Every Sunday, the Pécs car market takes over the Fairgrounds (Vásártér) on Megyeri Street, drawing in car enthusiasts, sellers, and bargain hunters alike. This weekly event isn’t just for gearheads—it’s a lively marketplace with plenty to see, do, and experience, right in one of Hungary’s most vibrant cities. The tradition continues into 2025, with new dates and local highlights making it a can’t-miss occasion.
Packed Calendar for 2025
The Pécs car market is steadfast in its consistency—every Sunday is a potential shopping day. The market runs throughout the year, with key weekends marked on the calendar. Special occasions like the third Sunday of Easter (April 20) and the second Sunday of Pentecost (June 8) are already circled as major events. Whether you’re planning a visit in spring, summer, autumn, or even deep into December, there’s a date for you. In April, the market takes place on the 20th and 27th; May hosts events on the 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th. The schedule continues with the same enthusiasm through June (1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th), July (6th, 13th, 20th, 27th), August (3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st), and September (7th, 14th, 21st, 28th). October’s dates are the 5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th, while November keeps the momentum going on the 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th. December wraps up the year with markets every Sunday—the 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th.
Staying in Style: Hotels and Unique Lodging
If you’re making a weekend of it, Pécs offers an array of inviting accommodation options close to all the action. The 4-star Adele Boutique Hotel is housed in a 19th-century landmark building in the historic city center, blending period charm with modern luxury in both rooms and apartments. For comfort and character, guests can also opt for Bagolyvár, perched above Pécs on Havi Hill (Havihegy). Here, uniquely decorated rooms evoke Hungarian folk art, and six wine-themed suites pay tribute to the country’s most iconic vintages. The panoramic views and peaceful setting are matched only by the authentic restaurant menu—think old Hungarian meals and desserts, alongside international fare.
Travelers looking to stay close to downtown can check in at the Barbakán Hotel, just behind Pécs Cathedral (Pécsi Székesegyház), offering comfortable rooms for couples and families, conference space, and secure parking. For a homey atmosphere among the hillside villas above the city, consider the family-run pension near the Mecsek woods. It’s five minutes to the forest trails and just as quick to reach the historic city core; nearby, the zoo and Da Vinci Private Clinic offer even more to explore. The popular Mandulás recreation area, with its playgrounds, fire pits, and hiking paths, is just a stone’s throw away. Those arriving in groups can even request free guided hikes.
Sopianae Boutique Hotel stands out with its intriguing mix of classic exterior and modern interiors, promising personalized, friendly service in a family-like setting. Out in nature, the Büdöskúti Key House (Kulcsosház) sits halfway between Hermit Meadow (Remete-rét) and Orfű on the blue and green hiking trails. Just northwest of the main road and able to host up to 12 guests, it’s perfect for adventurous groups.
For a taste of Pécs’s deep history, there are apartment hotels just minutes from UNESCO-listed Early Christian sites, the Cathedral, and the city’s famed Museum Street (Múzeum utca). Even the former residence of the Order of Canonesses of Our Lady has been transformed into state-of-the-art lodging in the restored 19th-century Baroque building. Still, in Pécs you’re never far from a modern hotel nestled in a quiet setting, with the city’s Mediterranean pedestrian streets and cultural venues like the Knowledge Centre (Tudásközpont) and Kodály Centre (Kodály Központ) just steps away.
Taste It All: Where to Eat in Pécs
No trip to Pécs is complete without sampling local treats. Drop by Angelic Temptations (Angyali Kísértés) Chocolate Shop for artisanal chocolates, bonbons, and homemade pastries. Local restaurants—cozy, welcoming, and often bustling—serve everything from hearty roasts, grilled and stuffed meats, traditional and international dishes, to pasta, risotto, and an impressive range of pizzas. Want something lighter? You’ll find robust salads, fresh soups, and tempting desserts everywhere.
Looking for a classic Hungarian dining experience? Downtown eateries serve old-fashioned favorites with changing daily menus, ensuring even a quick lunch is a mini culinary adventure. Some spots open early for breakfast, serving frothy coffee, sandwiches, scones, and homemade strudels. For catered events, both in-house and off-site, there are plenty of flexible options.
Aranykacsa (“Golden Duck”) Restaurant is set in a friendly environment and focuses on quality gastronomy and wine culture, using local ingredients and modern techniques. For wine tastings, head to the Vinárium; for everyday dining and drinks, visit the Tüke Room; for official functions, the Zsolnay Room; and for weddings and parties, the upstairs Dakk Room and garden terrace.
Bistro cuisine shines at the gateway to the Balkans, with a strong focus on fresh, homemade flavors in relaxed, homey surroundings—all at unbeatable value. Fan of beer? The Big Bell (Nagy Harang) Restaurant now features a microbrewery and beer garden. Bohemia Sörkonyha (“Bohemia Beer Kitchen”) hits the spot for beer, burgers, and BBQ right in the city center. And if you need something quick and affordable, Amber Fast Food (Borostyán Gyorsétterem) has you covered Monday through Friday.
For the chameleons of Pécs, head to PAULUS—a café in the morning, a self-service restaurant at lunch, a pub by evening, and a hub for events all week long.
Flexibility is Key
For visitors planning their trip or a special outing to the Pécs car market, keep in mind that organizers reserve the right to change times and programs as needed. That just adds to the excitement—there’s always a little surprise waiting in Pécs.
