Attractions Nearby Debrecen, Day Trips and Excursions

(Debrecen, Hajdu-Bihar, Hungary)

The Hungarian capital of Budapest is relatively close to Debrecen and a must-see city for anyone wanting to truly experience some of the best attractions that Hungary has to offer. Budapest is a perfect city for a short break or weekend excursion, while the outdoor attractions at Hortobagy Nemzeti Park are much nearer to Debrecen and historically, a great deal of this area was actually once used for mining iron ore.

One of the closest and most visited attractions near to Debrecen is the town of Hajdúszoboszló, which is located around 22 km / 14 miles from the city and lies directly south-west, being idea for a day trip or short excursion. Somewhat further afield, the Bükki Nemzeti Park is not to be overlooked and boasts an array of quality recreational activities, including numerous scenic hiking trails.

Budapest

Budapest can be reached is just over three hours from Debrecen and stands around 230 km / 143 miles to the west of the city, therefore lending itself to a short break or weekend escape. Amongst the many attractions in Budapest, Vidam Amusement Park is always a big hit with families and features one of the longest and oldest wooden roller coasters in Europe. Alternatively, you could take a boat trip along the River Danube, enjoy a chair lift ride up Janos Hill, spend an afternoon at Budapest Zoo, or visit the city's much-loved Buda Castle, which stands proudly atop Castle Hill.

Bükki Nemzeti Park

The Bükki Nemzeti Park is perhaps a little too far for a day trip from Debrecen, since is lies approximately 142 km / 88 miles to the north-west. However, if you do have the time to make this journey, you will not be disappointed. Based around the Bükk Hills, the Bükki Nemzeti Park is simply vast and covers more than 430 square kilometres / 166 square miles. Brimming with Hungarian flora and fauna, the park is especially popular with those who enjoy recreational attractions and activities, such as cycling, climbing and hiking.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Hortobagy Nemzeti Park

A particular highlight in this part of Hungary, the Hortobagy Nemzeti Park is within easy striking distance of Debrecen and is a mere 55 km / 34 miles to the west, meaning that with good traffic conditions it can be easily reached in under an hour. Hortobagy Nemzeti Park is known for its varied conditions and areas of water, which combine to offer some of Europe's very best bird watching, with around 400 different species of bird regularly frequenting this park, including the great bustard. Other notable attractions around Hortobagy Nemzeti Park include the Nine-Hole Bridge (Kilenc-lyukú Hid), the Museum of Shepherds and the Pusta Zoo, where the Hungarian grey cattle are a definite favourite.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Hajdúszoboszló

Hajdúszoboszló is famous for being the biggest bathing centre in the whole of Hungary and each year, literally thousands of visitors arrive to enjoy the medicinal benefits of the thermal spa and its many related attractions. The main resort lies on the north-eastern side of Hajdúszoboszló. Look out for the imposing Forest of Bells Monuments, which presides over the entrance to the actual thermal baths.