Kecskemét Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally beautiful Kecskemét with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the best places to see, things to do, and where to stay and eat.


Introduction to Kecskemét

Kecskemét is a beautiful city located in the Southern Great Plain of Hungary. This culturally rich city boasts beautiful architecture, interesting museums and galleries, a lively food and drink scene, and plenty of natural attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. Kecskemét is also known for its music festivals, exhibitions, and other cultural events throughout the year. In this guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and eat in Kecskemét.

List of Places to Visit in Kecskemét

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kecskemét is home to numerous museums and galleries and offers visitors a chance to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage. Here are a few of the must-visit cultural attractions:

  • Csiky Gergely Theater
  • Cifra Palace
  • Hungarian Museum of Photography
  • Museum of Hungarian Naive Artists
  • Kecskemét Gallery

Natural Attractions of Kecskemét: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kecskemét is a city that’s situated amidst natural beauty and provides several outdoor opportunities for visitors.

  • Kiskunság National Park
  • Matyó Museum and Craft House
  • Kecskemét Arboretum
  • Harasztos Fishpond
  • Horse Museum

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kecskemét

Kecskemét being surrounded by nature, hiking and biking routes are a great way to explore the area. Here are some trails that are worth exploring:

  • Kiskunság National Park Trail
  • Vak Bottyán Trail
  • Kisköre Dam Trail
  • Harasztos Trail

Best Things to Do in Kecskemét: Activities and Tours

In addition to exploring the city’s historical and natural attractions, there are many other things to do in Kecskemét.

  • Take a city tour
  • Attend the Kecskemét Animation Film Festival
  • Visit a local winery
  • Try go-karting at the Gyenesdiás Go-kart Track
  • Watch a traditional folk dance performance

Week-Long Itinerary for Kecskemét

Here’s a seven-day itinerary for visitors to Kecskemét:

  • Day 1: Explore the city center and Cifra Palace
  • Day 2: Kecskemét Arboretum and Horse Museum
  • Day 3: Hungarian Museum of Photography and Museum of Hungarian Naive Artists
  • Day 4: Visit the nearby Kiskunság National Park and hike or bike through the trails.
  • Day 5: Attend the Kecskemét Animation Film Festival (July)
  • Day 6: Try local wines at a winery and watch a traditional folk dance performance.
  • Day 7: Relax at Harasztos Fishpond and explore the Matyó Museum and Craft House.

Food and Drink Scene of Kecskemét

Must-Try Dishes

Hungarian cuisine is known for its hearty dishes, and Kecskemét doesn’t disappoint in this regard. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Goulash soup
  • Lángos
  • Pörkölt
  • Halászlé
  • Töltött paprika

Local Beverages

Kecskemét is famous for its local wines and spirits, with plenty of wineries and distilleries found in the region. Here are some of the local beverages to try:

  • Törley Champagne
  • Bikavér (Bull’s Blood) wine
  • Pálinka (fruit brandy)

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

Kecskemét offers visitors a range of accommodations to choose from, ranging from budget hostels to luxurious hotels.

  • Hotel Három Gúnár
  • Royal Hotel
  • Szent István Hotel
  • Aranyhomok Business Wellness&Conference Hotel
  • Kecskemét Guesthouse

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

Kecskemét has a range of local products that can make great souvenirs for visitors.

  • Matyó embroidery products
  • Traditional Hungarian wooden toys
  • Pálinka (fruit brandy)
  • Ceramic plates and figurines
  • Handmade leather goods

Local Culture and Customs of Kecskemét

Hungary is a country rich in traditions, and Kecskemét is no exception. Here are some customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  • Matyó folk art and embroidery
  • Horseback riding and horsemanship
  • Traditional Hungarian dance and music
  • The wine and brandy-making process

Best Time to Visit Kecskemét

The best time to visit Kecskemét is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is pleasant, and several cultural events and festivals are held in the city.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kecskemét

Do:

  • Try traditional Hungarian dishes and wine
  • Visit the city’s museums and galleries
  • Attend cultural events and festivals

Don’t:

  • Overstay in the city
  • Ignore the city’s rural surroundings
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Kecskemét

Kecskemét is a safe city, and travellers should not face any significant safety concerns.

Health in Kecskemét

Travellers should not experience any health problems in Kecskemét. However, it’s always advisable to get travel insurance before visiting a foreign country.

Getting to Kecskemét: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kecskemét is well connected with other cities and towns in Hungary and Europe.

Airports Near Kecskemét

  • Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (90 km away)
  • Debrecen International Airport (170 km away)

Bus Stations Near Kecskemét

  • Kecskemét bus station
  • Budapest city center bus station

Other Options

Travellers can rent a car or use the train services that are connected from Budapest via Kecskemét.

How to Get Around in Kecskemét

The city is easily accessible on foot, as the main tourist attractions are located in the city center and are close to each other. Taxis and public transport can also be used, but it’s highly recommended to walk around the city center.

Where to Go Next from Kecskemét: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

While Kecskemét is a beautiful destination in its own right, there are also several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring.

  • Budapest
  • Szeged
  • Debrecen
  • Hódmezővásárhely

Conclusion

Kecskemét is a hidden gem of Hungary, home to stunning historical and cultural sites, lively food and drink scene and natural attractions. This comprehensive travel guide aims to provide an overview of everything one needs to know while planning a trip to Kecskemét. Happy travelling!

Town Hall in Kecskemét Town Hall in Kecskemét Kecskemét train station Kecskemét train station The M5 freeway connects Kecskemét to Budapest and Szeged. The M5 freeway connects Kecskemét to Budapest and Szeged. Synagogue in Kecskemét Synagogue in Kecskemét Great Temple Great Temple Cifra palota in Kecskemét Cifra palota in Kecskemét