Hajdú-Bihar County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, local culture, and travel tips for Hajdú-Bihar County, Hungary.


Introduction to Hajdú-Bihar County

Hajdú-Bihar County is a region in Northern Great Plain, Hungary in Central Europe. The county occupies an area of 6229 km² and has a rich cultural and historical heritage. With its stunning natural landscapes, charming towns, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder that Hajdú-Bihar County is a popular tourist destination in Hungary.

List of Places to Visit in Hajdú-Bihar County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Deri Museum: Established in 1912, the Deri Museum is one of the oldest and the most extensive museums in Hungary. It contains a vast collection of historical, archeological, and ethnographic exhibits from the region.

  • Debrecen Great Reformed Church: Located in the city of Debrecen, it is one of the most significant religious buildings in Hungary. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist stop for visitors to the region.

  • Castle of Hajdúdorog: Built-in the 14th century, Castle of Hajdúdorog is a fascinating attraction with a rich history. It provides insight into the medieval period of Hungary.

Natural Attractions of Hajdú-Bihar County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hortobágy National Park: This national park is a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering 82,000 hectares of land. The vast plain of Hortobágy is a unique place in Europe, with an unparalleled diversity of flora and fauna.

  • Lake Tisza: Located in the heart of the region, Lake Tisza is one of the largest artificial lakes in Hungary. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, or simply relaxing on the shore while surrounded by the beautiful scenery.

  • Tokaj Wine Region: The Tokaj Wine Region is a world-renowned wine-producing region with a long history of producing high-quality wines. Its vineyards and wineries are a popular attraction, offering various tours and wine tastings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hajdú-Bihar County

  • Hortobágy National Park: Visitors can explore the unique landscape of Hortobágy on foot or by bike. There are several hiking and biking trails that wind through the park, providing a fantastic opportunity to explore the flora and fauna of the park.

  • Debrecen - Nagyhalász Bike Trail: This beautiful bike trail runs through the heart of Hajdú-Bihar County and offers views of the picturesque landscape of the region. It spans 30 kilometers and takes around two hours to complete.

  • Bocskai István - Kálvin tér Hiking Trail: The 13 kilometer-long Bocskai István - Kálvin tér Hiking Trail is a popular choice for hikers looking for an easy and scenic trail in the region.

Best Things to Do in Hajdú-Bihar County: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback riding in Hortobágy: Horseback riding is a popular activity in the region. Visitors can take guided horseback riding tours of Hortobágy National Park, where they can explore the park’s natural beauty and traditional Hungarian horse breeding.

  • Debrecen City Walking Tour: A walking tour of Debrecen is a must-do activity for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

  • Tokaj Wine Tasting Tour: A wine tasting tour of the Tokaj Wine Region offers visitors a chance to taste some of the region’s finest wines while learning about the region’s wine-making traditions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hajdú-Bihar County

Day 1: Arrival at Hajdú-Bihar County, a day spent exploring the city of Debrecen.

Day 2: A visit to Hortobágy National Park, followed by a horseback riding tour.

Day 3: A trip to the Castle of Hajdúdorog, followed by a hike on the Bocskai István - Kálvin tér Hiking Trail.

Day 4: A visit to Lake Tisza, followed by a relaxing day spent by the lake.

Day 5: A full day spent exploring the Tokaj Wine Region, with visits to various wineries and vineyards.

Day 6: A biking tour of Debrecen-Nagyhalasz Bike Trail.

Day 7: Departure from Hajdú-Bihar County.

Food and Drink Scene of Hajdú-Bihar County

Must-Try Dishes

  • Debrecen-style small stew: A hearty stew made with pork, paprika, onions, and sour cream. It’s one of the most popular dishes in the region.

  • Lángos: A popular street food in Hungary, Lángos is a deep-fried bread topped with garlic butter, sour cream, and shredded cheese.

  • Hungarian Goulash: A rich and flavorful soup made with beef or pork, onions and potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Tokaji Wine: Tokaji Wine is a world-renowned wine produced in the Tokaj Wine Region. Visitors can taste the finest Tokaji Wines while exploring the vineyards and wineries in the region.

  • Pálinka: Pálinka is a traditional Hungarian fruit brandy made from a wide range of fruits, including plums, cherries, and apricots.

Where to Stay in Hajdú-Bihar County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Atlantis Debrecen: This hotel is located in the city center of Debrecen and offers stylish rooms and suites, modern amenities, and excellent service.

  • Hortobágy Club Hotel: The Hortobágy Club Hotel is a perfect choice for visitors looking to explore the Hortobágy National Park. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a spa, and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.

  • Prónay Castle Hotel: The Prónay Castle Hotel, located in Tiszadob, is a beautifully restored medieval castle that offers luxurious accommodations and a unique experience.

What to Buy in Hajdú-Bihar County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Herend Porcelain: Herend Porcelain is a world-famous porcelain manufacturer in Hungary, and their products are considered a national treasure. Visitors can buy various porcelain products at the souvenir shops in the region.

  • Tokaji Wine: As one of the most significant wine-producing regions in Hungary, the Tokaj Wine Region offers various types of wines from the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Hajdú-Bihar County

Hajdú-Bihar County has a rich culture that reflects the region’s history and traditions. The region is known for its lively folk music, traditional festivals, and warm hospitality. Visitors can experience the local culture by attending one of the many festivals held in the region, such as the Hortobágy Shepherd Festival or the Debrecen Flower Parade.

Best Time to Visit Hajdú-Bihar County

The best time to visit Hajdú-Bihar County is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are relatively low.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hajdú-Bihar County

Do:

  • Try local cuisine, such as small Debrecen-style stew and Lángos.

  • Take a horseback tour in Hortobágy National Park.

  • Attend traditional festivals to experience the local culture.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter or leave trash behind while visiting natural attractions.

  • Do not forget to research the dress code before visiting religious sites.

  • Do not talk loudly or disturb public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hajdú-Bihar County

Hajdú-Bihar County is a relatively safe region to visit; there are few incidents of violent crimes. The usual precautions must be taken to avoid theft or pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas.

Health in Hajdú-Bihar County

Travelers to Hajdú-Bihar County should ensure that they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations before traveling. Visitors should also drink bottled water and avoid undercooked food.

Getting to Hajdú-Bihar County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hajdú-Bihar County

The Debrecen International Airport is the primary airport in the region that receives international flights.

Bus Stations Near Hajdú-Bihar County

Debrecen Bus Station is the busiest bus station in the region. Visitors can take buses to various destinations within the county or other parts of Hungary.

Other Options

Train travel is also an option, with several train stations located throughout the region.

How to Get Around in Hajdú-Bihar County

The easiest and most convenient way to get around in Hajdú-Bihar County is by renting a car or by hiring a taxi or a private driver.

Where to Go Next from Hajdú-Bihar County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Eger: Eger is a city located in Northern Hungary, known for its romantic architecture and historic landmarks.

  • Szeged: Szeged is a city located in Southern Hungary, known for its beautiful architecture and river views.

Conclusion

Hajdú-Bihar County is a fantastic destination with a rich heritage, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the region’s museums, historical sites, and natural attractions while experiencing the local cuisine and culture. With a variety of transportation options and plenty of accommodation choices, Hajdú-Bihar County is a must-visit destination in Hungary.



    Balmazújváros
    Debrecen