For many people, summer is all about travelling, relaxation, and gaining new experiences. This year, if you are looking for something more special than the usual summertime activities, it is worth exploring Hungary’s wine regions. Wine tourism has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it offers natural wonders, gastronomic experiences, and cultural activities. Almost every part of the country boasts wine regions with stunning landscapes and excellent wines. In this article we have selected a few well-known and lesser-known destinations for you.
Villány
Less than an hour from Pécs lies the Villány wine region, one of Hungary’s best-known wine-producing areas, offering a wide range of culinary and tourist entertainment due to its extensive size. Villány is an especially good choice for those who prefer full-bodied red wines, while the town’s historic cellar row and Mediterranean atmosphere are notable attractions in of themselves. On the other side of the hills lies Siklós, which is better known for its white wines and, of course, its castle. The three-tiered cellar row of Villánykövesd also provides a unique view. The area offers countless wine tour opportunities, which are well worth combining with a fine dinner.
Szekszárd
Although it receives less attention, the Szekszárd wine region also offers plenty of amusement and excellent-quality wines. Visitors can take part in interactive wine tours and cellar visits in the town, while the surrounding area is also ideal for hiking. The local wine culture is primarily defined by red wines – such as Kadarka, Lemberger (Kékfrankos), and Bikavér –, although lighter, fruitier varieties are also widely available. Among the hills both modern wineries and traditional family-run vineyards can be found, including Takler Wine Estate, familiar to many from the wine tastings organised by the University of Pécs.
Wine Region of Pécs
For university students in Pécs, this might be the most obvious choice, yet the wine region of Pécs, situated on the southern slopes of the Mecsek Hills, remains relatively unknown to the wider public despite being one of Hungary’s oldest wine-producing areas. The region is far removed from mainstream wine tourism: small wineries, a family-friendly atmosphere, and light white wines – including Zierfandler or Cirfandli, a variety grown almost exclusively here – await visitors. Alongside local family wineries, the Pécs University Wine Estate can also be found here, serving as the region’s research and education centre for viticulture and oenology.
Tokaj
In the north-eastern part of the country lies the world-famous Tokaj wine region, which is certainly worth a longer journey. The historic settlements, renowned wine cellars, and the scenery of the Tokaj-Hegyalja landscape provide a special experience in themselves, with Tokaj wines representing the pinnacle of Hungarian wine culture. Who has not heard of the “wine of kings,” Tokaji Aszú? The region’s diverse and high-quality offerings, its cultural and natural surroundings recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the tourism programmes built around them can easily make for a visit lasting several days.
Etyek
Located just outside Budapest, the Etyek wine region is known not only for its wide selection of light white wines, but also for its sparkling wine. The region offers numerous tourist attractions and events throughout the year. The circular wine cellars of Etyek and the traditional Swabian press houses are particularly distinctive sights, while the Etyek Picnic welcomes visitors several times a year as a recurring gastronomic festival featuring concerts and various other programmes.
Somló
Hungary’s smallest wine region might also be its most unique. On the volcanic slopes of Somló, only white wines are produced, characterised by their distinctive character and high acidity. The best-known grape varieties include Italian Riesling (Olaszrizling), Furmint, and Juhfark, which is regarded as the true hallmark of the region. Somló is an ideal destination for those seeking peaceful relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city and crowds. The extraordinary landscape and small wineries attract not only tourists but also genuine explorers who appreciate the region’s tranquil atmosphere and its wines with strong, distinctive flavours.
As you can see, wine tours offer far more than a simple wine tasting experience: they provide countless opportunities for natural, cultural, gastronomic, and even professional enrichment. For this reason, we recommend them not only to wine enthusiasts, but also to anyone who enjoys discovering new places, new flavours, or perhaps even new hobbies. One of the greatest advantages of wine tourism is that there are plenty of opportunities within Hungary itself, allowing dedicated wine tourists to encounter a wide variety of tastes, landscapes, and atmospheres.
Photos: Barbara Péter
