This small town on the Danube River is known for its Baroque architecture, colorful houses, and numerous art galleries. It's a popular day trip from Budapest.
Szentendre is a town on the Danube River, located approximately 40 minutes from Budapest. Explore attractions like the Ferenczy Museum, which showcases works by Hungarian artists, and the Szamos Marzipan Museum, home to detailed marzipan sculptures. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with Baroque buildings and visit Serbian Orthodox churches such as the Blagovestenska Church. Enjoy local foods like lĂĄngos and marzipan as you experience the town's vibrant atmosphere.
Getting to Szentendre
You can reach Szentendre from Budapest using the HĂV suburban rail line. Trains leave regularly from BatthyĂĄny tĂ©r station, and the trip takes about 40 minutes. During the summer, you might choose to take a Danube river cruise for a scenic journey, though boat schedules are less frequent than the trains.
Exploring the Town Center
From the train station, walk towards the town center along streets paved with cobblestones. In FĆ tĂ©r, the main square, you'll find the large Baroque cross and several Serbian Orthodox churches. Explore the surrounding streets to visit art galleries, shops selling souvenirs, and cozy cafes where you can relax.
Serbian Heritage
Szentendre's Serbian heritage dates back to the late 17th century when Serbian refugees settled in the area. Visit the Blagovestenska Church in the main square to see its ornate iconostasis, and head to the Belgrade Cathedral on the hill for additional examples of Serbian Orthodox architecture that reflect the town's cultural history.
Art Museums and Galleries
The town is known for its artistic community, featuring several museums and galleries. The Ferenczy Museum displays works by the Ferenczy family and hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary Hungarian art. At the Szamos Marzipan Museum, you can admire sculptures made entirely of marzipan, offering a unique and sweet artistic experience.
Along the Danube
Stroll along the Danube promenade to take a break from the bustling town center. While the riverfront area is calm, it provides a pleasant spot to watch boats pass by. Several restaurants offer outdoor seating here, making it an ideal location for a relaxed lunch or dinner with views of the river.
Local Flavors
When visiting Szentendre, try local specialties such as lĂĄngos, a deep-fried flatbread topped with sour cream and cheese. Ălom LĂĄngos is a well-known shop where you can enjoy some of the best lĂĄngos in Hungary. For dessert, taste marzipan candies or visit one of the town's many ice cream shops to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Open Air Museum (Skanzen)
If you have additional time, visit the Szentendre Open Air Museum located a few kilometers outside the town center. This ethnographic museum features traditional Hungarian rural buildings and displays lifestyles from different regions of the country. Explore reconstructed villages, watch craft demonstrations, and ride a narrow-gauge railway to fully appreciate Hungary's rural heritage.
