Photo by: MOs810, CC BY 4.0
Tourists stroll down a cobbled street in Szentendre lined with colorful umbrellas overhead and local artisan shops, including a kürtőskalács vendor and souvenir stands.
Why Visit Szentendre? A Riverside Town Just North of Budapest
Just 40 minutes north of Budapest, Szentendre offers a complete change of pace. The town is known for its pastel-colored houses, cobbled streets, and deep artistic roots. With Serbian Orthodox churches, handmade shops, galleries, and a scenic riverside promenade, it’s a popular in Hungary destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and visually rich day trip.
A Glimpse into Szentendre’s History
Szentendre’s history stretches back to Roman buildings, but it truly began to flourish in 1690 when Serbian, Dalmatian, and Greek settlers arrived, fleeing Ottoman occupation further south. These communities brought with them their Orthodox faith, art, and architecture, which still shape the town’s character today.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, Szentendre evolved into a cultural melting pot, known for its well-preserved baroque architecture, colorful buildings, and vibrant church spires. In the early 20th century, Hungarian artists began to settle here, drawn by the town’s light, beauty, and Mediterranean atmosphere. This art scene continues today with many galleries and working studios.
How to Get to Szentendre from Budapest
By Train (HÉV)
From station in Budapest at Batthyány tér, board the HÉV suburban rail. The journey takes about 40 minutes to the Szentendre train station. Trains run regularly, and tickets are inexpensive. Be sure to validate your ticket before boarding.
By Boat (Seasonal)
In warmer months, scenic boat rides depart outside Budapest and travel up the Danube River to Szentendre. It’s a leisurely 90-minute cruise with photo-worthy views along the banks of the Danube River and past Szentendre Island.
By Car
Accessible via Route 11 from central Budapest, Szentendre is easy to reach. Parking is available near the city center, but weekends can be busy.
🚋 Planning Your Route
Getting to Szentendre is easy thanks to Budapest’s excellent public transport network. If you’re unsure how to navigate the city’s metro, trams, or suburban HÉV line, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Check out my Ultimate Budapest Public Transport Guide for everything you need to know about tickets, routes, and insider tips to make your day trip smooth and stress-free.
Morning: Wander the Old Town via Belgrade Cathedral
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While exploring the Old Town, don’t miss the Belgrade Cathedral, also known as the Serbian Orthodox Church of Szentendre. This historic building, with its baroque tower and richly decorated iconostasis, stands as a symbol of the Serbian community that settled here in the 17th century. Its peaceful courtyard and striking red façade make it both a spiritual center and one of the most picturesque sights in town.
Begin your visit in Fő tér, the main square. With its well-preserved baroque architecture and uneven stone pathways, this part of town feels like a movie set. Highlights include:
- Blagovestenska Church with its iconic tower
- Alley views between colorful buildings with wrought-iron signs
- Independent galleries and shops
Start your morning at Szamos Marcipán Cukrászda, famous for its delicious Hungarian pastries and traditional marzipan sweets.
Midday: Museums and Art
Szentendre is known for many museums packed into a small space. Highlights:
- Margit Kovács Ceramic Museum – expressive Hungarian ceramic sculptures
- Ferenczy Museum – celebrating Hungarian artists of the 20th century
- Retro Design Center – a nostalgic look at daily life during the socialist era
- MicroArt Museum – incredible miniatures you view through magnifying glasses
All museums are near the city center and walkable.
Sweet Stop: Marzipan Museum
Photo by: Travel Hungary Now © – All rights reserved – Unauthorized use is prohibited.
Life-size marzipan sculpture of Michael Jackson at the Szamos Marzipan Museum in Szentendre, dressed in signature black jacket, hat, and sequined glove.
Marzipan, a sweet almond-based confection, is popular in Hungary as both a treat and an art form. Made from ground almonds and sugar, it can be sculpted into intricate shapes, from fruits and flowers to fairy tale scenes. You’ll often find it coated in chocolate or molded into beautiful figurines, making it a beloved gift and cultural delight.
No visit is complete without a stop at the Marzipan Museum near the square. It showcases intricate marzipan sculptures of Hungarian landmarks, fairy tale characters, and celebrities. The shop offers sweet souvenirs that are popular in Hungary.
Photo by: Travel Hungary Now © – All rights reserved – Unauthorized use is prohibited.
Intricate marzipan replica of the Hungarian Parliament Building on display at the Szentendre Marzipan Museum, complete with detailed towers and a courtyard.
Lunch by the Danube River
Enjoy hearty Hungarian dishes with river views. Top picks:
- Mjam Restaurant – laid-back dining with traditional dishes
- Labirintus Étterem – gulyás in a cellar setting
- Öreg Művész – outdoor terrace with wine and home-style meals
Order a fish soup or homemade dessert to soak in the full Hungarian culinary experience.
Afternoon: Stroll and Relax
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A vintage purple bicycle decorated with flower baskets leans against the lavender-themed storefront of Levendula Kézműves Fagylaltozó offering coffee, homemade drinks and ice cream
Take a peaceful walk along the Danube promenade — benches, sculptures, and a great photo backdrop. Then explore Dumtsa Jenő utca, Szentendre’s main pedestrian street lined with boutiques, art stores, and wine shops.
If you’re in the mood, stop into a wine bar or sip rosé from a local vineyard.
Optional Side Trip: Skanzen
Just outside town lies the Skanzen Open Air Museum, a full-scale ethnographic park that shows rural Hungarian life across regions. Visit reconstructed Roman Catholic church buildings, homes, and workshops. Great for kids, culture buffs, and fans of immersive history.
Evening Return to Budapest
As your day wraps up, return by train or enjoy a scenic sunset boat ride. Before leaving the riverside town, grab a final souvenir — lavender soap, paprika, or art from a local gallery.
Szentendre also offers a peek into Hungary’s complex, artistic past — from the Great Turkish War to the legacy of the poet Ferenc Kazinczy. Whether you’re wandering a hidden alley, soaking in views along the Danube River, or stepping into a memorial house dedicated to the Szentendre Jews, this compact gem captures centuries of history in every corner.
Ready for your day trip? This one from Budapest is unforgettable.
FAQ
What is marzipan?
Marzipan is a sweet confection made from ground almonds and sugar. It’s soft, moldable, and often used to create decorative figures, fruits, or candies. In Hungary, marzipan is also a cultural art form, featured in desserts, holiday treats, and museums like the one in Szentendre.
How long is the trip from Budapest to Szentendre?
About 40 minutes by train from Budapest. Boats are longer but more scenic.
What is Szentendre known for?
Its Serbian Orthodox Church, vibrant art galleries, picturesque views, and sweet treats like marzipan.
What’s the best time to visit?
Spring to fall. Avoid weekends for a quieter experience.
Is there a connection to Belgrade?
Yes. Szentendre’s history is tied to Serbs fleeing the Ottomans, bringing their culture. The Belgrade Cathedral (also called the Serbian Orthodox Church) is a must-see.
What makes the architecture special?
Szentendre is known for its well-preserved baroque structures and a fusion of Balkan, Hungarian, and Mediterranean styles.
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