Tucked away on Gyula’s bustling pedestrian street, the Gyula Honey Hut (Gyulai Mézes Kuckó) invites you to experience locally produced honeys and unique honey-based products straight from the source. Open for a special honey-buying event from July 22 to July 26, 2025, this charming shop at 2 Town Hall Street (Városház utca 2) is a must-visit for foodies and curious minds alike.
Meet the Beekeeper Behind the Counter
The Honey Hut is run by Erika Balogh, a passionate and dedicated beekeeper whose commitment to her craft shines through in each jar on the shelves. Erika’s collection isn’t just extensive—it’s award-winning, with several types of honey earning gold and silver accolades. Beyond picking up a jar or two, visitors can enrich their “bee knowledge,” as Erika readily shares her expertise on honey production, different varieties, and the surprising range of flavors and health benefits each offers. This personal touch turns a routine purchase into an educational adventure.
When to Visit—and When Not To
Although the Honey Hut is a highlight of Gyula’s confectionery scene, catching it open requires a bit of planning. Forget Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays—the doors remain closed. Visit on Thursdays (10 a.m. to noon), Fridays (2 p.m. to 5 p.m.), or Saturdays (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) to sample, chat, and shop. Of course, the main honey event runs from July 22–26, but similar openings occur during the last week of July and the first and second weeks of August, giving you plenty of opportunities to get your “liquid gold.”
Gyula: More Than Honey
While honey is a star attraction, Gyula offers the complete package for travelers. Famed for its blend of history and Romantic-era ambiance, the town is an ideal getaway for couples looking to fall in love, friends seeking fun, children in search of adventure, parents craving wellness, and seniors needing to recharge. The Gyula Wellness Hotel (Wellness Hotel Gyula) stands out among local accommodations, with a strong focus on family-friendly relaxation. This all-ages resort provides wellness packages for every generation and includes full board at half-board prices—all year round and on every holiday.
Where to Stay: The Top Spots
Accommodation options in Gyula are as rich and diverse as its honey. The Abazia Apartment and Studio (Abbázia Apartman és Stúdió) put you within 164 feet of the iconic Castle and Thermal Bath. Angelhaus Guesthouse (Angelhaus Vendégház) is prized for its peaceful setting near the spa, welcoming guests year-round. Modern apartments a stone’s throw from Gyula Castle Spa (Várfürdő) are tailored to every need and make it easy to explore the historic lake or castle.
Those seeking more space can look to large apartment houses by the city’s summer entrance or the Live Water Canal (Élővíz-csatorna), which together offer 20 beds—perfect for big families or groups of friends. Bányai Guesthouse (Bányai Vendégház) appeals to anyone seeking tranquility and South Great Plain (Dél-Alföld) scenery, while Central Apartment (Central Apartman), right in Gyula’s heart, provides easy access to everything from museums and fountains to confectioneries, churches, and transit. Whether you want a 1,184-square-foot apartment for the whole crew or a cozy 194-square-foot studio for two, you’re covered.
If boutique comfort is your thing, the Corso Boutique Hotel is set in the lively city center, right in the middle of the shopping and business district and just steps from every local highlight. The hotel’s rear entrance opens onto the vibrant Gyula promenade—a prime spot to stroll among flower gardens and bubbling fountains.
Eat, Drink, and Enjoy: Gyula’s Historic Delights
Gyula’s culinary scene glows with historic charm. The Centenary Confectionery (Százéves Cukrászda), dating back to 1840, is Hungary’s second-oldest pastry shop. Set inside a beautifully restored Empire-style building, visitors can sample traditional cakes, parfaits, candies, and ice cream while soaking up the café culture of a bygone age. The ornate Biedermeier furniture and lovingly painted walls recall the confectionery’s community roots. Restored in the 1980s and again in 2004, this gem remains one of the most unique culinary experiences in southern Hungary, even featuring an on-site confectionery museum.
For those seeking a true summer experience, the classic terrace at the castle round bastion (rondella, circular bastion) offers decades of tradition served with modern flair. With summer programs and live performances, the terrace draws crowds to the castle gardens, bringing music and food together under open skies.
Don’t Miss Out
Gyula is more than just a destination—it’s a feast for the senses, anchored by the irresistible pull of the Honey Hut and a collection of hotels, guesthouses, and eateries that promise something for everyone. Whether you’re after gold-medal honey, a boutique bed, or a pastry with a 19th-century pedigree, this little town is big on charm. Just remember to double-check dates and hours—or you might miss Gyula’s sweetest experiences!
