A Day Trip Guide to Gyor: The Best Things to Do
If you're planning a trip to this beautiful city in northwest Hungary, you're in for a treat. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and endless cultural attractions, Gyor has something for everyone.
With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming trying to decide what to put on your itinerary. That's why I’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Gyor to help you make the most of your visit. From exploring the city's ancient castles and churches to indulging in its delicious local cuisine and enjoying its vibrant nightlife, there's no shortage of things to keep you busy.
Nestled between three of Central Europe’s capital cities: Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava — which happens to be only an hour away, Gyor is an ideal day trip destination. Although you may want to consider spending a night in Gyor to visit some nearby attractions such as the Esterházy Castle and Cistercian Monastery of Pannonhalm, which dates back to the 11th century.
So whether you're interested in history, culture, or just looking to have a good time, Gyor has something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan the perfect trip to this amazing city.
IN THIS GUIDE
Explore the Best Things to Do in Gyor, Hungary in One Day
Brief History of Gyor
What better way to start planning your visit to Gyor than by diving into the rich and fascinating history of the city?
Gyor has a long and storied past that dates back over a thousand years. The city was founded by the Celts in the 1st century AD and later became a Roman settlement.
In the Middle Ages, Gyor was an important center of trade and commerce, with a bustling market and a thriving artisan community. The city's strategic location along three rivers made it an attractive target for invaders, and it was repeatedly conquered and reconquered by various armies over the centuries.
Despite these challenges, Gyor managed to prosper and grow, and by the 18th century, it had become an important cultural and intellectual center. The city was home to a number of renowned writers, artists, and intellectuals, and it played a key role in the development of Hungary's cultural identity.
In the 20th century, Gyor was heavily damaged during World War II and was later occupied by Soviet forces. However, the city has since been rebuilt and has emerged as a modern, vibrant, and culturally rich destination. Today, Gyor is home to a number of world-class museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, as well as a thriving arts scene and a rich culinary tradition.
Hopefully, this brief overview of Gyor's history has gotten you excited to learn more about this amazing city. From ancient castles and churches to modern museums and restaurants, there are so many things to do in Gyor. I can’t wait to share them all with you.
18+ of the BEST Things to Do in Gyor
Simply wandering the cobbled streets of the old town is perhaps the best thing to do in Gyor. This historic neighborhood is home to a number of charming squares, important landmarks, delicious restaurants, and boutique shops — be sure to admire the old trade signs that you’ll find hanging on top of the entryways.
The old town aside, there are a number of specific stops you should make during your trip to Gyor.
1. Gyori Városháza - Town Hall
The Town Hall is one of the most impressive buildings in downtown Gyor. It was constructed in the 19th century in the Neo-Gothic style and now serves as the seat of the city's government. It’s home to a number of important government offices, as well as a beautiful ceremonial hall that is used for a variety of public events.
You can take a tour of the building to learn more about the city's history and government and climb up to the tour by signing up at the tourist information office or emailing gyor@tourinform.hu. But at the very least, I recommend stopping by to marvel at the architecture, with its ornate facade and impressive towers. The coat of arms was donated by Maria Theresa herself and showcases Saint Stephen, patron of the city, the three rivers, and the castle of Gyor.
Don’t forget to take a selfie with the We Love Gyor sign out front, a tourist classic!
2. Nemzeti Színház - National Theatre
The National Theatre is an architectural gem (at least for those of us who enjoy the socialist-style), with a beautiful interior and a rich history dating back over a hundred years.
It’s worth a quick stop to get a photo of the exterior and if you're a fan of the performing arts, I highly recommend checking out their calendar of events to see what’s on during your visit — tickets are very inexpensive.
3. Baross Gábor Útca - Baross Gabor Street
Baross Gabor Street is one of the main pedestrian streets in the Old Town of Gyor. It’s home to a number of interesting stores, restaurants, cafes, and some historic homes.
During the winter season, you’ll also find the Christmas market lined along this street. This is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll in town, where you can watch the locals and do some shopping.
4. Szechenyi Tér - Szechenyi Square
The Szechenyi Square in Gyor has long been the heart of the city, serving as a hub for markets, official functions, lawsuits, and even public executions.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, the square was known as the Market Square and was a popular place for comedians to perform for the public. It was renamed the Main Square in the 19th century and finally took on the name Széchenyi Square in 1860, after the death of István Széchenyi.
The square is home to several iconic buildings and landmarks, including the Iron Stock House, the Benedictine Church of Saint Ignatius, and the Column of Saint Mary, which was built in 1686 to celebrate the liberation of Buda.
✨ INSIDER TIP ✨
VISIT ONE OF EUROPE’S FAMOUS NAIL TREES
Don’t miss the Vastuskós House found at no. 4 in the square, where you’ll find an old tree that’s been hammered out with iron nails. Nail trees have been around since the Middle Ages when people would put a nail into a tree or cross as a symbol of good luck. The tradition continued well into the 19th century when traveling locksmiths would hammer one of their nails into a tree trunk to symbolize their visit to the city. You can find a number of nail trees throughout Hungary, Romania, and even in Vienna — in the center of Stephansplatz.
5. Bencések Loyolai Szent Ignác Temploma - Benedictine Church
Located in Szechenyi Square, you’ll find the Saint Ignatius Benedictine Church — a beautiful example of Baroque architecture in Gyor. It was built in the first half of the 17th century by the Jesuits’ initiation based on the design of a famous Italian architect. The church has one nave modeled after the Il Gesù church in Rome.
If you get a chance to visit the interior of the church, be sure to admire the stucco decorations, frescoes of the chapel booth, an organ from 1757, and a painting of Saint Ignatius on the main altar.
6. Esterházy-Palota - Esterhazy Palace
Towards the far corner of Szechenyi Square is the Esterhazy Palace, a beautiful heritage building from the 18th century that was once owned by the Esterhazy family — you can still see the family crest on the facade.
The palace was created by the gradual construction of five houses over several centuries. The building's most famous predecessor was the Angarano house, which dates back to the 16th century. Once the Esterhazy family purchased the property, they made significant renovations.
Today, the palace is home to the Floris Romer Art and Historical Museum, which includes an extensive private art collection.
7. Zichy Palota - Zichy Palace
The Zichy Palace dates all the way back to 1624 when it was a home for a noble military family. For over 200 years, it remained a wealthy estate, and then in the late 1800s, it was converted into rental apartments for low-income families. Many of the original features were destroyed or taken down.
In an attempt to restore the palace to its former glory, extensive renovations took place in the 1980s. And although it doesn’t look quite as special as it once did, it is now home to the Registry Office, Gyor Art Center, and City Marriage Hall. Visitors to the palace can admire the frescoes on the ceiling, the impressive marble staircase, and the grand chandeliers. It’s at least worth a quick stop from the street, where you can admire the somewhat plain facade and imagine what it must have looked like hundreds of years ago.
8. Kossuth Híd - Kossuth Bridge
The Kossuth Bridge is perhaps Gyor’s most iconic bridge — complete with love locks adorned on the metal rails. The bridge spans the Raba River and offers a great view of the city and surrounding countryside. If you’re a photographer looking for the perfect shot, this bridge is one of the best places to visit in the city.
9. Gyori Óriáskerék - Gyor Ferris Wheel
If you’re visiting Gyor in the winter, you might be lucky enough to catch a ride on the Gyor Ferris Wheel.
I visited the city in late December with my dad (who’s afraid of heights) and didn’t get a chance to experience it, although it still made for a pretty great photo opportunity in the background of the historic buildings and bridge.
Judging from the reviews online, the Ferris Wheel offers up an amazing view of the city below. Although I found it to be a bit expensive.
10. Frigyláda-Szobor - Gutenberg Square
The Gutenberg Square in Gyor is home to several interesting landmarks and attractions, including the Kreszta House, which is a 17th-century heritage building that houses the collection of local ceramic artist Margit Kovács.
The square is also home to the Soda-Water Siphon, which was invented by Ányos Jedlik, a local teacher, priest, and inventor. Jedlik is credited with creating the popular Hungarian drink called "fröccs," which is a mixture of white wine and carbonated water.
Perhaps the most notable attraction in the square is the Ark of the Covenant, a sculpture that tells the story of a soldier who sought refuge in a former Jesuit monastery and attempted to escape dressed as an altar boy.
✨ INSIDER TIP ✨
LOOK UP AT THE TRADE SIGNS
The trade signs of Gyor are a fascinating and unique part of the city's history and culture. You can find them hanging above the entryways of old shops. Some are old and antique, while others are more modern, but they all contribute to the city's character. One of the best trade signs, the Golden Ship Trade Sign, can be found in Gutenberg Square.
11. Kaptalandomb - Chapter Hill
Located on the edge of two rivers, Chapter Hill is the oldest part of Gyor. In the Middle Ages, this was the castle district and there were more streets with alleyways leading down to the Danube. Some of Gyor’s oldest and most historic sights can be found in this part of town, including the Apor Vilmos Püspök Square, which was used as a cemetery until the mid-18th century.
12. Nagyboldogasszony-Székesegyház - Basilica of Gyor
Although I was just here a few days ago, I’m still not quite certain as to the proper name of this religious building. It seems to go by the Basilica of Gyor, the Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady, the Gyor Cathedral, and the Virgin Mary Cathedral — and that’s not including the several Hungarian versions. So to clear up any confusion, this is the church across from the castle.
This building was founded in the 11th century by Saint Stephen, the King of Hungary. Despite its long history, much of the original building has been destroyed or renovated over the years, including in the 14th century by the Tartars and again in the 16th century by the Turks. The Gothic Héderváry Chapel, built in 1404, is one of the oldest surviving parts of the cathedral and houses the third most important national relic in Hungary, the Herm of Saint Ladislaus.
Pope John Paul II gave the cathedral the rank of basilica minor in 1996, and it is home to several important sacral treasures, including the Weeping Madonna painting and the tomb of Blessed Bishop Vilmos Apor. You can also find the Blessed Virgin Mary Stone at the main entrance of the Cathedral, which is made of pure marble.
13. Püspökvár-Toronykilátó - Bishop’s Castle
The Bishop's Castle in Gyor is a historic building that was originally built as the official residence of the bishop of the city. It’s located on the northwest side of Chapter Hill and was also founded by Saint Stephen, the King of Hungary.
Archaeological excavations have revealed that the castle was built on the site of a Roman castrum, of which the remains of a resident tower from the 13th century are still present.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle, which includes a look at the rooms where the leaders of the church once lived and the castle's garden. The tour also includes a visit to the castle's oldest known fountain, which dates back to the 16th century.
You can also buy a ticket for the Bishop Tower Lookout — which takes you to an observation deck on the top level of the castle, where you can admire a panoramic view of Gyor.
14. Besci Kapu Ter - Vienna Gate Square
Gyor was once a fortified city and the western gate of the walls called the Viennese Gate was located on this square. Unfortunately, it was damaged by Napoleon’s troops in 1809 and later demolished in 1860.
Now, the square is known for its beautiful Baroque buildings and monuments. You can still see some remains of the old fortifications here. There is even a small museum on the square, the Várkazamata-Kotár (Castle Casamate) which is inside the former city gate and showcases a collection of Roman tombs and underground chambers.
The corner building at the intersection of Szabadsajtó Street and Bécsi kapu tér is also one of the oldest standing buildings in Gyor.
15. Karmelita Templom - Carmelite Church
On one end of the Vienna Gate Square, you’ll find the Carmelite Church in Gyor is best known for its ornate interior and stunning frescoes but it’s worth mentioning its rich history dating back to 1697.
A local bishop invited the Carmelite order from Germany to settle in the city. Three Carmelite monks arrived in the city but the number of congregants quickly grew, causing them to quickly build a friary and church.
If you get a chance to go inside, take some time to admire the beautiful altar, stained glass windows, and impressive organ — which happens to be one of the largest in Hungary. On the right side of the church, you can find one of the most beautiful baroque statues in Hungary, a statue of Mary. This statue also acts as a memorial of Gyor’s past floods. It used to be located on Rado Island and it was said by locals that Mary would always stop the Raba River from flooding too high.
16. Rádo-Sziget - Rado Island
Radó Island is a hidden gem in the center of Gyor. It’s a small, romantic island surrounded by the Rába River. It’s home to a memorial honoring those from Gyor who died in World War I, as well as a monument to Károly Sajó, a Hungarian entomologist.
The island also has a small pedestrian bridge over the Rába River (offering a unique view of the confluence of two rivers), a theater that was built in 1798, and a wooden kiosk that was opened in 1867 that served as a summer music hall. Today, the island is a popular spot for walking and enjoying the beautiful views.
17. Gyori Zsinagóga - Gyor Synagogue
The Györ Synagogue is a notable landmark in the city, with its impressive grey dome and octagonal structure. Built in 1870, it was once home to the prosperous Jewish middle class of the city, including lawyers, bankers, and manufacturers. The synagogue has undergone restoration by a local association and is used for concerts and festivals.
You can enter the Synagogue for a small fee to visit the beautiful interior, which also houses a small art collection. Although I didn’t get a chance to visit the Synagogue, I was able to see it from across the river and it definitely completes the Gyor skyline.
18. Xantus János Állatkert - Xantus Janos Zoo
Admittedly, I’m not the biggest supporter of zoos — I find them all a bit unethical and am always weary of the conditions in smaller (less equipped) cities. However, I do think it’s worth mentioning the Xantus Janos Zoo, as it’s a non-profit organization.
The Gyor Zoo was built in 1962 as a place to showcase the various species of game and predators found throughout the local region. The biggest attraction was the brown bear! It’s gone through significant changes over the past 60 years and is now home to over 500 animals (including lions, gorillas, and elephants) in their various habitats.
It’s very much geared towards families, offering a farm animal petting zoo and a large children’s playground. Ethics aside, I think it’s still one of the best things to do in Gyor.
Where to Stay in Gyor
Although Gyor makes an ideal day trip destination, I think it’s worth at least an overnight stop so that you can experience the most of what this city has to offer. No matter your preferences or budget, you’ll be able to find a great place to stay in Gyor.
Here are my recommendations on where to stay in Gyor, based on various needs. Booking your trip via one of the links on this page will earn me a small commission, at no extra cost to you. So if you enjoy this article, please consider using one of these links to help support this blog!
FOR A MODERN BASE This small urban guesthouse offers modern accommodations in the center of town, just a few minutes from the largest shopping mall in Gyor. All of the rooms are air conditioned and there is a community kitchen for preparing meals. Parking is free after 6pm. Rates start at 40€ per night.
FOR A TRADITIONAL EXPERIENCE Set in a former monastery from 1714, the Hotel Klastrom is a charming hotel beside the Raba River, just a short walk from the Basilicia. Guests can enjoy the beautiful courtyard, ornate Gothic library, and buffet breakfast in the on-site restaurant. The rooms are simply furnished (some include air conditioning) and there is free on-site parking. Rates start at 50€ per night.
FOR A ROMANTIC GETAWAY This beautiful boutique hotel is located next to the thermal spa and offers modern accommodations a short walking distance from the Old Town. Guests can enjoy access to the RQ Physiotherapy Center and breakfast, which are included with each stay. All of the rooms are air conditioned and there is free on-site parking. Rates start at 60€ per night.
Where to Eat in Gyor
Chances are, you’ll get hungry during your trip to Gyor. Luckily for you, there are plenty of options to choose from — ranging from traditional Hungarian dishes to international delights. The city is also home to a thriving coffee culture, with many cafes to choose from. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you'll be able to find a great place to eat in Gyor.
For Lunch: Szalai Vendéglo
This is a traditional Hungarian restaurant with a daily lunch menu that is both affordable and delicious.
There are three lunch options to choose from every day and each one includes a soup. The prices range from 2250-2500HUF per person, which is the equivalent of about 6€ or less. We tried three different dishes: the schnitzel, chicken with apricot sauce, and jam-stuffed dumplings.
During my one day in Gyor, I stumbled across this restaurant by accident and have been dreaming about it ever since. Everything was delicious and I wholeheartedly recommend stopping here for lunch when you’re in the city. It’s located in the Old Town.
Something Sweet: Rétesbolt
Your trip to Hungary isn’t complete until you’ve sampled some local strudel, which is called rétes in Hungarian. The origins of this pastry date back to the Austro-Hungarian empire and are popular throughout Eastern Europe
You can find a number of strudel shops throughout Gyor but I’m going to recommend Rétesbolt on Arany János Street. This small shop offers up a number of sweet and savory strudels for less than 500HUF (1.25€) a piece. With soft, flaky pastry and fresh, flavourful fillings, what’s not to like?
Other Recommendations
I only spent one day in Gyor, so these are the only two spots that I’ve personally tried. Going by recommendations from friends and reviews from past travelers, you may also want to check out some of these places: I only spent one day in Gyor, so these are the only two spots that I’ve personally tried. Going by recommendations from friends and reviews from past travelers, you may also want to check out some of these places:
Élelem Étterem (Vegan)
Boulangerie Nice Kézműves Pékség és Kávézó (Bakery)
Pizza Piccolino (Pizza)
Palffy Restaurant (Hungarian)
Kávébajusz (Cafe)
Resources to Plan Your Trip
With a rich history and plenty of cultural attractions to discover, Gyor is one of the best cities to visit in Hungary. From exploring the stunning churches to strolling through the charming squares, you will find no shortage of things to do in Gyor.
The city's unique trade signs add to its character, and the Bishop's Castle and Rába Island offer a glimpse into the past. With various accommodations to choose from, including the historic Hotel Klastrom, and plenty of delicious dining options, Gyor is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem in Eastern Europe!
To plan your trip, be sure to use the following resources:
Visit the official tourism website of Gyor to find information on attractions, events, and transportation options.
Browse online tour companies like getyourguide.com to find travel experiences and day trips from Bratislava, or consider hiring a private guide for a more personalized experience.
Check out social media to get recommendations and insider tips from other travelers. Search your destination by location or hashtags.
Use hotel booking tools like booking.com to find accommodation in the cities you'll be visiting. You can easily find options in your budget — most come with free cancellation.
With careful planning and a sense of adventure, you can make the most of your day trip to Gyor and create unforgettable memories.
If you have any tips or questions about day trips from Bratislava, please leave a comment below.
Thanks for reading. Happy travels!
