South-east Hungary has so much to offer in winter. Historic treasures and outdoor activities both feature in the main city of Szeged, whose walkable center has won a Europa Nostra award. Almost next door to Szeged, Makó is where you find a number of creations by the renowned architect Imre Makovecz, including the Hagymatikum thermal baths, a leading leisure attraction. These are particularly alluring in winter, when bathers can enjoy the naturally warm waters while watching the chilly world outside.
A recently created English-friendly video, produced by the Hungarian Tourism Agency and provided to We Love Budapest, focus on winter scenes in Szeged and Makó.
Starting at the Hagymatikum baths in Makó, 20 minutes from Szeged, the film takes on a tour of other organic constructions by Imre Makovecz, whose Onion House Theater is another major feature.
Over in Szeged, visitors are spoiled for choice as far as activities are concerned. As well as the city’s ice rink, there’s a large waterpark, the Szeged Aquapolis, containing Europe’s longest indoor waterslide.
Cultural highlights include the extensive Ferenc Móra Museum, in an ornate neoclassical building by the banks of the river Tisza. In the Franciscan Church, exhibits include the ceremonial garment of medieval King Matthias.
How to get there from Budapest:Trains leave Nyugati Station every hour for Szeged, journey time two hours and 22 minutes. Makó is poorly connected by public transport, with infrequent services by train and bus from Szeged, journey time 45 minutes.
