Hungarian Countryside Sees Record Number of Tourists in June and July

Tourism in rural Hungary soared to new heights during the summer months of June and July, with a record 7.9 million overnight stays registered at accommodations outside the capital city, according to data from the National Tourism Data Center (NTAK). This figure surpasses the previous record set in 2022, indicating a continued trend of travelers seeking experiences beyond bustling urban centers. The surge in visitors was fueled by both domestic and international travelers, with 2.9 million guests from abroad contributing to the impressive numbers. Popular destinations for both domestic and international travelers included Szeged and its region, which saw the highest growth in domestic tourism, while Debrecen and its region emerged as a favorite among international visitors. The popularity of waterside destinations was evident, with towns like Velence and Balatonkenese experiencing the largest increases in overall tourist traffic. Beyond the allure of lakeside attractions, cultural heritage sites also played a significant role in drawing visitors to the countryside. Notably, Szeged and its region experienced a near 6% increase in domestic overnight stays, while Sopron-Ferto region saw a 4% rise in domestic visitor numbers. Gyula and its region also recorded a substantial 3% growth in domestic tourism. Debrecen and its region led the charge in international overnight stays, with a remarkable 8% increase, while the Balaton region saw a 6% rise in international guests. The Matra-Bukk region also recorded a noteworthy 3% increase in international visitors.