21 Best things to do in Pecs, Hungary, in 2 to 4 days

Introduction

On our way back from Serbia to France, we made a stop in Pécs, and it completely surprised us. We didn’t know much about Hungarian cities beyond Budapest, but Pécs turned out to be an incredible discovery.

Unlike the capital, it wasn’t overcrowded or overly touristic, yet it had everything you could hope for—beautiful squares, fascinating history, and a vibrant atmosphere. We even stumbled into a music and dance festival, which made the experience even more special.

Pécs sits in southern Hungary, close to the Croatian border, at the foot of the Mecsek Mountains. It’s one of the country’s oldest cities, with roots dating back to Roman times, and it has long been a crossroads of cultures.

From Roman ruins to Ottoman mosques, early Christian burial sites, and elegant Baroque buildings, Pécs is like a living museum. In 2010, it was even named a European Capital of Culture, highlighting just how much this city has to offer.

If you’re planning a trip through Hungary—or looking for somewhere authentic beyond Budapest—Pécs should definitely be on your list. Let’s dive into the best things to do in Pécs.

Here are all your accommodation options in Pécs

Getting there

Pécs is situated in southern Hungary, approximately 200 km from Budapest, and is close to the Croatian border. Getting there is actually quite simple, whether you’re coming from within Hungary or traveling across borders.

If you’re arriving from Budapest, the drive takes around 2.5 hours on the M6 motorway. That’s the easiest way if you’re on a road trip, like us.

There are also direct trains from Budapest’s Keleti station, which take about 3 hours, making it a good option if you don’t want to rent a car.

From Croatia or Serbia, Pécs is also within easy reach by car, making it a great stopover if you’re crossing countries. Buses connect Pécs with nearby towns, but the train or car is by far the most convenient option.

If you’re flying in, the closest international airport is Budapest, so you’ll need to transfer by car, bus, or train from there. The easiest way is to rent a car a road trip through the whole region.

Tip for drivers: Hungary’s motorways are not free. You’ll need to buy a digital vignette (called “e-matrica”) before entering the highway. You can get it online, at gas stations, or near the border crossings.

Moving Around

The best way to explore Pécs is simply on foot. Most of the main attractions, like the cathedral, mosques, museums, and main square, are all located in or around the old town. The streets are walkable, and the city feels calm compared to Budapest.

If you want to go a bit further, like to the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter or up ito the TV Tower, you can hop on the local buses, which are cheap and reliable. Taxis and ridesharing apps also work, but you won’t need them much if you’re sticking to the city center. However, having your own rental car will give you much more freedom.

Parking is fairly easy if you’re driving, with several public lots around the old town. Just keep in mind that the historic center itself is pedestrian-friendly, so you’ll be leaving your car nearby and exploring on foot.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

When to Visit

Pécs is a year-round destination, but your experience will depend a lot on the season.

• Spring (March–May): A great time to visit, with mild weather around 15–20°C (59–68°F). The city feels fresh, the squares come alive, and it’s perfect for sightseeing without the summer heat.
• Summer (June–August): Expect warm to hot days, often 25–30°C (77–86°F). This is festival season, with music, dance, and cultural events filling the squares. It’s the most vibrant time, though also busier than usual.
• Autumn (September–November): Another fantastic time to go, with temperatures ranging from 10–20°C (50–68°F). The crowds thin out, the weather is still pleasant, and the atmosphere feels more local and relaxed.
• Winter (December–February): Cold, with temperatures around 0–5°C (32–41°F). While outdoor exploring is less appealing, museums and cafés offer plenty of cozy escapes. If you don’t mind the chill, you’ll practically have the city to yourself.

Tip: We visited during a summer festival, and the lively music and dance in the old town made the trip unforgettable.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

We’d recommend spending 3 nights in Pécs to give yourself 2 full days to enjoy the city at a relaxed pace. If you’re short on time, go for at least 2 nights—that’s what we did, and honestly, we would have loved one more. If you have more time, you can then consider staying longer and explore around the city.

For places to stay, you’ll find a good mix of apartments, boutique hotels, and charming historic stays right in the heart of the city:

 (€) Sweet Dream Apartman – A budget-friendly apartment with everything you need, perfect if you prefer self-catering and a bit more space.

(€€) Adele Boutique Hotel – A stylish boutique stay set in a historic building, with modern rooms and a cozy atmosphere.

(€€€) Palatinus Boutique Hotel – Located right in the old town, this elegant hotel combines comfort with history, making it a great choice if you want to be close to everything.

Here are all your accommodation options in Pécs

What to Eat

Food in Pécs is a mix of Hungarian classics and modern, creative dishes. You’ll find everything from hearty stews to light brunch spots, with plenty of cafés to enjoy a coffee break in between exploring.

Some dishes you should try while in Pécs:

• Gulyás (goulash): Hungary’s famous meat and vegetable soup, hearty and flavorful.
• Lángos: Fried flatbread topped with sour cream and cheese, the ultimate street food snack.
• Pörkölt: A paprika-based stew, usually served with nokedli (dumplings).
• Dobos torte: A Hungarian sponge cake layered with chocolate buttercream and topped with caramel.

And when it comes to places to eat in Pécs, here are a few we’d recommend:

• LYR Speciality Coffee and Food – Perfect if you are looking for vegan food.
• Juice&Co. – A cozy spot for fresh juices, smoothies, and light healthy bites.
• Reggeli – A popular brunch place with a modern vibe and a great menu.
• Granary Café – A stylish café ideal for coffee, cakes, or a light lunch with amazing views of the cathedral. You have a 10% discount if you visit the mosque and the cathedral.
• Pizzaklub – When you’re in the mood for pizza, this place hits the spot.

Best things to do in Pecs

Explore the Old Town

The old town of Pécs is where you’ll instantly fall in love with the city. The narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and lively squares give it a charming and welcoming vibe.

Here, you’ll find a mix of architecture that tells the story of the city’s past—Roman ruins, medieval churches, Ottoman mosques, and elegant Baroque facades all standing side by side. Take your time to wander without a strict plan. Stop for a coffee, peek into small shops, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere that makes Pécs so unique.

At night, the old town lights up beautifully, with terraces and restaurants creating a warm and inviting ambiance. It’s the perfect place to start and end your day in Pécs.

Tip: Now, that we travel with baby Milo, we always bring this Babybjorn baby carrier with us.

Relax at Széchenyi Square

Széchenyi Square is the heart of Pécs and the place where everything seems to come together. Surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, and monuments, it’s the first spot you’ll want to linger in once you reach the old town.

At the center stands the equestrian statue of János Hunyadi, one of Hungary’s great military leaders, giving the square an impressive focal point. But what makes Széchenyi Square really special is its atmosphere.

When we visited, there was a music and dance festival happening, and the entire square turned into a stage full of energy. (However, the first night, the music was too loud and modern for us, but the second night it was folklore from a different region, it was super nice).

 But even without events, it’s always lively, with locals chatting on benches and kids running around.

Here are all your accommodation options in Pécs

Visit the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Right on Széchenyi Square stands one of the most fascinating landmarks of Pécs—the Downtown Candlemas Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Its history alone makes it worth visiting.

Originally built in the 16th century as the Pasha Qasim Mosque during Ottoman rule, it was later converted into a Catholic church after the Turks left. Today, it’s an incredible blend of cultures, with Islamic architecture still visible alongside Christian elements.

The outside is already striking with its large dome, but step inside and you’ll notice details that reflect both faiths—a true reminder of Pécs’ multicultural past. It’s not the biggest church you’ll visit in Hungary, but it’s certainly one of the most unique.

Tickets: The cost of entry depends on the number of attractions you want to visit in Pecs. There are 4 of them, but the staff there told us that 2 are only in Hungarian and not worth it for tourists. So, we opted for 2 (this church and the cathedral). You also have family and group tickets. Being with Milo, we got the family one for 9600 HUF.

Opening Hours: The church is open daily, typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though hours can vary on Sundays and during services.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Discover the Lakatfal (Love Lock Wall)

Just a short walk from Széchenyi Square, you’ll come across one of Pécs’ quirkiest attractions—the Lakatfal, or Love Lock Wall. At first glance, it looks like an ordinary fence, but it’s covered in thousands of padlocks of all shapes and sizes, left behind by couples over the years as a symbol of their love.

The tradition is believed to have started with local students in the 1980s, and since then it has grown into one of the city’s most unusual landmarks. Some locks are engraved with names or dates, others are decorated, and together they create a colorful mosaic of stories and memories.

It doesn’t take long to visit, but it’s a fun stop while exploring the old town, and it makes for a great photo spot. If you’re traveling with your partner, you might even want to bring along your own padlock to leave your mark on Pécs.

Admire Pécs Cathedral

The Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul, more simply known as Pécs Cathedral, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Its four tall towers dominate the skyline, and from almost anywhere in the old town, you’ll see them rising above the rooftops.

The cathedral dates back to the 11th century, though it has been rebuilt and renovated many times throughout history. Step inside and you’ll be amazed by the grandeur of its interior. The walls and ceilings are richly decorated with colorful frescoes, while the vast space itself feels both solemn and breathtaking.

Don’t miss the crypt, which is one of the oldest parts of the building and offers a real sense of the cathedral’s deep history. For an even better experience, make sure to climb the tower. From the top, you’ll get panoramic views over Pécs, the Mecsek Hills, and far beyond. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views make it completely worth it.

Outside, the square around the cathedral is equally beautiful, lined with historic buildings and offering plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a spot where you’ll want to pause, look up, and take it all in.

Tickets: Same logic as with the mosque. We would recommend 2 attractions entrance for 4 400 HUF with discount for family.  

Opening Hours: Opening hours are generally from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though it’s best to check ahead on Sundays, as services may limit visiting times.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring a good camera, such as the SONY A7 — it makes all the difference for capturing those unforgettable moments.

Walk the Northern Castle Wall Promenade

Just behind Pécs Cathedral, you’ll find the Northern Castle Wall Promenade, a quiet path that runs along the old medieval fortifications of the city. It’s not just a scenic walk—it’s also one of the best viewpoints in Pécs.

The promenade has been restored and turned into a pleasant public space, with benches and green areas where you can take a break. It’s the kind of spot where you’ll want to slow down, enjoy the fresh air, and take in the surroundings.

Tip: Make sure to stop at the Granary Café, located nearby. If you’ve already visited the cathedral and church, you can get a small discount. Its terrace has one of the best views over Pécs, making it the perfect spot for a coffee or a light lunch.

Here are all your accommodation options in Pécs

Explore the Barbican

The Barbican of Pécs is a fascinating reminder of the city’s medieval defenses. Located just a short walk from the cathedral and castle walls, this round stone fortification once served as a key part of the city’s protection system. Built in the 15th century, it guarded one of the main entrances into Pécs and was connected to the larger network of walls that surrounded the old town.

Today, the Barbican has been preserved and turned into a small park-like area where you can walk around the structure and appreciate its unique design. It’s not a large site, so you won’t need much time here, but it’s worth including in your stroll through the historic center.

Tip: This is the stroller we recommend for traveling — it’s super lightweight and compact enough to fit in airplane cabins.

Pass by Memi Pasha’s Baths

Pécs has a rich Ottoman history, and one of the best places to see this is at Memi Pasha’s Baths. Built in the 16th century during the Turkish occupation, only ruins remain from the baths. Parts of it have been reconstructed to give you a sense of what it once looked like.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Admire the Zsolnay Fountain

Right in the heart of Pécs, on Széchenyi Square, you’ll find the Zsolnay Fountain—a small but striking masterpiece. Built in 1912, it was created using the famous Zsolnay ceramics that Pécs is so well known for. The fountain features three green ox heads that spout water, a design inspired by the cattle once herded across southern Hungary.

It’s one of those landmarks that’s easy to pass by if you’re not paying attention, but it’s absolutely worth a closer look. The glossy Zsolnay tiles shine beautifully in the sunlight, and the fountain has become a symbol of the city.

If you’re planning to explore more of the Zsolnay heritage in Pécs, this fountain is the perfect introduction before heading to the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter later in your trip.

Tip: This is the stroller we recommend for traveling — it’s super lightweight and compact enough to fit in airplane cabins.

Step Inside Saint Sebastian’s Church

Right by the fountain, you’ll find Saint Sebastian’s Church, a charming baroque-style church dating back to the 18th century. While it’s not as grand as Pécs Cathedral, it has its own quiet beauty and is worth stepping inside if you enjoy visiting historic churches.

The whitewashed exterior with its simple yet elegant tower stands out, and the interior is decorated with frescoes and altars that give it a warm, intimate atmosphere. Because it’s less visited by tourists, the church often feels peaceful, making it a good spot to take a break from the busier parts of the city.

Tip: Now, that we travel with baby Milo, we always bring this Babybjorn baby carrier with us.

See the National Theatre of Pécs

Located on one of the main pedestrian streets, the National Theatre of Pécs is one of the city’s most elegant landmarks. Built in 1895 in a neo-baroque style, its ornate façade stands out immediately with detailed sculptures, grand windows, and a beautiful entrance.

The theatre is still active today, hosting operas, plays, concerts, and ballet performances. Even if you don’t attend a show, it’s worth admiring the building from the outside as you stroll through the square. If you do have time, checking the program and experiencing a performance here is a wonderful way to connect with the local culture.

Plus, the street where the theater is located is well worth the visit.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Visit the Pécs Synagogue

Standing proudly on Kossuth Square, the Pécs Synagogue is one of the city’s most beautiful landmarks. Built in 1869 in a romantic style, it reflects the once-thriving Jewish community of Pécs. Its elegant façade, with large arched windows and richly detailed decoration, immediately catches your eye.

Inside, the synagogue is just as striking. The interior features ornate details, colorful patterns, and a unique blend of architectural styles that make it one of the most impressive synagogues in Hungary. It is still an active place of worship, so be respectful if you visit during services.

Even if you only admire it from the outside, the Pécs Synagogue is a reminder of the city’s cultural diversity and layered history. Combined with the nearby main squares, it’s an easy stop while exploring the heart of the city.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

See the Nike Statue

High above the city on the hillside of Tettye, the Nike Statue is one of Pécs’ most recognizable modern landmarks. Unveiled in 1975, the statue represents the ancient Greek goddess of victory and has become a symbol of freedom and resilience for the people of Pécs.

The monument itself is striking, but what makes it really worth the visit is the location. From the base of the statue, you get sweeping views over the city and the Mecsek Hills. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy the panorama, especially at sunset.

Reaching the Nike Statue involves a bit of a walk uphill, unless you have a car. In that case, it is much easier to access as there is a parking lot opposite of the statue.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

Climb the Pécs TV Tower

For the best views in the city, head up to the Pécs TV Tower, the tallest building in Hungary at 197 meters. Perched on Misina Hill in the Mecsek Mountains, it’s visible from all over the city and offers an incredible vantage point once you’re at the top. (Taking the elevator is a must, stairs are closed)

Inside, you’ll find an observation deck with panoramic views stretching across Pécs, the Mecsek Hills, and even as far as Croatia on clear days. There’s also a small restaurant if you want to enjoy the view over a meal or drink (However, reviews seem not great about the restaurant).

The tower is easy to reach by car or bus, but many visitors also hike up through the forest trails, making the climb part of the adventure.

Tip: Be sure to bring a jacket, as it is super windy on the tower viewpoint.

Wander Through Tettye Ruins & Park

Perched on the hillside above Pécs, the Tettye Ruins & Park is a peaceful spot with a fascinating history. It is the perfect place to end your day. The main attraction here is the ruined 16th-century palace, once built by Bishop György Szatmári. Although only fragments of the walls remain, the site has a special charm, blending history with nature.

The surrounding Tettye Park is a favorite green escape for locals, with winding paths, old trees, and benches where you can sit and take in the views. From here, you get a great panorama over the city, and it’s especially atmospheric in the late afternoon when the sun sets behind the hills.

Tip: This is the stroller we recommend for traveling — it’s super lightweight and compact enough to fit in airplane cabins.

Explore the Tettyei Mésztufa-barlang

Hidden beneath Tettye Park, the Tettyei Mésztufa-barlang is a fascinating limestone cave that adds a bit of mystery to your visit. The cave formed naturally thousands of years ago when thermal waters dissolved the soft rock, creating chambers and tunnels beneath the hillside.

Today, the cave is open to visitors with guided tours that explain its geology, legends, and even some archaeological findings. Walking through the cool, dimly lit passages is a unique contrast to the sunny park above, and it’s especially fun if you’re traveling with kids.

It’s not a very large cave, so you won’t need too much time here—about 30 minutes is enough.

Tip: Now, that we travel with baby Milo, we always bring this Babybjorn baby carrier with us.

Visit the Pécs Zoo

If you’re traveling with family or simply enjoy animals, the Pécs Zoo is a great stop. Located on the slopes of the Mecsek Hills, just a short drive or bus ride from the city center, the zoo is home to more than 1,000 animals from around 250 species. You’ll find everything from big cats and bears to reptiles, exotic birds, and marine life in the aquarium section.

The zoo is well laid out with plenty of shaded paths, making it a comfortable visit even in summer. It also has playgrounds and interactive areas for kids, which makes it very family-friendly.

Plan around 2–3 hours to explore at a relaxed pace. The hillside location also means you’ll get some lovely views back toward the city while walking between enclosures.

It’s a fun way to take a break from the history and culture of Pécs and spend some time in a more relaxed, nature-focused environment.

Here are all your accommodation options in Pécs

Explore the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter

One of the highlights of Pécs is the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, a sprawling district dedicated to the city’s most famous name—the Zsolnay family and their world-renowned ceramics. The quarter blends history, art, and culture in a beautifully restored area that’s part museum, part creative hub.

You can wander through exhibitions on the history of the Zsolnay factory, admire the intricate ceramic pieces that made Pécs famous, and learn how these designs became a symbol of Hungarian craftsmanship. Beyond the ceramics, the quarter also hosts galleries, workshops, cafés, and even performance spaces, making it a lively place to spend a few hours.

Don’t miss the outdoor areas, where colorful Zsolnay tiles decorate fountains, statues, and buildings. It’s like walking through a living showcase of art.

Plan at least half a day here if you want to see it all—it’s not just about ceramics but about the cultural soul of Pécs.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Have Fun at Mecsextrém Park

If you’re looking for adventure and family fun, head to Mecsextrém Park, located in the Mecsek Hills just outside Pécs. This outdoor adventure park is packed with activities for all ages, from alpine coasters and zip lines to climbing walls and rope courses.

It’s especially popular with families, as kids can enjoy playgrounds, trampolines, and even mini jeep rides, while adults can try out the more adrenaline-filled attractions. The alpine coaster, which winds down the hillside, is one of the highlights and offers a great mix of speed and scenery.

The park is surrounded by forest, so even if you’re not into all the activities, it’s a pleasant place to spend a few hours in nature. Bring comfortable clothes and shoes, and plan for at least half a day if you want to try several attractions.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring a good camera, such as the SONY A7 — it makes all the difference for capturing those unforgettable moments.

Step Back in Time at Zrínyi Castle

Located just outside Pécs, Zrínyi Castle (also called Szigetvár Castle) is one of the most important historic sites in southern Hungary. Built in the 15th century, it’s best known for the heroic defense led by Miklós Zrínyi in 1566, when a small Hungarian force resisted the Ottoman army for weeks. Though the castle eventually fell, the battle became a legendary symbol of courage in Hungarian history.

Today, the castle is partly in ruins but still impressive to walk through. You can explore the old walls, gates, and courtyards, and there’s also a small museum inside that tells the story of the siege and the life of Zrínyi. Walking around, you really get a sense of the strategic importance this fortress once had.

It’s about a 45-minute drive from Pécs, so it makes a great half-day trip if you want to combine your city visit with a deeper dive into Hungarian history.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Explore the Duna-Dráva National Park

If you want to swap city streets for wild landscapes, head to the Duna-Dráva National Park, which stretches along the Danube and Drava rivers near Pécs. This protected area covers wetlands, floodplains, and forests, making it one of the richest natural reserves in southern Hungary.

The park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, from deer and wild boar to rare bird species. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers, especially in the marshy areas where herons, storks, and even eagles can be spotted. Hiking trails and cycling routes let you explore at your own pace, and guided tours are also available if you want to learn more about the unique ecosystems.

Depending on where you go, you can combine nature walks with visits to small traditional villages, giving you a glimpse of rural Hungarian life. It’s an ideal day trip from Pécs for anyone who loves nature and outdoor activities.

The best way to visit the national park is to join an organized tour or guided walk arranged through the visitor center. These often include birdwatching excursions, canoe trips, or educational trails, and they’re a great way to make the most of your time if you’re not familiar with the area.

We recommend to rent a car through Discover Cars with free cancellation. Book your rental car here.

Pecs Itinerary

Day 1 – Discover the Old Town & History

• Start with a walk through the Old Town and Széchenyi Square to get a feel for the city.
• Visit the Downtown Candlemas Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, then stop by the Zsolnay Fountain.
• Drop by the quirky Lakatfal (Love Lock Wall) before continuing.
• Pass by the National Theatre and have lunch at Reggeli
• Head to Pécs Cathedral, climb the tower for panoramic views, and then walk the Northern Castle Wall Promenade.
• Take a break at the Granary Café, enjoying the terrace and your cathedral discount.
• Visit the Barbican and Memi Pasha’s Baths nearby
• Stroll around Széchenyi Square again at night when it’s beautifully lit.
• Walk to Irgalmasok utcája 1 to admire its Zsolnay ceramic façade.
• Stop by the Pécs Synagogue before continuing.  

Day 2 – Culture & Views

• Dedicate your morning to the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter. Take your time exploring the exhibitions, ceramics, and outdoor spaces.
• Lunch in the city center
• Head uphill to the Nike Statue for great city views.
• Then, go up to the Pécs TV Tower for the best panorama over the city.
• End the day at the Tettye Ruins & Park and the Tettyei Mésztufa-barlang (Limestone Cave).

Day 3 – Outside of town

• If you’re traveling with family or looking for fun, head to Mecsextrém Park.
• If you’d rather stay with nature, visit the Duna-Dráva National Park for hiking or birdwatching.
• Another option is a day trip to Zrínyi Castle, about 45 minutes away, for a dose of Hungarian history.

Here are all your accommodation options in Pécs