Things To Do
in Szombathely

Szombathely, located in western Hungary, is one of the country's oldest cities, rich in history and culture. It boasts significant Roman heritage, including ruins and monuments that date back to the Roman Empire. The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene and beautiful parks, making it a perfect destination for both history buffs and nature lovers.

With its charming atmosphere and friendly locals, Szombathely offers a unique glimpse into Hungarian life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Iseum, an ancient Roman temple complex dedicated to Isis, where you can explore its fascinating artifacts.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll through the city center, visiting the Cathedral of Szombathely and the historic Main Square, where you can enjoy lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a traditional Hungarian restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk in the scenic park.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Savaria Museum to learn about the city's rich history, followed by a walk in the nearby Kámoni Arborétum.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a street food market, then visit the local art galleries.

evening
:

Experience Szombathely's nightlife by enjoying live music at a local bar or café.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10 - $20
Coffee$2 - $4
🍺Beer$2 - $5
🚌Public transport ticket$1 - $2
🏨Hotel night$50 - $100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces
  • Friendly locals and vibrant atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Language barrier for non-Hungarian speakers
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours
  • "Kérem" - Please
  • "Köszönöm" - Thank you
  • "Hol van a WC?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Segítség!" - Help!
  • "Beszél angolul?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Szombathely

Visit one of these nice places.

Szombathely Cathedral

A stunning example of Baroque architecture, perfect for capturing intricate details.

Kámoni Arborétum

A beautiful arboretum featuring diverse tree species and picturesque landscapes.

Main Square

The vibrant heart of the city, filled with historical buildings and lively atmosphere.

Culinary Guide

Food in Szombathely

Szombathely offers a delightful culinary experience, featuring traditional Hungarian dishes and a vibrant food scene.

Szombathely Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gulyás

A hearty beef soup seasoned with paprika, often served with bread.

Must-Try!

Pörkölt

A rich meat stew, typically served with nokedli (dumplings).

Lángos

Deep-fried flatbread topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Szombathely Market Hall

A bustling market offering fresh produce, local meats, and street food stalls.

Street Food Festival

Seasonal events featuring various food trucks and vendors showcasing local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Szombathely experiences a temperate continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with occasional snowfall in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

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

Dining Etiquette

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

Respect for Heritage

Show appreciation for local history and traditions, especially when visiting historical sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Szombathely is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it’s advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Szombathely

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants, but check if service is included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather allows for outdoor festivals and events, ideal for exploring parks.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage create a picturesque environment for sightseeing.

Winter

Cold weather, occasional snow, and festive decorations provide a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Szombathely at Night

Szombathely boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, pubs, and clubs. The city comes alive in the evenings, especially on weekends, with live music venues and dance clubs offering a variety of entertainment options. Many locals frequent outdoor terraces during warmer months, creating a lively social atmosphere.

Hiking in Szombathely

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kőszegi Mountains Trail

A scenic trail offering stunning views and diverse landscapes, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Írott-kő Nature Park

Featuring well-marked paths and breathtaking scenery, this park is perfect for a day of hiking and nature exploration.

Airports

How to reach Szombathely by plane.

Hévíz-Balaton Airport

Located approximately 70 km from Szombathely, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, providing easy access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Szombathely is very walkable, with compact city center making it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, and pedestrian-friendly pathways are available throughout the city. The flat terrain makes it accessible for all types of walkers.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing group of young professionals attracted by local universities and job opportunities.

Retirees

A significant population of retirees enjoying the city's peaceful environment and cultural offerings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is extremely popular in Szombathely, with local teams competing in national leagues.

Handball

Handball enjoys a strong following, with local clubs participating in regional and national competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Szombathely is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation consists of buses that connect various parts of the city, with frequent services during the day. Walking is encouraged due to the compact layout of the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Szombathely.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to inquire about preparation.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's best to check menus in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Hungary has a well-developed healthcare system, and Szombathely has several hospitals and clinics. Emergency services are available, and it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are accessible throughout the city, and many staff speak basic English.

Discover Hungary

Read more in our Hungary 2025 Travel Guide.

Hungary Travel Guide