8 Best Things To Do In Szombathely, Hungary

1. Iseum

This is one of the most reliable Roman shrines dedicated to the Isis God. The museum is fantastic with a huge collection of artifacts recovered from excavations and interesting remains of the Roman times. There are Shabtis, Egyptian gods, and other fascinating artifacts from more than 2,000 years ago. The displayed items are well organized in thematic sections covering the Roman history of Szombathely, Isis Shrine, as well as an illustrative explanation of the life and ways of the Roman society, and its religion.

The outside area surrounded by the U-shaped exhibition building is quite impressive. This museum will provide a very useful history lesson for kids.

Iseum

Address: Szombathely, Rakoczi Ferenc u. 6-8, 9700, Hungary

2. Csonakazo-to

This is a nice place for a walk around the lake in a calm atmosphere. There is a small playground for kids and wooden chairs for visitors to relax and enjoy the calm atmosphere and scenic beauty of the place. Fishing too can be enjoyed at specially designed spots. A boating facility is also there to explore the landscape via water. A gym is there in the park and visitors can use it for free.

Csonakazo-to

Website: Csonakazo-to (in Hungarian)

3. Szombathely Synagogue

Szombathely Synagogue is a beautiful church with original architecture located close to the Art Gallery of Szombathely and the Iseum. The synagogue is at its best during the Savaria Roman carnival in August, when the streets around it are full of people. The spiritual atmosphere of the place offers an opportunity to pray and meditate in the soothing quietness of Szombathely.

Szombathely Synagogue

Address: Szombathely, II. Rákóczi Ferenc utca 3., 9700, Hungary

4. Tofurdo and Skating-rink

These two premises offer lots of fun during summer and winter. Tofurdo, (meaning Lake Bath) situated upon a huge parkland area near the Csonakazo Lake offers pools for adults and children. Four huge slides are there and a toy-realm is built where kids can conquer a wooden castle and become lost in fantasies. The adjacent skating rink is there with a pitch for cold winters. Special themed days like Santa Claus Day (which is the 5th of December in Hungary) and carnivals are also held there.

Tofurdo and Skating-rink

Address: Kenderesi Street 2, Szombathely, Hungary

5. Savaria Museum

It is a wonderful place with lots of information and a presentation about the heritage of this town. The museum displays the rich colorful past of the Roman era. The whole place is vibrant and alive with attractions and things to do and see.

Savaria Museum

Address: Szombathely, Kisfaludy Sándor utca 9., 9700 Hungary

Website: Savaria Museum

6. Restaurants and bars

Szombathely offers many great restaurants and cozy, homey places such as Kispityer Halaszcsarda, Vadasz Restaurant, Gekko Pub, and Black Cab Pub and Restaurant to have a sumptuous meal or a fun night out. The area is full of quality food with restaurants increasingly using produce from local farmers to offer delicious dishes.

7. Savaria Carnival and Savaria Legio Store-exhibition

Owing to its Roman legacy, the Roman carnival is celebrated with zest and fervor in the city. This mega event takes place at the end of August for four to five days. Lots of thematic program and craft activities are organized under the warmth of summer sunbeams. For those who miss this special event in August, the store-exhibition which displays the war tools of Legio XV reminds one of the presence of Romans.

Savaria Carnival and Savaria Legio Store-exhibition

Address: Arena Street 8, Szombathely, Hungary

8. Arboretum and parks

The arboretum is a lovely spot; a huge area covered with trees, lakes, and streams. Herons, egrets, and passerines are inhabitants of this place - this location is a must-visit for birdwatchers.

Szombathely has a number of lovely parks such as Gayer Park, Brenner-Park, Pelikan Park, Saaghy Park and the beautiful, big arboretum. You can wander around on stony paths and follow the rivulets that slice through the city. There are benches and hidden spots for a romantic walk and playgrounds for children to let off some steam.

Arboretum

Address: Szent Imre Herceg Street 102, Szombathely, Hungary

Website: Arboretum

The Queen of the West

Szombathely will take you back to the Roman era with remnants of the Roman times in historical museums like the Eolbey House. The numerous attractions, historical landmarks, parks, architectural gems and cultural hotspots are in abundance here and are surely worth a visit on your next vacation.