Pecs, Hungary

So you're interested in travel to Hungary, but want to see someplace a little less metropolitan than Budapest. You want someplace that has a little of everything - entertainment, history, nature, decent places to stay, and a variety of restaurants. Oh, and a little archaeology wouldn't hurt either. The place you want to go is Pecs (pronounced "paych") in Transdanubia.

Go between March and September, and you'll likely catch a festival in full swing. Even if there aren't any events during your stay, you'll find plenty to do: early Christian and Roman ruins have been excavated so you can view frescoes and a sarcophogus; art museums abound in Pecs - check out some of Hungary's most interesting 20th century artists; take a stroll on Mecsek Hill; or photograph architectural structures from a variety of religions. Pecs has it all - without the bustle of the more crowded Budapest.

Basilica in Pecs Hungary Photo Credit: Csongor Varga © 2003