Debrecen

Debrecen is the second largest city in Hungary after Budapest. It is located in the North-East of the country, right in the heart of the Great Plains and it is surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains. It was the largest Hungarian city in the 18th century, and today it is one of the main cultural centers of the country.
The city has also served as the capital city of Hungary during the revolution in 1848-1849. Its political power turned it into a modern and more developed city.

From the last century to today

At the end of World War II the whole region was severely damaged. Nevertheless, it managed to find the strength to bloom again, just like it did during the Revolution in the 18° century. Debrecen became the capital city of Hungary for the second time.
During the socialist regime Debrecen has followed the development path imposed on other major cities of the country. During the 21° century Debrecen has witnessed another time of greater development, which has improved the shape of the city.

Debrecen today

Today Debrecen has many shops and elegant restaurants as well as modern cultural centers just like the Kolcsey Center, which hosts various international events. Debrecen is by far a very modern and very dynamic city.

What to see in Debrecen

If you want to discover Debrecen you will be happy to know that you will have plenty of art exhibitions, fairs, and festivals such as the Jazz Festival or the International Military Band Festival. Debrecen managed to combine the most traditional attractions such as historical monuments and local museums with the most innovative tourist attractions.

Museums

Do not miss a visit to the Reformed Dormitory museum, which has a collection of about 17000 art pieces, while the Deri Museum has ancient Egyptian and Asian artifacts as well as antique collections of pieces from the surrounding region.

University life

Debrecen is also a very important college town. Hosting various scientific conferences and meetings, the city has a very active and dynamic economic and cultural scene.

Parks

Along with its active cultural and scientific scene, tourists in Debrecen have plenty of choices when it comes to wellness and free time. Just to name a few options, the Aquaticum Debrecen Park has been recently restored, while the zoo is located in the heart of the very romantic Big Forest. These two options are a great alternative for families traveling around the region.

Sport and wellness

Being one of the biggest European thermal destinations, Debrecen has developed a wellness tourism scene. There are numerous spas and thermal baths along with a number of sport structures and activities scattered all over the city.

The city indeed hosts a number of national and international sport events and competitions.

The origins of the name

The city was first named Debrezun in 1235. According to the legend, the name comes from the Turkish word “debresin” which means “live” or “move”. It is also a male name. Another theory says the name has Slavic origins, translating the concept of well esteemed.

Surroundings

The region around Debrecen is very interesting, especially for those who love the rural life and want to explore the country off the
beaten paths. Erdospuszta and Hortobágy are a great option for those who want to relax, being surrounded by nature, and maybe go fishing, hunting, or horse riding.