Just 40 minutes from Budapest lies one of Hungary’s most charming small towns: Szentendre. With its colorful Baroque houses, Mediterranean atmosphere, art galleries, and riverside promenade, Szentendre is an ideal one-day cultural getaway.
Compact, walkable, safe, and full of character, it offers the perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and community building.
Szentendre is often described as Hungary’s “Mediterranean town.” Its narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant façades, and relaxed atmosphere make it a favorite destination for both locals and visitors.
How to Get There from the University
Starting point: Budapest University of Economics and Business (City Campus, Alkotmány Street 9-11)
Step 1: Travel by metro (M2) to Batthyány tér
Step 2: Take the H5 suburban railway (HÉV) to Szentendre
Travel time: approximately 40–50 minutes
The HÉV journey itself is scenic, following the Danube northwards.
09:00 – Departure from Budapest
10:00 – Arrival & Old Town Exploration
Walk from the station into the historic center. Explore:
• Fő tér (Main Square)
• Baroque houses
• Local art galleries
• Small handmade souvenir shops
12:00 – Riverside Walk Along the Danube
One of the highlights of Szentendre is its peaceful Duna-korzó (Danube promenade).
You can:
• Take photos
• Relax by the river
• Enjoy coffee with a panoramic view
• Organize a short picnic
13:00 – Lunch Options
Recommended restaurants for groups:
• Aranysárkány Vendéglő – traditional Hungarian cuisine
• Duna-parti lángos stands – authentic Hungarian street food
• Local bistros on the Main Square
Recommended menu:
Goulash soup + lángos + chimney cake.
14:30 – Cultural or Interactive Activity:
16:30 – Free Time
· Ice cream on Fő tér
· Coffee with terrace view
· Shopping in small artisan boutiques
· Relaxing at the riverside
· Visit the Open-Air Ethnographic Museum (Skanzen)
· Short museum visit (e.g., art gallery)
· Wine tasting session
· Creative workshop (painting or handicraft session)
Estimated Budget (Per Kopf)
• Return transport ticket: student price ~10 Euros
• Lunch: ~20 Euros
• Museum or workshop ticket
Overall, Szentendre is a budget-friendly option.