Eger is one of those small Hungarian cities that delivers far more than its modest size would suggest. Located in the foothills of the Bukk Mountains, about 130 kilometres northeast of Budapest, this baroque town of roughly 55,000 people packs in a medieval fortress, Ottoman-era monuments, one of Hungary's most famous wine districts, and a deeply atmospheric old town that feels remarkably untouched by mass tourism.
Eger's defining moment came in 1552, when a small garrison of Hungarian defenders held the castle against a vastly superior Ottoman siege force. That act of defiance became one of Hungary's most celebrated stories, immortalised in Geza Gardonyi's novel "Eclipse of the Crescent Moon." The castle still stands above the city, and the spirit of resilience infuses the character of the town to this day.
Top Attractions in Eger
Eger Castle
The castle sits on a hill overlooking the old town and is the most visited site in the city. Originally built in the 13th century, it was expanded and fortified over the following centuries, reaching its greatest fame during the 1552 siege. Today the castle complex houses several museum exhibitions, including an underground casemate system you can explore, a gallery of Hungarian history, and the Istvan Dobo Museum honouring the commander who led the famous defence.
The castle walls offer sweeping views over Eger's terracotta rooftops and church spires. Allow at least two hours to see the exhibitions and grounds thoroughly. The Eger Castle history is well documented for those wanting to read further before their visit.
The Minaret of Eger
Eger's 40-metre minaret is the northernmost Ottoman-era minaret in Europe and one of only three that survive in Hungary. Built in the 17th century during the Ottoman occupation, it stands remarkably intact at the edge of the old town. Brave visitors can climb the narrow, spiralling staircase of 97 steps for a bird's-eye view of the city. The doorway at the top is famously narrow, and the climb is not for those uncomfortable with confined spaces, but the view makes the effort worthwhile.
The Lyceum and Camera Obscura
The Eger Lyceum is a grand 18th-century building that houses the city's theological college and one of Hungary's most beautiful baroque libraries. The library ceiling fresco, depicting the Council of Trent, is a masterpiece of Hungarian ecclesiastical art.
On the top floor, the Lyceum houses a Camera Obscura, one of only a handful of working examples in Europe. Using a system of mirrors and lenses, it projects a live, 360-degree image of the city onto a white table in a darkened room. The experience is enchanting and surprisingly vivid, offering a unique perspective on Eger's streets and rooftops.
The Basilica
Eger's neoclassical Basilica, completed in 1837, is the second-largest church in Hungary after the Esztergom Basilica. Its imposing columns and grand interior create a sense of space and solemnity. Free organ concerts are occasionally held here during summer, drawing visitors and locals alike into the cool, echoing nave.
Eger is a city best savoured slowly: a glass of Bikaver in hand, the castle on the skyline, and nowhere in particular to rush to.
Valley of the Beautiful Women
No visit to Eger is complete without a trip to the Szepasszony-volgy, the Valley of the Beautiful Women. Located a short walk south of the city centre, this gentle valley is lined with dozens of small wine cellars carved into the hillside. Most are family-run operations that have been producing wine for generations.
The valley's most famous product is Egri Bikaver, known internationally as Bull's Blood, a robust red blend built around Kekfrankos, Kadarka, and other local grape varieties. The name dates back to the 1552 siege, when legend has it that Hungarian soldiers drank red wine to bolster their courage, and the Ottomans believed they were drinking bull's blood.
Tasting sessions in the cellars are informal and affordable. You move from cellar to cellar, sampling different vintages and chatting with winemakers. Many cellars also serve simple food: bread, cheese, sausage, and picked vegetables. Afternoons in the valley tend to extend well into the evening, especially in summer when live music sometimes fills the air.
Turkish Bath
Eger's thermal tradition dates back to the Ottoman period, and the city's Turkish bath has been in continuous use since it was built in the 17th century. Recently renovated, the bath retains its atmospheric stone interior while offering modern wellness facilities. The water is drawn from thermal springs and is notably rich in calcium and magnesium. An afternoon soak here, especially after walking the castle grounds, is deeply restorative.
Getting to Eger
Direct trains from Budapest Keleti station reach Eger in approximately one hour and 50 minutes. The train runs several times daily and passes through the scenic Matra Hills. Buses are also an option, with a slightly faster journey time. Within Eger, everything of interest is within walking distance, making it one of the most pedestrian-friendly destinations in Hungary.
Best Time to Visit Eger
The wine harvest season in September and October is the most atmospheric time to visit, with the Valley of the Beautiful Women buzzing with activity and many cellars hosting special events. Summer is lively and warm, ideal for outdoor dining and evening strolls. Spring brings mild weather and fewer visitors. Winter is quieter, but the thermal bath provides a compelling reason to visit even in the coldest months.
Practical Tips
- Accommodation: Eger has a range of guesthouses and small hotels in the old town. Booking a place within walking distance of Dobo Square puts you at the heart of the city.
- Budget: Eger is notably affordable, even by Hungarian standards. Wine tasting, museum entry, and meals at local restaurants cost a fraction of what you would pay in Budapest.
- Day Trip: Eger works well as a day trip from Budapest, but staying overnight allows you to enjoy the wine valley at a leisurely pace and see the castle illuminated after dark.
- Nearby: The Bukk National Park is accessible from Eger and offers excellent hiking trails through forested hills and limestone caves.
