The “birthplace of Hungary,” Esztergom, is a historically significant town and former capital of the country on the bank of the Danube River. Just a short distance from Budapest, it’s a popular destination for a day trip, as there is just enough to see without needing another day. This is great for slow travelers, solo travelers, and couples looking for a respite from the city’s busyness.

How to Get Here

We recommend taking a direct train from Budapest-Nyugati Station to get here. Trains usually depart every hour throughout the day. It’s easy to purchase a ticket either online through Rail Europe or at the station ticket machines. Buses are the next best alternative, as either service will take a minimum of one hour to get to the destination.

Other day trip tour groups may include Esztergom in the itinerary, but it will only be a quick stop. You won’t have much time to explore and relax, which is what you want to do here.

Things to Do in Esztergom

Esztergom Basilica

Home to the Roman Catholic Church in Hungary, here you have one of the town’s most popular attractions and symbols. It’s the largest church in Hungary and the third largest in Europe. You will be able to see the dome from almost anywhere in Esztergom.

Visitors can enter various parts of the basilica, like the main sanctuary and the dome, for free. However, they must purchase a separate ticket to enter the crypt. Outside the basilica, local vendors sell souvenirs, beer, and various arts and crafts.

Christian Museum

This museum is filled with religious artworks. There are sculptures, paintings, ceramics, and metalworks. They not only include native Hungarian but also Italian, Dutch, and German artists. It’s quiet and not very crowded most days.

You can take a guided tour or explore the exhibitions at your own pace. It’s best for history buffs and art lovers who want to view more medieval Christian themes.

Mária Valéria Bridge

You’d be surprised to discover you can cross over this bridge on the Danube River and into Slovakia because the bridge connects Esztergom to the Slovak town of Štúrovo. Take a walk on the bridge pathway and grab a coffee at one of the cafes on the Slovakia side before coming back over. Check one more country off your visited countries list.

Esztergom Castle Museum

This town was the capital of Hungary from the 10th to 13th centuries. Historical information shows that the first King of Hungary, St. Stephen, was born and crowned here. The former royal palace remains within the castle walls atop the hill next to the basilica. You can choose to get a tour guide or a simple information packet and explore independently.

You can learn about medieval Hungarian life here as you explore the various rooms and artifact exhibits, from Roman ruins below the foundation to more up-to-date stone pieces and medieval artifacts. Most of the exhibit text placards are in Hungarian with very few English translations, so request audio. Walk the castle grounds, including up the tower, for panoramic views of the town.

Szechenyi Square

The original market square, Szechenyi, is in the heart of Esztergom. As you relax, you can surround yourself with old, colorful buildings and a public fountain. The square is also where many of the restaurants and cafes are located, so it’s the place where you should stop and grab a bite to eat. Take your time, as the whole atmosphere is very leisurely. It’s also the kind of place where you can get traditional Hungarian cuisine.

Conclusion

The slow pace here will definitely recharge you. The friendly locals want you to slow down and enjoy the moments you are in before heading back to the big city of Budapest. Take a beat and let it all soak in with Esztergom’s scenic views and culture.