Sopron: Hungary’s Charming Town With Rich History

An image showing the historic Sopron with old buildings, narrow streets, and a tower.

is a historic city in Hungary, close to the Austrian border. It is known for its old buildings, cultural heritage, and local food. The city has a mix of Roman, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, making it an interesting place to explore. Visitors can see famous landmarks and museums and walk around the old streets. The well-known spots include the Firewatch Tower, Goat Church, and Holy Trinity Statue. Many tourists also take photos at Sopron to capture its unique charm.

Location

Várkerület in Sopron, Hungary, with historic buildings and a well-known street.

Photo: Traumrune / Wikimedia Commons

It is a city in northwest Hungary that is close to Austria. It is about 220 kilometres from Budapest and 60 kilometres from Vienna. Because it is near Austria, the city has some Austrian culture and buildings. This makes it different from other places in Hungary. People can see old and beautiful buildings, walk on pretty streets, and enjoy history. It is a good place for visitors who like peaceful and historic towns. Travelling from Budapest to Sopron can take around 2.5 to 3 hours by car or train.

How To Reach

An image of Vienna International Airport, the nearest airport to Sopron, Hungary.

Photo: Stanislav Doronenko / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

By Air: Sopron doesn’t have an airport. Vienna International Airport in Austria and Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport in Hungary are the nearest international airports. From Vienna Airport, the city is about 60 kilometres away, and from Budapest Airport, it’s approximately 220 kilometres. Upon arrival, you can continue your journey by train or bus.

By Bus: Buses connect the city with various Hungarian cities and neighbouring countries. You can take a bus from Budapest to Sopron, often requiring a transfer to Győr. The total journey takes around 5 hours.

By Rail: The city is well-connected by train. From Vienna, trains run frequently, with a journey time of about 70 minutes. From Budapest, trains depart every four hours, taking approximately 2 hours and 7 minutes to reach Sopron. turn0search1

Places To Visit In And Around Sopron

Sopron has several historical landmarks and interesting sites that showcase its rich past and culture.

1. Firewatch Tower

An image showing the Gate of Faith (Firewatch Tower), a place near Sopron, Hungary.

Photo: Pennyjey / Wikimedia Commons

The Firewatch Tower is one of Sopron’s most famous landmarks. Built in the 13th century and rebuilt after a fire in 1676, it stands 58 metres tall. The tower played an important role in history, as guards once used it to watch for fires and invaders. Today, visitors can climb the spiral staircase to reach the top and enjoy a wide view of the city. The lower part of the tower has Roman-era stones, showing its long past. Inside, there are exhibitions about Sopron’s history, making it an interesting place for visitors.

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: 1,500 HUF / ₹350
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour

2. Storno House

Storno House at Fő tér 8, the best place near Sopron, with a historic design.

Photo: Fidelissima / Wikimedia Commons

Storno House is a museum and one of Sopron’s most famous historical buildings. It was once home to the Storno family, known for collecting rare antiques. Today, visitors can walk through its rooms and see old furniture, paintings, and artefacts from different periods. The house also displays items related to Hungarian history and culture. Famous historical figures like Emperor Franz Joseph stayed here, adding to its importance. The museum hosts temporary exhibitions and guided tours, making it an interesting place for those who want to learn more about the past.

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: 1,200 HUF / ₹280
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour

3. Holy Trinity Statue

An image showing the Holy Trinity Column, a popular destination near Sopron.

Photo: Zátonyi Sándor / Wikimedia Commons

The Holy Trinity Statue was built in the 18th century to thank God for saving the city from the plague. It stands in the main square and is one of the city’s most important monuments. The statue has detailed carvings of saints and angels, showing the fine craftsmanship of the time. Local people consider it a symbol of faith and protection. Tourists often stop here to take photos as historic buildings surround the statue. The area is also a local meeting point and a good place to explore the city.

Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: N/A
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 minutes

4. Fabricius House

View of Fabricius House (left), a tourist attraction near Sopron, with a historic design.

Photo: Pixabay user Cimabue / Wikimedia Commons

Fabricius House is a well-preserved historical building in Sopron, located in the main square. Built in the 14th century, it belonged to wealthy merchants and later became the home of Mayor Endre Fabricius. The house has medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque elements, showing the city’s architectural history. Visitors can explore Roman-era ruins in the basement and see exhibitions about Sopron’s past. The upper floors display old furniture, paintings, and everyday objects from centuries. Guided tours provide details about the people who lived here. The house is also a popular spot for taking photos.

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: 1,000 HUF / ₹230
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour

5. Goat Church

The nave of the Goat Church in Sopron, Western Hungary, with detailed architecture.

Photo: Zairon / Wikimedia Commons

The Goat Church is a well-known Gothic church in Sopron, built in the 13th century. It got its name from a local legend about a goat herder who found treasure and donated it for construction. The church has hosted several coronation ceremonies and parliamentary meetings, showing its historical importance. The interior has detailed carvings and beautiful stained-glass windows. Visitors can explore the church, see its historic altar, and participate in religious services. The church is also a venue for classical music concerts, attracting visitors interested in history and culture.

Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
Ideal Trip Duration: 45 minutes

Where To Stay

An image showing a close-up of a pillow on a hotel bed with soft fabric upholstery.

Photo: maxfranke / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

It offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Many establishments near the city centre provide easy access to major attractions. On average, 3-star hotels in Sopron cost around 37,379 HUF or ₹8,308 per night, while 4-star hotels are approximately 45,468 HUF or ₹10,091 per night.

Where To Eat

An image showing a hotel restaurant with a dining table setup and seating arrangements.

Photo: stevepb / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

The city boasts a variety of dining options, offering traditional Hungarian cuisine and international dishes. Restaurants like Papa Joe’s Saloon & Steakhouse provide a unique dining experience with grilled meats and an extensive whisky collection.

Best Time To Visit

An image of Sopron, Hungary, featuring historic buildings and urban architecture.

Photo: Tournasol7 / Wikimedia Commons

The best time to visit Soprn is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). The weather is mild during these seasons, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for exploring the city’s historical landmarks and enjoying outdoor activities.

Other Factors To Consider

Follow all the important tips on your trip to the beautiful country of Hungary.

Photo: That’s Her Business / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Average Cost Of The Trip

If you visit Sopron, you will need around ₹5,800 per day for all your expenses. This includes your stay, food, transport, and sightseeing. If you plan to stay for a week, the total cost will be about ₹41,000. Prices may change depending on where you stay, what you eat, and how you travel. Budget hotels and local food can help you save money. It is always good to plan your trip and check prices before you go.

Tips For Travellers

  • Currency: Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF). It’s advisable to carry some cash, as not all places accept cards.
  • Language: Hungarian is the official language. Learning a few basic phrases can be helpful, though English is understood in tourist areas.
  • Transportation: It is a walkable city, but local buses and taxis are available for longer distances.
  • Safety: Sopron is considered safe for tourists. Standard precautions apply.
  • Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available in many public areas and establishments.

Sopron is a city rich in history, culture, and unique architecture. Its old churches, towers, and museums make it an interesting place to visit. The best time to visit the city is during spring and autumn when the weather is comfortable for exploring. Plan your trip in advance to enjoy everything the city offers. Plan with TripXL for the best deals and a hassle-free journey.

Cover Photo: Robot8A / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Sopron is only about 60 km from Vienna, making it a good option for a day trip. You can reach it by train or car in around an hour.
Yes, Sopron hosts several events, including the VOLT Festival, a popular music festival, and historical reenactments that showcase the city's past.
Local wines, handmade pottery, and traditional Hungarian crafts are popular souvenirs. You can find them in local markets and shops.
Yes, the Lővérek Hills near Sopron have hiking and cycling trails with lookout points and forest paths for outdoor activities.
Yes, guided walking tours are available, covering historical landmarks, wine tastings, and museum visits. Some tours focus on Sopron’s Roman and medieval history.

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