Every summer, the forests around Szombathely (Szombathely) attract mushroom hunters of all ages, eager to bring home baskets of edible treasures. But here’s the catch: not all mushrooms are safe to eat, and making the wrong guess can have serious consequences. That’s why Szombathely (Szombathely) offers expert mushroom inspections right at the bustling City Market Hall (Vásárcsarnok)—making it easy, safe, and, above all, much smarter to enjoy your harvest.
Mushroom Checks for Everyone
From Friday, July 25 to Sunday, July 27, 2025, Szombathely’s City Market Hall (Vásárcsarnok) becomes a safety center for foragers. Walk in with your freshly picked mushrooms and have a qualified expert check if your finds are gourmet delicacies or dangerous imposters. The service is available not just on this special weekend, but also regularly every week for residents: Tuesdays and Fridays from 6 AM to 10 AM, and Saturdays and Sundays from 6 AM to noon.
Has the weather been rainy? A mushroom boom might mean special opening hours on Mondays and Thursdays, so it’s always wise to follow the Market’s mushroom inspector on Facebook or check the market’s noticeboard for up-to-date information.
Find Fresh Mushrooms—and Their Sellers
If you prefer eating mushrooms over foraging, the Market has you covered: local mushroom sellers always set up at the first two rows of tables inside the Small Hall (Kiscsarnok), right during inspection hours. Everything is as fresh as can be and certified, so you leave with peace of mind.
Where to Stay in Szombathely (Szombathely)
Turn your mushroom hunt into a weekend getaway—Szombathely (Szombathely) offers plenty of welcoming places to stay. In the city’s eastern green zone, several guesthouses provide homey, affordable rooms, a family-friendly atmosphere, and hearty Hungarian meals at reasonable prices. Most have private, secure parking (one even boasts space for 30 cars!), and a bus stop is rarely more than 30 feet away. Their event rooms are available—ideal for weddings, family gatherings, or any other festive occasion.
Forum Hotel and Restaurant (Forum Szálloda és Étterem) stands out with a unique Ancient Roman flair, two stacked dining halls serving both Hungarian classics and international dishes, and a hotel above for tourists or business guests seeking something more distinctive.
Near the city’s scenic Boating Lake (Csónakázó-tó) is the three-star Garda Hotel (Hotel Garda). It offers large, refined air-conditioned rooms as well as more affordable, cozy options—just steps from the thermal bath and the recently renovated Lake Bath (Tófürdő) beach. Meanwhile, another hotel just five minutes from downtown provides a peaceful environment, 14 rooms and 5 apartments, each with private bathrooms, cable TV, free unlimited internet, and, for most, air conditioning.
A short walk from the historic center, Il Gallo Nero Restaurant and Guesthouse welcomes anyone looking for rooms, dining, or an impressive event hall for up to 200 guests.
If you want to combine relaxation with nature, the House of Herény (Herényiek Háza) is next to the famous Kámon Arboretum (Kámoni Arborétum) and two lovely streams. Renovated to evoke a Roman villa, it offers indoor and outdoor amenities—including a beautiful garden, kiln, sports facilities, and even bicycle rentals.
For a taste of luxury, the four-star King’s Park Hotel (Király Park Hotel) features 16 modern, comfortable rooms, a rehabilitation center with medical services, and a wellness zone with saunas, plunge pool, and jacuzzi. With over 100 free parking spots, it’s popular with business guests, sports teams, or anyone just looking to unwind.
P4W Residence Hotel*** offers 19 large, stylish rooms, private parking, a cozy beer terrace, and a wide range of services. Several downtown Szombathely (Szombathely) guesthouses provide private-entry apartments opening onto tranquil courtyards for guests who prefer privacy.
Where—and What—to Eat and Drink
Dining in Szombathely (Szombathely) ranges from classic to creative. At 108 Restaurant (108 Étterem, named after Hungarian footballer Gábor Király’s 108 national team matches), the menu blends European and Mediterranean flavors, but you’ll also find timeless comfort food. No compromises are made on freshness, taste, or service, and the lunch menu changes every weekday. Skilled staff serve exciting selections of wine, cocktails, and barista-quality coffee. There’s even a lounge inspired by African themes for anyone seeking the perfect cup.
Another city-center restaurant, located inside the Artis Hotel (Artis Hotel), blends modern elegance with youthful energy. European and Hungarian classics sit side by side with Eastern-inspired dishes, all made from the freshest ingredients. There’s even a show kitchen, letting guests watch the chefs at work. Mornings begin with hearty breakfasts, and weekday lunches feature a business menu and sushi bento boxes.
Upstairs at the DOMUS Department Store (DOMUS Áruház) in the Derkovits neighborhood (Derkovits városrész), another eatery serves hearty, old-fashioned meals—combining classic flavors with inventive touches from today’s kitchen.
Finally, weekends at Il Gallo Nero are especially lively with live music, while other venues pride themselves on their selection of fish, game, and vegetarian-friendly modern cuisine, accompanied by local beers and special wines.
Plan Your Visit—But Stay Flexible
Whether you’re a committed forager, a culinary adventurer, or just along for the ride, Szombathely (Szombathely) offers options for every taste and budget. Just remember—the organizers reserve the right to change the event’s dates or details, so stay tuned for updates to make the most of your mushroom weekend!
