Watch my video here: One day in Szentendre.
One day in Szentendre, a tip from a local, turned out to be a perfect addition to my stay in Budapest. Following a recommendation from a friendly local, I decided to explore the charming town of Szentendre during my trip to Budapest. According to her, it was a cozy town with colorful houses, ideal for a relaxing day out. So, on a sunny day in Budapest, I made the short 39-minute train ride with the HÉV line H5 from Batthyány tér station to this picturesque town on the banks of the Danube.
History of Szentendre
Serbian Influences
Szentendre, with its approximately 23,000 inhabitants, has a rich history dating back to Roman times, but its current character is largely shaped by the arrival of Serbian refugees in the late 17th century. The name of the city is derived from the St. Andrew’s Church, built in the Middle Ages.
Traveling through Time by Train to Szentendre
Taking the train to Szentendre feels like stepping back in time. The interior of the train exudes a nostalgic atmosphere, with old-fashioned benches adorned with patterns from the previous century. It’s like taking a journey through history, which perfectly complements the historical ambiance of Szentendre itself. However, this experience may soon be unavailable, as the old trains are gradually being replaced.
Museums in Szentendre
Artists’ Village
Szentendre is known as an artists’ village, comparable to Montmartre, one of my favorite neighborhoods in Paris. You’ll find numerous museums, galleries, and artisan workshops adorning the narrow streets.
Ferenczy Museum
As I walked towards the city center, I came across the Ferenczy Museum. The museum is housed in a beautiful 18th-century building and is dedicated to the Ferenczy family of artists. Here, Hungarian art from the past century is exhibited.
Szamos Marzipan Museum
In the cozy shopping street, I stepped into the Szamos Marzipan Museum, dedicated to the founder of the local marzipan factory. Here, I witnessed firsthand the artisanal process of making marzipan, and of course, I couldn’t resist trying some of these delicious treats.
Churches in Szentendre
Colorful Orthodox Churches
What stands out in Szentendre are the colorful churches, many of which have adorned the cityscape for centuries. An eye-catching sight is the baroque Pozarevac Church, also known as the Church of Archangel Michael. The church was built in 1763 as a Serbian Orthodox church and distinguishes itself with its striking yellow color. In the main square of Szentendre stands the Annunciation Church, a Serbian Orthodox church built between 1752 and 1755, which serves as an important historical and religious monument in the city.
Coziness and Dining in Szentendre
Charming Atmosphere
The streets of Szentendre are alive with activity, boasting an abundance of boutiques, souvenir shops, and dining options. The town exudes a cozy atmosphere, with picturesque squares and inviting terraces. During my stroll, I even spotted a pink ‘flower bike’, reminiscent of the flower bikes of the Flower Bike Man.
Fő Tér Square
At the heart of the city lies Fő Tér Square, surrounded by monumental buildings that reflect the rich history of Szentendre. The colorful facades and diverse architectural styles make the square a delightful place to explore.
Dining
In addition to cultural explorations, Szentendre also offers a range of cozy restaurants for dining. I opted for a Mexican restaurant because of its lively Mexican decor, but unfortunately, the taste fell a bit short.
Return Journey
Train or Boat
I returned to Budapest by train, but during certain months, you can also take a boat back – something I would like to try next time.
Szentendre is a Must-Visit Day Trip
A visit to Szentendre is a must-visit day trip, where history, art, and charm come together. If you’re in Budapest, be sure to seize the opportunity to discover this picturesque Hungarian town. In short, a trip to Szentendre is a must for anyone seeking a combination of culture, charm, and a delightful day out, all within easy reach of Budapest.
