Every August 20, Eger—the picturesque Hungarian city famed for its historic castle (Eger vára) and rolling vineyards—goes all out to celebrate the country’s founding. The 2025 festivities are shaping up to be unmissable, with the city’s main square, István Dobó Square (Dobó István tér), at the heart of the action. Locals and visitors alike are gearing up for vibrant musical performances, mouthwatering bites, and more ways to taste wine than most can even imagine.
Where to Stay: From Charming Baroque to Modern Style
Eger’s accommodation options suit every kind of traveler, especially those with a keen eye for local wine and a love of sightseeing. Along ancient cobbled streets, right under the shadow of Eger Castle (Eger vára), you’ll find the Várvédő self-catering apartments. This spot is all about convenience—choose from three stylish apartments (max. capacity: 10 guests) and step straight out into the city’s best restaurants and must-see sights.
Not far away, hidden in the inner courtyard of a typical old Eger apartment house, there’s a lovingly renovated little retreat. With antique furnishings, it feels straight out of a fairytale—perfect for those who seek history alongside hospitality.
For something more tranquil, there are guesthouses in peaceful, leafy neighborhoods—like on Wolf Valley Street (Farkasvölgy utca)—just a 15-minute walk from both the historic center and the famous baths. If you’re arriving by train, these are a top pick for easy access.
Design is not neglected: the wellness-focused Allure Hotel complex offers 19 elegant suites, a 24-hour gym, a wellness area, and a lively bistro. Whether you’re all about health, sports, or pure relaxation, this place has every base covered.
Stay Near the Famous Cellars
Almafa Apartment House has welcomed guests year-round since 1998. It’s in a serene, suburban setting right next to the iconic Valley of the Beautiful Woman (Szépasszony-völgy) wine cellars, with the city center only a short stroll away. Amulett Guesthouse also puts you close to both Eger’s famous thermal baths and top wine cellars.
If the city center is more your style, Aqua Villa is just a 2-minute walk from the northern entrance of Eger Castle (Eger vára) and the legendary spa complex. It’s right in the beating heart of the city, making all of Eger’s cultural treasures easily accessible on foot.
A Bite of the Baroque
Lodgings like the newly built Aranykert Guesthouse or the romantic, renovated 17th-century Golden Baroque Apartment (Arany Barokk Apartman) are steeped in both history and luxury. Some rooms even offer unmatched panoramic views of the castle. For an elegantly straightforward option, the friendly Bacchus Guesthouse (Bacchus Panzió) is known for its cozy rooms and reasonable prices—ideal for a restful city escape.
Raise a Glass: Eger’s Legendary Wine Scene
Eger wouldn’t be Eger without its wine. In the Valley of the Beautiful Woman (Szépasszony-völgy), visitors stroll along a unique horseshoe-shaped row of wine cellars. One hotspot is Tóth Ferenc Winery—their 46th cellar is home to approachable weekday wines as well as top-notch superior and grand superior vintages. Sample their creations along with local cheeses, spreads, artisanal olive specialties—and yes, even handmade chocolate.
On Síkhegy Hill, the Tóth family organizes laid-back picnics among the trees from June to September, becoming more popular every year. They’ll even offer a shuttle for those without a car.
Tóth’s isn’t the only family winery with deep roots. Several local families have tended the region’s most beautiful vineyards for over 40 years—producing Eger Bull’s Blood (Egri Bikavér) and Eger Star (Egri Csillag) from legendary sites like Síkhegy and Great Eged Hill (Nagy-Eged). Their ambition: to showcase grapes like Leányka, Kadarka, and Blaufränkisch (Kékfrankos) to wine lovers everywhere.
Coffee, Sweets, and History Galore
When not sipping wine, duck into Palace Café (Palota Kávézó) for the heady aroma of Italian coffee and desserts courtesy of the famed Stühmer patisserie. For a real taste of history, dine at 1552 inside Eger Castle (Eger vára)—where you’ll enjoy both Hungarian and Turkish flavors in a setting that recreates the era of the castle’s legendary siege.
Cellar Crawls and Community Spirit
The city’s winemaking pulse is felt at Bull’s Blood Wine House (Bikavér Borház)—a true fortress of wine, with around 50 wineries represented and a cozy tasting room right on Dobó Square (Dobó tér). Warm up in winter with mulled wine, or join a medieval-inspired tasting at the nearby Knight’s Hall (Lovagterem). Bolyki Winery & Vineyard, set among 100-foot quarried cliffs just outside the city, is home to nine cellars for barrel aging, bottle storage, and big, lively events.
If you’re eager to sleep among the vines, the award-winning Archbishop’s Vineyard of Almagyar (Almagyar Érseki Szőlőbirtok) features a wine-camping site, wine terrace, and even a grapevine spa—all blending naturally with the surrounding countryside.
Eat, Drink, Celebrate—and Repeat
Wherever you stay, you’ll find Eger’s State Foundation Day celebration blends tradition, hospitality, and that unbeatable Hungarian sense of festivity. There’s so much to explore—from wine cellars and artisan cafés to live music and historic reenactments.
Just remember, the organizers reserve the right to adjust dates and programs—so check ahead, and get ready for a citywide party where everyone raises a glass.
