Things To Do
in Debrecen

Debrecen is Hungary's second-largest city, located in the eastern part of the country. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, it is often referred to as the 'Calvinist Rome' due to its historical significance in the Protestant Reformation. The city boasts beautiful parks, stunning architecture, and various museums that reflect its rich history.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of modern urban life and traditional Hungarian culture in this charming city.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Debrecen's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Reformed Great Church, the city's most iconic landmark. Take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Kossuth Square.

afternoon
:

Explore the Déri Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts. Have lunch at a local Hungarian restaurant for an authentic experience.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxing evening in Nagyerdő Park, where you can have a picnic or just walk around. Finish your day with dinner at one of the popular local bistros.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Life
morning
:

Begin your day at the Debrecen Zoo and Amusement Park, where you can enjoy both wildlife and rides. Afterward, visit the nearby Botanical Garden.

afternoon
:

Head to the Great Forest (Nagyerdő) for a leisurely hike or biking. Stop by the local food market to grab some snacks and experience the local culture.

evening
:

Explore the nightlife at the city's bars and clubs. Sample some local wines and enjoy live music at a venue in the city center.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$10
☕️Coffee$2
🥖Loaf of bread$0.80
🚕Taxi fare (5km)$5
🏨Hotel night (mid-range)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Affordable living costs.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited English proficiency in some areas.
  • Public transportation options may be less frequent.
  • Fewer tourist attractions compared to larger cities.
  • "Kérem" - Please
  • "Köszönöm" - Thank you
  • "Hol van a vécé?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Segíthet?" - Can you help?
  • "Igen" - Yes

Places to Visit in Debrecen

Visit one of these nice places.

Reformed Great Church

This iconic structure, with its beautiful architecture, is a must-photograph landmark.

Kossuth Square

A vibrant public square surrounded by historic buildings, great for capturing city life.

Nagyerdő Park

A picturesque park perfect for nature photography, especially during spring and autumn.

Culinary Guide

Food in Debrecen

Debrecen offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of traditional Hungarian dishes and local specialties.

Debrecen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hortobágyi palacsinta

Savory pancakes filled with meat, commonly served with a rich paprika sauce.

Must-Try!

Debreceni kolbász

A spicy sausage originating from Debrecen, often enjoyed grilled or in stews.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Debrecen Market Hall

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies.

Street Food Festival

An annual event featuring various street food vendors offering traditional and modern dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Debrecen has a continental climate, experiencing four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly more precipitation in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and keep your hands on the table (but not elbows).

Respect for traditions

Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially in religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Debrecen is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it’s advisable to have travel insurance for medical emergencies.

Tipping in Debrecen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially in markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a beautiful time to visit, ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists; enjoy festivals and outdoor dining, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall colors create a picturesque setting for photography and walks.

Winter

Cold and snowy, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for enjoying festive holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Debrecen at Night

Debrecen's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with options ranging from cozy bars to lively clubs. The city comes alive after dark, particularly around Kossuth Square and the University area, where many students gather. Live music venues host both local and international acts, catering to various musical tastes. Enjoying a drink at an outdoor terrace during summer is a popular pastime, while winter evenings can be spent in warm pubs or clubs with dancing.

Hiking in Debrecen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail in Bükki National Park

Located about an hour's drive from Debrecen, this park offers beautiful trails through forests and hills.

Hiking in Hortobágy National Park

Famous for its vast plains and unique wildlife, this area provides hiking opportunities that showcase Hungary's natural beauty.

Airports

How to reach Debrecen by plane.

Debrecen International Airport

The main airport serving the city, located about 5 km from the city center. It offers flights to major destinations in Europe.

Getting Around

Walkability

Debrecen is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located within a short distance. The presence of pedestrian-friendly streets and parks encourages exploration on foot. However, certain areas may require public transportation or taxis for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With the presence of the University of Debrecen, a significant student population contributes to the vibrant city life.

Local Families

Many families reside in Debrecen, enjoying the city's parks and community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Debrecen has a strong football culture, with the local team, Debreceni VSC, being one of the most successful in Hungary.

Water Polo

Water polo is popular in Debrecen, with local clubs competing at various levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Debrecen is generally manageable, with less congestion compared to larger cities. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city, making it easy to navigate. Biking is also popular, with designated bike lanes in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Debrecen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check with staff.

Gluten-Free options

Some eateries provide gluten-free meals, but they may be limited.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Debrecen is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. The University of Debrecen has a medical school and a teaching hospital, offering quality medical services. Travelers should have travel insurance, as private healthcare may be necessary for non-residents.

Discover Hungary

Read more in our Hungary 2025 Travel Guide.

Hungary Travel Guide