The 7 best sights in Debrecen for unforgettable sightseeing
Debrecen, the age-old city of the civis burghers, is Hungary's second largest city, yet it is surprisingly compact and walkable. Every major sight in the historic city centre is just a few minutes' walk from the next, and from our apartments too. We've gathered our seven favourite places to help you get to know the city comfortably over a long weekend.
1. The Nagytemplom (Great Reformed Church)
The symbol of the city and the largest Reformed church in Hungary. The Neoclassical twin-towered building rises above Kossuth tér, and the west tower offers a 360-degree panorama over the city centre. The famous Rákóczi Bell is kept here, and defining moments of Hungarian history took place within its walls.
2. Kossuth tér and the pedestrian street
Kossuth tér, spreading out in front of the Nagytemplom, is the city's living room: fountains, café terraces and events all year round. From here starts Piac utca, Debrecen's elegant pedestrian street, where it's a pleasure to wander aimlessly past rows of grand town houses and bustling shops.
3. The Déri Museum and the Munkácsy Trilogy
The city's most important museum is home to Mihály Munkácsy's monumental Christ Trilogy; the three enormous paintings alone are worth the visit. Alongside its rich archaeological and fine art collections, the sculpture group in front of the museum is one of the most popular photo spots in the city centre.
4. The Nagyerdő and the Water Tower
Just a few tram stops from the city centre begins the Nagyerdő (Great Forest park), Hungary's first protected forest. The park welcomes visitors with promenades, the Békás pond and the distinctive Nagyerdő Water Tower, which today also serves as a community space, lookout and event venue.
5. The main building of the University of Debrecen
Standing at the edge of the Nagyerdő, the imposing main university building is one of the city's finest 20th-century works. The monumental façade, the ceremonial courtyard and the park together make a stunning sight. Take a walk around it and have a look at the atmospheric main hall too.
6. Csokonai National Theatre
This 19th-century theatre in the Romantic style is the jewel of the city centre. If you can, catch a performance, but the building's magnificent façade and ornate interior are worth a detour during the day as well.
7. Contemporary Debrecen: MODEM and the cultural quarter
Alongside its classic sights, Debrecen also has a lively contemporary side. MODEM, the centre for modern and contemporary art, hosts high-profile temporary exhibitions, while nearby cultural venues add concerts and festivals to city life all year round.
Tip: stroll along Piac utca in the early evening, when the Nagytemplom's lights come on and the city centre is at its most photogenic.
Practical information
- The city centre is easy to explore on foot, even without a car.
- Trams 1 and 2 connect the city centre with the Nagyerdő.
- Museums are usually closed on Mondays, so it's worth checking in advance.
Whichever of our apartments you set out from, the heart of the city centre is just a few minutes' walk away. Enjoy discovering Debrecen!