Overview
Gyöngyös serves as the northern gateway to Mátra, Hungary's highest mountain range, and its surrounding wine region. The town offers Baroque and Art-Nouveau architecture around its main square, vineyard train rides into the hills, and access to Kékestető—Hungary's tallest peak at 1014 m.
Day Trips · History · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
History
Gyöngyös had a significant Jewish community before WWII; 1,800 were confined to a ghetto in 1944 and most deported to Auschwitz. Some Hungarians were recognized as Righteous Among the Nations.
Nature
Kékestető (1014 m) is Hungary's highest peak and a winter sports resort. Hiking trails connect Gyöngyös to the Mátra mountains between Eger and the town.
Transport
Reaching Gyöngyös by car via M3 highway from Budapest takes about an hour. A narrow-gauge train provides scenic access into vineyards and Mátra mountains.
Wine
Mátra is a recognized Hungarian wine region specializing in white wines. Vineyards are accessible by narrow-gauge train from Gyöngyös.
