Hungary might not be the first place that comes to mind for vegan travel—but it should be.
In this episode of The World Vegan Travel Podcast, we speak with Kinga Szabo, a long-time vegan and experienced tour guide, about what makes Hungary such a unique and rewarding destination.
From beautiful architecture to thermal baths and growing vegan options, Hungary offers far more than most travelers expect.
About Kinga
Kinga Szabo has been vegan for over 30 years and has worked as a tour guide for more than two decades. In this conversation, she shares her deep knowledge of Hungary and explains how travelers can experience the country in a meaningful (and vegan-friendly) way.
If you are curious about Central Europe or want to explore somewhere new, this episode will open your eyes to what Hungary has to offer.
🇭🇺 Why Visit Hungary?
Hungary is full of surprises.
While many people imagine it as cold or grey, the reality is very different. Budapest is known for its stunning architecture, lively culture, and scenic views along the Danube River.
Some highlights include:
- The famous thermal baths, including Széchenyi and Gellért
- Beautiful historic streets and UNESCO-listed sites
- The Danube River and its iconic bridges
- A growing number of vegan restaurants
Hungary is also one of the richest countries in the world for natural thermal water, making it a unique destination for relaxation and wellness.
Exploring Beyond Budapest
If you have more time, there is plenty to see outside the capital.
Kinga recommends:
- Szentendre – a charming town with colorful buildings and a relaxed atmosphere
- Lake Balaton – one of Europe’s largest lakes, perfect for a peaceful getaway
- The Hungarian countryside – known for traditional homes, local crafts, and wide open landscapes
These places offer a deeper look into Hungarian culture and daily life.
🍽️ Vegan Food in Hungary
Hungary may be known for meat-heavy dishes, but things are changing quickly.
Today, you’ll find:
- Fully vegan restaurants in Budapest
- Traditional dishes adapted into plant-based versions
- Fresh vegetables, herbs, and local ingredients
One restaurant mentioned in the episode is:
👉 Napfényes Vegan Restaurant (Budapest)
A Simple 2-Day Budapest Itinerary
If you only have a short time in Budapest, here’s a simple plan:
Day 1
- Take a city tour (Buda and Pest sides)
- Visit major landmarks like Heroes’ Square and the Opera House
- Enjoy a night boat cruise on the Danube
Day 2
- Visit a thermal bath (Széchenyi or Gellért)
- Explore a vegan restaurant
- Take a half-day trip to Szentendre
Kinga offers personalized, private tours in Hungary and can help you explore the country in a vegan-friendly way. She does not currently have a website, but you can contact her directly.
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In this episode we discuss:
- How Kinga became vegan and what she does in the vegan travel space
- Some of her favorite vegan restaurants in Budapest
- Influences on Hungary – food, architecture
- Hungary has been invaded and occupied many times
- Things to do outside of Budapest
- Ways to get the best local interaction
- 24 hours in Budapest
Learn more about what we talk about
- Parliament
- Danube river
- Lake Balaton
- The largest number of hot springs(70-80%)
- Second most beautiful Szechenyi Bath,
- Szentendre, unique country houses(mud and brick houses), traditional handicrafts, Santangra town, the longest lake in Europe about 5km with green color (8 km from Budapest)
- Hungarian great plain with lots of herbs and vegetable fruits,500 years old churches made of mud or stones
- Hungarian costumes are skirts esp double skirts, Hungary dance
- Boat cruise at night in Budapest, opera house
- Napfenyes vegan restaurant
Other World Vegan Travel Content Connected With This Episode
- S4 Ep 3 | Madrid, Dublin, Prague and Budapest | Angel – A Yummy Vegan
- Two Huge Vegan Budget Travel Tips | Lucy Elkin | Ep 102
- Rated V Food: Vegan Foodie Shares Three Favorite Cities in Spain | Eunice Reyes | Ep 87
- S4 Ep 7 | Traveling Spain as Vegans | Be Bold and Venture
