Eger Things to Do Tips by Ben-UK Top 5 Page for this destination

Eger Castle

Dating back to the 13th century, the castle became part of Hungarian folklore following the heroic defence against the Turks in 1552.

2,000 Eger heroes held out for 38 days against an invading force of 60,000 -- the Turks retreated in defeat.

During the siege, the Eger forces, led by Dobo Istvan, drank large quantities of the local wine -- their red, wine-stained beards gave the Turks the excuse that the Eger forces had been drinking the blood of bulls to give them extra strength -- hence the name Bull's Blood wine.

However, Bull's Blood or not, the Turks returned in 1599 and this time conquered the town and then controlled the region for almost a century.

Today the castle house various exhibitions, but even if you don't want to see any of those, it's worth making the climb up the hill to see the magnificent views from the castle.

Directions: Overlooking the town -- just follow the signs.

Minaret

A constant reminder of Turkish rule is the 30-metre high minaret, the last remaining part of the mosque -- 97 spiral steps take you to the top.

My photo was taken from the castle.

Address: Knezich Karoly u.

Directions: Follow the signs ...

Basilica

Built between 1831 and 1836, the neoclassical style Basilica is Hungary's second largest church.

Open daily 7am to 8pm

Organ recitals are held daily at 11-30 from 15th May to 15th October (Sundays at 12-45)

Address: Eszterhazy ter

Directions: In the centre of town.

Dobo Square

The main square in Eger -- close to the castle and dominated by the Minorite Church, the square has a statue of Dobo Istvan as its centrepiece - Dobo was the leader of the besieged Eger forces, holding out in Eger Castle against the Turkish invaders in 1552.

Valley of the Nice Women

About a 20-minute walk from the town centre takes you to the Valley of the Nice Women.

Nothing to do with women, the valley is full of little wine cellars embedded into the hillside, each offering a variety of local wines at a very cheap price -- there are a few touristy restaurants there too.

Address: Szepasszony volgy

Directions: Follow the signs from the centre of Eger.