Things To Do
in Pécs
Pécs is a historic university city in southern Hungary, rich in architecture and cultural landmarks. Located at coordinates 46.0711, 18.2331, it showcases Roman, Ottoman, and baroque influences. The city is famous for the UNESCO-listed Early Christian Necropolis and the Zsolnay porcelain in the cultural quarter.
With a lively university atmosphere, cobbled streets, and frequent festivals, Pécs is easily explored on foot.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the Pécs airport and check into your hotel. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city. Take a stroll along the streets to familiarize yourself with the surroundings.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Early Christian Mausoleum and explore its fascinating early Christian art. Head to the nearby Pécs Cathedral, where you can admire its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Take some time to relax in a nearby park, enjoying the serene environment.
Savor a traditional Hungarian dinner at a local restaurant, indulging in dishes like gulyás and chimney cake. Attend a cultural performance or concert at the Pécs National Theatre for a taste of local arts. Wind down with a gentle walk through the illuminated city squares.
Start your day with a visit to the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, a hub of artistic expression and history. Enjoy breakfast at one of the quaint cafés within the quarter, surrounded by beautiful ceramics and innovative spaces. Discover the Zsolnay Museum to learn about the city’s renowned pottery.
Head over to the Pécs Synagogue, one of the largest in Hungary, to appreciate its architectural grandeur. Spend time wandering the streets of the city center, shopping for local crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy a light lunch at a terrace overlooking the bustling main square.
Dine at a bistro that serves local wines, particularly the famous Villány region's offerings. Experience Pécs' nightlife in the Széchenyi square, where you'll find lively bars and music. Explore the artistic murals that adorn many buildings in this district.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🍝Lunch for two | $20-30 |
| 🚌Public transit single ride | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic architecture and UNESCO-listed sites
- Vibrant student energy and affordable prices
- Compact city center easy to navigate
- Limited large-scale nightlife compared to Budapest
- Some attractions have limited English information outside main museums
- "Szia" - Hi/Hello
- "Köszönöm" - Thank you
- "Kérem" - Please
- "Beszél angolul?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hol van a mosdó?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Mennyibe kerül?" - How much does it cost?
- "Szép napot" - Have a nice day
Places to Visit in Pécs
Visit one of these nice places.
A dominant Gothic–Romanesque structure perched above the historic center, ideal for sweeping cityscape shots.
Colorful tiled façades and ornate, decorative architecture perfect for architectural photography.
Iconic Ottoman-era minaret and courtyard offering atmospheric angles and historic context.
A charming pedestrian street with preserved medieval façades and warm, lamplit evenings.
Modernist exterior and surrounding squares provide striking contrasts for photography.
Food in Pécs
Pécs Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A warming Hungarian staple, typically beef-based with potatoes and paprika; widely served in local eateries.
Must-Try!
A rich meat stew (often pork or beef) served with soft dumplings; a staple of Hungarian comfort food.
Fried dough topped with sour cream and grated cheese, a popular street-food treat.
A layered chocolate caramel cake often found in pastry shops and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for paprika, cheeses, cured meats, bread, and fresh produce—great for sampling local ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshake is common; address people by surname until invited to use first names; basic phrases in Hungarian are appreciated.
Be respectful when visiting religious sites; dress modestly and avoid loud behavior in solemn places.
Safety
Tipping in Pécs
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5–15% is common if service is not included; not mandatory but appreciated.
Cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; cash is useful in markets; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; great for outdoor strolling, patios, and photography in pastel light.
Warm to hot days; stay hydrated, plan indoor museum visits midday, and enjoy late-evening outdoor events.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage around Mecsek hills; ideal for scenic hikes and city walks.
Cold with occasional snow; indoor attractions and cafés become favorites; festive markets appear in December.
Pécs at Night
Hiking in Pécs
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking peak with forest trails and views just minutes from the city.
A higher Mecsek peak with scenic routes and wildlife; ideal for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Pécs by plane.
The main international gateway for Hungary; about a 2.5–3 hour drive to Pécs.
Croatia; regional airport with limited international connections; about 2–3 hours by road.
Small airfield near Pécs mainly for private flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large student population due to the University of Pécs; many international students.
Predominantly Hungarian, with Roma and other minority communities making up a smaller share.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular at club and national levels; local teams and stadium visits possible.
Common spectator sport with local and national teams.
Water sports culture reflected in local pools and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pécs.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable stews, pastas, cheeses, and salads. When in doubt, ask for no meat stock or broth to keep dishes vegetarian.