Castles, Countryside: Touring Hungary at Your Own Pace

Hungary is a land of contrasts. The busy capital, Budapest, never sleeps, while just beyond the city limits lie rolling hills, quiet villages, and timeworn castles that seem untouched by the modern age. For travelers seeking a journey off the beaten path, Hungary offers the perfect combination of culture, history, and nature, all best discovered at your own pace.

Start with the Majestic Capital: Budapest

Every great Hungarian adventure begins in Budapest. With the Danube River dividing Buda and Pest, the city offers stunning sights, including the grand Parliament building, the historic Castle District, and the healing thermal baths. While many visitors spend their entire trip within the capital, those willing to step outside will find that the real magic lies beyond the city's borders.

Discovering Hungary by Car

Public transportation in Hungary is reliable for city-hopping, but to discover rural areas or visit lesser-known castles on hillsides, nothing beats having your own vehicle. That's where car rental in Hungary becomes essential.

With a rental car, you'll have a flexible itinerary, allowing you to avoid crowds and explore areas unreachable by train or bus. Hungary's road network is well-maintained, and distances between key locations are relatively short, making it easy to cover multiple destinations in a single day. Let's see a few examples.

Visegrád

Just an hour north of Budapest lies Visegrád, a medieval town known for its once-grand royal palace and towering citadel. The castle ruins offer stunning views of the Danube Bend, one of the most breathtaking natural curves along the river. The area is also great for hiking, with forest trails leading to hidden lookouts and ancient stone walls. Bring a picnic, spend time walking the grounds, and imagine the days when Hungarian kings held lavish feasts in these now-quiet halls.

Eger

Heading eastward, the town of Eger is a must-visit for lovers of history and architecture. Known for its baroque buildings and robust red wines, Eger also has a magnificent castle where the locals once heroically defended against the Ottoman Empire. The drive from Budapest to Eger is a two-hour journey through the countryside. Along the way, you'll pass vineyards, farmland, and villages where life moves slowly. The charming town square, historic minaret, and famed wine cellars make it worth an overnight stay.

Hortobágy National Park

For a different kind of exploration, drive further east into the Hortobágy National Park, Hungary's largest protected area and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The flat, wide-open plains—known as the puszta—are home to native Hungarian breeds like grey cattle and racka sheep, as well as Europe's largest population of cranes during migration season.

Visit the traditional Csárda inns, catch a horse show by local csikós (Hungarian horsemen), and enjoy the quiet of nature. It's a side of Hungary few tourists experience—but one that leaves a lasting impression.

Practical Tips for Self-Driving in Hungary

If you found the best car rental in Hungary, your journey can begin. Here are a few tips to make your trip easier and more enjoyable.

EU citizens can use their home license, but non-EU visitors may need an international driving permit if their document doesn't include a photograph and some essential data—make sure yours is acceptable before renting a car.

Hungary requires a toll sticker for driving on motorways. These can be purchased online or at petrol stations.

Be aware of speed limits: they are 130 km/h on highways, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 50 km/h in towns.

While most road signs are in Hungarian, GPS and apps like Google Maps work seamlessly.

The True Reward: Traveling at Your Own Pace

Hungary's compact size and diverse landscape make it an ideal destination for a slow-paced travel experience. You're never too far from the next medieval castle, rustic village, or tranquil national park. And with a car at your disposal, you're free to take the most beautiful route, linger in your favorite places, or make spontaneous detours that lead to unexpected discoveries. Hungary invites you to explore it on your terms—slowly, deeply, and with wonder at every turn.