An overlooked yet charming city offers pints for just a mere £1.11 and flights from the UK start from as little as £25.
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, attracted more than eight million tourists last year, with its historic thermal baths, vibrant ruin bars and striking architecture along the Danube River. Yet, just 143 miles east of the tourist hotspot is Hungary’s second-largest city, Debrecen, which has often been overshadowed, but it deserves some time in the spotlight.
Situated in Hungary's Northern Great Plain region, Debrecen has previously been ranked as 'Europe's cheapest city for a pint', with the refreshing beverage setting you back just a mere £1.11. The beer costs less than a bottle of water and is five times lower than the average pint price in the UK, excluding the extortionate cost of a pint in London.
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For those looking to take advantage of Hungary's renowned nightlife, they won't miss out during a trip to Debrecen, as it's brimming with bustling clubs and ruin bars. Locals have recommended Szóda Bár, Drazsé Bár, and Stay Beer Bar to holidaymakers, while TABU and Chicago Club are some of the spots for a lively night out.
But the city isn't just famous for its bargain beverages and buzzing nightlife; it also offers a fantastic city break, thanks to its remarkable architecture, renowned attractions, and thermal spas. There's plenty to explore and admire in Debrecen, including its magnificent yellow Reformed Great Church of Debrecen, the historic Reformed College and a nearby memorial garden and incredible Reformed library, which is well worth a visit.
The city is also home to one of the oldest museums in Hungary, Déri Museum, which showcases art exhibitions in a stunning Neo-Baroque 1920s building. And it's not just Budapest that boasts thermal spas; Debrecen has the sprawling outdoor Aquaticum Strand day spa and Waterpark, along with the Aquaticum Debrecen Thermal & Wellness Hotel, which has an impressive collection of pools.
There are plenty of open green spaces to enjoy during a trip to Debrecen, with charming parks surrounding the city's outskirts. One of the most popular is Nagyerdei Park Forest, just a 10-minute drive from the city centre and the 'nation’s first conservation area', with winding paths to follow around the tranquil lake and trees.
Following a trip to Nagyerdei Park, one person shared onTripAdvisor: "Worth it for a walk, because there is a lot to see here. The facility is very well maintained, and there are some nice seating areas, so you can also have a picnic here." A second added: "This park houses the Zoo and Botanical Gardens and also Borders the University of Debrecen and a Forest Area. I completed a trail run yesterday through the area and enjoyed it very much."
As a cheaper alternative to Budapest, Debrecen might be the ideal city break with a hidden charm that's well worth exploring, and flights are just as reasonable. According to Skyscanner, direct flights with Wizz Air from London Luton to Debrecen start from just £25 and take just under three hours.
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