Miskolc is the third most populous city in Hungary, the economic, educational and scientific centre of Northern Hungary, and the seat of Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County.
Our main tourist attraction is the cave bath in Miskolctapolca, a unique creation in a natural cavern. The good concentration of minerals in the thermal water, the healing air in the cave, and recent financial investments have all contributed to creating a “complex of experience and healing”.
The heights of the Bükk Mountains, the swift creeks, the natural environment of Lillafüred and its fresh air are a dream destination for all tourists who like active recreation. The best known attractions of this vacation resort are the Hotel Palota by Lake Hámori, the highest waterfall of Hungary, St Stephen Cave (dripstone) and Anna Cave (one of only three lime tufa caves open to the public in the whole world).
A lane lined with horse-chestnut trees leads to the Diósgyõr Castle. The “Castle of Queens” is one of the most popular sights in Miskolc. The knight’s castle with four towers has a splendid view of the surrounding mountains. The visitors of the castle may enjoy various cultural programs every summer. The weapon and armour exhibition and the waxwork collection are open to the public all year.
Downtown Miskolc can boast of numerous architectural, artistic and historical sites. The hill in the centre of the city, Avas, is the cradle of European culture. 70,000 years ago – earlier than in the Neander Valley – our ancestors mined flint on the hill, made tools out of it and traded them.
The Reformed Church and its bell tower built on Avas Hill are among the most important sights and monuments of the region. On the pedestrian promenade – a tract of the longest street in Europe, covered here with ornamental pavement – you can see a number of old houses in baroque and eclectic styles. They preserve the atmosphere of the past. One of the most important monuments is the 16-metre high altar screen in the Greek Orthodox Church with 88 icons. It is truly unique in Central Europe. The collection of the Hungarian Orthodox Church Museum is just as valuable. The first stone theatre that presented Hungarian language performances is the Miskolc National Theatre. Today, it is a modern complex with five stages, and is a magnet for lovers of culture. It is also a venue of the newest and internationally best known event held in Miskolc, the “Bartók + ...” International Opera Festival. The Graphics Biennial, an event with decades of history organized by the Gallery of Miskolc, is also exceptional. This is the most important event for graphic art in Hungary. The exhibition at the Miskolc Gallery in the Ottó Herman Museum presents the most detailed overview of the history of Hungarian fine arts – after the National Gallery – from the 1700s till the mid 20th century.
Dear Visitor,
I invite you to get acquainted with the centuries of history of our city, and to visit our cultural treasures and the natural beauties of Miskolctapolca and Lillafüred. Come, try the hospitality of the local citizens and enjoy your stay.
Sándor Káli
Mayor of Miskolc, City & Urban County