Nestled at the foot of the Mecsek Mountains, Pécs is one of Hungary’s most charming and culturally rich cities. As the fifth largest city in Hungary, it’s a vibrant and lively destination that still offers a peaceful escape. With a Mediterranean atmosphere, vibrant art scene, and fascinating history, it’s the perfect destination for a week-long getaway. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or food lover, Pécs and its surroundings offer something for you. Here’s your ultimate one-week itinerary to make the most of your visit!
Start off with the must-sees
You should definitely start exploring in the heart of Pécs. Begin your journey at the bustling Széchenyi Square, where you’ll find the iconic Mosque of Pasha Qasim, a stunning blend of Christian and Ottoman architecture that dominates the square. Take your time to explore the surrounding historic buildings, including the County Hall, the Town Hall, the Hunyadi and Trinity statues or the impressive Zsolnay Fountain.
Did you know that the stunning fountain is made from Zsolnay ceramics? Vilmos Zsolnay was a visionary ceramics manufacturer from Pécs whose innovative techniques brought international fame to the city. His colorful, durable ceramics can be spotted on many buildings throughout Pécs – why not make it a game to see who can spot the most Zsolnay pieces during your visit?
After soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the square, take a leisurely stroll down Király Street, the city’s main pedestrian promenade. Lined with charming cafes and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to have a rest. But don’t just look around at street level—look up, too! Király Street is home to several beautiful and historic buildings worth admiring, including the magnificent National Theatre of Pécs or Palatinus Grand Hotel.
Timeless treasures
Fuel up for your day of exploring Pécs’s historical gems at Reggeli, a beloved local spot known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious morning dishes.
After breakfast, head to one of Pécs’ most iconic landmarks, the Pécs Cathedral. With its four towers and richly decorated interior it is an unmissable sight. Its origins date back to the Roman Empire, and it has been rebuilt and renovated numerous times over the centuries. Climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city—it’s worth the effort!
Just a stone’s throw away you will find Cella Septichora Visitor Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the fascinating remains of early Christian burial chambers. These ancient underground tombs feature beautiful frescoes depicting biblical scenes and symbols of faith. Did you know that the name Cella Septichora refers to the seven-apse structure, which is unique in the region?
For lunch, treat yourself to something special at the Littke Pezsgőház és Étterem, the oldest sparkling wine cellar in Hungary.
Continue your historical journey to the Barbican, the circular bastion that once protected the northern gate of the old city wall. You can climb up and take a look around or go for a nice walk in the park next to it.
A day dedicated to the Zsolnay legacy
Start your day by immersing yourself in the artistic spirit of Pécs at the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter. Once the site of the famous Zsolnay Porcelain Factory, today it’s a vibrant cultural hub showcasing the legacy of Vilmos Zsolnay and his groundbreaking ceramics. Stroll through the beautifully restored buildings adorned with iconic Zsolnay tiles and explore the various museums and exhibitions.
Make sure to visit the Zsolnay Family and Factory History Exhibition to learn about the life and achievements of Vilmos Zsolnay, whose innovative ceramic techniques earned international acclaim. Don’t miss the Golden Age of Zsolnay Exhibition, where you can admire the shimmering eosin ceramics that made the brand world-famous. The recpie is still a guarded secret to this day!
When lunchtime rolls around, make your way to Room Bistro, located right in the Zsolnay Quarter. It offers a variety of delicious dishes, served in a welcoming atmosphere.
After you’ve explored the exhibitions and visited the places that caught your interest, take a relaxing stroll through the park of the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter. The beautifully landscaped green space is dotted with sculptures and decorative ceramics, offering a peaceful break from the bustling city. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, let the artistic charm of the area sink in.
In the evening, make your way to the nearby Kodály Centre, one of Hungary’s most prestigious concert halls, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and modern architecture. After the concert, take a leisurely walk back to the city center, reflecting on the day filled with art, creativity, and music.
A day in nature
Escape the city for a day and immerse yourself in the beautiful natural surroundings of Pécs. Start your adventure by heading to the Misina TetőPont. If you’re up for a challenge, hike your way to the top along one of the scenic trails. At the summit, you’ll find the Pécs TV Tower, an iconic landmark towering 197 meters above the city. Take the elevator up to the observation deck and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Pécs and the rolling hills beyond. On clear days, you might even spot Lake Balaton in the distance!
Just a short walk from the TV Tower, visit the Pécs Zoo, nestled into the forested hillside. It is home to a wide variety of animals from all around the world, including big cats, monkeys, and reptiles. The natural setting makes it a pleasant walk as you explore the habitats and learn more about the wildlife.
After visiting the zoo, continue your journey to the Flóra Rest, a peaceful spot with benches and picnic areas where you can take a well-deserved break. Enjoy the tranquility of the forest, listen to the birds, take a photo at the iconic wooden swing.
You can take the bus from here back to the city center or, if you still feel like exploring, make your way down towards Tettye, a beloved leisure area of Pécs. Discover the Tettye Ruins, the remains of a 16th-century summer palace of the bishop that now serves as a picturesque backdrop for picnics and relaxation. Nearby, take a stroll through the Tettye Park, where locals and visitors alike come to unwind and enjoy the green space.
To wrap up your day, settle down at one of Tettye’s cozy spots, like the Tettye Restaurant, where you can enjoy hearty Hungarian dishes and refreshing drinks. After a day filled with fresh air and natural beauty, head back to the city feeling rejuvenated and inspired by Pécs’ beautiful surroundings.
Art and heritage
After a refreshing day in nature, return to the vibrant cultural scene of downtown Pécs to explore some of the city’s most unique artistic treasures. Start your morning with a visit to the Csontváry Museum, dedicated to one of Hungary’s most eccentric and visionary painters, Tivadar Csontváry Kosztka. His monumental and vividly colorful paintings, like The Lonely Cedar and Ruins of Baalbek, are sure to leave a lasting impression. Csontváry was originally a pharmacist who only began painting after receiving a “divine sign” at the age of 41!
Next, immerse yourself in the world of Victor Vasarely, the father of Op-Art, at the Vasarely Museum. Born in Pécs, Vasarely became famous for his mesmerizing geometric and kinetic art, playing with shapes, lines, and optical illusions. The museum’s collection showcases a wide range of his works, from bold black-and-white graphics to colorful, hypnotic patterns.
For lunch, take a break at one of the nearby downtown bistros or cafes in Király street to recharge before your next stop.
In the afternoon, dive into the history and spirit of Pécs at the Genius Loci Exhibition. This interactive exhibition tells the story of Pécs from its ancient Roman roots to the bustling cultural hub it is today. Discover archaeological finds, multimedia presentations, and stories that bring the city’s past to life.
After soaking in so much culture, take a leisurely walk through the Museum Street, where the architecture itself tells stories of past centuries. Pop into a local café for a coffee and a sweet treat to unwind and reflect on the day.
As the evening sets in, stroll back through the illuminated streets of the city center, appreciating how history and modern life blend seamlessly in Pécs.
Relax and savor – Harkány bath and the wines of Villány
Start your day with pure relaxation at the Harkány Thermal Baths, one of Hungary’s most famous spa destinations. Known for its mineral-rich, healing waters, the spa offers both indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and wellness treatments. It’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge. The thermal waters of Harkány contain sulfur in a unique form that is said to have remarkable healing properties, especially for joint and skin issues.
In the afternoon, take the bus to Villány, Hungary’s premier red wine region. Visit one of the family-owned wineries, where you’ll learn about the centuries-old winemaking traditions and taste the famous Villányi Franc. Stroll through the charming streets lined with wine cellars and cozy tasting rooms – you can choose the one you like the most.
End your day with a peaceful evening walk through the vineyards, soaking in the sunset over the rolling hills before you get back to Pécs.
Cross the border – day trip to Osijek, Croatia
On your final day, take an exciting day trip to Osijek, Croatia! Renting a car is the easiest way to get there, with a scenic drive of just about an hour and a half from Pécs. Enjoy the countryside views as you cross the border into Croatia.
Osijek, the fourth largest city in Croatia, is known for its charming old town, vibrant culture, and riverside promenades. Start your visit at the Tvrđa Fortress, an impressive Baroque complex filled with historic buildings, cozy cafes, and museums. Take a leisurely walk through the Old Town, where cobblestone streets and colorful facades transport you back in time.
Next, head to the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, a stunning Neo-Gothic church with the tallest spire in Croatia. For a pleasant break, stroll along the Drava River Promenade, where you can relax at one of the riverside cafes and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
With new memories and cross-border experiences, make your way back to Pécs for a final evening in the city.
When to come?
Although we’re here to welcome you with open arms all year round, there are certain times when the city truly comes to life with vibrant festivals and special events.
Spring kicks off with Pécs’ first true spring festival, the Zsolnay Picnic. Held in the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter from May 31 to June 1, visitors can relax on picnic blankets in the park while enjoying a delightful mix of cultural performances and gastronomic treats. It’s the perfect way to soak up the spring atmosphere!
In the summer, don’t miss the spectacular Zsolnay Light Festival, from July 3 to 6, when the city’s landmarks are illuminated with breathtaking light installations and mesmerizing visual art. After nightfall, the building projections and site-specific light works of Hungarian and foreign artists will amaze you in the charming streets and squares of Pécs, in the city’s galleries and in a few exceptional locations that only open their doors to the public during the event.
This summer, Museum Street Festival from August 29 to 31 brings an explosion of culture and creativity to the heart of Pécs! Held along the historic Museum Street, this vibrant festival features captivating exhibitions, stunning art performances, and interactive programs that engage both locals and visitors. But that’s not all! The Sopianae Reviviscit festival, on August 29 and 30, also takes you on a journey to ancient Rome on the same weekend, with reenactments, Roman military camps, and live battle shows, all set in the city’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Experience the perfect blend of modern creativity and ancient history in the heart of Pécs this summer!
No matter when you visit, Pécs offers a unique experience every season!
