The Central European landscapes are peaceful and romantic, the mountain areas are breathtaking and charming, while the small, secluded towns are the best thing for travellers looking for a calm adventure. CNN featured four small Hungarian towns as some of the most romantic Central European towns.
CNN has listed the 15 most romantic small towns in Central Europe, among which four Hungarian towns are featured.
1 – Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
2 – Sopot, Poland
3 – Kutná Hora, Czech Republic
4 – Szentendre, Hungary
Szentendre is often called the artist colony of Hungary, as it is filled with museums, galleries and workshops and also because many artists retire here to create in a peaceful environment, inspired by the Danube and by the narrow cobbled streets and colourful houses.
There is much to do and see here as a tourist as well: you can take part in a riverside tour, explore the colourful streets, get to know the local artists and enjoy the atmosphere of the tiny coffee shops. Everything in Szentendre is breathing inspiration and peace of mind.
photo: dunakanyargo.hu
5 – Krynica-Zdrój, Poland
6 – Mikulov, Czech Republic
7 – Kazimierz Dolny, Poland
8 – Tokaj, Hungary
The picturesque Tokaj region has become such an established name in winemaking that there are barely parts in the world where it is not heard of. That being said, although the Tokaji Aszú, a delicious white dessert wine made from grapes fermented with noble rot (just like the 40 thousand dollars Tokaji Essencia), is the crown jewel of this region, there are many other wines to explore.
CNN also mentions the town’s historic architecture and the wine cellars, vaults.
9 – Mariánské Lázně, Czech Republic
10 – Eger, Hungary
Just like Tokaj is famous for its white wines, Eger is renowned for its locally produced blood-red wines, especially the Egri Bikavér, or in English: the Bull’s Blood.
There is a lot of history to be seen here as well, for example the medieval fortress, where István Dobó defeated the Turkish army in the 16th century, even though the Hungarian forces were dangerously outnumbered. There are other remnants of the Ottoman era: a minaret in the Old Town, or the Turkish bath.
photo: Wikimedia Commons – Thaler Tamás
11 – Trenčín, Slovakia
12 – Telč, Czech Republic
13 – Banská Štiavnica, Slovakia
14 – Sandomierz, Poland
15 – Balatonfüred, Hungary
Last, but not least, Balatonfüred, one of the most beautiful towns scattered around the Hungarian sea, Lake Balaton. Balatonfüred and its surroundings are both scenic and the idea of having Lake Balaton within reach makes it a perfect location to just lay back and enjoy the nice weather.
Aside from Lake Balaton, there are other waters in this beautiful town that you can try, as it has excellent thermal water and spa facilities.
Before enjoying a relaxing bath, CNN suggests taking a hike around Balaton or visiting the Benedictine monastery in Tihany: not only the view of the lake is unforgettable from here, but it is worth exploring the monastery for its historical values.
featured image: Szentendre, dunakanyargo.hu