Hungary might not be what you expect from an eastern European country. Because it opened its borders to the West before many of its neighbors, it also had a head start on hospitality, welcoming visitors with its rich and varied cuisine, gorgeous wine regions and steamy thermal spas. From the striking capital of Budapest, curving along the grand Danube, to its remote villages, known for their superb folk art, Hungary's attractions are easy and pleasurable to explore.
When interest in traveling to eastern Europe began to increase, the growth at first put a strain on Hungary's tourism infrastructure. However, in recent years, Budapest and many other areas have countered the surge in tourism with a greater supply of hotels. In fact, Budapest has the largest number of first-class hotels of any eastern European capital, which is why it has developed into an important city for regional business.
If big-city travel isn't what you're after, Lake Balaton is ideal for water lovers, wine enthusiasts will want to visit Villany or Tokaj, and Hortobagy attracts those seeking traditional Hungarian culture. There is also a lot of first-class equestrian tourism throughout the country.
Hungary is the smoothest introduction to travel in eastern Europe, and despite its increasing modernization, it remains as exotic and appealing as its traditional folk melodies.
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