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Pécs is a beautiful city in southwest Hungary. It is very old and has a long history, starting from Roman times. Many different cultures have lived here, which makes the city special. You can see old Roman ruins, mosques from the Ottoman period, and big churches. The city also has universities, museums, and art galleries. It is a great place for people who love history and culture. Visitors can explore old buildings, try local food, and enjoy the lively streets. Pécs is a wonderful city with something for everyone to enjoy.
History Of Pecs
Photo: Pudelek / Wikimedia Commons
Pecs was first built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD and was called Sopianae. It was an important place for trade and government in the Roman province of Pannonia. Many old Roman buildings, like tombs and mosaics, have been found there. In the Middle Ages, it became a religious and learning centre, and Hungary’s first university was started there in 1367.
Location
Photo: Lestat / Wikimedia Commons
This city is in the southwest of Hungary, near the border with Croatia. It is the fifth biggest city in the country and the largest in Baranya County. The city is at the bottom of the Mecsek Mountains, which gives it beautiful views and a nice climate. It is about 200 kilometres from Budapest and easy to reach from other big cities. It is a great place to stay while exploring southern Hungary, with its pretty countryside, vineyards, and old buildings. Being close to the border, the city has many cultural influences, making it an interesting place to visit.
How To Reach
Photo: Jorge Franganillo / Wikimedia Commons
Reaching Pecs is easy, as the city is well connected to the rest of Hungary and neighbouring countries. Here are the different ways you can travel:
By Air: The nearest major airport is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), located around 220 km away. Visitors can take a direct train, bus, or rental car from the airport.
By Train: The train is one of the most comfortable ways to reach. Direct trains run from Budapest’s Keleti Railway Station, with a journey time of approximately 2.5 hours. Hungarian Railways (MÁV) operates frequent services, providing a scenic and relaxing way to travel.
By Road: Visitors can drive from Budapest to Pécs via the M6 motorway, which takes around 2.5 hours. Buses also operate regularly offering an affordable travel option.
Places To Visit In Pecs
After arriving in Pécs, you’ll find many incredible places to explore. Here are some of the top attractions:
1. Pecs Cathedral
Photo: Takkk / Wikimedia Commons
Pécs Cathedral is a very famous building in the city. It was first built in the 11th century and has been changed many times over the years. The cathedral has different styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque. It has tall towers, beautiful paintings, and detailed carvings. Inside, visitors can see decorated altars and religious art. The cathedral is an important place for worship and a popular tourist spot. Many people visit to admire its beauty and history. It is one of the best places to visit in Pécs, showing the city’s rich past and culture.
Location: Dóm tér 2, 7621 Hungary
Best Time To Visit: March to May, September to November
2. Zsolnay Cultural Quarter
Photo: Mrszantogabor / Wikimedia Commons
The Pécs Zsolnay Cultural Quarter is a special place that celebrates art, history, and culture. It is named after the famous Zsolnay porcelain maker. This area has museums, galleries, and small workshops where people create art. Visitors can learn about Hungarian ceramics, see beautiful artwork, and watch performances at the theatre. It is also a great place to see modern Hungarian art while learning about the city’s history. The quarter is perfect for those who enjoy creativity and want to explore the artistic traditions of Pécs in a fun and interesting way.
Location: Pécs, Felsővámház u. 52, 7626 Hungary
Best Time To Visit: March to May, September to November
3. Early Christian Necropolis
Photo: Lestat / Wikimedia Commons
Early Christian Necropolis is a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the most important historical places in Pécs. This old burial place is from the 4th century when it was a Roman city called Sopianae. The site has underground tombs with well-kept paintings and detailed carvings that show how early Christians lived. It is an interesting place for people who love history. The tombs help us learn about the city’s past and Roman history. Visiting this site gives a chance to see how people in ancient times buried their loved ones and decorated their graves.
Location: Northwestern part, Hungary, Europe
Best Time To Visit: March to May & September to November
Duration Of Stay: 1 – 2 hours
4. National Theatre Of Pécs
Photo: Thaler Tamas / Wikimedia Commons
The National Theatre of Pécs is an important cultural venue with a long history of hosting performances. Since its establishment in the 19th century, it has been a key place for theatre, opera, and concerts, attracting local and international artists. The building has been carefully preserved and updated to maintain its classic design while improving the experience for visitors. It offers various performances, from traditional plays to modern productions, ensuring something for all theatre lovers. The theatre plays a central role in the city’s cultural life, providing entertainment and artistic expression for audiences of all ages.
Location: Színház tér 1, Pécs, Hungary
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
5. University Of Pécs
Photo: Molnár Bence / Wikimedia Commons
The University of Pécs is a famous place to visit in Pécs, known for its long history and cultural importance. It was founded in 1367 and is the oldest university in Hungary and an important landmark. It attracts visitors not only for its academic excellence but also for its impressive architecture and cultural significance. The campus blends historic buildings with modern designs, reflecting centuries of education and development. Tourists can explore its courtyards, libraries, and museums, offering insight into its long history. The university also hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and performances, making it a vibrant place beyond education.
Location: Vasvári Pál utca 4, Hungary
Duration Of Stay: 1 – 2 hours
Where To Stay
Photo: ManuelaJaeger / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
There are many good places to stay in Pécs, from expensive hotels to cheap hostels. Some of the best hotels are Hotel Palatinus, an old and beautiful hotel with great service. Corso Hotel Pécs is a modern hotel with nice rooms and good city views. Boutique Hotel Sopianae is a small, stylish hotel close to the city centre. These hotels give visitors a comfortable place to stay while exploring the city.
Where To Eat
Photo: Divily / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
It has many great places to eat, with restaurants serving Hungarian and international food. Blöff Bisztró is a popular place to enjoy tasty Hungarian dishes in a cosy setting. Tuke Wine House is a good choice if you want to try local wines along with traditional food. Eleven Bar & Bistro serves a mix of Hungarian and European meals, offering something for everyone. These restaurants are perfect for enjoying delicious food while exploring the city.
Best Time to Visit
Photo: Pasztilla aka Attila Terbócs / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Pécs is in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons bring festivals and events, creating a lively atmosphere. Summer (July to August) is also a good time, with long days for sightseeing. Winter (December to February) is quieter, offering a peaceful experience with fewer visitors. Spring and autumn are ideal for exploring historic sites and outdoor attractions, while summer is perfect for open-air events and cultural activities.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Anna Spoljar / Unspalsh / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average trip cost to Pécs depends on your budget and travel style. Pécs is an affordable place to visit in Hungary. Tickets to famous places like Pécs Cathedral and the Early Christian Necropolis cost between ₹400 and ₹1,200 per person. If you want a guide to show you around cultural places like the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, it will cost ₹1,600 to ₹4,000. Hotels are also not too expensive. Budget hotels start at ₹2,400 per night, while fancy hotels cost more. Eating out is also cheap, so you can enjoy local food without spending too much. This makes Pécs a great place for travellers
who want to save money.
Tips For Travellers
- Be respectful when visiting religious sites by dressing modestly and maintaining silence.
- Some historical sites, like the Early Christian Necropolis, may have restrictions on flash photography.
- Try Hungarian delicacies at local markets and cafes for an authentic experience.
- Pécs is a pedestrian-friendly city with many charming streets and hidden gems to explore.
- While most places accept cards, some smaller shops and cafés may prefer cash. Having some Hungarian forints can be useful.
Pécs is a beautiful city in Hungary with a rich history, culture, and art. The best time to visit is in spring or autumn when the weather is nice for sightseeing. You can explore old buildings, museums, and lovely streets. It is a perfect place for history lovers. Plan your trip now with TripXL and enjoy the beauty of Pécs.
Cover Photo: Steve Sharp / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
