Things to do in Eger

One of the oldest cities in Hungary, Eger is bursting with charm and attractions: intriguing treasures for the history buff; relaxing spa treatments and mineral baths for the pleasure seeker; and full-bodied red wine for the gourmet.

There's plenty to see and do in Eger, which has been inhabited since the Stone Age. Apart from the many tourist attractions, visitors will find all the facilities and amenities to be of a high standard. Getting around is easy, as is finding accommodation, booking tours, and taking excursions out into the surrounding countryside.

Eger is full of Baroque architecture and grand buildings, with a lovely pedestrianised old town that makes a good starting point for visitors. Eger has over 200 historical monuments, including Eger Castle; the Lyceum with its magnificent frescoed library and minaret; and the Archbishop's Cathedral, containing the country's largest organ. The striking pink and white structure on Dobó István Square is the twin-towered Minorite Church, arguably Hungary's most beautiful Baroque building.

There is a beautiful valley full of vineyards just outside of Eger called Szepasszony, where visitors can explore the century-old cellars and taverns and sample the region's brilliant wines. Eger is also famous for its mineral baths, and there are several establishments where travellers can enjoy spa treatments or soak up the health in pools and baths. The most popular of these is the simply named Mineral Bath Swimming Pool Park.

Eger Castle photo

Eger Castle

Eger Castle overlooks its town namesake and is one of the most popular and famous attractions in Hungary. The original buildings included a cathedral and the Bishop's Palace, datin…

Eger Castle

Eger Castle overlooks its town namesake and is one of the most popular and famous attractions in Hungary. The original buildings included a cathedral and the Bishop's Palace, dating back to the 13th century. The castle was later fortified and the walls provided the cover for its determined defence by a small and outnumbered army against a Turkish force.

The women who fought alongside the soldiers claimed their place in national consciousness during this much-celebrated act of heroism. The popular Dobó István Fortress Museum in the restored palace has exhibitions on the history of the town and castle. Also within the castle grounds is the Heroes' Hall, which holds the grave of the celebrated leader, Dobó István, as well as the Prison Museum, Waxworks and the underground rock-hewn artillery enclosures.

Website www.egrivar.hu/en

Szépasszony Valley (Valley of the Pretty Woman) photo

Szépasszony Valley (Valley of the Pretty Woman)

With its rolling vineyards and century-old cellars and taverns, Szépasszony Valley is a favourite attraction in Eger. Wine producers welcome visitors into their quaint old cellars…

Szépasszony Valley (Valley of the Pretty Woman)

With its rolling vineyards and century-old cellars and taverns, Szépasszony Valley is a favourite attraction in Eger. Wine producers welcome visitors into their quaint old cellars, hollowed out of the porous rock hundreds of years ago. Here, some of the country's finest red wines can be tasted, including the unique Bull's Blood. The rows of cellars are numbered and each has a particular charm, whether it's the chequered tablecloths of an underground tavern or the wooden barrels of fermenting grapes in an uneven rock passageway. It's even possible to book a visit to the Godly Cellar, the oldest in the region. It operated as a secret church during the Turkish occupation, and the stone altar and religious artworks still remain.

Mineral Bath Swimming Pool Park photo

Mineral Bath Swimming Pool Park

The Mineral Bath Swimming Pool Park in Eger is considered the biggest and best in the country. The baths are indoor or outdoor, hot or cold and recreational or health-related. It's…

Mineral Bath Swimming Pool Park

The Mineral Bath Swimming Pool Park in Eger is considered the biggest and best in the country. The baths are indoor or outdoor, hot or cold and recreational or health-related. It's a great spot to visit with children, as they'll have their own special pool. There's an Olympic-sized swimming pool for those who want to exercise, while there is food and drink to keep visitors refreshed. There are also Turkish baths, comfy cabins and simple sun loungers. The only downside of this fun park is that its popularity can lead to big crowds, so visitors should set aside a week-day morning to experience it at its best.