Hungary was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which collapsed during World War I. The country fell under Communist rule following World War II. In 1956, a revolt and an announced withdrawal from the Warsaw Pact were met with a massive military intervention by Moscow. Under the leadership of Janos Kadar in 1968, Hungary began liberalizing its economy, introducing so-called “Goulash Communism.” Hungary held its first multiparty elections in 1990 and initiated a free market economy. It joined NATO in 1999 and the EU in 2004.
In Budapest, a new tour company leads visitors through an old World War II-era military hospital and bunker under Castle Hill. Just up the street from the Great Synagogue, Budapest’s Jewish community recently re-opened the Rumbach Street Synagogue, designed by the great Viennese architect Otto Wagner in the late 19th century.
In Eger, a delightful new Marzipan Museum shows off truly impressive sculptures by local marzipan artist Lajos Kopcsik, including a sword, minaret, gigantic wine bottle, suitcase, Russian stacking dolls, old-time phonograph, grandfather clock, giant bell … and paintings galore (such as Van Gogh’s sunflowers and Picasso’s musicians). Who’d have thought candy could be great art?
The Backpacking Site: Hungary – General information with details about travel documents, transport, mobile phone usage, and levels of criminal activity.
Hungarian Tourism Ltd. – General information on travel to Hungary, hotels, travel tips, North American tour operators, news and free brochures.
ITIS Hungary – Detailed travel guide for Hungary, and transport information.
Lonely Planet – Hungary – Comprehensive facts and advice for traveling along with background material on the culture and history of the country.
Siofok – Touristic, cultural and economic information.
Tiszaújváros – Official web guide of Tiszaújváros, a small town in the North-East of Hungary.
Travel.State.Gov – Hungary – Offers travel information including Quick Facts, embassies and consulates, entry and exit requirements, safety and security, local laws, health, transportation and Fact Sheet. From the U.S. Department of State.
World Travel Guide – Hungary – Tourist and business travel information with facts on climate, visa, health, passport, currency and customs requirements.