As the third-largest city in Hungary and the cultural and economic hub of the region, Szeged offers visitors a delightful mix of historical landmarks, culinary delights, and a welcoming atmosphere. Here’s your guide to exploring this charming city on the banks of the Tisza River.

Stroll Through History in Szeged

Szeged’s story is one of resilience and renewal. Dating back to Roman times, when the settlement was known as Partiscum, Szeged has grown from a trading hub to a modern university city. Its defining moment came in 1879 when a catastrophic flood devastated the city, submerging much of its medieval core.

From this tragedy rose a revitalized Szeged, with elegant boulevards and grand architecture funded by European capitals like Vienna, Brussels, and Paris, whose names now grace the city’s ring roads.

The heart of Szeged is Dóm Square, a sprawling plaza dominated by the iconic Votive Church of Our Lady of Hungary. This neo-Romanesque masterpiece, with its twin spires piercing the sky, was built as a symbol of gratitude for the city’s survival after the flood.

Climb the tower for a panoramic view of Szeged’s red-tiled rooftops and the serene Tisza River. The square also hosts the Szeged Open-Air Festival each summer, a cultural highlight featuring opera, theater, and concerts under the stars.

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Cultural & Architectural Gems

Szeged’s charm lies in its blend of historical and modern attractions. The Reök Palace, a stunning Art Nouveau building with its floral motifs and pastel facade, is a must-see. Today, it serves as a cultural center hosting art exhibitions and events.

Nearby, the Móra Ferenc Museum showcases the region’s history, from ancient artifacts to exhibits on the famous Szeged paprika, a cornerstone of Hungarian cuisine.

For a taste of Szeged’s intellectual spirit, visit the University of Szeged, one of Hungary’s top institutions. Its Faculty of Arts building, with its elegant courtyards, reflects the city’s academic prestige.

Stroll along Kárász Street, Szeged’s pedestrian-friendly heart, lined with cafes, boutiques, and colorful facades that make it perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Culinary Delights

No visit to Szeged is complete without indulging in its culinary specialties. The city is the birthplace of Szeged paprika, the fiery spice that defines Hungarian dishes like goulash and fisherman’s soup. Head to a local restaurant like Halászcsárda by the Tisza River to savor Szegedi halászlé, a rich, spicy fish soup that’s a regional treasure. Pair it with a glass of local wine from the nearby Villány or Szekszárd regions.

For dessert, stop by a traditional patisserie to try kürtőskalács, a chimney cake with a crispy, caramelized exterior, or sample szegedi rétes, a flaky pastry filled with fruit or poppy seeds. Szeged’s vibrant market halls, like the one at Mars Square, offer fresh produce, homemade cheeses, and paprika in every shade of red.

Nature and Relaxation

Szeged’s location along the Tisza River invites outdoor exploration. Take a relaxing boat tour or rent a kayak to glide past the city’s scenic banks. The Botanical Garden of the University of Szeged is a tranquil escape, boasting rare plants, serene ponds, and a tropical greenhouse. For families, the Szeged Zoo offers a chance to see native and exotic wildlife in a beautifully landscaped setting.

If relaxation is your goal, the Anna Thermal Bath combines historic architecture with soothing thermal waters, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. In summer, join locals at the Szeged Sunbathing Beach along the Tisza for a refreshing dip or a sunny picnic.

Festivals and Events

Szeged pulses with energy year-round, thanks to its packed calendar of events. Beyond the Open-Air Festival, the Szeged Wine Festival in May celebrates local vintages with tastings, live music, and street food.

The International Tisza Fish Festival in September draws foodies for its massive fish soup cook-offs, where chefs compete to create the best halászlé. These events showcase Szeged’s lively spirit and love for community.

Practical Tips

Getting There: Szeged is easily accessible by train from Budapest (about 2.5 hours) or by car via the M5 motorway. The city’s compact center is perfect for exploring on foot or by bike.

When to Visit: Summer offers festivals and warm weather, while spring and autumn provide milder temperatures for sightseeing. Winter brings festive Christmas markets to Dóm Square.

Where to Stay: Options range from boutique hotels like the Art Hotel Szeged to cozy guesthouses near the city center.

To Sum-Up

Szeged’s blend of history, culture, and laid-back charm makes it a great destination for expats seeking an authentic Hungarian stay.

Whether you’re into the Votive Church, the spicy fish soup, or soaking in the city’s sunny ambiance, Szeged promises a great variety of enjoyable experiences  - as the video below shows.