10 Interesting & Fun Facts About Hungary That You Should Know

If you are a lover of fine European culture and Hungary is on your list of countries to visit, you have come to the right place, as this article offers you a few interesting facts about this unique country.

Budapest Has The Second Oldest Underground System In The World

In 1986, the first Metro Line 1 was opened, second only to the London Underground. If you visit Budapest, you can rewind to the past when you ride on this old metro system. It is great fun exploring the city using the underground and you can spend an entire day doing that. Book one of the Danube Express train packages for 2023 and see Hungary in all its splendour.

Special Statue In City Park

There is a statue of an anonymous writer in City Park in Budapest and legend has it that if you touch the statue’s pen, you will instantly become a great writer. This legend has been in place for centuries and many locals claim to have writing talent thanks to this statue. If you visit Budapest, you really should touch the statue’s pen and see if you turn into a JK Rowling!

Thermal Hot Springs

Hungary has more than 1,300 hot springs, with more than 100 in Budapest. If you decide to book a luxury train tour of Hungary, you can experience the hot springs as part of the tour.

The First Official Wine District Was In Hungary

One would think that France holds this distinction, yet Hungary has produced wine since the 5th century AD. Their wine-makers were officially recognised 100 years before the French, which is pretty amazing. Have you ever tried Hungarian wine? If you book a luxury train trip through Hungary, you can sample some of their best wines, while enjoying the stunning scenery.

The Discovery Of Vitamin C

Vitamin C was first discovered in the 1930s by Albert Szent Gyorgyi, a Hungarian physiologist. Next time you take a Vitamin C tablet, remember that it was thanks to a Hungarian scientist. This earned him the Nobel Prize in 1937.

Rubik’s Cube Was Invented By A Hungarian Architect

In 1974, Elmo Rubrik invented the amazing cube that we all know and love. It is estimated that more than 300 million cubes have been sold across the world.

There Are Cowboys In Hungary

This country has had a long association with horses and some cowboys still herd cattle in parts of Hungary. The grey cattle are mainly wild and they can be very aggressive, making this job a very dangerous one. If you ride, they might let you have a go!

Largest Synagogue In Europe

The second largest synagogue in the world is found in Budapest, the only other larger one is in New York. The Jewish religion thrived in Budapest centuries ago and this synagogue is as beautiful as any cathedral.

Largest Lake In Central Europe

Lake Balaton is the largest lake in Central Europe, which is very busy in the hot summers. You can enjoy a diverse range of watersports or just sunbathe on the shores.

Goulash Is The National Dish Of Hungary

If you have yet to try Hungarian goulash, you haven’t lived. A thick beef stew that is garnished with many vegetables and the thick red colour comes from the local paprika.

Hungary is a unique nation in many ways and the best way to enjoy this country is by booking a cabin on a luxury train. Search the web for a leading luxury train tour operator, where you will find a wide range of tours on every continent in the world.