Debrecen, Hungary

Debrecen is the second largest city in Hungary, located in the Eastern part of the country. This vibrant city is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture, and bustling markets. It’s also home to several museums and theatres, making it a perfect destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

Trip to Debrecen, Hungary

Day 1: Arrival and City Tour

After arriving in Debrecen and checking into your hotel, you can start exploring the city on foot. Begin with a visit to the Great Reformed Church, which is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of Hungarian Protestantism. Next, head to the Déri Museum and Art Nouveau-inspired Botanical Garden, which houses a vibrant collection of over 160,000 specimens. The architectural design of this building itself is a landmark in the city. For dinner, try a few local dishes at one of Debrecen’s restaurants. The Hortobágyi palacsinta dish is a delicacy that is a must-try, filled with roasted chicken and served with sour cream.

Day 2: Debrecen Zoo and Botanic gardens

On the second day of your trip, visit Debrecen Zoo and Botanical Gardens. With over 180 species of animals displayed in a beautiful natural environment, the zoo is a great place to spend a relaxing day with family or friends. There are many interactive exhibits, as well as a petting zoo with animals such as kid goats and rabbits. The Botanical Garden is located just next door to the zoo, where you can spend the afternoon strolling through the beautiful plants, flowers and bonsai gardens.

Day 3: Aquaticum Thermal and Wellness Baths

Spend a relaxing day right in the heart of Debrecen by visiting the Aquaticum Thermal and Wellness Baths. The large indoor and outdoor pools are fed by natural springs, providing a relaxing atmosphere for your time here. It has saunas, steam rooms, jacuzzis, and plenty of other spa treatments to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul.

Day 4: Hortobágy National Park

Take a day trip to the beautiful Hortobágy National Park, which is the largest continuously preserved natural area in Hungary. This vast wilderness area includes rare animals and plants, including wild horses, which you can see at the popular Horse Farm and Ranch. Horse riding experiences are available for visitors to see the natural beauty of the park from another perspective.

Day 5: Visit Békésszentandrás

Travel to Békésszentandrás, a historic town located around 30 minutes by car from Debrecen. Visit the World War II memorial housed in a Russian Orthodox Church, that honors Hungarian soldiers who gave themselves up for their country, and then head to the popular Town Lake which has a leisure-track around it with workout areas, fishing facilities and other attractions.

Day 6: Visit the Great Forest park

Discover the Great Forest park located in the center of Debrecen for some recreation, sunbathing and sports activities. The park offers a 50-hectare green space with several attractions, including the Nagyerdei Water Tower and Educational Trail that will give you an insight into the history of Debrecen and the Great Forest. Then visit the Big Forest Adventure Park, which houses a high ropes course for kids and teenagers alike. You can also admire the beautiful flower gardens in summertime and visit the small petting zoo in the area.

Day 7: Shopping spree at the Debrecen plazza

For your last day in Debrecen, head to the Debrecen plaza shopping center. With over a hundred shops, cafes, restaurants and entertainment options, it is the perfect place to buy souvenirs for your loved ones back home. The plaza also has several entertainment options for kids and adults alike, such as cinema, bowling and pool tables. You can also indulge in some Hungarian delicacies such as the Spiced paprika that Debrecen is known for and take in your final memories of Hungarian culture.

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