Gyor: The Heart of Baroque Hungary

• HelloSzia
  [see-ah]
• GoodbyeViszlát
  [vee-slaht]
• YesIgen
  [ee-gen]
• NoNem
  [nem]
• Please/You're welcomeKérlek
  [kehr-lek]
• Thank youKöszönöm
  [kur-suh-nuhm]
• Excuse me/SorryElnézést
  [ehl-nay-zayst]
• How are you?Hogy vagy?
  [hoh-dj vahdj]
• Fine. And you?Jól. És te?
  [yohl. ays teh?]
• Do you speak English?Beszélsz angolul?
  [be-seylz ahn-goh-lool]
• I don't understandNem értem
  [nem ayr-tem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSzeretnék látni az étlapot, kérem
  [seh-reht-nayk laht-nee ahz ayt-lah-pot, keh-rem]
• I don't eat meatNem eszem húst
  [nem es-em hoost]
• Cheers!Egészségedre!
  [eh-geh-zsheh-gehd-reh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseFizetnék, kérem
  [fee-zeht-nayk, keh-rem]

• Help!Segítség!
  [sheh-geet-sayg]
• Go away!Menj el!
  [men yel]
• Call the Police!Hívja a rendőrséget!
  [hee-vyah ah rehn-dur-say-get]
• Call a doctor!Hívjon egy orvost!
  [hee-vyon edj ohr-vosht]
• I'm lostElvesztem
  [ehl-veh-stem]
• I'm illBeteg vagyok
  [beh-teg vahdj-ok]

• I'd like to buy...Szeretnék vásárolni...
  [seh-reht-nayk vah-shah-rohl-nee]
• I'm just lookingCsak nézelődöm
  [chahk nay-zeh-loh-dohm]
• How much is it?Mennyibe kerül?
  [men-yee-beh keh-rool]
• That's too expensiveEz túl drága
  [ehz tool drah-gah]
• Can you lower the price?Le tudnád engedni az árat?
  [leh too-dnahd ehn-geh-dnee ahz ah-raht]

• What time is it?Mennyi az idő?
  [men-yee ahz ee-deh]
• It's one o'clockEgy óra van
  [edj oh-rah vahn]
• Half past (10)Fél tizenegy
  [feyl tee-zen-egy]
• MorningReggel
  [reh-ggel]
• AfternoonDélután
  [dehl-oo-tahn]
• EveningEste
  [eh-shteh]
• YesterdayTegnap
  [teg-nahp]
• TodayMa
  [mah]
• TomorrowHolnap
  [hol-nahp]
• 1Egy
  [edj]
• 2Kettő
  [ket-toh]
• 3Három
  [ha-rohm]
• 4Négy
  [neyg]
• 5Öt
  [oht]
• 6Hat
  [haht]
• 7Hét
  [hayt]
• 8Nyolc
  [nyolts]
• 9Kilenc
  [kee-lents]
• 10Tíz
  [teaz]

• Where's a/the...?Hol van a...
  [hol vahn ah]
• What's the address?Mi a cím?
  [mee ah cheem]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mutatnád meg (a térképen)?
  [moo-taht-nahd mehg ah tair-kay-pehn]
• When's the next (bus)?Mikor jön a következő (busz)?
  [me-kor yuhn ah kuh-veht-keh-zoh boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Egy jegyet (....-ra)
  [edj yeh-geh-et rah]

The history of Győr dates back to ancient times, when it was known as Arrabona in the Roman Empire. This strategic location on the Danube River made it an important military outpost. Archaeological excavations have uncovered remnants of Roman walls, baths, and a military camp, offering a glimpse into its early significance.

During the Middle Ages, Győr flourished as a vital trade center. By the 10th century, it became one of the earliest dioceses in Hungary. The construction of the Bishop's Castle in the 13th century further solidified its importance. The castle, which still stands today, was a hub of religious and economic activity during medieval times.

Győr faced significant challenges during the Ottoman wars in the 16th and 17th centuries. The city was captured by the Ottoman Empire in 1594 but was recaptured by the Habsburgs in 1598. This period was marked by the construction of fortifications, some of which can still be seen, as the city fought to defend its strategic position.

The 18th century brought a Baroque transformation to Győr. Under the influence of the Habsburgs, the city was rebuilt and adorned with Baroque architecture. The Saint Ignatius of Loyola Church, with its ornate interior and grandiose design, is a prime example of this period. The city's squares and streets were redesigned, giving Győr its charming Baroque character.

The 19th century industrial revolution brought modernization to Győr. The establishment of factories and railways transformed the city into an industrial hub. Key industries included milling, textile production, and machinery. The arrival of the railway in 1855 further boosted economic growth, making Győr a crucial transportation and manufacturing center.

Győr experienced significant changes during the 20th century, marked by the impacts of both World Wars. Post-World War II, the city underwent reconstruction and modernization. Today, Győr is a vibrant cultural and economic center, known for its historic architecture, lively festivals, and thriving automotive industry.

Győr is conveniently located between Vienna and Budapest, making it accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest international airports are Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) and Vienna International Airport (VIE), both approximately 120 kilometers away. From either airport, you can take a direct train or bus to Győr, which typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Győr also has a well-connected railway station with frequent trains from major Hungarian cities and neighboring countries.

Győr is a compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance. Public transportation includes buses, which are reliable and cover the main areas of the city. Taxis are also available and can be hailed on the street or ordered by phone. For more flexibility, you can rent a car from various rental services available in the city. Biking is another popular option, with bike rental shops and bike lanes available for a more eco-friendly way to explore.

The official currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Győr. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in local markets or smaller establishments that may not accept cards.

Győr is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists, it is best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the universal emergency number in Hungary. Győr has several hospitals and medical facilities for any health-related issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health concerns, pharmacies are available where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but respectably, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. When visiting churches, dress modestly and keep noise levels low. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding buses. Don’t forget to offer your seat to elderly passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. It is customary and polite. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food or drink offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Győr like a local, visit the local markets such as the Győr Market Hall, where you can find fresh produce and traditional Hungarian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share insights about the city's history and culture. Don't miss attractions like the Győr Basilica, the Bishop's Castle, and the Rába Quelle Thermal Bath and Spa for a relaxing experience. For a unique local experience, attend one of the many festivals held throughout the year, such as the Győrkőcfesztivál, a children's festival that is a local favorite.