Kecskemét is a charming city located in central Hungary, about an hour’s drive southeast of Budapest. With its tree-lined squares, beautiful architecture, and rich history, Kecskemét has plenty to offer visitors.
| No. | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Explore Kecskemét’s Main Square | Visit the vibrant square with pastel-colored buildings and Baroque architecture, including the Town Hall. |
| 2 | Visit the Kecskemét Art Gallery | Art gallery in the Cifrapalota building showcasing Hungarian art from the 19th and 20th centuries. |
| 3 | Kodály Institute Concert Hall | Enjoy classical concerts and opera in a hall known for its acoustics and architecture. |
| 4 | Csabay Thermal and Wellness Baths | Relax in indoor and outdoor thermal baths with Neo-Baroque architecture. |
| 5 | Wine Tasting Tour | Experience local wineries and their products in the heart of Hungary’s wine region. |
| 6 | Wander Through the Cifrapalota | Explore an ornate Art Nouveau palace with folk motifs and ceramic tiles, housing the art gallery. |
| 7 | Admire Old Town Architecture | Discover diverse architectural styles, including churches and the House of Science. |
| 8 | Otthon Movie Theater | Visit a historic cinema in a Secessionist building for a unique movie experience. |
| 9 | Katona József Theater | Watch contemporary theater in a Moorish Revival-style building. |
| 10 | Eat Túrós Csusza | Try Kecskemét’s signature pasta dish with cheese, sour cream, and pork crackling. |
| 11 | Shop at the Main Market Hall | Explore stalls selling local produce and artisan goods in a Neo-Gothic building. |
| 12 | Stroll Through the City Park | Enjoy scenic walks, fountains, and sculptures in one of Hungary’s oldest public parks. |
| 13 | Leskowsky Musical Instrument Collection | Visit a museum displaying European musical instruments inside a former Synagogue. |
| 14 | See a Production at the Katona József Theater | Attend avant-garde performances and modern adaptations of classics. |
| 15 | Take a Day Trip to Lake Tisza | Experience biking, beach activities, and watersports at Hungary’s second-largest lake. |
2024 is shaping up to be an exciting year to visit Kecskemét. The city has planned numerous festivals, exhibitions, and events to showcase its culture and heritage. From sampling local wines to admiring Art Nouveau buildings, here are 15 of the best things to do in Kecskemét, Hungary in 2024:
Explore Kecskemét’s Main Square
Name and Location: Kecskemét’s Main Square (Kecskeméti Főtér) is located in the heart of the city center of Kecskemét, Hungary.
History and Significance: The Main Square has been the center of the city since Kecskemét was established in the 15th century. It has always been a hub for markets, fairs, and community events. The square is surrounded by beautiful architecture like the Town Hall and Cathedral.
What to Expect: The Main Square is a lively pedestrian zone with fountains, statues, and outdoor cafes. Visitors can shop at the market stalls, people watch, or admire the ornate architecture. There are often cultural events and concerts held in the square.
Visitor Information: The Main Square is open 24/7 and free to visit. It is easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the city center. The square is especially lively on market days (Wed, Fri, Sat).
Kecskemét’s main square is the heart of the city. Lined with pastel-colored buildings and ringed with Baroque architecture, the pedestrianized square comes alive with restaurants, cafes, and markets.
Stop at the Ornamental Palace to admire its intricately-carved facade up close. Don’t miss the 60-meter high Town Hall tower either – you can climb it for sweeping views over the city.
Visit the Kecskemét Art Gallery
Name and Location: The Kecskemét Art Gallery (Kecskeméti Képtár) is located at Katona József tér 1 in Kecskemét, Hungary.
History and Significance: The art gallery opened in 1982 and has a collection of over 5,000 works of art. It regularly hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary Hungarian artists. The building that houses the gallery is a protected monument.
What to Expect: The Kecskemét Art Gallery has a permanent exhibition showcasing 19th and 20th century Hungarian paintings. Visitors can admire works by famous Hungarian artists like Mihály Munkácsy.
Visitor Information: The gallery is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm. Admission is 1,000 HUF for adults. Guided tours are available by prior arrangement.
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Kecskemét Art Gallery. Housed in the striking Cifrapalota building, the gallery showcases 19th and 20th century Hungarian art. Peruse paintings, sculptures, photographs, and contemporary installations from both local and nationally-renowned artists. Keep an eye out for rotating temporary exhibits too.
See a Performance at the Kodály Institute Concert Hall
Name and Location: The Kodály Institute Concert Hall is located within the Kodály Institute of Music Education in Kecskemét, Hungary. The address is Kodály tér 1, 6000 Kecskemét.
History and Significance: The institute was established in 1975 to promote the musical pedagogy of famous Hungarian composer Zoltán Kodály. The concert hall hosts regular performances by students and faculty.
What to Expect: Concerts at the hall include orchestral performances, choir concerts, and recitals. Programs focus on works by Kodály and other Classical and Romantic era composers. The acoustics and atmosphere are excellent.
Visitor Information: Check the institute’s website for the concert calendar. Tickets are affordable, usually under 3,000 HUF. The box office is open Monday-Friday 11am-5pm.
Catch a show at the Kodály Institute’s concert hall, known for its superb acoustics. Opened in 1982, the hall hosts classical concerts, opera performances, and ballet shows featuring talented students and professional musicians. Marvel at the building’s beautiful architecture and murals too.
Relax at Csabay Thermal and Wellness Baths
Name and Location: Csabay Thermal and Wellness Baths are located at Csabay Géza krt. 9, Kecskemét, Hungary.
History and Significance: The baths opened in 2012 on the site of the Csabay Jenni thermal spring, which was discovered in 1937. The water is said to have healing mineral properties.
What to Expect: Facilities include indoor and outdoor thermal pools, saunas, steam rooms, massage, and spa treatments. There is also an on-site restaurant and bar. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the warm mineral waters.
Visitor Information: The baths are open daily 9am-9pm. Entry costs range from 2,500-4,000 HUF depending on day/time. Book massages and spa treatments in advance. Swimsuits, towels, bathrobes available to rent.
Recharge at Csabay, Kecskemét’s popular thermal bath complex. There’s both indoor and open-air pools surrounded by Neo-Baroque architecture and parklands. Pamper yourself with a massage or treatment too. Don’t miss the chance for a relaxing soak under the domed ceiling of the Turkish-style baths.
Take a Wine Tasting Tour
Name and Location: Kecskemét is located in the heart of Hungary’s wine region. Local wineries offer tastings and tours in the area surrounding the city.
History and Significance: Vineyard cultivation in the Kecskemét area dates back to the 16th century. Famous local grapes include Kadarka, Juhfark, and Cserszegi Fűszeres.
What to Expect: Tours visit picturesque cellars carved into hillsides. Guides explain the winemaking process and local terroir. Tastings feature 5-6 wines paired with snacks or meals. Popular wineries include Balla Géza and Szőke Mátyás.
Visitor Information: Reserve winery tours in advance online or via local tourism offices. Transportation can be arranged from Kecskemét. Tours average 4-6 hours and cost 6,000-10,000 HUF per person.
Kecskemét lies in the heart of one of Hungary’s main wine regions. Local wineries produce full-bodied reds, floral whites and dessert wines. Book onto a tasting tour to sample vintages straight from the cellar, accompanied by cheeses and other nibbles. It’s a great way to experience the area’s wine-making tradition.
Wander Through the Cifrapalota
Name and Location: Cifrapalota is an ornate Art Nouveau building located at Rákóczi út 1 in Kecskemét, Hungary.
History and Significance: Cifrapalota was built in 1902 and is considered one of the city’s architectural gems. Its facade features colorful Zsolnay ceramic tiles and ornamental designs.
What to Expect: The exterior of Cifrapalota is the main attraction. Visitors can admire the whimsical detailing up close or photograph the building. The surrounding streets also have excellent examples of Art Nouveau architecture.
Visitor Information: Cifrapalota is open to the public and located in the city center just off the Main Square. Guided walking tours of Kecskemét often incorporate the building. There is no admission fee to view and photograph the facade.
The Cifrapalota is Kecskemét’s most ornate building. Built in 1902, this Art Nouveau palace features mesmerizing folk motifs, ceramic tiles, woodcarvings, and wrought-iron details. Wandering through its ground floor arches allows you to admire the lavish decor up-close. Today, it houses the Kecskemét Art Gallery.
Admire the Architecture in the Old Town
Name and Location: Kecskemét’s Old Town is centered around the Main Square and surrounding streets in the heart of the city.
History and Significance: The Old Town dates back to the 15th century and contains many well-preserved buildings showcasing various architectural styles. Structures range from Gothic to Art Nouveau.
What to Expect: Visitors can stroll the charming cobblestone streets and admire ornate building facades. Key sights include the Town Hall, Cathedral, Cifrapalota, and Lyceum. Guided walking tours are available.
Visitor Information: The Old Town is open to explore at any time. Some buildings like the Lyceum charge admission fees. Free maps are available at the Tourist Information Office on the Main Square.
Stroll around Kecskemét’s Old Town to take in the diverse architecture. You’ll find magnificent churches, the former Synagogue, Fascist-era buildings, classic Hungarian courtyards and more.
One highlight is the House of Science, with its ornate facade and domed corner turret. Keep an eye out for the unique “Kecskemét roses” – glazed ceramic decorations dotted around buildings.
Visit the Otthon Movie Theater
Name and Location: The Otthon Movie Theater (Otthon Mozi) is located at Katona József tér 4 in Kecskemét, Hungary.
History and Significance: The Otthon is Kecskemét’s oldest movie theater, opened in 1896. It retains its ornate early 20th century architecture including carved wood furnishings. The Otthon screens art house films.
What to Expect: The theater has one screen showing 1-2 films per day, usually classics, foreign films, or independent movies. Patrons can admire the vintage decor while enjoying a movie and concessions.
Visitor Information: Showtimes are in the evenings on weekdays and afternoons on weekends. Ticket prices are discounted for students and pensioners. The box office is open 30 minutes before screenings.
Cinephiles shouldn’t miss a screening at Otthon Movie Theater. Housed in a flamboyant Secessionist building dating to 1911, this historic cinema still screens films regularly. With its lavish dome ceiling, cherubic murals and glittering chandeliers, it’s a work of art in itself.
See Katona József Theater
Name and Location: The Katona József Theater (Katona József Színház) is located at Szabadság tér 6 in Kecskemét, Hungary.
History and Significance: Founded in 1865, the theater is one of Hungary’s oldest operating theater companies. The ornate building dates to 1902. It is named after renowned Hungarian playwright József Katona.
What to Expect: The Katona József Theater stages dramas, comedies, and musicals by both Hungarian and foreign playwrights. Productions are in Hungarian. The interior has lavish neo-Baroque architecture.
Visitor Information: Purchase tickets in advance online or at the box office. Prices range 1,500-4,000 HUF. There are usually multiple shows weekly in the evenings and weekend afternoons.
Catch a performance at Katona József Theater, known for producing high-quality contemporary theater. Designed in Moorish Revival style, the building itself is a treat, with its arched entranceway, carved pillars and intricately painted dome. See a thought-provoking play or musical brought to life on its state-of-the-art stage.
Eat Túrós Csusza
Name and Location: Túrós csusza is a traditional Hungarian noodle dish that can be found at restaurants across Kecskemét.
History and Significance: Túrós csusza originates from the cuisine of the Hungarian-speaking Csángó people. It has been a specialty of Kecskemét and the surrounding region for centuries.
What to Expect: Túrós csusza features egg noodles topped with sweet quark cheese, sour cream, and breadcrumbs. It is often served grilled or baked. Restaurants may add regional variations with fruit or meat.
Visitor Information: Look for túrós csusza on menus at local restaurants and cafes for lunch or dinner. Some locations known for excellent csusza are Csülök Csárda and Rézműves Étterem. Prices range 1,200-1,800 HUF.
Sample Kecskemét’s signature dish, túrós csusza. This hearty meal features homemade pasta smothered in soft cheese, sour cream and fried pork crackling. Best enjoyed in a traditional csárda restaurant accompanied by a glass of local white wine. Simple but delicious!
Shop at the Main Market Hall
Name and Location: Kecskemét’s Main Market Hall is located behind the Town Hall on the Main Square in the city center. The address is Korona u. 2, 6000 Kecskemét.
History and Significance: The Market Hall opened in 1902 and has been the city’s main indoor market for over a century. Vendors sell fresh produce, meat, cheese, baked goods and more.
What to Expect: The lively market is open daily except Sunday. Visitors can browse stalls selling local fruits and vegetables, Hungarian meat and dairy products, paprika, and crafts. There are also cafes and eateries.
Visitor Information: Open Monday-Saturday 6am-6pm. Best times to visit are mornings. The ground floor has produce vendors, upstairs is clothing, souvenirs, etc. Cash is preferred but some vendors accept credit cards.
Kecskemét’s Main Market Hall is the ideal place to shop for fresh local produce and artisan goods. Built in 1897, step inside its Neo-Gothic arched interior to peruse stalls piled high with fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, herbs and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the colorful painted ceiling either.
Take a Stroll Through the City Park
Name and Location: Kecskemét City Park (Városi Liget) is a large park in the western part of Kecskemét, near the intersection of Izsáki út and Máriahegy.
History and Significance: The City Park was established in the late 1800s and has long served as a recreational green space for locals and visitors. The park has walking paths, sports fields, a lake, and wooded areas.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy nature walks, picnics, playgrounds, and wooded trails perfect for jogging or biking. Highlights include City Park Lake with pedal boating and the Chimney Cake booth.
Visitor Information: The park is open daily from 8am-dusk. Entrance is free. Bicycle rentals available onsite. Public transportation is accessible via Bus #16 from the city center.
Meander through lush Kecskemét City Park just northeast of the main square. Established in 1862, it’s one of Hungary’s oldest public parks. Wander shady pathways past flowerbeds, fountains and sculptures. Kids will love the little zoo and playgrounds too. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
Visit Leskowsky Musical Instrument Collection
Name and Location: The Leskowsky Musical Instrument Collection (Leskowsky Hangszergyűjtemény) is located at Serfőző utca 19 in Kecskemét, Hungary.
History and Significance: Andor Leskowsky assembled this collection of over 200 musical instruments dating back to the 18th-20th centuries. The collection gives insight into European music history.
What to Expect: Visitors can view a wide array of historic string, wind, and percussion instruments. Highlights include a harpsichord from 1745 and violins made by renowned Italian luthiers. Guided tours provide background about rare instruments.
Visitor Information: The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-4pm. Admission is 1,000 HUF for adults, 500 for students. English tours must be booked in advance via phone or email.
This quirky museum displays over 300 exhibits related to the history of European musical instruments. You’ll see violins, brass and woodwind instruments, plus mechanical music boxes and gramophones from the 18th to 20th centuries. It’s situated inside a former Synagogue, adding historical interest.
See a Production at the Katona József Theater
Name and Location: The Katona József Theater (Katona József Színház) is located at Szabadság tér 6 in Kecskemét, Hungary.
History and Significance: Founded in 1865, the theater is one of Hungary’s oldest operating theater companies. The ornate building dates to 1902. It is named after renowned Hungarian playwright József Katona.
What to Expect: The Katona József Theater stages dramas, comedies, and musicals by both Hungarian and foreign playwrights. Productions are in Hungarian. The interior has lavish neo-Baroque architecture.
Visitor Information: Purchase tickets in advance online or at the box office. Prices range 1,500-4,000 HUF. There are usually multiple shows weekly in the evenings and weekend afternoons.
Watch an innovative performance at the Katona József Theater. Housed in an ornate Moorish Revival-style building, the theater is known for its avant-garde productions and modern adaptation of classics. With an exciting season of dramas, comedies, and musicals planned in 2024, it’s a top cultural venue.
Take a Day Trip to Lake Tisza
Name and Location: Lake Tisza (Tisza-tó) is Hungary’s largest artificial lake, located about 35 km east of Kecskemét near the towns of Tiszafüred and Kisköre.
History and Significance: Lake Tisza was created by damming the Tisza River in the 1970s to control flooding. It covers 127 square km and is popular for recreation.
What to Expect: Activities include swimming, boating, fishing, bird watching, and watersports. Accommodations range from campgrounds to resorts. The lake is surrounded by walking and cycling paths.
Visitor Information: Organized day trips to Lake Tisza are available from Kecskemét. Visitors can also take the train or bus to Tiszafüred then access the lake by local transport. The lake’s amenities are open May-September.
Just 18 miles from Kecskemét lies Lake Tisza. Hire bikes and cycle the area’s flat trails, relax on sandy beaches or try watersports on Hungary’s second-largest lake. Pack a picnic and make a day of enjoying the region’s scenic natural beauty at this popular summertime spot. It’s an easy yet rewarding day trip.
Conclusion
With its fascinating history, laidback vibes and beautiful architecture, Kecskemét rewards visitors with an authentic slice of Hungarian life. The city’s central location makes it perfect for day trips to Lake Tisza, Eger and other highlights too.
In 2024, Kecskemét has an exciting cultural calendar lined up, along with fun festivals and events throughout the warmer months. Spend your days admiring Art Nouveau buildings, unwinding in thermal baths and sampling wines before enjoying theater and music in the evenings. Kecskemét promises a memorable Hungarian getaway.