Top 26 Things To Do In Szeged, Hungary

1. Visit exotic animals at Szeged Zoo

Take a day to leisurely stroll through Szeged Zoo and admire the animals. It’s located just 2.5 km (1.6 m) from the city’s center, but that in no way takes away from the authenticity of the habitats on the zoo’s large property. Admire your typical favorites, such as giraffes and seals, but also make sure you bring your camera to take photographs of the unique wolverines and fossa, as well as the majestic Asian elephants which joined the zoo family recently in May 2018!

Szeged Zoo

Address: Szeged, Cserepes sor 47, 6725 Hungary

Website: Szeged Zoo

Opening hours: 9am (daily, closing time varies per month)

Price: 2.67 USD

2. Admire the breathtaking spires of the Votive Church of Szeged

Noted for its twin spires which rise high into the sky above Szeged, the Votive Church stands on Dóm square beside the Dömötör tower. It is the fourth largest church in Hungary. Construction of the majestic church began in 1913 but remained incomplete until 1930 because of WWI. Now it operates as an active Catholic church, but guests are welcome to walk its hallowed halls and admire the beautiful artwork and brick architecture.

Votive Church of Szeged

Address: Szeged, Dóm tér 15, 6720 Hungary

Website: Votive Church of Szeged

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 6:30am - 7pm; Sun: 7:30am - 7pm

3. Explore the world of natural history at Móra Ferenc Museum

Although a museum of natural history, Móra Ferenc Museum has many exhibits educating not only on Szeged itself, but also on a more global scale. Walk through the exhibit titled “We Only Have One Earth” to educate yourself on the history of our planet from its beginning to now; “The Famous Town of Szeged” allows visitors to learn peculiarities of folk life in Szeged, from bullrush weaving to architecture; and of course you’ll want to set aside some time to stroll through the gold exhibit where you’ll be able to gaze at all kinds of treasures!

Móra Ferenc Museum

Address: Szeged, Roosevelt tér 1-3, 6720 Hungary

Website: Móra Ferenc Museum

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 4.80 USD

4. Take a spa day at Anna Thermal Baths

Hungary is known for their thermal baths and Szeged is no exception to this trend. The luxurious Anna Thermal Baths are an ideal stop for anyone after a long day of traveling or a strenuous day of walking. Take a load off and slip into the bubbling, steaming water to soothe your body and your soul! Pick from a menu of massages, baths, saunas, mud treatments, and more to complete your spa day!

Anna Thermal Baths

Address: Szeged, Tisza Lajos krt. 24, 6720 Hungary

Website: Anna Thermal Baths

Opening hours: (Thermal) Mon - Fri: 6am - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 6am - 8pm; (Wellness) Mon - Fri: 12pm - 8pm; Sat - Sun: 6am - 8pm

Price: 6.91 USD

5. Ride the giant waterslides at Sunshine Aquapolis Szeged

This is one for the whole family! Sunshine Aquapolis is a water-themed amusement park where you’ll easily be able to spend an entire day slipping and sliding through the 13 different slides! Go for a day to escape the heat or check out their online calendar to attend one of their exciting events! And if you need a quieter day away from the excitement of the “beach,” check out their wellness rooms where you’ll be able to experience all the services of the on-site spa!

Sunshine Aquapolis Szeged

Address: Szeged, Szent-Györgyi Albert u. 2, 6726 Hungary

Website: Sunshine Aquapolis Szeged

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

Price: 13.82 - 19.52 USD

6. See the eclectic Art Nouveau architecture of Szeged Synagogue

The Szeged Synagogue is one of the largest in Hungary, second to the Dohány Street Synagogue in Budapest, and fourth largest in the world, making it a popular spot for concerts, organ recitals, and curious tourists alike. Inside, you will find the stunning architecture of Lipót Baumhorn who made a name for himself by blending Art Nouveau and Historicist styles to give the synagogue its truly unique appearance. For a thorough tour of the synagogue, make sure to visit the website for important booking information!

Szeged Synagogue

Address: Szeged, Jósika u. 10, 6722 Hungary

Website: Szeged Synagogue

Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 9am - 12pm, 1pm - 5pm (closed on Sat)

Price: 4.15 USD

7. Get close to nature at the tranquil Szeged Botanic Garden

The Szeged Botanic Gardens provide a lush backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a unique photoshoot. Wander the grounds and gaze at the various flowers and plants, most of which are native to Hungary. Attend one of their educational days to learn about conservation programs. Or if you’re lucky enough to visit in the spring, be enchanted by the dewy blossoms and listen to the birds’ songs as they flit from tree to tree!

Szeged Botanic Garden

Address: Szeged, Lövölde út 42, 6726 Hungary

Website: Szeged Botanic Garden

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 3.28 USD

8. See the contemporary art at Regionális Összművészeti Központ

Contemporary art has intrigued viewers for years in its unique interpretations of the world around us, and the art displayed at Regionális is no exception. As you wander through the exhibits, perhaps you will gain a new perspective gazing at the abstract paintings of Csaba Balogh. Admire the photography of Bäck Manci and experience for yourself just why these photographs are iconic. And if you brought the kids along, make sure to check the schedule for hands-on art events they will love!

Regionális Összművészeti Központ

Address: Szeged, Magyar Ede tér 2, 6720 Hungary

Website: Regionális Összművészeti Központ

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 1.73 USD

9. Go birdwatching along lovely Lake Fehér

The giant Lake Fehér is a gorgeous place to relax and perhaps bring a picnic lunch to enjoy along the shores. It is part of the Kiskunság National Park and spans an area of 14 kilometers (8.7 miles), making it one of the largest lakes in Hungary. The saltwater lake is divided into fishing ponds, and is home to nearly 300 various species of birds, making it a veritable paradise for wildlife. You’ll want to bring your camera in the likely chance of seeing a group of migrating cranes or a gull colony!

Lake Fehér

Website: Lake Fehér

10. Take pictures with the sculptures in vibrant Szechenyi Square

Szechenyi Square is located between the City Hall and the River Tisza and exudes quite a peaceful vibe for being right in the center of the city. The avenues and pathways throughout are lined with trees under which sit park benches perfect for enjoying a coffee or people-watching. Scattered about the square are various statues of famous Hungarians who played an important role in Szeged’s history. And if you’re so lucky enough to be in the town during a festival in the square, be sure to attend as they are a visitor favorite!

Szechenyi Square

Address: Szeged, Széchenyi tér 3, 6720 Hungary

Website: Szechenyi Square

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

11. Climb to the top of Dömötör Tower, Szeged's oldest building

The Dömötör Tower stands in front of the Votive Church and is one of the oldest buildings in Szeged. Years ago it was used as a baptismal chapel, but having gone under restorative projects, it now operates as a part of the museum detailing the history still held within its walls. Climb the three stories of the tower and gaze out one of the 48 windows for one of the best views of the city!

Dömötör Tower

Address: Szeged, Dóm tér, 6720 Hungary

Website: Dömötör Tower

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)

12. Sample spiced salami at Pick Salami and Szeged Paprika Museum (3.39 USD)

This museum is a must for anyone in love with food and interested in some history! Located in the original salami factory itself, guests are given an authentic experience of what goes in to harvesting the paprika –taking place every September– and what ingredients are used in spicing the salami! As a visitor you will learn the importance of both paprika and salami to Hungarian traditions, the steps of production in creating the tasty items, and, of course, have the chance to sample all varieties of these iconic foods!

Pick Salami and Szeged Paprika Museum

Address: Szeged, Felső Tisza-Part 10, 6721 Hungary

Website:

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Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 3pm - 6pm (closed from Mon - Sun)

Price: 3.39 USD

13. Pay tribute to fallen WWI soldiers at the majestic Heroes' Gate

Heroes’ Gate can be easily missed as you travel through the city but it’s one you’ll want to keep your eye out for. This painted archway is located in the Arad Martyrs Square and details war-themed frescos painted by Vilmos Aba-Novák. Guests have called the experience sobering, as on the walls are lists of names of the fallen Hungarian soldiers who bravely fought and died for their country in WWI.

Heroes' Gate

Address: Szeged, Boldogasszony sugárút, 6725 Hungary

Website: Heroes' Gate

14. Wander beneath the charming Bridge of Sighs

Not to be confused with a bridge in Venice sharing the same name, Szeged’s Bridge of Sighs is smaller in size but still quite architecturally beautiful. It was constructed in 1883 as a connection between City Hall and the Labor House in the town center. Visitors are not permitted to walk through the Bridge but it’s definitely worth passing by during your time in Szeged’s downtown!

Bridge of Sighs

Address: Szeged, Széchenyi tér 10., 6720 Hungary

15. Get a bird's eye view of Szeged atop the Víztorony water tower

Víztorony Water Tower, or in English, St. Stephen’s Water Tower, is built almost entirely out of concrete and was quite the engineering masterpiece at the time of its construction in the early 1900s. Situated in the middle of St. Stephen’s square, it stands as yet another one among the architectural phenomena within Szeged and, once you’ve ascended the stairs past the balcony and into the viewing tower, offers its guests a breathtaking view of the city and its surrounding area.

Víztorony water tower

Address: Szeged, Szent István tér, 6721 Hungary

Website: Víztorony water tower

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 9am - 1pm (closed on Sun)

Price: 2.11 USD

16. Enjoy a quiet stroll in Elisabeth Park

Editor’s note: There’s no photo available at the time of writing

Elisabeth Park continues to charm its visitors with its gorgeous oaks and maples and lush lawns. Sprawling over a generous 15 hectares (37 acres), you will find plenty of space to walk, cycle, or even skate. Situated at the edge of the park’s grounds is the Saint Elisabeth church and nearby sits a sparkling fountain by whose waters you can recline and enjoy the fresh air. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to walk or are in the mood to attend on of the many festivals held here, Elisabeth Park is guaranteed to provide you with just the environment you seek.

Elisabeth Park

Address: Szeged, Népkert sor, 6726 Hungary

Website: Elisabeth Park

17. Visit the remains of an ancient castle at Szegedi Vár

Szegedi Vár, although standing mostly in ruins, still remains one of the pieces of history which connects modern day Szeged to its ancient roots in medieval times and even earlier. According to research and stone carvings uncovered during excavations in recent years, parts of the Gothic church which stood in the castle’s courtyard can be seen in the museum. Along with this, the Maria Theresa Gate which was left untouched can be seen as well as a tribute to the history still being excavated on these grounds.

Szegedi Vár

Address: Szeged, Stefánia 15, 6720 Hungary

Website: Szegedi Vár

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 4.81 USD

18. Get a taste of Hungarian theatre at the National Theatre of Szeged

After a busy day of sightseeing, treat yourself to some entertainment at the National Theatre of Szeged. The highly renowned theatre company is sure to enchant you with their skill and repertoire. This particular theatre gains its recognition from its bold and bright operas and musicals, while also showing drama and ballet performances of the highest caliber. Be sure to check the website for their current season of shows and performance times because this is one spectacle you won’t want to miss.

National Theatre of Szeged

Address: Szeged, Vaszy Viktor tér 1, 6720 Hungary

Website: National Theatre of Szeged

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 12pm (closed on Sun)

19. Relax by the fountain in Dugonics Square

Szeged has a reputation for its elegant squares and Dugonics Square is hardly an exception. Situated right in front of the university building, it is a restful place to grab a cup of coffee and sit on a bench to watch the people meandering by. And in the evening time, when the musicians come out in the nearby restaurants, the plaza is filled with their music and the peaceful noises of the city going to sleep. So whether you’re sitting in one of its outlying restaurants, or tossing pennies into the fountain, Dugonics Square is a must-see on your Szeged itinerary.

Dugonics Square

Address: Dugonics ter, Szeged 6720, Hungary

20. Tour a fascinating old windmill at Dorozsmai Szélmalom Szeged-Kiskundorozsma

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This old windmill bears an awful lot of history within its circular walls. Built in 1821, the original windmill ended up collapsing in 1970 due to the severe damage it sustained when the city flooded. However, it was restored under special circumstances from 1972 to 1973 and remains as a monument and small museum of the history of windmill farming.

Dorozsmai Szélmalom Szeged-Kiskundorozsma

Address: Szeged, Szélmalom utca 2/a, 6791 Hungary

Website: Dorozsmai Szélmalom Szeged-Kiskundorozsma

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 2pm - 6pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 0.52 USD

21. Star gaze at Szeged Observatory

The unique experience of visiting an observatory is not one you’ll want to miss! The Szeged Observatory offers a wide variety of tours and experiences in order to better educate its visitors about the profound knowledge one can gain from observing the night sky. Book the constellation tour and be guided in an in-depth observation of the constellations. Or, get a closer look at galaxies, nebula, and star clusters through a lesson on telescopes to really get in touch with your inner astronomer!

Szeged Observatory

Address: Szeged, Kertész u. 3, 6726 Hungary

Website: Szeged Observatory

Opening hours: Fri: 7pm - 10pm (closed from Sat - Thu)

Price: 3.46 USD

22. Feast on traditional fish stew at Jobb Mint Otthon Kisvendéglő

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This cozy fisherman’s inn offers you the best of Hungarian seafood in its peaceful, lakeside environment. Peruse the menu for your favorite choice of seafood, or opt for something new and traditionally Hungarian, such as the carp paprika. If you are able to visit the restaurant during the warmer months, opt to sit on the patio by the water so you can sip on a cool glass of wine and listen to the water gentle lapping the nearby shore.

Jobb Mint Otthon Kisvendéglő

Address: Szeged, Napos út 5/b, 6722 Hungary

Website: Jobb Mint Otthon Kisvendéglő

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm

23. Get a little pot of paprika from Hazavarázs Ajándékbolt SZEGED Souvenir

You have to bring something home from Hungary, because if you don’t, did it really happen? Well, Hazavarázs Ajándékbolt SZEGED Souvenir has you covered! Pick from candles and t-shirts, pots of paprika, intricately painted keepsake boxes, embroidered shoes, and even neck-pillows emblazoned with the Hungarian flag for the trip home! You’ll find everything you need here to document and remember your trip!

Hazavarázs Ajándékbolt SZEGED Souvenir

Address: Szeged, Feketesas u. 17, 6720 Hungary

Website: Hazavarázs Ajándékbolt SZEGED Souvenir

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5:30pm; Sat: 10am - 1pm (closed on Sun)

24. Dine on goulash with an international twist at Oldies

Oldies has so many incredible choices on their menu that if you are able to make a selection of one of their beautifully crafted cocktails, you’ll find yourself in a whole new dilemma of picking something off the menu! Which means you’ll just have to come back again and again to try it all! From pork-tenderloin in herb butter, to sun-dried tomato and asparagus risotto, to paprika seasoned catfish, there is no wrong choice to be had. Make sure to try the Hungarian specialty, goulash, before leaving Szeged.

Oldies

Address: Szeged, Oroszlán u. 6, 6720 Hungary

Website: Oldies

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

25. Try the craft beers at Napfény Műterem bar

You’ll want to choose Napfény Műterem for one of your meals in Szeged. Try their deliciously juicy burgers and steaks, not to mention the wide assortment of beers on the menu. The waiters are completely knowledgable of what they have on tap and are more than happy to help you pair one of the local brews with your dinner selection. Located right in the heart of downtown, this cozy restaurant is a must for the beer-lovers!

Napfény Műterem

Address: Szeged, Széchenyi tér 2, 6720 Hungary

Website: Napfény Műterem

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 2pm - 11pm; Fri: 2pm - 1am; Sat: 12pm - 1am; Sun: 12pm - 11pm

26. Go on a shopping spree at Arkad Szeged

Who doesn’t enjoy a little afternoon of treating yourself? Well, the Arkad Szeged mall has you covered with its wide assortment of shops and boutiques. Enjoy browsing through the European-style stores and maybe pick up a few things for the family and friends back home, as well as a little something for yourself by which to remember your trip! And once you’ve shopped to your heart’s content, pop into the Spar grocery for a little treat to munch on, on your way home.

Arkad Szeged

Address: Szeged, Londoni krt. 3, 6724 Hungary

Website: Arkad Szeged

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 8pm; Sun: 10am - 6pm

The City of Sunshine

Szeged, although historically a victim of bombings and tragic flooding, has nevertheless taken every measure to make the city as magical and beautiful as ever. From lush gardens to renovated buildings to well-kept squares, there is a whole lot of majesty to be found here!