On September 20, 2025, Szombathely (Szombathely) will open the doors of its beloved City Market Hall for Open Market Day – a celebration packed with events and flavors for all ages. The entire market becomes a playground of discovery, inviting visitors to explore, sample, and fall head over heels for local flavors and crafts. With a catwalk featuring local fashion, mouthwatering cheese and wine tastings, live music, and special food stalls, this day is a magnet for foodies and families alike. Even the vendors of industrial goods get their share of the spotlight, reminding everyone that their products complete the marketplace’s unique charm.
Rest and Refuel in Green Surroundings
If you need a place to stay, the eastern side of Szombathely (Szombathely) offers a guesthouse surrounded by greenery, notable for its accessibility – just 33 feet from a city bus stop and with a secured parking lot for about 30 cars. The inn’s restaurant focuses on homestyle cooking at wallet-friendly prices, while the cozy, affordable rooms help you feel at home. Private function rooms are available for family events, weddings, or gatherings of any size.
Roman Style Meets Modern Comforts
The Forum Hotel and Restaurant stands out for its ancient Roman flair. Designed to blend the city’s centuries-old history with modern tastes, this two-level restaurant offers both Hungarian and international dishes. The hotel, located above the restaurant, caters to both business travelers and tourists seeking atmosphere and comfort.
The Lake, the Pool, and the Perfect Stay
Garda Hotel (Garda Szálló) puts you just steps from the sparkling Boating Lake (Csónakázó-tó) and the city’s indoor pool and thermal baths. This three-star hotel offers spacious, air-conditioned rooms for a touch of elegance, as well as smaller, more affordable rooms for budget travelers. Just five minutes from the city center, with 14 rooms and 5 apartments, Garda Hotel promises a calm, family-friendly atmosphere and can comfortably accommodate up to 50 guests. Private bathrooms, cable TV, phones, unlimited internet – and, for the most part, air conditioning for those warm nights – are included.
Villa Vibes by the Arboretum
On the edge of town, near the scenic Kámon Arboretum (Kámoni Arborétum) and the region’s highest peak, Írottkő (Írott-kő), Herényiek House (Herényiek Háza) offers a taste of Roman villa living. This building, renovated in 2007, provides stylish accommodations for community and leisure. Spaces, both large and small, can be rented for family or corporate events, while the beautifully landscaped garden, wood-fired oven, sheltered house, and indoor/outdoor sports facilities – plus rentable bikes – ensure everyone stays entertained.
From Pubs to Parks: Comfort Across the Board
Il Gallo Nero Restaurant and Inn (Il Gallo Nero Étterem és Panzió) make dining and lodging easy, located just a short walk from Szombathely’s (Szombathely) historic downtown. Hosting everything from casual stays to events for up to 200 people, this venue ensures guests always feel welcome. For those seeking four-star luxury, Király Park Hotel (Király Park Hotel) nestles in the leafy outskirts. With 16 comfortable rooms and a modern, homelike feel, the hotel is perfect for conferences, sports teams, or anyone simply needing relaxation. The wellness area features Finnish, infrared, and steam saunas, a plunge pool, and a jacuzzi, while Király Rehab (Király Rehab) offers a full range of medical services. More than 100 free parking spaces make arrival easy.
P4W Residence Hotel (P4W Residence Hotel) boasts 19 spacious rooms, its own gated parking lot, a cozy beer terrace, and a wide range of guest services. For a family atmosphere or just a peaceful place to stay, a local guesthouse with private apartments opening directly onto the courtyard is ideal. Each living space is self-contained and accessible only to your party.
Fresh Flavors, Classic Cafés, and City Culture
The city’s vibrant food scene is full of surprises. At 108 Restaurant (108 Étterem), you’ll find tributes to famed goalkeeper Gábor Király and his 108 matches with the Hungarian national team. The menu fuses European and Mediterranean influences with traditional Hungarian dishes, always served with a commitment to quality and taste. Weekdays feature enticing daily lunch specials, and an extensive wine and drinks list is expertly presented by the staff. For a dash of adventure, the African-themed bar serves perfect coffee in an atmospheric setting.
Culture lovers can settle in at the city’s bustling cultural center for the latest movies, lively café vibes, drinks, terrace music, and first-class concerts.
Artis Restaurant (Artis Étterem), right in downtown Szombathely (Szombathely), blends elegance and youthful energy, preparing modern European, Hungarian, and select Asian delicacies from the freshest ingredients. Watch the chefs at work and enjoy an imaginative selection of wines, premium drinks, and generous daily breakfasts. For lunch, business menus and sushi bento boxes round out the offerings.
Hearty Home Cooking with a Modern Twist
Up in the DOMUS Department Store (DOMUS Áruház), home-style dishes prepared with a grandmother’s care are given new life. Familiar flavors mingle with modern textures, ensuring each bite feels both comforting and exciting. The diverse menu caters to both traditionalists and modern diners, with local specialties, fish, and game meats available. Saturdays bring live music, adding even more warmth.
Kitchens across the city serve up fish and game alongside comforting, home-cooked meals. An ever-changing selection of draught beers, unique wines, and refreshing drinks await, with live music on weekends to create the perfect atmosphere.
Plan Your Trip… But Check the Schedule
Please note: Organizers reserve the right to alter dates and programs, so keep an eye on updates to get the most out of Szombathely’s (Szombathely) unforgettable Open Market Day.
