Tolna County Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure to Tolna County with this comprehensive travel guide featuring the best things to do, places to visit, and local tips.


Introduction to Tolna County

Tolna County is a hidden gem in Southern Transdanubia, Hungary. Boasting stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it’s the perfect destination for travelers looking for an authentic experience beyond the usual tourist hotspots. With a diverse range of things to do, from exploring ancient ruins and hiking in nature reserves to indulging in local cuisine and wine, Tolna County is a must-visit destination in Central Europe.

List of Places to Visit in Tolna County

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or adventure, Tolna County has something for everyone. Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Tolna County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Paks Nuclear Power Plant Visitor Center - Learn about Hungary’s energy industry and tour the iconic power plant.
  • Simontornya Castle - Explore the beautifully restored 14th-century castle and its medieval architecture.
  • Paks Gallery - Discover the local art scene and admire contemporary Hungarian art.
  • The House of Arts - A cultural center featuring visual arts, concerts, and events.
  • Bölényvár - A reconstructed Hungarian nomad village provides a glimpse into the country’s past.

Natural Attractions of Tolna County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gemenc Forest - One of Europe’s largest floodplain forests with hiking trails, wildlife, and an eco-train ride.
  • Siófok Beach - A popular summer destination with blue flag beaches, sunbathing areas, and water sports.
  • Szálka Nature Reserve - A protected area for flora and fauna lovers, featuring hiking trails, wildlife, and bird watching.
  • Lake Balaton - The largest freshwater lake in Central Europe with beaches, thermal baths, and water sports.
  • Siklós Castle - A medieval castle with landscaped gardens and vineyards, which produce excellent wine.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tolna County

Tolna County has an extensive network of hiking and biking trails suitable for all levels of enthusiasts. Here are some of the top routes to explore:

  • Kisújbánya - Alsójegenye - A peaceful hike through forests, hills, and meadows with scenic views.
  • Váralja - Nagyharsány - A cycling tour of medieval castles, wineries, and mining towns.
  • Újmalom - Kovácsszénája - A challenging hike up to the highest peak of Mecsek Mountains with panoramic views from the top.
  • Geresdi-dombság - A family-friendly hike through rolling hills, vineyards, and traditional Hungarian villages.
  • Danube-Dráva National Park - An extensive network of hiking trails through wetlands, forests, and riverbanks.

Best Things to Do in Tolna County: Activities and Tours

Want to experience the best of Tolna County? Here are some must-do activities and tours:

  • Wine Tasting - Explore the local vineyards and taste the award-winning wines of Tolna County.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride - See the stunning landscapes of Tolna County from above for a truly unforgettable experience.
  • Rural Pursuits Tour - Experience traditional Hungarian life with this guided tour of farmsteads, countryside, and wineries.
  • Gemenc Forest Eco Train Ride - Discover the beauty of one of Europe’s largest floodplain forests with this scenic train ride.
  • Kereki Underground Tour - Explore a hidden world of underground limestone formations, caves, and subterranean lakes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tolna County

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Tolna County:

Day 1-2: Explore Paks and the Nuclear Power Plant Visitor Center, along with the local museums and galleries. Day 3-4: Enjoy the nearby lake Balaton, swimming, relaxing, and vineyards on the coast. Day 5-6: Experience the stunning nature of Tolna County, hiking in Gemenc Forest or other hiking trails. Day 7: End the trip with a day of local wine tasting and rural pursuits tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Tolna County

Hungary is known for its rich food and drink culture, and Tolna County is no exception. We highly recommend trying some of the following:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pörkölt - A hearty beef stew with paprika and onions, and served with fresh homemade bread.
  • Fisherman’s Soup - A spicy soup that is made with locally-caught fish, spiced with paprika, and cooked over an open fire.
  • Goulash - A traditional Hungarian dish made of meat and vegetables, often served with rice or noodles.
  • Lángos - A popular street food, consisting of fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, and other toppings

Local Beverages

  • Wine - Tolna County is a top wine region in Hungary, renowned for its premium red and white wines including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir.
  • Palinka - A traditional Hungarian fruit brandy that comes in different flavors such as plum, apricot, and pear.

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

Tolna County has a variety of accommodation options including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Hotel Európa - Located in the heart of Szekszárd, Hotel Európa offers comfortable rooms and an onsite restaurant serving traditional Hungarian cuisine.
  • Hotel Castello - Nestled in the Simontornya Castle, Hotel Castello features luxurious rooms and a spa offering a range of treatments and massages.
  • Kezes-lábas - This cozy guesthouse is an excellent choice for budget travelers, offering clean and comfortable rooms in a charming traditional Hungarian house.

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

Looking for the perfect souvenir or gift from your trip to Tolna County? Here are some of the top products to bring back home with you:

  • Wine - You can’t go wrong with a bottle of premium wines from Tolna County’s vineyards.
  • Paprika - A staple ingredient in Hungarian cuisine, you can buy various types and grades of paprika throughout Tolna County.
  • Traditional Hungarian Embroidery - A beautiful handcrafted item, you can find embroidered clothing, tablecloths, and other souvenirs in Tolna County.
  • Ceramics - From porcelain figurines to colorful ceramic bowls and vases, Tolna County has a vibrant pottery scene that produces unique and colorful pieces.

Local Culture and Customs of Tolna County

Hungarian culture is steeped in tradition, and Tolna County is no exception. Here are some of the local customs and cultural practices to be aware of:

  • Folk Traditions - Tolna County has preserved many traditional folk customs, such as the Busójárás festival, which takes place before Lent and features colorful costumes and masks.
  • Language - Hungarian is the official language of Tolna County, with some people also speaking German and English.
  • Tipping - Tipping is common in restaurants and cafes, with a customary 10% of the total bill.

Best Time to Visit Tolna County

The best time to visit Tolna County is in the summer months from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, spring and fall can be great times to visit as well.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tolna County

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Tolna County:

Do:

  • Learn a few phrases in Hungarian as it can help you connect with the locals.
  • Spend time exploring Tolna County’s natural beauty.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Be loud and disrespectful in public spaces.
  • Ignore the local customs and traditions.
  • Leave out important cultural sites and experiences during your trip.

Safety and Health

Here’s some information to help you stay safe and healthy while traveling to Tolna County:

Safety in Tolna County

Tolna County is generally a safe destination. However, visitors should always take standard precautions like keeping an eye on their belongings in crowded areas and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Tolna County

Hungary has a high standard of healthcare, and Tolna County have several modern hospitals. Visitors from EU countries can utilize their EHIC card in case of a medical emergency. Travelers from outside of the EU should purchase travel insurance to avail local healthcare.

Getting to Tolna County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tolna County is easily accessible via several modes of transportation. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near Tolna County

The nearest airports to Tolna County are Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, and Pécs-Pogány International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Tolna County

There are several bus companies, including Volánbusz that operates services within and outside of Tolna County. Buses are efficient, comfortable, and affordable.

Other Options

There are several car and taxi rental services available near the major transportation hubs. Rail services are also available, connecting Tolna County to other major cities in Hungary.

How to Get Around in Tolna County

Buses, trains, taxis, and rental cars are available in Tolna County, making it easier to get around. However, cycling, traveling by foot, or renting an electric scooter can be a fun and eco-friendly option in smaller towns.

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

For those looking to explore more of Hungary, here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth considering:

  • Kecskemét - A vibrant city, famous for its Art Nouveau architecture and traditional Hungarian music.
  • Budapest - The capital city of Hungary, known for its stunning architecture and world-famous thermal baths.
  • Lake Balaton - Central Europe’s largest lake, a popular summer destination with beautiful beaches.

Conclusion

Tolna County is a treasure trove of nature, culture, and adventure waiting to be explored. With a rich history, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking scenery, Tolna County is the perfect destination for travelers looking to experience Hungary beyond its typical tourist trail. Plan your trip today for a lifetime of unforgettable moments.



    Szekszárd