Ersztergom Overview

Atop the Esztergom Basilica, as the breeze of a thousand years cools your face, looking out at the hills in the distance and the domed bridge that whisks travelers effortlessly across the border into Slovakia, you might feel a bit light-headed. The city of Esztergom produces a kind of ethereal haze, giving it a glow that extends far beyond its historical significance as the birthplace of King St. Stephen. It's the perfect “city upon a hill,” nestled in the Danube Bend, where the awe-struck traveler will be surprised when he or she runs into locals who live day-to-day in the magical land; many will scramble to share their town and the stories of their great past.

• Orientation

Just down the street from the train station is St. Anne Church (Szent Anna Templom), a domed yellow church with a lovely green-lined walkway. On the way from the station to the Basilica you can take a ...more

• Sights

Basilica Of Esztergom, (☎ 033 40 23 54 www.bazilika-esztergom.hu), The nave lacks much of the ornamentation of other cathedrals, which gives it a sense of quiet stoicism. The organ, adorned ...more

• Food

Csülök Csárda, (Batthyány Lajos utca 9‎☎ 33 41 24 20‎ www.csulokcsarda.hu), Traditional, but somewhat over-played, here you'll find Hungarian cuisine in a picnic-esque atmoshphere ...more

• Essentials

Trains run from Budapest's Nyugati station ( $ 750Ft. 1½hr, 22 per day). The train station is about a 15min. walk from town. Facing away from the station, go left on ...more