Székesfehérvár Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat and stay, and top tips for your trip to Székesfehérvár, including a week-long itinerary, local culture, and customs, and safety and health information.


Introduction to Székesfehérvár

Located in the Fejér County of Central Transdanubia, Székesfehérvár is a stunning Hungarian city that boasts a rich history and cultural heritage. Often referred to as the “City of Kings,” Székesfehérvár was the coronation site of Hungarian kings for centuries. Today, it draws travelers from all over the world with its stunning museums, historical sites, and natural beauty. Read on to discover the best things to do, places to see, and cultural gems to unearth in Székesfehérvár.

List of Places to Visit in Székesfehérvár

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bory Castle

Built by the architect and sculptor Jenő Bory, Bory Castle is a must-see attraction in Székesfehérvár for any history buff or architecture enthusiast. The castle-cum-museum houses fascinating exhibitions that showcase the life and work of the renowned artist. Visitors can explore the stunning stony structures, sculptures, and murals that depict Hungarian legends, myths, and folklore.

King Stephen Museum

Located in the former royal palace, the King Stephen Museum presents Hungary’s medieval church history. The exhibition, spread across three floors, showcases an impressive collection of medieval church art, including priceless frescoes and statues of Saint King Stephen. Do not miss the royal chapel on the -1 floor and the top-floor astronomy exhibit.

Natural Attractions of Székesfehérvár: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Velegi Lake

A perfect spot for nature enthusiasts, Velegi Lake offers outdoor activities such as boating, cycling or hiking around the lake. Visitors can also explore the picturesque towns and villages located around the lake. The summer beach huts are worth visiting for light bites and drinks.

Bakony Hills

Bakony Hills is a heavenly forested mountain area located southwest of Székesfehérvár. A perfect haven for those who love hiking, cycling or spending time in nature. The stunning landscape boasts ravines, gorges, waterfalls, and animal-themed educational trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Székesfehérvár

Székesfehérvár is popular for its great hiking and biking trails that run through stunning landscapes, including hills and forests. Here some popular routes:

Pilisborosjenő - Piliscsaba - Nagykovácsi

This stunning biking route runs through beautiful, lush forests and hills with dramatic cliffs and scenic views. It is ideal for summer evenings and offers an excellent opportunity to observe the starry sky at dusk.

Bakony Mountains National Park

Bakony Mountains National Park is one of the most scenic biking and hiking areas in Hungary. One of the park’s most popular routes - the Csóványos Tour - leads through the gorgeous forested hills to breath-taking panoramic vistas.

Best Things to Do in Székesfehérvár: Activities and Tours

Take a Walk Through the Old Town

Székesfehérvár’s Old Town attracts visitors with its charming cobbled streets, historic buildings, and beautiful monuments that tell the story of its illustrious past.

Visit the Székesfehérvár Thermal Bath

A perfect place for visitors to unwind after an activity-filled day, the Székesfehérvár Thermal Bath offers several spa facilities, including thermal pools, saunas, and massage services. The water temperature is as high as 36-38 degrees Celsius, which effectively relieves stress, improves blood circulation and relaxes the muscles.

Week-Long Itinerary for Székesfehérvár

Day 1: Visit the Bory Castle

Day 2: Explore the Velegi Lake and Surrounding Villages

Day 3: Take a Guided Tour of King Stephen Museum and the Old Town

Day 4: Enjoy a Hike in Bakony Hills

Day 5: Visit the Bakony Mountains National Park and Enjoy a Panoramic Csóványos Tour

Day 6: Relax at the Székesfehérvár Thermal Bath

Day 7: Finish the Trip with a Culinary Tour of Székesfehérvár

Food and Drink Scene of Székesfehérvár

Must-Try Dishes

Goulash Soup

A quintessential Hungarian dish, Goulash soup, is a hearty stew made with meat and vegetables. It is an excellent meal for chilly days, and a must-try for all visitors to Székesfehérvár.

Chimney Cake

Chimney cake is a sweet pastry made from rolled dough, sugar, and sweet toppings such as cinnamon powder, Nutella, and seasonal fruits. It’s a heavenly dessert that any foodie will love.

Local Beverages

Pálinka

Pálinka is a traditional Hungarian fruit brandy made from plums, apricots, cherries, and other fruits. It has a potent alcohol content, and it’s best enjoyed as a shot or a digestive after a hearty Hungarian meal.

Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood of Eger)

Egri Bikavér is one of the most famous Hungarian wines, originating from the Eger wine region. The wine is renowned for its deep, full-bodied flavor and unique aroma.

Where to Stay in Székesfehérvár: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Novotel Szekesfehervar

Located in the city center, the Novotel Szekesfehervar is a 4-star hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a wellness center, and a terrace with a stunning view of the city. It’s an ideal accommodation for families, couples, and business travelers alike.

Vadasz House

Nestled in the heart of the city, Vadasz House is a charming guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms, great service and delicious breakfasts.

What to Buy in Székesfehérvár: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hungarian Folk Art

Hungarian Folk Art is a popular souvenir to buy in Székesfehérvár. The city’s shops offer a variety of traditional handcrafted items, including embroidered tablecloths, aprons, and folk musical instruments.

Szekesfehervari Rum

Szekesfehervari Rum is a unique Hungarian drink that originated in the city of Székesfehérvár and is distilled using local ingredients such as honey, elderflower, and acacia buds. It’s an excellent gift for friends or family members who love trying out different concoctions.

Local Culture and Customs of Székesfehérvár

Hungarian culture has a lot of customs that visitors to Székesfehérvár may want to know. These include respecting privacy, removing shoes indoors, and table manners such as saying ‘Egészségére’ before taking a sip from the drink.

Best Time to Visit Székesfehérvár

The best time to visit Székesfehérvár is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November). These seasons offer mild temperatures, clear skies, and fewer crowds, making it pleasant to explore the city and its surrounding countryside.

Do’s and Don’ts of Székesfehérvár

Do:

  • Wear comfortable shoes since Székesfehérvár has cobbled streets that might be challenging to navigate on high heels.
  • Take a guidebook or travel app when exploring the city’s historical sites to learn more about their significance.
  • Try the local dishes and beverages, such as Goulash soup and Egri Bikavér wine.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try out the various hiking and biking trails to enjoy the natural beauty of Székesfehérvár.

Don’t:

  • Litter or smoke in public places.
  • Hesitate to ask for help when in need.
  • Forget to carry cash, as some establishments might not accept credit cards.
  • Ignore your manners while dining with locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Székesfehérvár

Székesfehérvár is a relatively safe city, but visitors should take caution and avoid isolated areas at night. Pick-pocketing is also a common occurrence, so it’s essential to keep your valuables safe at all times.

Health in Székesfehérvár

It is safe to drink tap water in Székesfehérvár. Healthcare services are available at the local hospital or private clinics in the city center.

Getting to Székesfehérvár: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Székesfehérvár

The closest airport to Székesfehérvár is the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, which is approximately 60 km away.

Bus Stations Near Székesfehérvár

Székesfehérvár is well connected to other major cities in Hungary by bus. The city’s central bus station is located in the heart of the city, and visitors can easily reach it by public transport.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Székesfehérvár by train. The city’s main railway station is located in the center of the city.

How to Get Around in Székesfehérvár

Székesfehérvár is a relatively small city that is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. There is also a good public transportation system that includes buses and trams, which visitors can use to get around.

Where to Go Next from Székesfehérvár: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton is Hungary’s largest lake and is located less than an hour’s drive away from Székesfehérvár. A haven for nature enthusiasts, the lake boasts several beaches, hiking trails, and thermal spas.

Budapest

The Hungarian capital, Budapest, is approximately an hour’s drive from Székesfehérvár. Visitors can explore some of Budapest’s iconic attractions such as the Danube River, Buda Castle, and the Hungarian Parliament Building.

Conclusion

With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural attractions, and warm hospitality, Székesfehérvár is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, this charming Hungarian city has something to offer every visitor. So, plan your trip today, and experience the best of Székesfehérvár!

Bishop's Palace on Városháza square Bishop's Palace on Városháza square Train station in Székesfehérvár Train station in Székesfehérvár Medieval Ruin Garden and neighborhood Medieval Ruin Garden and neighborhood St. Emeric Church St. Emeric Church King St. Stephen Museum, Main street King St. Stephen Museum, Main street Black Eagle Pharmacy Museum Black Eagle Pharmacy Museum Clock Museum Clock Museum Rác utca museum village Rác utca museum village Bishop wells monument Bishop wells monument Equestrian statue of St. Stephen Equestrian statue of St. Stephen Prohászka memorial Prohászka memorial Tens Hussars monument Tens Hussars monument World War I memorial World War I memorial Bory's castle in suburban Székesfehérvár Bory's castle in suburban Székesfehérvár Gorsium, a Roman settlement of 200 hectares Gorsium, a Roman settlement of 200 hectares Velence Lake.One of the country's most popular resorts. Velence Lake.One of the country's most popular resorts.