Szentendre — The Artist Town
Szentendre (pronounced: "Sent-endre") is located just 20 km north of Budapest on the Danube and is the most picturesque town in the region: colorful Baroque facades, cobblestone streets, Serbian Orthodox churches (the town was shaped by Serbian refugees in the 18th century), and a vibrant artist and gallery scene.
Sights
- Fő tér (Main Square): The charming main square with the Pest Cross (1763), colorful houses, and the Serbian Orthodox Blagoveštenska Church. Cafés, galleries, and souvenir shops are concentrated here.
- Margit Kovács Museum: Ceramic museum of the famous Hungarian artist — her figures and reliefs are enchanting and unique. Admission: 2,000 HUF (5€).
- Skanzen (Open-Air Museum): 3 km outside — the largest open-air museum in Hungary with original farmhouses, churches, and workshops from all regions of the country. A living museum with craft demonstrations, bread baking, and folk festivals. Perfect for families. Admission: 2,600 HUF (6.50€).
- Marzipan Museum (Szamos): A museum full of marzipan sculptures — the Parliament, Michael Jackson, the Stephen's Crown — all made of marzipan. Kitschy but unique. Admission: 800 HUF (2€).
Getting There
Szentendre is the easiest day trip from Budapest:
- HÉV (Suburban Train): From Batthyány tér (M2 Metro) directly to Szentendre — 40 minutes, every 15–20 minutes, free with Budapest Card or public transport day ticket (within Zone 1 + surcharge).
- Boat: MAHART from Budapest Vigadó tér — 1.5 hours, the most beautiful option (April–September).
💡 Tipp
Szentendre is touristy during the day (especially on weekends). Visit during the week or early in the morning. The most beautiful alleys are OFF the main square — head to the side streets above the churches. And: Be sure to try the "Rétes" (Hungarian strudel) — the best can be found at "Rétesház" on Fő tér.
