On August 8, 2026, the heart of Hódmezővásárhely will come alive with the sizzling excitement of the Chili Day & Gastro Festival, held in Kossuth Square (Kossuth tér). But it’s not just about chili—the city’s hospitality scene and culinary treasures are ready to ensure visitors savor every moment. Let’s take a spicy stroll through the accommodations, restaurants, and unique attractions that make Hódmezővásárhely the perfect festival destination.
Staying Cozy in Hódmezővásárhely
Nestled on a quiet street, Hotel Fáma radiates a homely atmosphere just a 20-minute walk from both downtown and the thermal baths. Each room features a minibar, TV, and private bathroom. Guests can enjoy dinner in the hotel’s restaurant or on the terrace, surrounded by a welcoming environment. Safety is assured with a secure parking lot, and even four-legged friends are warmly welcomed.
The freshly renovated Creative House (Alkotóház) offers something a bit different. This artist retreat features five twin rooms and a studio, providing inspiration for everyone from photographers and painters to artisans. Each room is named after a notable artist who has worked at the house. Located in a tranquil, historic area of the city center, Creative House (Alkotóház) has a cozy lounge, a well-equipped kitchen, and a charming garden—the perfect setting for creative souls seeking a peaceful stay.
Hotel Ginkgo**** is all about effortless comfort and style. Every corner is finished with quality, all to cater to your comfort. The staff go out of their way to make guests feel right at home, living up to the property’s promise: simply a great hotel, nothing more or less.
Kenguru Guesthouse (Kenguru Panzió) caters to every guest’s needs, 24/7. Choose from guesthouse rooms or apartment-style accommodations for a peaceful stay tailored to your liking. Right next door, the Kenguru Inn (Kenguru Csárda) tempts with regional specialties—guaranteed to turn mealtime into an adventure.
For those seeking relaxation away from the bustle, the Kentaur Equestrian Guesthouse and Recreation Park (Kentaur Lovaspanzió és Rekreációs Park) awaits just outside town on Szentesi Road. Its calm surroundings ensure downtime and fresh air for all visitors.
Another gem boasts a location right by the Sándor Török Spa (Török Sándor Gyógyfürdő) and the Dezső Gyarmati Sports Swimming Pool (Gyarmati Dezső Sportuszoda). Mediterranean-style rooms offer restful nights so guests can wake refreshed, ready for the festival and beyond.
Guesthouse facilities often include eight en-suite rooms, 23 beds, wifi, secure parking, a garden, TV in every room, dining space, conference room, and meal options, making it easy to combine comfort with convenience.
And for visitors who want to be at the center of it all, the Hódmezővásárhely Technical Training Center dormitory offers accommodations for travelers and local students alike, right in the heart of the city.
Dining: Village Flavors Meet City Elegance
Bagolyvár Restaurant (Bagolyvár Étterem) evokes the feel of a turn-of-the-century home, filled with antique furniture and captivating objects. In summer, diners enjoy a garden paved with old-style bricks reminiscent of a wine cellar, while in colder months, the restaurant offers long, leisurely meals attended by a discreet and expert staff. Forgotten flavors come back to life from the kitchen’s hearth, making each visit memorable.
Wine lovers will find their own heaven at the local family-run winery, farming vineyards on the border of Csongrád and Bokros. Varieties include Blaufränkisch (Kékfrankos), Zweigelt, Cabernet Franc, Kadarka, Kövidinka, and Pölöskei Muscat (Pölöskei muskotály). All grapes are processed in Hódmezővásárhely and stored in a 150-year-old adobe-walled cellar with a tasting room. Wine tastings for up to 20 people usually take place on Friday and Saturday evenings, and corporate or family gatherings are welcome. The new “show wine cellar” in Szeged even accommodates 30-40 guests for tastings.
Bandula Tavern (Bandula Kisvendéglő) is the definition of small-town hospitality: quick, attentive service and a notable wine list. The kitchen serves up Köcsög Soup (Köcsögleves), gigantic Viennese cutlets marinated in garlic oil, classic breaded chicken thighs like those from grandma’s Sunday table, and the special Kishomoki salad. Its terrace seats up to 80 guests, offering an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere for anyone wanting to unwind.
Every day, the restaurant delights with house-style, rustic dishes, offering dine-in, delivery, and takeaway options. Daily menus are available, and special orders are always welcome. If you love culinary variety, you’ll be spoiled for choice—especially when you can relax outdoors in good weather.
Sólyom Bistro (Sólyom Bisztró), located within the main college cafeteria on Petőfi Street (Petőfi utca), dishes up daily-changing menus, “bistro specials,” and the always-comforting taste of home cooking.
Wine Country and Event Spaces
Hódmezővásárhely is part of the famous Csongrád wine region. The Sóshalom area on the city’s outskirts has been producing quality wine for centuries. The Róna Cooperative oversees nearly 250 acres of vineyards, growing Chasselas, Kövidinka, Olaszrizling (Welschriesling), Grüner Veltliner, Blaufränkisch (Kékfrankos), and Cabernet Franc. The winery and cellar, originally built in the late 1960s, have been modernized and expanded, offering tastings and direct sales for both individuals and pre-booked groups, with one-dish meals available on request.
Event House and Café (Rendezvényház és Kávéház) stands near the city center in a beautifully renovated building. Upstairs, elegant balls, concerts, and public events still take place in Central Europe’s second-largest column-free ballroom, which can seat up to 400 for events. Whether it’s a wedding, class reunion, ball, or business conference, this is the place for unforgettable gatherings in the heart of the city.
When the spice and flair of the Chili Day & Gastro Festival calls you, Hódmezővásárhely welcomes you with a feast of accommodations, food, and tradition—proof that this city offers much more than just heat!
