The beautiful city that’s one of the cheapest in Europe for tourists | Travel News | Travel
A beautiful but ancient city in Europe is one of the cheapest on the continent – and perfect for tourists who like walking and exploring culture.
While most tourists go to the Hungary’s capital, Budapest for its budget hotels and vibrant nightlife, Rear View Mirror reports that another Hungarian hotspot is even cheaper – and much more peaceful.
The city of Pecs is an option that probably isn’t on most people’s lists of potential city break options this year – but perhaps it should be. Located in southern Hungary, close to its border with Croatia, it is one of the country’s largest and oldest cities which can date its origins back to the Romans.
According to Britannica, its name means “Five Churches” and sits at the base of the Mecsek Mountains. It is a must-see both for its contemporary culture and exciting past.
Originally known as the Roman town of Sopianae, it has survived countless changes of governments and empires to become a vibrant mix of a variety of cultures.
The University of Pecs explained: “Although its development suffered several setbacks throughout the centuries, such as the Tatar invasions or the Ottoman-Turkish Rule.
“[It] has not only survived but developed into a pleasant, modern town, rich in historical monuments, an administrative, cultural and educational centre offering a lot to those who wish to live or study here.
“The town is famous for its museums, galleries, the festivals and cultural events it hosts. The downtown of Pécs is a unique mixture of the relics of Early Christianity, the arrival of the Hungarians, the Turkish reign and the achievements of modern architecture and arts.”
One of the best things about Pecs is its’ affordability. Travel review site TripAdvisor has a list of the 10 best budget-friendly to do whilst in the city.
These include a series of cheap entries to Pecs Cathedral, the Zsolnay Museum, the early Christian Mausoleum, the Pecs Synagogue, and the Mosque of Pash Gazi Kassim which is now a Catholic church.
It is also possible to walk around the old Sopianae graveyard, a cemetery that still survives from the city’s time as a Roman town.
For those looking for a more modern view of the city’s landscape, they can climb to the top of the massive TV Tower that overlooks the city with stunning views.
Alongside thousands of years of fascinating history, Pecs is blessed with a lively nightlife. There are hundreds of bars, clubs, and cafes just waiting to welcome tourists through their doors.
As a result, the city has built up a popular following with people praising its beautiful buildings on TripAdvisor. Commenting on the Cathedral, user MaryannF650 said: “We had an awesome opportunity to visit the Pec Cathedral, also called The Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral Basilica.
“Magnificent statues and reliefs adorn the entire cathedral. Frescoes portray scenes of the Old Testament in the sanctuary section and the most important moments of the New Testament in the rest of the nave.”
On the Mosque of Pash Gazi Kassim, Maggie&Vinnie said: “Very interesting visit to this historic building. Lovely welcome from the staff and a dual ticket to visit the Cathedral. Truly magnificent experience.”