Things To Do
in Székesfehérvár

Székesfehérvár, the historical capital of Hungary, is a city rich in heritage and culture. Known for its medieval architecture and significant historical landmarks, it offers a unique glimpse into the past. Nestled in the Transdanubian region, the city is surrounded by lush landscapes and scenic beauty.

It serves as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting various festivals and events throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Historical Heart
morning
:

Start your day at the Bory Castle, a whimsical structure that combines various architectural styles. Explore its beautiful gardens and take in the views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Székesfehérvár Cathedral, a stunning example of neo-Romanesque architecture. Spend some time at the nearby King Matthias Museum to learn about local history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll through the city center, where you can admire the illuminated historical buildings.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a leisurely walk in the Székesfehérvár Arboretum, home to a diverse collection of trees and plants. It's a great spot for nature lovers.

afternoon
:

Head to the Vörösmarty Square to enjoy local street food and visit artisan shops. Don't miss the local craft market if it's open.

evening
:

Wind down with a glass of local wine at a rooftop bar, taking in panoramic views of the city.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$3
🚇Public transport ticket$1.5
🛍️Souvenir$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Vibrant local cuisine and markets.
  • Limited public transportation options outside the city.
  • Language barrier for non-Hungarian speakers.
  • Fewer tourist facilities compared to larger cities.
  • "Kérem" - Please
  • "Köszönöm" - Thank you
  • "Hol van a WC?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Segíthetek?" - Can I help you?
  • "Igen" - Yes

Places to Visit in Székesfehérvár

Visit one of these nice places.

Bory Castle

A unique castle featuring intricate architecture and beautiful gardens, perfect for capturing stunning photos.

King Matthias Museum

Offers a picturesque backdrop with its historical architecture and surrounding landscape.

Vörösmarty Square

The vibrant heart of the city, ideal for capturing local life and the beauty of the surrounding buildings.

Culinary Guide

Food in Székesfehérvár

Székesfehérvár boasts a vibrant culinary scene that reflects Hungary's rich gastronomic heritage, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Székesfehérvár Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gulyás

A traditional Hungarian stew made with meat and vegetables, spiced with paprika.

Must-Try!

Hortobágyi palacsinta

Savory pancakes filled with meat and served with a creamy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Fehérvári Piac

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.

Street food stalls

Various stalls around the city offer traditional snacks like lángos (fried flatbread) and chimney cake.

Climate Guide

Weather

Székesfehérvár experiences a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winters can drop below freezing, averaging -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn are generally mild, with pleasant temperatures and occasional rain. It’s advisable to dress in layers, especially during the transitional seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating.

Personal Space

Hungarians value personal space; maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Székesfehérvár is generally a safe city 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.

Tipping in Székesfehérvár

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer can be warm, with many outdoor events and festivals, perfect for enjoying local cuisine and culture.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, ideal for photography and enjoying seasonal harvest festivals.

Winter

Winter is cold, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holidays, offering a cozy atmosphere and local winter treats.

Nightlife Guide

Székesfehérvár at Night

Székesfehérvár offers a lively nightlife scene with various bars, pubs, and clubs. Many venues host live music and events, particularly on weekends. The city center is the hub for nightlife, where you can find everything from cozy wine bars to dance clubs. Local craft beers and Hungarian wines are popular choices for a night out.

Hiking in Székesfehérvár

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kőszeg Mountains Trail

A scenic trail with varying difficulty levels that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Velencei Lake Trail

A picturesque route around Velencei Lake, perfect for hiking and bird watching.

Airports

How to reach Székesfehérvár by plane.

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport

Located about an hour's drive from Székesfehérvár, this is the nearest major airport, offering numerous international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Székesfehérvár is quite walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance. The streets are generally pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained sidewalks and crossings. Exploring on foot allows visitors to soak in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hungarian locals

The majority of the population are ethnic Hungarians, who take pride in their cultural heritage.

International students

Székesfehérvár hosts a number of universities, attracting international students who add to the city's diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is very popular, with local teams drawing large crowds, especially during the Hungarian league matches.

Handball

Handball also enjoys a strong following, with local clubs competing at high levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Székesfehérvár is generally moderate, with peak hours during the morning and evening commutes. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Biking and walking are popular alternatives, especially in the city center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Székesfehérvár.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan options

Many local restaurants now offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, though it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-free options

Gluten-free options are available at some eateries, but specific requests should be made to ensure safe meal preparation.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Székesfehérvár is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are reliable, and many doctors speak English. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance coverage to help with any medical expenses.

Discover Hungary

Read more in our Hungary 2025 Travel Guide.

Hungary Travel Guide