August 17, 2025, promises to be an exciting day in Szeged, Hungary’s vibrant university town, as Mars Square (Mars Tér) Market Hall transforms into a bustling hub for secondhand enthusiasts. From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Mars Square (Mars Tér) Flea Market invites everyone to swap old trinkets, gently used clothes, or outdated gadgets—what’s gathering dust for one may well be a coveted find for another. Regulars and newcomers alike can try their hand at bargaining, playing vendor or treasure-hunter for the day. Families are welcome: the classic market bustle is joined by a fairground atmosphere, making it perfect for a day out.
Where to Stay in Style
ARENA DELUXE & SPA (Aréna Deluxe & Spa) is situated in one of Szeged’s prime locations, on the bank of the Tisza River (Tisza) right next to the Tiszavirág Sports Pool (Tiszavirág Sportuszoda) and Pick Arena (Pick Aréna)—hot spots for local and international sporting events. Every booking includes a hearty breakfast, and you can opt for a room with a private jacuzzi or one specially designed for guests with reduced mobility. The wellness area—featuring a jacuzzi, Finnish sauna, and infrared sauna—is completely free for hotel guests. The hotel also offers a fully equipped conference room for up to 35 people, perfect for business gatherings; catering, coffee breaks, or full meals can be arranged upon request.
If you prefer a more homey atmosphere, Old Walnut Deluxe B&B (Vén Diófa De Lux Panzió****) is located in the heart of Szeged on Sándor Petőfi Avenue (Petőfi Sándor sugárút). It’s just a short stroll from Dugonics Square (Dugonics tér), Szeged’s vibrant city center, and only about 1,300 yards from Cathedral Square (Dóm tér), home to the city’s iconic open-air festival.
A peaceful retreat awaits at Anna Guesthouse and Apartment (Anna Vendégház és Apartman) in Szeged’s most elegant garden district, close to Sunshine Spa Aquapolis (Napfényfürdő Aquapolis). Open since 1990, it’s perfect for those looking to explore Szeged’s rich cultural programs or for business travelers seeking downtime in a beautifully landscaped courtyard.
Travelers passing through Szeged en route to Serbia, or arriving from there, will find rest in a tranquil apartment located on a quiet street—a welcome stopover to recharge before continuing their journey.
Rooms for Every Traveler
Situated on the edge of Szeged’s historic downtown, Apáthy István College (Apáthy István Kollégium) offers 234 beds in triple rooms with en-suite bathrooms, providing both bathroom and internet access in every room along with peaceful study spaces. As the official dormitory of the Medical Faculty, it’s an ideal place for both students and groups visiting the city.
Aquarius Guesthouse (Aquarius Vendégház) features 7 elegant, non-smoking rooms with a total capacity of 16 guests. Each spacious room has its own shower and toilet, and guests can park for free in the secure courtyard—though spaces are limited.
Art Hotel Szeged, right by Cathedral Square (Dóm tér) on Somogyi Street (Somogyi utca), is loved by theater fans, art lovers, and business travelers alike. The modern four-star rooms, stylish restaurant, and versatile event spaces have made it one of Szeged’s most award-winning hotels.
Close to the city center, Rókus Church (Rókus templom), and Mars Square (Mars Tér) bus terminal, another hotel offers 25 rooms for up to 49 guests, including singles, doubles, triples, and a two-room apartment. Enjoy air conditioning, private bathrooms, mini-bars, LED TVs, and balconies. There’s also free enclosed parking for cars and minivans.
A friendly apartment house in central Szeged welcomes families and couples to relax year-round, with access to a covered or retractable swimming pool and plenty of tips for making the most of your time in the city.
For those seeking peace far from city chaos, there’s a lakeside estate surrounded by poplars, plane trees, and willows. With a 300-seat terrace overlooking a fishing lake—even a small “island of happiness” used for wedding ceremonies—the property is a quiet sanctuary for relaxation. Children can play freely in the enclosed grounds while adults enjoy the fresh air.
Food, Drink & Good Times
For over a decade, hungry and thirsty locals have flocked to a downtown eatery serving both Hungarian specialties and daily menus—plus it’s perfect for parties and other gatherings.
A2 Gastro Caffé is Szeged’s favorite brunch spot, where simplicity meets elegant tradition and the real flavor comes from the stories and feelings guests leave behind. The place is only a pile of bricks and the coffee just a simple drink if not for the people who bring it to life.
Walking into Szeged’s Halberd Restaurant & Wine Bar (Alabárdos Étterem és Borozó) feels special from the start: attentive staff, branded porcelain, silver cutlery, and an eye-catching artwork called the “Iron Sign” (Vasárú Cégér) in the unique basement room. The menu covers everything from fish and poultry to lighter meals, and the elegant, cool hall is a superb venue for banquets, family, or business events.
For a unique culinary journey, Alchemist Restaurant (Alkimista Étterem) is a hidden 16-seat gem in the city’s historic core. Its intimate setting, region-exclusive 9- to 11-course tasting menus, and chef-led evenings have earned it a recommendation from the Michelin Guide.
If you crave classic Hungarian flavors, look no further—from river fish to beef, pork, chicken, and pasta, the city’s restaurants cater to every preference, and are happy to create custom menus for events big or small.
Three minutes from the Tisza River and a short walk from the National Theatre (Nemzeti Színház), one restaurant serves duck liver and prime cuts for up to 200 guests at a time. Custom requests can always be accommodated with advance notice.
Szeged also boasts Hungary’s first eSport bar, BarCrafters (BarCrafterek), blending geek culture with board games, eSports events, and seasonal parties for all ages—the bartenders are as immersed in gaming culture as their guests.
Bárka Bar offers meals and a festive atmosphere every weekend. Located under the Inner City Bridge (Belvárosi híd) between Roosevelt Square (Roosevelt tér) and the Ferenc Móra Museum (Móra Ferenc Múzeum), the bar provides live music, sports screenings, and diverse cultural programs in a unique riverside location.
There’s also the Béke Faculty Restaurant (Béke Tanszék Étterem), an iconic Szeged establishment serving classic Hungarian food and daily specials. It’s a long-standing favorite for locals and great for company events, birthdays, and festive dinners.
One last eatery blends grandma-approved recipes with modern cuisine, serving quality food in a casual, youthful setting that’s perfect for friendly gatherings—and always ready for your next celebration.
Please note: Event organizers reserve the right to change the time and schedule.
