Nógrád County Travel Guide

Discover the best of Nógrád County, Hungary with our comprehensive travel guide offering insights into must-visit destinations, local culture, food & drink scene, transportation options, and more.


Hungary is a beautiful country with lots to offer in terms of culture, history, and nature. One of the most fascinating places to explore in Hungary is Nógrád County, located in the northern part of the country. In this travel guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about visiting Nógrád County, from top attractions and hiking routes to food and drink, transportation options, and more.

Introduction to Nógrád County

Nógrád County is located in northern Hungary and is the smallest county in the country, covering an area of just over 2,500 square kilometers. The county is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage. Nógrád County is ideal for those who love exploring natural scenery and outdoor adventures, with a range of hiking and biking trails to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Nógrád County

Nógrád County has a plethora of fascinating attractions and sights to explore. Here is a list of must-visit places in the county:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Castle of Nógrád: This ancient castle is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. It was built in the 13th century and has since been transformed into a museum showcasing the heritage and history of the area.

  • Salgó Castle: Salgó Castle is a ruined castle located on a mountain and is a popular spot for hikers. This castle was first built in the 13th century and was an essential fortification during the Ottoman Wars.

  • Palóc Open-Air Museum: This museum offers visitors a glimpse of Hungarian village life in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum features houses, barns, and other buildings constructed in the traditional style of the Palóc people.

Natural Attractions of Nógrád County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Börzsöny Mountains: Börzsöny Mountains is a popular spot for hikers, located in the northern part of Nógrád County. The area is ideal for visitors who love nature and enjoy hiking through beautiful forests and hills.

  • Cserhát Mountains: This mountain range is located in the southern part of Nógrád County and is famous for its picturesque landscapes. The area is perfect for nature lovers and hikers who love to explore off-the-beaten-path places.

  • Felsőtárkány: Felsőtárkány is a small village located in the Bükk Mountains and is known for its natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as cycling, hiking, and horseback riding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nógrád County

Nógrád County is an ideal destination for hikers and bikers who love to explore natural scenic routes. Here are some of the best hiking/biking trails in the area:

  • Red & Green Trail: This trail is located in the Börzsöny Mountains and is suitable for seasoned hikers and bikers. The trail is around 30 kilometers long and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

  • Szarvas-Stream Valley Nature Trail: This trail is around 13 kilometers long and takes visitors through the beautiful Szarvas-Stream Valley. The route features a series of boardwalks crossing the river, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers.

  • Eszterházy Trail: This trail is located in the Cserhát Mountains and is an excellent spot for beginners. The trail is around 6 kilometers in length, and visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding valleys.

Best Things to Do in Nógrád County: Activities and Tours

In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Nógrád County offers visitors a range of activities and tours to explore. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Explore the Wine Region: Nógrád County is famous for its wineries, and visitors can enjoy wine-tasting tours throughout the region.

  • Visit Local Markets: Visitors can check out the local markets to explore some of the traditional crafts and local products that are unique to the area.

  • Relax in Thermal Baths: Nógrád County is home to several thermal baths, such as the Salgótarján Bath and Aqua Nógrád in Lucfalva. These baths offer visitors a chance to relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nógrád County

For visitors who wish to explore Nógrád County for a week, here is a sample itinerary:

Day Itinerary
1 Visit the Castle of Nógrád and explore the surrounding area
2 Hike in the Börzsöny Mountains and visit Salgó Castle
3 Explore the Palóc Open-Air Museum and visit the nearby thermal baths
4 Enjoy a bike ride in the scenic Cserhát Mountains
5 Visit the local markets and taste the traditional cuisine of the area
6 Take a day trip to other nearby destinations, such as Eger or Budapest
7 Relax at a local thermal bath or enjoy a final hike before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Nógrád County

Nógrád County boasts of a food and drink scene that reflects the unique culture of the region. Here are must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Palóc Soup: A simple and hearty soup made with potatoes, smoked bacon, and sour cream.

  • Stuffed Cabbage: A traditional dish of stuffed cabbage rolls with a filling of meat and rice.

  • Poppy Seed Bread: A sweet pastry made with poppy seeds and served with honey.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Nógrád County is renowned for its wine production. Some of the most famous varieties include Kadarka, Kékfrankos, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

  • Pálinka: A local fruit brandy that is made from various fruits like apricot, plum, and cherry.

  • Beer: Some popular local beer brands include “Borsodi” and “Kőbányai”.

Where to Stay in Nógrád County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nógrád County offers a range of accommodation options for visitors. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:

  • Hotel Salgó: This hotel is located near Salgó Castle and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

  • Balassagyarmati Youth Hostel: An affordable hostel located in the heart of Balassagyarmat.

  • Kálmán Guesthouse: A charming guesthouse located in the town of Érsekvadkert that offers authentic Hungarian cuisine.

What to Buy in Nógrád County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can take home a slice of Nógrád County’s culture, tradition, and heritage by buying some of the locally-made products, such as:

  • Pottery and Ceramics: Visitors can explore the local markets to find beautiful handcrafted ceramics and pottery.

  • Traditional Embroidery: Nógrád County is known for its intricate embroidery work, and visitors can purchase embroidered products such as tablecloths and blankets.

  • Wine and Pálinka: Visitors can take home some locally-made wine and pálinka to enjoy later.

Local Culture and Customs of Nógrád County

Nógrád County is known for its deeply-ingrained cultural traditions. The locals are proud of their history and heritage, and visitors can experience their unique customs and regional traditions by participating in local events and festivals.

Best Time to Visit Nógrád County

The best time to visit Nógrád County is from March to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summers can be slightly hot and humid, but the natural surroundings make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nógrád County

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Try out the local cuisine and taste the locally-made wine and pálinka.

  • Explore the natural scenic beauty of the area.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect sacred places and cultural sites.

  • Litter in the natural surroundings and keep the area clean.

  • Leave valuable items in a car or unattended.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nógrád County

Nógrád County is generally a safe destination for visitors. However, visitors are advised to take care of their belongings and avoid isolated areas, especially at night.

Health in Nógrád County

There are several hospitals and medical clinics located throughout Nógrád County, but visitors are advised to have travel insurance. Visitors should also ensure that they have taken necessary vaccinations and consult with a doctor if they have any medical conditions or concerns.

Getting to Nógrád County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Nógrád County is well-connected to other parts of Hungary through various transportation options.

Airports Near Nógrád County

The nearest airport is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, located 120 kilometers from Nógrád County.

Bus Stations Near Nógrád County

Visitors can take a bus from Budapest to Salgótarján or Balassagyarmat, the two largest towns in Nógrád County.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private transfer to get to Nógrád County. However, driving on narrow roads in the mountainous areas can be challenging for some drivers.

How to Get Around in Nógrád County

Hiring a car is a popular option among visitors to explore Nógrád County. There are also buses and trains available to explore the area, but the schedules are limited.

Where to Go Next from Nógrád County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore other parts of Hungary by taking a train or bus to destinations such as Eger, Budapest, or the Danube Bend.

Conclusion

Nógrád County is a hidden gem of Hungary, offering visitors a range of activities and attractions to explore. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can feel confident in their ability to explore everything that Nógrád County has to offer, from its breathtaking natural scenery to its deep cultural heritage and traditions.



    Balassagyarmat
    Bátonyterenye
    Salgótarján