Things To Do
in Szekszárd
Szekszárd, a picturesque town in southern Hungary, sits in the Tolna county wine region and is renowned for its red wines, especially Bikavér. The town blends a quiet, friendly atmosphere with a robust winemaking culture and accessible countryside. Its compact center makes strolling easy, revealing charming Baroque and folk-influenced architecture.
Surrounding vineyards and hills provide scenic viewpoints and a tranquil backdrop for day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Your flight lands at Szekszárd airport early in the morning, and you make your way to the charming boutique hotel in the heart of town. You settle in, unpack, and take a moment to admire the view of the rolling hills in the distance. Energized and curious, you prepare for your first local adventure.
You join a guided tour through historic wine cellars nestled in the surrounding hills, learning about the centuries-old winemaking traditions of the region. The guide shares stories about the Szekszárd wine region, its terroir, and its flagship varietals. You sample a flight of crisp whites and robust reds, deepening your appreciation for local craftsmanship.
As dusk falls, you enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at a family-run restaurant, paired with a selection of the winery’s best vintages. Soft candlelight and gentle live music create an intimate atmosphere. You toast to the beginning of your immersive journey in Szekszárd.
You wake up to freshly baked pastries and strong coffee at a local café near the main square. After breakfast, you meet your guide for a walking tour of the cobblestone streets, including historic landmarks like the municipal church and Tolle house. The morning light brings the pastel-colored facades to life, setting the stage for an immersive cultural experience.
At the Tolna County Museum, you explore archaeological finds, ethnographic exhibits, and contemporary art installations. The curator offers insights into the region’s winemaking heritage, daily life, and notable personalities from Szekszárd’s past. You have time to wander through the intimate galleries at your own pace.
In the atmospheric cellar of a 19th-century building, you enjoy a private folk music concert featuring traditional Hungarian instruments. The melodies of the cimbalom and violin fill the space as you savor a multi-course tasting menu. You end the night chatting with local musicians over a glass of house wine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Hotel room (per night) | $60-120 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich wine heritage and scenic countryside
- Compact, walkable town center
- Friendly locals and laid-back pace
- Good value for money
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller selection of urban attractions
- "Köszönöm" - Thank you
- "Szia" - Hi / Bye
- "Kérem" - Please / You're welcome
- "Mennyibe kerül?" - How much is it?
- "Segítség, kérem" - Help, please
Places to Visit in Szekszárd
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square with red-tiled roofs, ornamental facades, and a photogenic town hall that shines in golden hour light.
Rolling hills covered in vineyards; the light at dusk creates warm, cinematic panoramas over the cellars and villages.
Architectural details and exhibits reflecting local history; great for capturing textures and traditional design.
Food in Szekszárd
Szekszárd Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-simmered beef (or pork) stew served with soft dumplings (nokedli); a Hungarian staple widely available in town taverns.
Must-Try!
A rich goulash soup with paprika, beef, potatoes, and vegetables; perfect for a warming lunch.
A colorful pepper-tomato ragout often enjoyed with a side of bread or eggs; a fresh, seasonal option in warmer months.
A pasta dish with curd cheese and crispy bacon, sometimes with sour cream; a comforting regional specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively spot to sample seasonal produce, fresh bread, paprika, cheeses, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common; addressing people formally (Mr./Ms.) until invited to use first names is typical.
Wait to start eating, keep hands visible, and tipping is appreciated in casual and fine dining alike.
Safety
Tipping in Szekszárd
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving 10-15% for good service is common in restaurants and bars.
Cash (Hungarian forint, HUF) and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sunny with long days; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and enjoy open-air tastings when shade is available.
Harvest season; vibrant vineyard colors, cellar tours, and grape-related festivals highlight the wine culture.
Chilly and quiet with occasional snowfall; indoor attractions and warm taverns are appealing takeaways.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for walking, cycling, and early winery visits.
Szekszárd at Night
Hiking in Szekszárd
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic loop through vineyard-covered hills with viewpoints over Szekszárd.
Forested trails with shade, wildlife, and gradual elevations suitable for most hikers.
Combination of flat riverside paths and short ascents to panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Szekszárd by plane.
Major international hub; about 120-150 minutes by train or car to Szekszárd.
Small regional airport near Pécs; limited destinations.
Croatian airport within a few hours’ drive; offers regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Visitors drawn to wine-tasting tours and vineyard experiences.
Family-friendly parks, museums, and gentle day trips nearby.
A regional presence of education institutions contributes to a youthful vibe in certain areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals; matches can be watched in town stadiums.
Cycling or horseback tours through vineyards; wine tastings are a popular pastime.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Szekszárd.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose mushroom dishes, dairy-based options, lentil soups, and vegetable-based stews. Many traditional dishes can be adapted; ask servers about meat-free options and sides such as potato dumplings or salads.