Putnok Travel Guide (Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County/Northern Hungary/Hungary/Central Europe/Europe)

Introduction to Putnok

Putnok is a charming town located in the Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County of Northern Hungary. As a hidden gem in Central Europe, it boasts a rich history, beautifully preserved architecture, natural attractions, and a thriving food and drink scene that make it an ideal destination for travelers who want to experience authentic Hungarian culture. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Putnok, including where to stay, what to do, and how to make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Putnok

When you visit Putnok, you’ll be greeted with a wide range of attractions to explore. Here are some of the best places to visit in Putnok.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Putnok is a town steeped in history, and this is reflected in the many cultural attractions it offers. Here are some of the must-visit places for history buffs and culture vultures:

Castle of Putnok: Built in the 14th century, the Castle of Putnok is a significant historical monument in the town. You can explore the various exhibits and galleries in the castle that showcase the town’s rich history.
Museum of Agriculture and Handicrafts: This museum is home to a collection of traditional farming tools, textiles, and ceramics, making it an ideal destination for those interested in learning more about the town’s heritage.
The Wooden Churches of the Bodrogköz: Located just a short drive away from Putnok, the Wooden Churches of the Bodrogköz are UNESCO World Heritage Sites that feature intricate wooden carvings and stunning painted ceilings.

Natural Attractions of Putnok: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Putnok is also an ideal destination for nature lovers, as it has plenty of outdoor adventures and scenic views to explore. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions in Putnok:

Sipos-hegy: For those seeking an adventurous hike, the Sipos-hegy hill is a great option with stunning views of the nearby countryside.
Vass Imre Lookout Tower: This lookout tower offers panoramic views of the town and its surroundings. You can reach the tower via a short hike or by car.
The Lake of Bánk: Located around 20 kilometers away from Putnok, the Lake of Bánk is a stunning natural attraction, offering outdoor activities such as swimming, kayaking, and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Putnok

Putnok is an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts, and there are many routes to explore in and around the town. Here are some of the best options for outdoor enthusiasts:

Putnok Hiking Trail: This trail circles the town, highlighting scenic routes and notable points of interest such as Castle Putnok and the Vass Imre Lookout Tower.
Karancs-Medves Landscape Protection Area: This protected area covers 100 square kilometers of forests and mountains, and it is ideal for those seeking challenging hikes or bike rides.
Rudabányai Hills: These hills are located a short drive from Putnok, and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Putnok: Activities and Tours

Putnok offers a variety of activities and tours for all ages that allow visitors to experience the town’s rich culture and stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the best things to do in Putnok:

Wine Tasting Tours: Putnok is famous for its wine culture, and a wine tasting tour is an excellent way to learn about traditional Hungarian winemaking and sample some of the best wines from the region.
Cultural Tours: Putnok is home to many historical monuments and museums, and a cultural tour will allow visitors to learn more about the town’s past while seeing some of its famed monuments.
Outdoor Adventure Tours: For those seeking more action-packed adventures, Putnok offers various outdoor activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, and downhill mountain biking in the surrounding hills.

Week-Long Itinerary for Putnok

Putnok’s quaint charm and variety of tourist attractions make it an ideal destination for those looking to spend a week exploring Central Europe. Here’s a recommended 7-day itinerary:

Day	Activity
1	Explore the Castle of Putnok and the town’s charming streets
2	Visit the Museum of Agriculture and Handicrafts and take the Wine Tasting Tour
3	Hike to the Vass Imre Lookout Tower and explore the Rudabányai Hills
4	Take a cultural tour of surrounding towns
5	Spend the day at the Lake of Bánk
6	Join an outdoor adventure tour such as kayaking or rock climbing
7	Visit the Wooden Churches of the Bodrogköz and attend a local festival

Food and Drink Scene of Putnok

Hungarian cuisine is world-renowned for its unique flavors and richness, and Putnok’s food and drink scene is no exception. Here are some of the best dishes and drinks to try while in Putnok:

Must-Try Dishes

Gulyás – Hungarian beef soup typically served with paprika and vegetables
Rétes – A traditional Hungarian pastry filled with sweet or savory ingredients such as apples or cheese.
Pörkölt – A rich stew made with various types of meat, onion, and paprika.

Local Beverages

Tokaji Wine – This sweet white wine is Hungary’s most well-known export and is known for its unique flavor and aroma.
Pálinka – A traditional Hungarian fruit brandy made from various fruits such as plum, cherry, or apricot.
Unicum – A bitter herbal liqueur that is often served as a digestif after meals.

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

Putnok offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best options:

Hunyor Fogadó: This charming guesthouse is located in the heart of town and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving traditional Hungarian dishes.
Vidám Szálló: This hostel is ideal for backpackers or budget travelers and offers communal kitchens and shared bathrooms.
Hotel Gallina: This 3-star hotel offers comfortable rooms and a swimming pool, making it an ideal option for families or those seeking a more luxurious stay.

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

Putnok offers a variety of traditional Hungarian products and souvenirs that visitors can bring home with them. Here are some of the best local products to buy while in Putnok:

Handicrafts – Putnok has a rich tradition of handicrafts, including ceramics and textiles.
Tokaji Wine – This world-famous wine is a must-buy for wine lovers.
Paprika – Hungary is known for its paprika, and Putnok is an ideal destination to buy this spice.

Local Culture and Customs of Putnok

Hungarian culture is steeped in tradition and is often reflected in the customs and behaviors of the locals. Here are some of the customs and traditions in Putnok:

Language: Hungarian is the official language of the country, and while many people speak English, it is always polite to attempt to speak Hungarian.
Greetings: It is customary to shake hands when meeting someone for the first time.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in Hungary, and it is generally expected to round up the bill to the nearest 100 or 500 Forints.

Best Time to Visit Putnok

The best time to visit Putnok is during the summer months from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and the outdoor activities are plentiful. However, the fall and winter seasons offer their own charms, such as the town’s famous wine harvests and traditional Christmas markets.

Do’s and Don’ts of Putnok

Do:

Try traditional Hungarian dishes and drinks
Respect the local customs and traditions
Take advantage of the many outdoor activities

Don’t:

Make too much noise in the evenings
Leave your valuables unattended

Safety and Health

When visiting Putnok, it is always important to take precautions for safety and health.

Safety in Putnok

Putnok is a relatively safe town, but visitors should still take basic precautions such as not leaving their valuables unattended and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Health in Putnok

Hungary has an excellent healthcare system, and visitors can access medical care easily. It is always recommended that travelers have health insurance when visiting Hungary.

Getting to Putnok: Transportation Options and Logistics

Putnok is relatively easy to reach, and visitors have several transportation options available to them.

Airports Near Putnok

The nearest international airport to Putnok is Budapest Airport, which is around 189 kilometers away. However, there are several domestic airports closer to Putnok, such as Miskolc Airport.

Bus Stations Near Putnok

Putnok is well-connected to the surrounding towns and villages by bus. The closest bus station is located in Putnok town center.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi from nearby cities such as Miskolc and Košice (Slovakia).

How to Get Around in Putnok

Putnok is a relatively small town, and visitors can explore it on foot. However, for those wanting to explore the surrounding hills and countryside, renting a car or bike is recommended.

Where to Go Next from Putnok: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Putnok is ideally located to serve as a base for exploring the surrounding countryside and neighboring towns. Here are some of the best places to visit nearby:

Miskolc: Located around 30 kilometers from Putnok, Miskolc is the fourth-largest city in Hungary, famous for its thermal baths and stunning architecture.
Eger: Eger is a charming town located around 70 kilometers from Putnok, known for its beautiful baroque architecture, thermal baths, and rich history.
Košice, Slovakia: Just an hour’s drive from Putnok, this picturesque Slovakian city is known for its Gothic architecture and rich culture.

Conclusion

Putnok is a hidden gem in the heart of Hungary that offers visitors an authentic Hungarian experience, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to explore the town’s historical monuments, experience its outdoor activities or taste its famous cuisine, Putnok offers something for every traveler and is undoubtedly worth a visit.