dive into history, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the areas around Budapest offer a plethora of weekend getaway options. Here are seven destinations that cater to a variety of interests, ensuring that every digital nomad can find their ideal retreat.

Lake Balaton

As Central Europe's largest freshwater lake, Lake Balaton is a popular summer retreat for both locals and tourists. Known as the "Hungarian Sea," it's a fantastic place for swimming, sailing, and sunbathing on its many beaches. The surrounding wine regions, such as Badacsony, offer excellent opportunities for wine tasting and vineyard tours. The lake's southern shore is more developed with resorts and nightlife, while the northern shore is quieter, with charming villages and historical sites like the Tihany Abbey.

How to Get There: Lake Balaton is easily accessible by train from Budapest, with the journey to the town of Siófok taking about 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss out on trying the local fish dishes, especially during the Balaton Fish Festival, which celebrates the region's culinary delights.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hotel Azur in Siófok, which offers a spa and wellness center, or the Anna Grand Hotel in Balatonfüred, known for its historic charm.

Where to Eat: Kistücsök in Balatonszemes is renowned for its innovative Hungarian cuisine and extensive wine list, featuring local Balaton wines.

Eger

Eger, a city known for its historical significance and baroque architecture, is a delightful destination for those interested in culture and history. Visit the Eger Castle, which played a pivotal role in the 16th-century defense against the Ottoman Empire, and explore the city's thermal baths for relaxation. Eger is also famous for its wine, particularly the "Bull's Blood" (Egri Bikavér), which can be sampled in the many cellars of the Szépasszony Valley.

How to Get There: Eger is about a 2-hour bus or train ride from Budapest, with multiple departures available daily.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Eger Minaret for a panoramic view of the city, but be prepared for a tight climb up its 97 steps.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Eger & Park offers a comfortable stay with spa facilities, while the Imola Hotel Platán boasts modern amenities and a fine dining restaurant.

Where to Eat: Macok Bistro and Wine Bar is a favorite for its fusion of traditional Hungarian dishes with modern twists and its cozy atmosphere.

Hollók?

Hollók?, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a unique village that preserves traditional Palóc architecture and culture. This living museum offers a glimpse into rural Hungarian life as it was in the 17th and 18th centuries. The village hosts various cultural events and folk festivals throughout the year, providing an immersive experience for visitors. The nearby Cserhát hills also offer excellent hiking opportunities.

How to Get There: Hollók? is about a 1.5-hour drive from Budapest, making it an easy destination for a weekend road trip.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with one of the village's traditional festivals, such as Easter or the Hollók? Spring Festival, to see local customs in action.

Where to Stay: The Castellum Hotel Hollók? offers a comfortable stay with views of the village and the castle ruins.

Where to Eat: The Hollók?i Vendégl? serves authentic Hungarian dishes and is known for its use of locally sourced ingredients.

Pécs

Pécs is a cultural melting pot with a Mediterranean vibe, located in the southern part of Hungary. It boasts a rich history, with Roman ruins, Ottoman-era mosques, and a stunning cathedral. The city is also known for its Zsolnay ceramics and the Pécs National Theatre. The nearby Mecsek hills provide a green escape for nature lovers and hikers.

How to Get There: Pécs can be reached by a 3-hour train ride from Budapest, with several trains running daily.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Early Christian Mausoleum, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Christian Necropolis of Pécs.

Where to Stay: The Corso Hotel Pécs offers modern amenities and a central location, while the Boutique Hotel Sopianae provides a more intimate setting.

Where to Eat: Jókai cukrászda is a historic café known for its pastries and traditional Hungarian desserts.

Keszthely and Festetics Palace

Keszthely, located at the western end of Lake Balaton, is home to the magnificent Festetics Palace, one of the most beautiful baroque mansions in Hungary. The palace houses a museum and a library with rare books. Keszthely is also a great starting point for exploring the Balaton Uplands National Park and the nearby Heviz thermal lake, the largest natural thermal lake in the world that is suitable for swimming.

How to Get There: Keszthely is approximately a 2.5-hour train ride from Budapest.

Travel Tip: Visit the Helikon Palace Museum within the Festetics Palace to see its impressive collection of historical artifacts and the Helikon Library, with over 100,000 volumes.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Bacchus offers a cozy atmosphere and is centrally located, while the Kolping Hotel Spa & Family Resort in nearby Alsópáhok provides family-friendly accommodations with extensive spa facilities.

Where to Eat: The John's Restaurant and Pizzeria in Keszthely is known for its delicious pizzas and friendly service.

?rség National Park

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, ?rség National Park offers a serene escape into nature. This region is characterized by rolling hills, traditional thatched-roof houses, and a network of hiking and cycling trails. It's an ideal spot for digital nomads looking to disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of the Hungarian countryside. The park also hosts the ?rség Pumpkin Festival in the fall, celebrating the local pumpkin harvest with crafts, food, and entertainment.

How to Get There: ?rség National Park is best reached by car, as it's about a 3-hour drive from Budapest.

Travel Tip: Explore the unique pottery workshops in the village of Magyarszombatfa, where you can witness the traditional craft and even try your hand at making your own pottery.

Where to Stay: The Szalafo Pajta offers rustic accommodations that blend in with the natural surroundings, providing a truly authentic experience.

Where to Eat: The Kerca Biofarm serves organic, locally-sourced meals in a picturesque setting, perfect for a post-hike lunch.

Tata and the Old Lake

Tata, often referred to as the "town of waters," is a lesser-known gem with a picturesque Old Lake at its heart. The town is dotted with historical landmarks, including the Tata Castle and the Esterházy Palace. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy bird watching, as the lake is a significant stopover for migratory birds. The surrounding area is also great for kayaking and cycling.

How to Get There: Tata is just an hour's drive from Budapest or can be reached by train in approximately 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit during the Tata Water, Music, and Flower Festival in the summer for a vibrant display of local culture and entertainment.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Kristály and Esterházy Restaurant offer a luxurious stay with a historic ambiance, complete with a spa and wellness center.

Where to Eat: The Platán Restaurant and Café is known for its lakeside views and serves a variety of Hungarian and international dishes.

Whether you're looking to explore Hungary's rich history, indulge in local gastronomy, or simply enjoy the great outdoors, these weekend getaways from Budapest offer something for every digital nomad.