Previously, we shared with you why Miskolc, Hungary is very dear to us (read our previous article here). We told you about our first visit to this city and the treasure we found here. Besides the emotive story we experienced here years ago, we explored Miskolc. Now, we will share with you the types of tourist attractions we found there during our last visit (May 2022). So you will know if to skip or visit Miskolc in Hungary. Is it worth it?
Where is Miskolc, Hungary?
Miskolc is 187 km (around 2 hr and 15 minutes, based on Google maps) East of Budapest, the Hungarian capital, and 84 km away (1 hr and 10 minutes) from Eger. You can arrive via M3.
What to visit in Miskolc, Hungary?
Miskolc is a very enjoyable city. It is a rich Hungarian city in terms of outdoor spaces, history, and culture. Being there, you can visit:
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Miskolc downtown
Without a doubt, walking around downtown is a great choice. We enjoyed it a lot and you will be on the way to discover its quaint streets, old buildings, churches, fountain squares, green areas, monuments, galleries, and restaurants. A good reference to walking is the Széchenyi István utca, a wide, alive and we think, that it is the longest road in Miskolc. The tram rails are a good sign for you to walk, get lost in the small and cool streets, and later get back to this road to retake direction. You can take the tram, but you will miss the small businesses, cafés, souvenir shops, and the tourist information office. We preferred to walk and explore in detail. There is something nice about encountering again a place you liked in the past. It is a good challenge for the memory to identify the places, streets, and changes. This road is mostly for pedestrians since 1984. The tram is the only vehicle that passes through it. You will enjoy walking!
Szinva terrace
This is one of our favorite squares in Miskolc. The terrace has the name of the Szinva stream that crosses the city. The stairs of this terrace lead to an artificial stream bank that creates a waterfall. In this square, you will find the cute Lovers’ bridge. Yes, love has also its place in this cute city. You will easily identify it. There is a small bridge and a vast collection of the traditional padlocks that couples leave.
City Hall square
It is the historical center of Miskolc and the County Hall and the City Hall are there. You will reach it too by following the Széchenyi István road and by the way, there, you can find a statue of Count István Széchenyi, or “the Greatest Hungarian” as he is also called. He was a political reformer and writer. He got born into an aristocratic family. He fought against Napoleon I and travel a lot around Europe. After being impressed by the modernity of France and England, he decided to improve Hungary. There is no doubt, that travels inspire! Széchenyi knew it then and we confirm it now, 163 years after his death (1860)!
Elizabeth square
Another cute and peaceful outdoor space you will enjoy. There is a fountain and it was a refreshing stop to rest. You know you are there if you see a bronze statue of Lajos Kossuth, a Hungarian politician, journalist, lawyer, and Regent-President of the Kingdom of Hungary during the revolution of 1848-1849. From there, the Gothic and Romanesque Avas Reformed Church is visible, together with the Bell Tower at the foot of the Avas' hillside.
Heroes’ square
Another place full of history and buildings (Classicist and Baroque) to see. The Minorite Parish, the Post Office Palace, some very old schools, and a fountain system that Hungarians use to refresh during hot days. It is well known due to the Fallen Heroes Memorial.
St. Stephen’s square
Its main figure is the St. Stephen statue. We have already talked a bit about how important is St. Stephen's history and legacy for Hungarians (LINK). There is a popular Flower Clock there. It is a nice open space that holds different events during the year. That day, it was holding a marathon, and many people were supporting the participants. From there you will see Avas Hill. Get motivated and climb it!
The Avas Hill and lookout tower
We did it! Because even if we are tired, we always find a way to get even more tired hahaha. So we decided to climb the 234-meter-high Avas Hill. Honestly, it is not hard walking. The issue is to do it when your feet are already screaming for a break. The path is clear and the stairs are ok. This time (May 2022), a long area close to the top was under renovation so it was a bit uncomfortable to jump around the machines, tools, and construction materials that were there.
Besides, we lost the main path and we finished in a graveyard. It was cool because if you go there, you can see some very old tombs. The contrast between the modern style of tombs and the old is big. The oldest tombs are the coolest. Some date back to the latest 1800s and early 1900s.
After some extra effort to leave the graveyard, we reached the 72-meter-tall Avas TV tower. So, we made it to the top! There we rested and enjoy the view over Miskolc that windy day.
Folks’ garden
It is a cool and relaxing park that houses different statues of relevant Hungarian figures, benches, playgrounds, etc.
Ferenc Deák square
One more open area surrounded by interesting buildings like the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, the Neo-Renaissance Forestry Palace, the Orthodox Museum, and more. At the center of the square, you will see the statue of Ferenc Deák. He was a Hungarian statesman and Minister of Justice, also known as “The wise Man of the Nation”. He was part of Hungary’s liberal movement.
National Theatre of Miskolc
It is almost 200 years old and it was the first theatre in modern Hungary to offer performances in Hungarian. It is the main theatre in the city and the oldest Hungarian theatre company. It is located downtown and you will find it while following the Széchenyi István utca.
Arts Hall or Müvészetek Háza
It is the spot to visit if you look for entertainment. It holds alternatives to high art, like other easy-going genres and different types of presentations, academic included. You can take a look at the choices they have during your visit. Perhaps something suits your taste.
The Palace of Music
It is close to the main square and it is a place for classical music lovers. The building is Neo-baroque style and it was built between 1926 and 1927.
Besides, you can visit the Diósgyör castle to get a glimpse into the medieval past of the city, or the Tapolca Cave Bath, a thermal bath experience. There is a zoo too. We haven't visited these last three spots. If you visit them, share your opinion with us!
Skip or visit Miskolc in Hungary? Is it worth it?
Our opinion is Miskolc is worth a visit. Don't expect the size and magnificence you find in the Hungarian capital. Miskolc has less impressive stuff than Budapest but if you are not rushing and you enjoy quiet and scenic places, go. It is a very good spot to escape from the noise and stress of bigger cities. We recommend it for a weekend or several days. If you are on a long trip, this can be an ideal stop to recharge energy and continue. It is a good idea to have a wider picture of Hungary. This country has a lot to enjoy but many travelers only visit and talk about Budapest.
Conclusion
If Miskolc is on your way, stop by! It is a quiet and nice city where you can enjoy and be submerged in nature, history, and culture. Surprises can be just around every Miskolc’s corner!
You may also like:
Top 5 parks in Budapest for picnic lovers
Attractions near Budapest, that will leave you speechless!
Eger (Hungary), a bloody wine place. Why visit it?
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