28 Best Things You Can Do In Debrecen, Hungary

Things to do in Debrecen
Andreia
Andreia 
Updated
| 12 min read

Budapest is capable of outshining most of Europe’s capitals, as well all the other cities in Hungary. However, a country is not only its capital, no matter how extraordinary it is. Debrecen is the second largest city in Hungary after Budapest and is one of the most important cultural centers in the country.

It was the capital of Hungary during the revolution of 1848 to 1849 and until the end of the World War II, which makes it a very strong pillar for the Hungarians’ identity. Although it suffered many changes throughout the years, Debrecen is now a very active city, with regular street festivals happening and an energetic nightlife. There are many museums and historic places to visit but Debrecen is also known for its natural beauty. Let’s look at the best things you can do in Debrecen, shall we?

1. See the Great Church

Facade of Great Protestant Church of Debrecen
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Nicu Farcaș used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Nagytemplom, the Reformed Great Church in Debrecen, is definitely the city’s most famous postcard. It’s set right in the heart of the city, between Kossuth Square and Kalvin Square, two places you should stop by. The Great Church is not only a beautiful building inside and out but also a symbol of the Protestant Church in Hungary.

As you enter, you’ll be struck by its imposing architecture and amazed at the beautiful organ in the nave. There are exhibition areas inside the church and if you climb all the way to its top, you’ll get the best views of the city. Not to be missed!

The Great Church

Address: 4026 Debrecen, Kossuth tér 1, Hungary

Website: The Great Church

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2. Wave through Nagyerdei Park

Nagyerdei park - panoramio (1)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mister No used under CC BY 3.0

Nagyerdei Park is set in the center of Debrecen and is the perfect place to go for a walk and admire the landscape. It has a beautiful lake with a walkway over the top where you can get a closer look at the birds and fishes. The park has restaurants and hotels within its grounds, including ice cream shops, so don’t forget to go for a stroll there and enjoy your break from reality.

Nagyerdei Park

Address: Debrecen, Nagyerdei körút, 4032 Hungary

Website: Nagyerdei Park

Opening Hours: 6 a.m. to 1 a.m.

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3. Learn about the city’s history at the Museum of the Reformed College of Debrecen

DRK egyháztörténeti múzeum
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user ercsaba74 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Museum of the Reformed College of Debrecen is already special from the outside. Its characteristic architecture is an illustration of the city’s most beautiful buildings, but the museum itself is a communion between education and art. The Debrecen College was home to many relevant literary, academic and political personalities before turning into a museum. It will present you with fascinating pieces from the history of Hungary and teach you more about Debrecen. The library of the museum is amazing and if you’re a book lover, you’ll fall head over heels with it.

Museum of the Reformed College of Debrecen

Address: 4026 Debrecen, Kálvin tér 16

Website: Museum of the Reformed College of Debrecen

Opening Hours: Mon - Fri: 10am to 4pm; Sat: 10am to 1pm (closed on Sun)

Prices: 3 USD (800 HUF)

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4. Have fun at Kerekerdo Adventure Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Hogyan tudnánk fokozni a tegnapi szuper hírt? Van tippetek? Bizony! Májustól minden nap nyitva vagyunk...

Posted by Kerekerdő Élménypark on Saturday, February 12, 2022

If you have children and are visiting Debrecen with them, you should definitely spend some time at Kerekerdő (Round Forest), Adventure Park. This park offers plenty of indoor and outdoor activities for both children and adults, so every member of the family will surely have a good time. From water sports to a magic land filled with all the characters of the most famous fairy tales, with additional puppet-show stages and adventure trails, this adventure park will be an absolute dream for your kids.

Kerekerdo Adventure Park

Address: 4002 Debrecen, Olimpia fasor 23., Hungary

Website: Kerekerdo Adventure Park

Opening Hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm

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Debrecen Tour Guide

Tiberiu Condulescu

Tiberiu Condulescu

My name is Tiberiu(s), just like captain James Tiberius Kirk from Star Trek, or Tibi for short, and I am an IT Service Manager who found his passion in tour guiding over 5 years ago. Similarly to Captain Kirk, I will be your captain should you choose me as your guide.Every tour is a new experience for both of us, that’s why my aim is to make it both memorable and fun. I want to make memories for people from all over the world!Hope to meet you soon and "Viszlát", as we say in Hungarian!

Tours by Tiberiu

5. Wake your inner scientist at Agora Science Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Tegnap a WATCH (Women at Tech) program projektmunkáját látogatták meg NI-os vezetők. Jöttek, láttak,...

Posted by Agóra Tudományos Élményközpont on Wednesday, May 11, 2022

If your little ones love science, they’re going to love this place. Agora Science Centre offers incredible experiences to everyone, regardless of their age. You and your children will be able to be part of unique experiments that will spark your curiosity and willingness to learn more about science. You’ll be taught physics, chemistry, biomedical science, hydrobiology, botany, and robotics, but if you’re really into astronomy, you’ll love the center’s observatory. It is another great place to visit if you’re on a family holiday.

Agora Science Centre

Address: 4032 Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, Hungary

Website: Agora Science Centre

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 1pm - 6pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm

Prices: 7 USD (1800 HUF)

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6. Watch a game at Nagyerdei Stadium

Nagyerdei Stadium
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Björn Láczay used under CC BY 2.0

Nagyerdei Stadium was inaugurated in 2014 and is a great venue to watch different sports events and competitions, as well as concerts. The stadium has a unique modern architecture which includes an incredible suspension sidewalk! Do some research before you visit Debrecen and you might have the chance to watch a game or a concert at this amazing stadium.

Nagyerdei Stadium

Address: 4032 Debrecen, Nagyerdei krt. 100, Hungary

Website: Nagyerdei Stadium

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7. See an exhibition at MODEM

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by MODEM on Monday, October 25, 2021

This Centre for Modern and Contemporary Arts will satisfy your artistic side. If you really love contemporary art, you can’t miss this museum as it will present you with unique exhibitions and very interesting events. However, don’t forget to check what’s on, as the museum doesn’t have any permanent exhibitions.

MODEM: Centre for Modern and Contemporary Arts

Address: 4026 Debrecen, Baltazár Dezső tér, Hungary

Website: MODEM: Centre for Modern and Contemporary Arts

Opening Hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)

Prices: 3 USD (800 HUF)

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8. Enjoy the Flower Carnival

Testvérvárosok-debrecen-nagyvárad
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Teroses used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Debrecen has had the Flower Carnival for decades and it was only fair for it to become one of the most popular festivals in the country. Nowadays, it is more of an international festival than a local one, with many foreign groups participating and adding to its charm. The Flower Carnival really is a flower event, with stunning parades of flower cars and dance groups.

Flower Carnival

Address: Debrecen, Hungary

Website: Flower Carnival

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The following content is contributed by April Gabayan, Trip101 Writer

9. Stop by Deri Museum

Déri Museum Debrecen
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Papa Zsolt used under CC0

Step back into the past when you visit Déri Museum, located in Debrecen, Hungary. Its structure may be small but it houses a number of rooms showcasing different themes. Find Italian, Persian, and Indian weapons exhibited in one room and 17th to 19th-century paintings in another. “Inhabitants of the Starry Sky” features archeological artifacts and in the room themed “Debrecen Underneath”, you will find everyday local objects that were preserved from the past 12 years. Then there’s also local craft displays and a chamber of wonders. Déri Museum will give you an insight into how life was in this part of the world, years or decades ago. It won’t take a full day to tour the whole museum so drop by whenever you can!

Déri Museum

Address: Debrecen, Déri tér 1, 4026 Hungary

Website: Déri Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)

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10. Explore Hortobágyi National Park

Hortobágy
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user [Unknown] used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

A significant cultural landscape and a World Heritage site: it makes sense that Hortobágy Puszta is consistently one of the top destinations to visit near Debrecen. The vast landscape is a picturesque treat, especially for photography enthusiasts waiting for the morning light to rise. Of course, there is also an opportunity to capture shots of wildlife. The Puszta is a part of Hortobágyi National Park and here, one will surely appreciate the flora and fauna that has been preserved for thousands of years. The park is vast and one can take a jeepney ride or a horse carriage for a comfortable sightseeing experience.

Hortobágyi National Park

Address: 4024 Debrecen, Sumen u. 2

Website: Hortobágyi National Park

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11. Enjoy yourself at Aquaticum Mediterranean Pleasure Baths

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Élettel teli zöld növények , ragyogóan kéklő medencék és sugárzó napsütés - ez az #Aquaticum Strand Ha idén...

Posted by Aquaticum Hotel on Wednesday, March 30, 2022

It’s a summer paradise at the Aquaticum all year round! Challenge the waves, slide along one of the 12 water chutes, or simply take a relaxing dip in the large pool - this popular waterpark is perfect for families with kids or even if you come here alone, you’ll make friends in one of their regular pool parties. And if you’re looking for a more relaxing aquatic experience, try several facilities such as the thermal bath, or the Thai massage center, or even visit their Mediterranean sauna complex. These water activities provide healing for both the mind and the body: something that will make your Hungary trip extra memorable.

Aquaticum Mediterranean Pleasure Baths

Address: 4032 Debrecen, Nagyerdei park 1

Website: Aquaticum Mediterranean Pleasure Baths

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 8pm (pool closes at 7:30pm); public and school holidays: 10am - 9pm (pool closes at 8:30pm)

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12. Admire nature's beauty at Debrecen University Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden of the University of Debrecen kz02
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Krzysztof Ziarnek... used under CC BY-SA 4.0

If you happen to be at the University of Debrecen, pop by behind the main campus and discover the Botanic Gardens which feature nearly 6,000 plant species. Among these, you will find a large collection of succulent plants but unfortunately, you can’t take any of these home, since they are prized possessions and the collection itself is renowned worldwide, with several rare species included. Just enjoy the company of nature and the time spent here is more than enough to takeaway.

Debrecen University Botanical Garden

Address: Debrecen, Móricz Zsigmond út, 4032 Hungary

Website: Debrecen University Botanical Garden

Opening hours: Arboretum: March 21 - Oct. 20: 8am - 6pm (daily); Oct. 21-Mar. 20: 8am - 4pm (daily) / Palm House: 8am - 3pm (daily)

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13. Attend an event in Kossuth Square

Fountain. - Kossuth Square, DebrecenDSCN0202
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Yoav Dothan used under GPL

Kossuth Square commemorates one of the significant figures in Hungary who was involved in the country’s fight for national independence. Here, aside from the statues of Lajos Kossuth, one will also find the Millenial Fountain as well as the view of Hotel Aranybika in Art Nouveau architectural style. The square has become Debrece’s main symbol, with several events taking place here all throughout the year. Take part in celebrating Turkey Days, watch flowers bloom in the Flower Carnival, or be mesmerized by the city’s Christmas Tree every holiday season. It is best to celebrate your new year here too, and join in the countdown!

Kossuth Square

Address: 4024 Debrecen, Kossuth tér

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14. Catch a performance at Kölcsey Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Kölcsey Központ Debrecen on Wednesday, August 28, 2013

A center for cultural events, Kölcsey Center opened in early 2006 and it is a popular venue for even professional conferences. The building has Scandinavian feels, evident in the wood, glass, and stone elements. Check their website for schedules and you might just be able to catch free art exhibits or watch local actors perform amazing plays and even attend concerts within the center’s modern facilities.

Kölcsey Center

Address: Debrecen, Bethlen u., 4026 Hungary

Website: Kölcsey Center

Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)

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15. Tour Ferenc Medgyessy Memorial Museum

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Located just inside Deri Museum is the reconstructed studio of the renowned sculptor, Ferenc Medgyessy. Among his famous works include the Standing Woman in Debrecen. The studio is a must-visit for all ages especially for art enthusiasts because it features Medgyessy’s statues, drawings, voice archives, and photos. Be inspired by a well-organized exhibition and take a glimpse into the life of an artist that has shaped Debrecen’s 20th-century art culture.

Ferenc Medgyessy Memorial Museum

Address: Debrecen, Péterfia u. 28, 4026 Hungary

Website: Ferenc Medgyessy Memorial Museumn

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)

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16. Check out the exotic animals at Debrecen Zoo Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Köszöntsd fel gyermeknap alkalmából legifjabb lakónkat! Lámáink kitűnően érzik magukat a Nagyerdő fái alatt, amit...

Posted by Zoo Debrecen on Friday, May 27, 2022

Have a relaxing getaway to Debrecen’s Zoo Park where the whole family can enjoy interacting with animals. Spot Himalayan bears, red pandas, lemurs, and giraffes, among others. They also have an aquarium and a walk-through enclosure where you will find the ever graceful flamingos. The zoo is not grand, but for its affordable price, it is definitely worth visiting, especially because it is usually not crowded. Come in groups to enjoy discounted rates while students automatically get a discount. The park is also home to an amusement park and botanic gardens so bring your whole gang and enjoy the company of nature and friendly, happy animals.

Debrecen Zoo and Amusement Park

Address: Debrecen, Ady Endre u. 1., 4032 Hungary

Website: Debrecen Zoo and Amusement Park

Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)

Price: from 9 USD

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17. View the masterpieces at László Holló Memorial Museum

Holló László mellszobra, Debrecen, 2013. november 22. 077
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Kossuthzsuzsa used under CC BY-SA 3.0

László Holló is a renowned local painter with a surrealist style as seen in his dramatic, expressive, and sometimes impulsive brush-works. Besides seeing samples of his works, guests can also take a glimpse into his personal life with several documents and personal references. László Holló received several awards including the Kossuth prize, cementing his reputation as one of Hungary’s most iconic artists of his time.

László Holló Memorial Museum

Address: 4031, Debrecen Holló László sétány 8.

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 0.34 USD

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18. Admire the architecture of Debrecen Cathedral

StAnnaDebrecenFotoThalerTamas
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Thaler Tamas used under CC BY-SA 3.0

One of Debrecen’s pride, St. Anne Cathedral is an iconic landmark that features double belfry or towers. Its imposing architecture can be seen even from afar but going inside will make one appreciate the intricate details and ornaments. The original church tower was once damaged by fire in 1834, but it has since been renovated with the addition of a wide staircase as well as the statues of St. Emeric of Hungary, St. Stephen and the Virgin and Child Jesus. If you’re passionate about architecture or simply want to know more about Debrecen through its major landmarks, St. Anne is a beautiful masterpiece that needs to be appreciated up close.

St. Anne’s Cathedral

Address: Debrecen, Szent Anna u. 15, 4024 Hungary

Website: St. Anne’s Cathedral

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19. Marvel at the White Rose of the Revolution

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Standing in front of the University Reformed Church is the highly intriguing marble sculpture aptly named “The White Rose of the Revolution”. This iconic art was made by Miklós Melocco and it is a significant symbol to remember the 1956 revolution as well as the heroes behind it. During your visit to the Reformed Church, make sure to make a halt and marvel at the beauty of this sculpture, staring deep into the story behind its unquestionable aesthetics.

White Rose of the Revolution

Address: Egyetem tér 1Debrecen, 4032 Hungary

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20. Watch a performance at Csokonai Theater

Csokonai Theatre
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user József Rozsnyai used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Even if you’re not yet a fan of plays and acts, visiting Csokonai Theater will most definitely make you one. The theater itself is beautiful from the inside to the outside, thanks to a grand renovation. Here in the oldest and largest theater in Debrecen, you can watch theatrical performances worthy of standing ovations, that will make you crave for more. After enjoying the play, you can chill at their in-house pub or participate in other culture-centered events and exhibitions.

Csokonai Theater

Address: Debrecen, Kossuth u. 10, 4024 Hungary

Website: Csokonai Theater

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21. Attend an art workshop at Tanner’s House

Castlemaine. In Buda House. Incised Australian pottery vase by Gladys Kelly. Produced 1939.
Source: Photo by user denisbin used under CC BY-ND 2.0

Debrecen’s culture can also be reflected in the manufacturing industries that have shaped it over thousands of years. Tanner’s House of Artisans features works of the real pros from each region. These crafts include dressmaking, “szűrrátétes” or the art of making traditional Hungarian felt cloaks, pottery, and many others. If it’s not enough to learn, you can have a visual workshop suitable for adults and children where you will be able to learn more about the practical aspects of each trade or craft.

Tanner’s House

Address: 4024 Debrecen, Nagy Gál István utca 6

Website: Tanner’s House

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 2pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

Price: 1 USD

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22. Check out the iconic Nagyerdei Water Tower

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

A bit out of town but definitely worth visiting: climbing the Nagyerdei Water Tower will make you brave a lot of stairs but it will all be worth it, especially since it has been renovated to create more functional and social spaces. Come at night and enjoy the views from the observation deck. The ambiance of the cafe is also remarkable and if you prefer, you can also grab a beer at the bar. The whole experience is a tranquil take on the usual nightlife that we are usually accustomed to. Because the tower is located inside a park, you can, therefore, expect a pleasant and well-spent evening.

Nagyerdei Water Tower

Address: Pallagi ut 7., Debrecen 4032, Hungary

Price: 2 USD

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23. Dine at Csokonai Étterem

Selat
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Danangtrihartanto used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Csokonai Étterem is a top-rated restaurant in the whole of Debrecen, thanks to its friendly staff, pleasant atmosphere, and of course, drool-worthy menu items. Try their original unsalted butter soup, savor the highly recommended beef tartare, and drown in a wide selection of drinks. They serve other tasteful European dishes and of course, traditional Hungarian specialties. Dine here after watching a play at Csokonai Theater - both landmarks are close to each other. Discover and enjoy elegant tastes at reasonable rates, together with your family or loved ones, for a more memorable and true European holiday.

Csokonai Étterem

Address: Debrecen, Kossuth u. 21, 4024 Hungary

Website: Csokonai Étterem

Opening hours: 12pm - 11pm (daily)

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24. See the Statue of Lajos Kossuth

Statue of Lajos Kossuth
Source: Pixabay

If you’re wondering where to take a picture that’s proof of your visit to Debrecen, taking one with the statues of Lajos Kossuth as the backdrop is a 100% evidence. He is the great Hungarian leader, after all. After taking your gram-worthy shots, you can relax and enjoy a nice cup of coffee or perhaps eat ice cream. It’s a great place to just chill or people watch since the statues are located in Kossuth Square and just in front of Debrecen church - a site which is already a part of the locals’ daily lives.

Statue of Lajos Kossuth

Address: Debrecen, 4026 Hungary

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25. Go on a shopping spree at Debrecen Plaza

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Szeretsz kipihentem ébredni? Ehhez nem kell mást tenned, mint időben lefeküdni és ortopédiailag megfelelő matracot...

Posted by Debrecen Plaza on Tuesday, February 15, 2022

Shop for souvenirs at Debrecen Plaza or just pop by if you want to see the local shopping scene. The plaza features over 50 stores as well as several other experiences and facilities such as a movie theater, pharmacies, a food center, a bowling club, and even a grand casino. So if you need a break from your cultural tours or you want to bring your kids for entertainment, perhaps reward yourself with a well-deserved shopping spree; head on to Debrecen plaza to have some fun!

Debrecen Plaza

Address: Debrecen, Péterfia u. 18, 4026 Hungary

Website: Debrecen Plaza

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 8pm; Sun: 10am - 7pm

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26. Enjoy drinks at Bar Mokka

Bar
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Sophiecharra1 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Whether you’re craving for caffeine to start your day or need a bit of alcohol after a long day, Bar Mokka offers some of the best drinks in a clean and warm ambiance. While there are a lot of bars lined up along its street, Bar Mokkha stands out because it is well patronized by both locals and tourists. Reviews reveal that the staff offers great service and great cocktails. You can even request for an original mix! So chill the night (or day) away and enjoy great drinks, warm company, good music, and commendable hospitality at Bar Mokka!

Bar Mokka

Address: Debrecen, a, Hal köz 3, 4025 Hungary

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 12am; Fri - Sat: 10am - 4am; Sun: 10am - 11pm

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27. Dance the night away at Chicago Club

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Chicagoclub Debrecen on Monday, October 14, 2019

Free up one Saturday and come at Chicago Club to dance all night long! It’s one of the best ways to experience the local nightlife - entertainers, hip and modern interiors, live music and of course, DJ parties are just some of the exciting happenings here. So put on your heels or show up in your most comfortable tees then gather some friends for a night to remember here at Debrecen!

Chicago Club

Address: Debrecen, Piac u. 22, 4024 Hungary

Opening hours: Sat: 11pm - 4:30am (closed from Sun - Fri)

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28. Sample cocktails at The Wall Debrecen

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Adott egy csúcsminőségű gin, amely új utakat keres a 21. századi ginélmény elmélyítéséhez. A Tanqueray a...

Posted by The Wall on Friday, May 27, 2022

Visit Debrecen’s most famous hangout, especially at night, and enjoy creative cocktails paired with good food. The Wall Debrecen is also famous for its hip and fun atmosphere, perfect for parties! Try out the drinks offered and see why it’s a popular local hangout. For tourists, visiting The Wall is a great way to end the day after long hours of exploring the city.

The Wall Debrecen

Address: Debrecen, Pesti u. 73, 4026 Hungary

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 7am - 1am; Fri - Sat: 7am - 4am; Sunday: 4pm - 11pm

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Travel like a local in Debrecen, Hungary

Debrecen, Hungary
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Michal Gorski used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Being the second-largest city in Hungary, it’s difficult to explore Debrecen without a comprehensive and detailed travel itinerary, especially if you only have limited time. With this list of the best things to do in Debrecen, Hungary, you will be able to experience the warm and inviting culture as well as the vibrant nightlife of this city, just like a local.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Andreia developed an affinity for words from an early age. Firmly convinced that individuals are shaped by the stories they live and the journeys they undertake, she aspires to embark on as many...Read more

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