Szentendre (Hungary)

Szentendre (German: Sankt Andrä; Serbian: Сентандреја; Slovak: Svätý Ondrej) is a town in the Budapest metropolitan area and the administrative centre of the district of the same name in Pest County (Central Hungary region). It attracts tourists primarily for its art and culture. The town is situated on the banks of a bend in the Danube, between the Visegrád Hills and the Szentendre Danube, opposite the island of the same name. Szentendre is set in picturesque countryside and is easily accessible from Budapest by car, the H5 suburban train, bus or ferry. It is a popular tourist destination. History In the 9th century, Árpád’s comrade-in-arms, Prince Kurszán, restored the Roman fortress and founded a settlement here. After the Turks were driven out, foreigners arrived in the town. Today, traces of their prosperity can be seen in the Baroque architecture of the houses, the Mediterranean atmosphere of the streets, the churches and the cobbled pavements. During the Great Turkish War, the Serbs emigrate to Hungary to escape Ottoman oppression. In 1690, thousands of Serbs settled in Szentendre. They left a lasting mark on the town’s appearance and culture. The Ottomans significantly reduced the region’s population from the 1690s onwards. However, since then, the population has gradually increased, and by 1872 the town had regained its urban character. In the same year, Szentendre was granted town status. In 1888, a railway line opened here, connecting the town with Budapest. From the early 20th century, the tranquil provincial life of Szentendre began to attract artists. An artists’ colony was established in 1929, laying the foundations for the famous Szentendre School. Today, the town is home to over two hundred creative people: artists, writers, poets, musicians and actors. Over the centuries, small settlements such as Izbég and Derecske have grown up around the historic centre of Szentendre. Today, they have become traditional districts of the town. These also include green areas such as Pannóniatelep, Püspökmajor, Pismány and Szarvashegy. Attractions: TOP 10 Blagovestenszka Szerb Ortodox templom The Church of the Annunciation is one of the most beautiful Orthodox churches in the city. It was built in the 18th century by a Serbian community that had settled in Hungary following the Ottoman Wars. The building is in the Baroque style and is notable for its elegant façade. The richly decorated iconostasis is considered the main feature of the interior. Today, the church remains an important monument to the religious and cultural history of Szentendre. Fő tér Fő tér is the historic heart of Szentendre. The square is surrounded by colourful Baroque buildings dating from the 18th century. It is home to restaurants, cafés, galleries and souvenir shops. Festivals and cultural events are often held here. It is one of the liveliest spots in the town. Pozsarevacska templom The Pozsarevacska Church was built by Serbian settlers and named after the town of Požarevac. The church is characterised by its modest yet harmonious exterior. The interior is adorned with traditional Orthodox icons. Today, it is an important part of the town’s cultural heritage. Kovács Margit Kerámiamúzeum The museum is dedicated to the work of Margit Kovács — one of Hungary’s most famous ceramic artists. The collection features decorative sculptures, reliefs and ceramic compositions. The works are characterised by a vibrant style and an original interpretation of folk motifs. The exhibition is housed in a historic building in the town centre. This museum is considered one of the most visited in Szentendre. Szentendrei Szabadtéri Néprajzi Múzeum Szabadtéri Néprajzi is the largest open-air museum in Hungary. It houses a collection of traditional houses, farm buildings and workshops from various parts of the country. Visitors can immerse themselves in the way of life of Hungarians from centuries past. The museum frequently hosts craft workshops and folk festivals. Szamos Marcipán Múzeum Founded by the renowned Hungarian confectioner Károly Szabós, the museum houses a unique collection of marzipan figures and sculptures. Here, visitors can see replicas of architectural masterpieces and famous figures. The exhibition vividly demonstrates the potential of this much-loved confectionery material. Ferenczy Museum The museum is named after the Ferenczy family, who made a significant contribution to the development of Hungarian culture. Its collection includes archaeological finds, historical documents and works of art. The exhibitions tell the story of the town and the surrounding region. Temporary exhibitions featuring contemporary artists are held here regularly. The museum is an important cultural centre in Szentendre. Preobrazsenszka templom The Church of the Transfiguration is one of the oldest Orthodox churches in Szentendre. It was built during a period of rapid growth in the Serbian community. The building displays the characteristic features of Balkan ecclesiastical architecture. Danube Embankment The promenade runs along one of the most beautiful stretches of the Danube. It is a lovely place to stroll at any time of year, whilst enjoying the river views. There are cafés, restaurants and places to relax along the promenade. From here, you can watch the riverboats and take in the surrounding natural scenery. The promenade is particularly beautiful at sunset. Keresztelő Szent János plébániatemplom This Catholic church is situated on the highest hill in the historic city centre. Construction began as far back as the Middle Ages, and the building has been rebuilt several times since then. The church offers a wonderful view of the old town’s rooftops and the River Danube. It is one of the city’s most popular attractions. How to get to? By train Szentendre is the terminus of the H5 HÉV suburban train service from Budapest. The ticket price is 500 forints*, plus 450 forints for the 15 km zone. In total, the ticket will cost 2.67 euros at the exchange rate on 07/06/2026. *Prices as at 1 January 2026 By bus There are numerous regional bus routes serving the town. Buses 880, 883 and 890 run from Budapest (Újpest-Városkapu metro station). A single journey costs 700 forints (1.97 euros), or 350 forints (0.98 euros) for children. By car From Budapest: 30 min (20 km) via Route 11 Main information Region: Central Hungary (Pest County) Area: 43.83 km² Coordinates: 47°40’03.3‘N 19°04’34.6’E Languages: Hungarian Population: 28,483 Currency: Forint (HUF) Visa: Schengen Time zone: UTC+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) See also France travel guide Spain travel guide Catalonia travel guide Pyrenees travel guideThe post Szentendre (Hungary) first appeared on All PYRENEES.