Things To Do
in Szarvas

Szarvas, Hungary is a picturesque town located in the Southern Great Plains region, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The town is nestled beside the Körös River, offering a serene environment with plenty of outdoor activities. Szarvas is also famous for its botanical garden, which is one of the largest in Hungary, showcasing a diverse range of plant species.

With its charming architecture and friendly locals, Szarvas serves as a perfect destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Szarvas
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Szarvas Arboretum, where you can stroll through beautiful gardens and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local restaurant and then explore the town's historical buildings, including the Reformed Church and the iconic Szarvas Water Tower.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a cozy bistro followed by a relaxing walk along the Körös River at sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a café, then head to the nearby Körös-Maros National Park for a guided nature walk.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the local museums to learn more about the town's history and culture, including the Szarvas History Museum.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a traditional Hungarian dinner and perhaps catch a local folk music performance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$20
Coffee$2-$4
🍺Local beer$2-$5
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🏨Night in a hotel$40-$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and parks.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Fewer English speakers in rural areas.
  • Public transport may have limited schedules.
  • "Kérem" - Please
  • "Köszönöm" - Thank you
  • "Hol van a fürdő?" - Where is the bath?
  • "Segítség!" - Help!
  • "Beszél angolul?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Szarvas

Visit one of these nice places.

Szarvas Arboretum

Capture the beauty of diverse plant species and serene landscapes in this expansive botanical garden.

Körös River

The picturesque banks of the river provide stunning sunset views and tranquil scenery, perfect for capturing nature.

Szarvas Water Tower

A historical landmark that offers panoramic views of the town and is a great backdrop for photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Szarvas

Szarvas offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Hungarian dishes and local specialties that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Szarvas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gulyás

A hearty traditional soup made with beef, vegetables, and paprika.

Must-Try!

Hortobágyi palacsinta

Savory crepes filled with meat, served with a rich sauce.

Lángos

Fried flatbread often topped with sour cream and cheese.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Szarvas Market

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

Street Vendors

Look for local vendors selling traditional snacks like chimney cakes and fried dough.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Szarvas is continental, with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter can drop to around -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn are mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late spring and summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact are important when greeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and keep hands on the table, but not elbows.

Respect for Traditions

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially in religious settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Szarvas is considered a safe town for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and securing your belongings. Emergency services are accessible, and English is commonly spoken among younger locals.

Tipping in Szarvas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants; check if a service charge is included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather ideal for enjoying the river and outdoor festivals; be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage; perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold with occasional snow; a peaceful time to explore the town's indoor attractions and warm up with local cuisine.

Nightlife Guide

Szarvas at Night

Szarvas has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few local bars and cafés offering live music and cultural events. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, making it easy to socialize with locals. While the options are limited compared to larger cities, there are occasional festivals and events that enhance the night experience.

Hiking in Szarvas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Körös-Maros National Park Trails

Various trails within the national park offer hiking opportunities with stunning views of wildlife and natural landscapes.

Szarvas Arboretum Trails

Beautiful walking paths within the arboretum provide a leisurely hiking experience among diverse flora.

Airports

How to reach Szarvas by plane.

Debrecen International Airport

Located approximately 130 km from Szarvas, this airport offers a range of domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Szarvas is a compact town that is highly walkable, with most key attractions located within walking distance of each other. Sidewalks are well maintained, and the town's peaceful streets make for pleasant strolls. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transportation, providing an alternative for exploring the area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hungarian Ethnic Majority

The predominant demographic group, with a rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Roma Community

A smaller but significant demographic group contributing to the cultural diversity of Szarvas.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Szarvas, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Rowing

Given its proximity to the Körös River, rowing is a favored activity, especially during the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Szarvas is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect Szarvas with nearby towns, though schedules can be limited. Bicycles are commonly used, and walking is a popular way to explore the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Szarvas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for modifications.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's best to inquire in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Szarvas are accessible with a local clinic and pharmacies available for basic medical needs. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals in nearby towns can be reached easily. Emergency services can be contacted by dialing 112, and many healthcare providers speak basic English.

Discover Hungary

Read more in our Hungary 2025 Travel Guide.

Hungary Travel Guide