Looking for a summer escape that combines history, craft beer, and a touch of luxury? The Beer Tasting in Gyula (Gyula) offers just that from July 23 to July 25, 2025. This isn’t your average pint at the local pub—it’s a guided journey through the flavors and traditions of Hungarian brewing, topped off with a deep dive into history at the stunning Gyulavári Castle (Gyulavári kastély).
Sipping Craft Beer Next to a Castle
Located alongside the stately Gyulavári Castle (Gyulavári kastély), Elixbeer Brewery (Elixbeer Sörfőzde) is the headline act of the event. Forget bland lagers—Elixbeer offers a lineup of traditional brews, along with some rare and organically certified creations. Quality takes center stage here, especially with their showpiece, “alakor”—a beer brewed from an ancient, 10,000-year-old wheat variety. This unique grain has been organically cultivated in Hungary, a rarity that sets Elixbeer apart for any beer enthusiast. Picture yourself raising a glass in the shadow of a castle, savoring something 10 millennia in the making.
Your Summer Drinking Schedule
Beer tasting sessions run for three nights in a row: Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, each starting at 6:30 p.m. and finishing at 7:30 p.m. Including transfer time, the whole experience lasts about 90 minutes. Each intimate group of 4 to 8 people begins with a transfer bus from the Stefánia wing bus stop at Almásy Castle (Almásy-kastély). Tickets must be purchased in advance—by 5 p.m. the day before—at the Tourinform office (7 Kossuth Street).
All-inclusive participation costs $22 per person, or $19.85 if you show your Visit Gyula Card (Gyula Kártya) for a 10% discount. Not in town for the first run? Don’t worry—additional sessions take place July 30–August 1 and August 6–8. Spots are limited, so don’t miss out.
More Than Just Beer—Sleep, Feast, and Play
Gyula (Gyula) isn’t just about beer. This charming town offers a wide range of accommodation options for every kind of traveler, whether you’re enjoying a romantic getaway, traveling with kids, or catching up with friends. The family-friendly Wellness Hotel Gyula (Wellness Hotel Gyula) is a top choice, boasting wellness facilities and full-board packages—all year round, even on holidays, with the excellent offer of full board at half-board prices.
After a long day, relax at Abbázia Apartment and Studio (Abbázia Apartman és Stúdió), just a short walk (about 164 feet) from the iconic Castle and the lively thermal baths. For a quieter retreat, Angelhaus Guesthouse (Angelhaus Vendégház) offers peace and privacy near the spa, providing the ideal setting for relaxation.
If lakeside vibes are your preference, stay in an apartment just a minute’s stroll from Gyula Castle (Gyulai vár) and the Rowing Lake (Csónakázó-tó). The town also features apartment houses, such as one conveniently located just 328 feet from the spa’s summer entrance—perfect for big families or larger groups, with its 20 beds spread across six stylish apartments.
Those seeking tranquility in the Southern Great Plain (Dél-Alföld) should check in at Bányai Guesthouse (Bányai Vendégház), renowned for its serene surroundings. For something right in the heart of Gyula, Central Apartment (Central Apartman) places you steps away from markets, museums, and charming cafés, with unit sizes ranging from a compact 194 square feet to a spacious 1,184 square feet.
The Corso Boutique Hotel (Corso Boutique Hotel) and Corvin Hotel Gyula*** & Wellness Apartments (Corvin Hotel Gyula*** & Wellness Apartmanok) are both nestled in downtown’s vibrant core. Enjoy easy walks to renowned spots like the castle, thermal baths, museums, trendy shops, restaurants, and more. Superior rooms and family suites make them excellent choices for everyone—romance-seekers and families alike.
Want to wake up to birdsong instead of city noise? Csigaház Guesthouse (Csigaház Panzió) is next to the spa and Snail Garden (Csigakert), with peaceful gardens and a touch of history from its proximity to the old Wenkheim Castle (Wenckheim-kastély) park.
Café Culture and Local Sweets
No trip to Gyula (Gyula) is complete without sampling local treats. Stop by the café beside the Gyula Almásy Castle Visitor Center (Gyulai Almásy-kastély Látogatóközpont), or pick up a colorful trinket at the adjacent museum gift shop (open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed Mondays). For al fresco fun, the bustling terrace by the castle’s round bastion (rondella) continues a decades-old tradition, hosting lively programs and concerts all summer.
Don’t miss the iconic Centenary Confectionery (Százéves Cukrászda)—Hungary’s second oldest confectionery, in business since 1840. Enjoy decadent pastries, traditional parfaits, candies, and ice cream, all in a beautifully restored, Empire-style building. Restored to its former glory in 2004, its Biedermeier furnishings and painted walls will transport you back to Gyula’s golden age of cafés. Peek behind the scenes at the confectionery museum, an evocative tribute to sugar and nostalgia.
Event organizers reserve the right to change dates and program details, so check ahead before planning your fizzy adventure!
