Serving as the capital of Central Transdanubia, Szekesfehervar is a historic city between Budapest and Lake Balaton. There is evidence that the area has been inhabited since at least the 5th century BC before it became the capital of the Kingdom of Hungary. It was here that kings were crowned during the Middle Ages, with many also buried within its now-ruined basilica.
Things to do in Székesfehérvár
In the heart of Szekesfehervar is Saint Stephen's Basilica, an 18th-century cathedral designed in an elegant Baroque style. It houses frescoes depicting the life of King Stephen I, as well as an altar designed by the Austrian architect, Franz Anton Hillebrand. Nearby is the Az Orajáték, a colourful clock where figures of Hungarian royals appear every two hours throughout the day.
At the Medieval Ruin Garden, you’ll find the excavated remains of a basilica that was used for coronations and royal burials during the medieval period. Wander between the stone wall foundations and see the tombs of former kings and queens, such as Saint Emeric and Saint Stephen. Nearby is the Szent Istvan Kiraly Muzeum, which preserves the area’s ethnographical, cultural and artistic heritage.
A short drive north-east of Szekesfehervar is Bory Castle, which was constructed by the Hungarian architect Jeno Bory between 1923 and 1959. It combines Romanesque, Gothic and Scottish Baronial architecture in its design, with several paintings by Bory decorating the interior. Be sure to explore the sculpture garden with its clipped topiaries and seasonal floral displays.
Getting around Székesfehérvár
Szekesfehervar is around 45 minutes’ drive from the centre of Budapest and one hour from Budapest International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Szekesfehervar railway station and buses travel throughout the city, connecting most of its attractions.