Most travelers choose to visit the charming city of Szentendre on a day trip from the capital, Budapest. They divide their time exploring various cities in the Danube Bend (keep reading to learn more about the Danube Bend). That’s why this guide on Szentendre is split into two parts: ‘half day in Szentendre’ and ‘if you have more time, like a full day’. This allows you to make the most of this guide even if you only have part of a day! In the first part, we will cover the must-see attractions that can be experienced in half a day. And if you have the luxury of more time, be sure to proceed with the second part.
A little bit of history about Szentendre
Szentendre, originally uninhabited, became settled in the 9th century by Kurszán who renovated a Roman fortress. Little is known about its history in the following centuries. The city was mostly depopulated during the Ottoman era, with only one family remaining according to a 17th-century census.
After the Ottomans were expelled from the area, foreign settlers moved in, bringing prosperity to the town. The baroque-style houses, Mediterranean atmosphere, churches, cobblestoned streets, and narrow alleys are all remnants of this time. During the Great Turkish War, Serbs were invited to emigrate to Hungary, leaving a lasting impact on the town’s culture. The city center’s buildings do not date back to the 17th century as previously believed.
The city of Szentendre, known for its calm provincial life, has been a magnet for artists since the early 20th century. The Szentendre colony of artists, established in 1929, gave rise to the renowned Szentendre School. Today, the city is home to over two hundred artists, authors, poets, musicians, and actors.
Szentendre, a historical town with smaller settlements, has seen significant growth over the centuries. It now includes green-belt areas and has experienced a population increase.
Interesting facts about Szentendre
Here are a few interesting facts about Szentendre, because we believe that a visit to a city is always more interesting when you know a few of these facts. Sights become more interesting and you’re more educated while exploring the place.
- Szentendre is often referred to as the ‘Artists’ Village’ because it’s a home to a vibrant community of painters, sculptors, and ceramists, attracting art enthusiasts from around the globe.
- Its charming, winding streets are filled with unique, baroque houses, each distinguished by a certain color, entrancing visitors with a vibrant parade of hues.
- The town hosts the Marzipan Museum, showcasing impressive edible sculptures, including a life-size replica of Michael Jackson, all made from marzipan!
- Szentendre holds a special place in the hearts of Hungarians as it guards the legacy of the Serb culture, being the center of the Serb community in Hungary for centuries.
- The town is a hidden treasure trove of fascinating history and beautiful views, nestled on the banks of the Danube River, offering a breathtaking panorama that’s hard to forget.
- The Netflix series ‘The Witcher’ used the museum grounds to depict the village where Yennefer originally called home.
Things to do in Szentendre in half a day
If you find yourself with just a half day to explore Szentendre, begin with these suggestions. Should you have the luxury of more time, you can always revisit the options we mention later. Alternatively, if you have a fondness for museums, feel free to continue scrolling!
Visit Parish Church - the oldest building in Szentendre
Get to know the history of Szentendre at the Parish Church, the oldest edifice in town. This medieval masterwork, with stone walls that whisper tales of the past, offers a serene sanctuary from the lively streets. The church’s simple yet enchanting interior resonates with an air of solemnity that transports visitors to a bygone era.
And here’s a fun fact: this church was once a fortress to protect the town’s inhabitants
- Address: Fő tér 6, Szentendre 2000, Hungary
- How to get there: A short walk from the main square takes you straight to the doors of the Church.
- Ticket Price: Entry is free, but donations are always appreciated.
The Heartbeat of Szentendre - Main Square (Fő tér)
The Main Square, or Fő tér, is the heart of Szentendre, brimming with charm and history. It’s a colorful palette of baroque buildings and quaint cobblestone streets, where the past and present elegantly waltz together. Here, local artists display their crafts, and bustling cafes serve mouth-watering delicacies. The square also hosts vibrant festivals, making it the town’s social hub. A fun fact, Fő tér was historically the market square and to this day, it’s the epicenter of local trade, proving some things never change!
- Address: Fő tér, Szentendre, Hungary
- How to get there: From Mag Church, a brief meander through the winding alleys will reveal the dynamic Fő tér.
Explore the cute streets of the old town
As you navigate the labyrinth of Szentendre’s old town, each narrow alleyway and quaint street oozes charm. This postcard-perfect labyrinth is a delightful cocktail of vibrant, pastel-colored buildings, and cobbled pathways. It’s where centuries-old history blends seamlessly with the buoyancy of modern-day life. Here’s a fact to tickle your fancy: these narrow streets were designed specifically to provide shade and alleviate the summer heat. Cool, right?
- Address: Old Town, Szentendre, Hungary
- How to get there: From Fő tér, just start walking. The old town is a maze meant to be explored without a map!
Go for a walk along the Danube Promenade
The Danube Promenade in Szentendre offers an intoxicating fusion of natural beauty and cultural enrichment. This serene riverside walkway, basked in the warmth of the Hungarian sun, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the historic town and the gently flowing Danube River. It’s a picturesque haven for leisurely walks, romantic rendezvous, and soulful introspection. The promenade is adorned with statues and art installations, adding a touch of whimsy to its tranquil ambience. Fun fact: The promenade is home to a quirky statue of a teapot, a symbol of the town’s thriving ceramics industry.
- Address: Danube Promenade, Szentendre, Hungary
- How to get there: From the old town, head towards the river. The promenade is impossible to miss!
Lunch time
As the morning’s adventures whet your appetite, you’ll find the old town of Szentendre the perfect setting for a delicious midday respite. A gastronomical haven, the area brims with an assortment of local eateries, each boasting a unique culinary character. The aroma of traditional Hungarian dishes wafts through the air, enticing you to savor the local flavors. Whether you crave a hearty stew or a light salad, the old town’s charming bistros, cosy cafes, and family-owned restaurants are ready to indulge your palate. So, take a seat, soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and relish a delightful lunch in this epicurean hub steeped in culture and history.
Things to do if you have more time
Szentendre promises to give you a tranquil visit, as it’s quite small and it doesn’t have as many things to see and do in comparison to other cities, like Esztergom or Budapest, where you can easily spend a few days without running out of things to do.
For that matter, Szentendre is more of a relaxed destination, the kind we can enjoy a lot. For instance, don’t worry about spending to much time strolling through the old town or having an extra coffee while watching life unfold in the main square!
Here’s a few extra things to do in Szentendre, also chill and relaxed.
Visit one or more of the most interesting museums in Szentendre
Szentendre is a smaller town, with a shorter history known to us. But that doesn’t mean the city doesn’t sport a few nice museums. A museum is always a good way to get to know a place a little better, to see what matters in this area and how history has played out.
- Hungarian Open-Air Museum (Szabad Téri Néprajzi Múzeum): An outdoor folk museum representing the culture, architecture, and lifestyle of Hungarian villagers
- Retro Design Center: A vibrant showcase of retro design and pop culture artifacts from the 70s, 80s, and 90s
- Museum of local transportation: An interactive museum displaying the evolution of transportation in Hungary from horse-drawn carriages to modern vehicles
- Margit Kovács Ceramics Museum: Showcases the works of renowned ceramic artist Margit Kovács.
- Marzipan Museum: An interesting museum dedicated to the art of marzipan and chocolate making.
- Ferenczy Museum: A museum showcasing the works of the Ferenczy family and other contemporary artists.
- Bela Czobel Museum: A museum featuring the works of renowned Hungarian painter Bela Czobel.
Bask in the sun at Postman Beach
This Danube river beach is very popular among locals, perfect for unwinding under the sun or taking a refreshing plunge in the waters of the Danube. You’ll see people enjoying time with their families, children and dogs playing, and campervans. In short, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed afternoon on a sunny day. And yes, there’s plenty of shade under the trees as well.
- Address: Postman Beach, Szentendre, Hungary
- How to get there: Enjoy a scenic walk along the Danube River.
Evening in Szentendre
While some of your fellow travellers might return to Budapest after their day trip, you can enjoy a relaxed evening in the beautiful old town of Szentendre. Have dinner in one of the many little restaurants, and be sure to try some traditional Hungarian dishes like gulyás (goulash) or töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage). After dinner, take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys of the town, popping into local shops for some souvenirs or handmade crafts. And if you’re lucky, you might stumble upon one of the many open-air concerts and performances that often take place in the town square during summer evenings.
Don’t forget to grab some delicious kürtőskalács (chimney cake) before heading back to Budapest, a perfect sweet ending to a perfect day trip. Szentendre may be small, but it’s full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Evening in Szentendre
While some of your fellow travellers might return to Budapest after their day trip, you can enjoy a relaxed evening in the beautiful old town of Szentendre. Have dinner in one of the many little restaurants, and be sure to try some traditional Hungarian dishes like gulyás (goulash) or töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage). After dinner, take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys of the town, popping into local shops for some souvenirs or handmade crafts. And if you’re lucky, you might stumble upon one of the many open-air concerts and performances that often take place in the town square during summer evenings.
Don’t forget to grab some delicious kürtőskalács (chimney cake) before heading back to Budapest, a perfect sweet ending to a perfect day trip. Szentendre may be small, but it’s full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
How to get from Budapest to Szentendre
Let’s move on to the practical details: how to travel from Budapest to Szentendre. Whether you prefer a river cruise, train ride, or car journey, we’ve got you covered.
By Train
An easy train ride bridges the gap between the bustling city of Budapest and the quaint town of Szentendre. The HEV suburban train line H5 departs from Batthyany Square in Budapest and will take you directly to Szentendre. The journey lasts roughly 40 minutes.
By Own Vehicle
If you have your own car (or a rental), you can start your journey on Route 11 heading north from Budapest, and in less than an hour, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Szentendre. The route curves alongside the Danube river. Just ensure to check parking availability ahead of your trip.
Alternative Options
If you want to try something else, consider taking a river cruise along the Danube to Szentendre. The journey is not only relaxing but offers a unique perspective of the region’s landscape. Please note that river cruises are seasonal, usually operating from May to September.
How much time do you need for Szentendre?
You might be wondering, “how long should I stay in Szentendre?” While you could certainly spend a full day exploring the twisty cobbled streets and absorbing the vibrant, artsy atmosphere, many visitors find that a few hours is plenty.
You’ll have ample time to browse the artisan shops, visit a museum or two, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the riverside cafes.
However, if you’re the type who loves to immerse yourself fully, to really get under the skin of a place and see beyond the tourist facades, you may want to dedicate a whole day or even a weekend.
Szentendre, with its laid-back vibe and artistic soul, may just surprise you with the depth of its charm.
Szentendre: one of the Danube Bend must-visit cities
The Danube Bend is a popular day trip from Budapest. There’s 4 cities that are usually included in a day trip like this: Esztergom, Visegrad, Szentendre, and Vac. Today, we’re in Szentendre, but you might as well combine all 4 of these in a one day journey.
Each of these cities and towns have something special and they’re all really different from each other. Let’s explore the Danube Bend cities quickly, to give you an idea of the ones that look interesting to you. Just for your information, all four cities are listed in our article: best cities to visit in Hungary.
Szentendre: where we are now
Szentendre is a cute little town renowned for its enchanting cobbled streets, vibrant art galleries, and an array of colorful houses. Immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere that has enticed artists for centuries and uncover the myriad of delightful experiences that await in Szentendre.
Esztergom
Esztergom is another city on the banks of the Danube River. It’s larger than Szentendre and has a lively history. It has famous landmarks, like the Esztergom Basilica, which draws the skyline of the city. Esztergom also offers great panoramic views of the river and Slovakia across its waters. Make sure to spend at least half a day, or maybe one complete day in Esztergom.
Esztergom also has quite a few nice accommodation options. You can easily find a beautiful room in one of Esztergom’s boutique hotels or wellness hotels.
Visegrad
Embarking on our journey, we arrive at Visegrad, a town that carries a historical legacy from the Roman Empire. Positioned on the Danube River, Visegrad beckons you to ascend to the medieval Visegrad Castle and Citadel. Prepare to be awestruck by the awe-inspiring vistas of the river and its enchanting surroundings. Discover more about this captivating experience at Visegrad Castle and Citadel.
In Visegrad, you can easily spend a relaxing night in one of the spa & wellness hotels.
Vac
Finally, we have Vac, a true hidden gem that adds the finishing touch to our Danube Bend adventure. With its breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding area, Vac provides a charming atmosphere and captivating streets to explore.
This city might be less popular among tourists, but there are quite a few things to see and do in Vac.
Combining your visit to Szentendre with a trip around Hungary
Szentendre is the ideal destination in a road trip around Hungary. It fits perfectly between Budapest, the other Danube Bend towns and a plethora of other destinations. Hungary’s charm extends far beyond these riverside towns.
A complete Hungary itinerary guides you through the nation’s finest destinations, such as the bustling Budapest, the artistic Pecs, and the historic Sopron.
Also, be sure not to miss the charming towns and villages around Lake Balaton. Another great destination, not too far from Szentendre is Eger. Lastly, no trip would be complete without spending a day in Gyor, a city buzzing with cultural heritage and architectural splendor.
Where to spend the night in Szentendre
If you’re planning on visiting some of the other cities on the Danube Bend, you might be interested in getting one of these places to stay:
If you plan on visiting Szentendre on a day trip from Budapest, then accommodation in the capital is a better idea. Start of with our extended guide to a few exciting days in Budapest. Then find yourself a nice boutique hotel in Budapest, or select a wellness hotel in the capital of Hungary.
Szentendre is a great place to spend a night or 2. These are some of the best hotels in the city.
Conclusion - relaxing things to do in Szentendre
In summary, exploring the cobblestone streets of this popular Danube Bend destination is an adventure in itself, offering an array of relaxed things to do. If you take your time to explore the town on your own pace, you can truly immerse in the city’s unique allure. Whether you’re in pursuit of comfort, tranquility, or a central location, Szentendre has something for every traveler. One trip is all it takes to understand why it’s considered a gem in the heart of Hungary. We hope you enjoy the things to do in Szentendre we mentioned in this article. Have fun!
