The landlocked country of Hungary, in central Europe, was traditionally known as the breadbasket of Europe because of its fertile soil. Indeed, the vast majority of land is still given over to agriculture, but agriculture contributes just a tiny percentage to the gross domestic product when compared with services and industry. From a business perspective, Hungary enjoys a strategic location and a well-developed infrastructure, but its gentle landscape, stunning architecture and distinct culture are equally appealing to holidaymakers.
Things to See and Do in Hungary
Hungary is a tiny country, measuring just 167 miles from north to south and 328 miles from east to west. It is almost entirely flat, dominated by the Great Plain, east of the Danube. Hungary is a perfect destination to take advantage of cheap car hire and explore its attractions under your own steam. Nevertheless, the capital city, Budapest, attracts many more visitors than the rest of the country. Sights in Budapest include the Halaszbastya, or Fisherman’s Bastion, a panoramic view terrace on the banks of the River Danube, which bisects the city, and the Hungarian Parliament Building, a magnificent example of Neo-Gothic architecture.
A Holiday by Car in Hungary
Further afield, the region around Lake Balaton, in Transdanubia, west of the River Danube, is one of the most popular cheap car hire destinations in the country during the summer months. Medical, health and wellness treatments are very much part of Hungarian culture, and the number of thermal spa towns scattered throughout the country adds to the compelling case for hiring a car and venturing beyond the capital. Most roads in Hungary are in good condition, traffic is light and standard European Union regulations apply, with a few exceptions. Car rental from National is straightforward and you can arrange items such as electronic vignettes, for paying motorway tolls, through your rental agent.
Famous Road Trips to Take in Hungary
As previously mentioned, Hungary is so small that covering the length and breadth of the country by car isn’t beyond the realms of possibility. However, if your cheap car rental requirements are a little less ambitious, the small town of Holloko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a glimpse of Hungarian traditions that are not easy to find elsewhere, and is only an hour’s drive from the capital. Eger, in eastern Hungary, is a little further away but still worth a trip along the M3 motorway, which connects Budapest to Nyiregyhaza. Eger Castle is famous for repelling an attack by 80,000 Turks during the Siege of Eger in 1552, while the local red wine, known as Egri Bikaver, or Bull’s Blood, has evolved over the years into a very elegant drink.