Miskolc: The Hidden Gem of Northern Hungary

• HelloSzia
  [see-ah]
• GoodbyeViszlát
  [vees-laht]
• YesIgen
  [ee-gen]
• NoNem
  [nem]
• Please/You're welcomeKérem
  [keh-rem]
• Thank youKöszönöm
  [kur-suh-nuhm]
• Excuse me/SorryElnézést
  [el-nay-zayst]
• How are you?Hogy vagy?
  [hohdj vahdj]
• Fine. And you?Jól vagyok. És te?
  [yol vahdjok ays teh]
• Do you speak English?Beszélsz angolul?
  [bes-ayl-s ang-oh-lool]
• I don't understandNem értem
  [nem ayr-tem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSzeretnék látni a menüt, kérem
  [seh-reht-nayk laht-nee ah meh-nooht, keh-rem]
• I don't eat meatNem eszem húst
  [nem es-em hoo-sht]
• Cheers!Egészségedre!
  [egg-ay-sheh-ged-reh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseFizetnék, kérem
  [fee-zeht-nayk, keh-rem]

• Help!Segítség!
  [sheh-geet-sayg]
• Go away!Menj el!
  [meyn yel]
• Call the Police!Hívj rendőrt!
  [heev rayn-durt]
• Call a doctor!Hívj orvost!
  [heev or-vosht]
• I'm lostElvesztem
  [el-veh-stem]
• I'm illBeteg vagyok
  [beh-teg vahdjok]

• I'd like to buy...Szeretnék venni...
  [seh-reht-nayk vehn-nee]
• I'm just lookingCsak nézelődöm
  [chahk nay-zeh-loh-dohm]
• How much is it?Mennyibe kerül?
  [men-nyi-beh keh-rool]
• That's too expensiveTúl drága
  [tool draa-gah]
• Can you lower the price?Le tudnád engedni az árat?
  [leh too-dnaad eng-ed-nee ahs ah-raht]

• What time is it?Mennyi az idő?
  [men-nyi ahz eed-uh]
• It's one o'clockEgy óra van
  [edj oh-rah vahn]
• Half past (10)Fél tizenegy
  [fayl tee-zen-ayk]
• MorningReggel
  [rehg-gehl]
• AfternoonDélelőtt
  [day-leh-loht]
• EveningEste
  [eh-shteh]
• YesterdayTegnap
  [teg-nahp]
• TodayMa
  [mah]
• TomorrowHolnap
  [hol-nahp]
• 1Egy
  [edj]
• 2Kettő
  [ket-toh]
• 3Három
  [haa-rom]
• 4Négy
  [neyg]
• 5Öt
  [uht]
• 6Hat
  [haht]
• 7Hét
  [hayt]
• 8Nyolc
  [nyoltz]
• 9Kilenc
  [keelents]
• 10Tíz
  [teeez]

• 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)?Megmutatnád (a térképen)?
  [meg-moo-taht-naad ah tayr-kay-pen]
• When's the next (bus)?Mikor jön a következő (busz)?
  [mee-kor yoyn ah koh-vet-keh-zoh boobs]
• A ticket (to ....)Egy jegy (....-ra)
  [edj yedj rah]

The history of Miskolc dates back to ancient times, with archaeological findings indicating human presence as early as the Stone Age. The first known settlers were the Celts in the Iron Age, followed by the Avars and the Slavs. During the 9th century, the area became part of the Kingdom of Hungary. Miskolc was first mentioned in historical records in 1210. During the medieval period, Miskolc developed as a market town, benefitting from its strategic location along trade routes.

In the 16th century, Miskolc, like much of Hungary, fell under Ottoman occupation. The city suffered significant damage during this period, and many of its medieval buildings were destroyed. Despite the hardships, Miskolc remained an important center for trade and commerce. The city's resilience is demonstrated by the rebuilding efforts that took place once the Ottoman forces were expelled in the late 17th century.

Miskolc played a notable role during the Reformation. The city became a center for Protestantism in Hungary, with the establishment of several Reformed churches and schools. The religious diversity of Miskolc is also marked by the presence of Catholic and Orthodox communities. The wooden church built in 1637 is a testament to the religious and cultural history of the city.

The 19th century brought significant economic development to Miskolc, driven by the Industrial Revolution. The establishment of ironworks, steel mills, and coal mines transformed Miskolc into a major industrial hub. The city's population grew rapidly, and infrastructure improvements, such as the construction of railways, facilitated further economic expansion. By the early 20th century, Miskolc had become one of Hungary's most important industrial cities.

Miskolc, like the rest of Hungary, experienced considerable upheaval during the 20th century. World War I and the subsequent Treaty of Trianon had significant impacts on the city's economy and demography. During World War II, Miskolc was heavily bombed, resulting in extensive damage and loss of life. Following the war, the city became part of the Soviet-influenced Eastern Bloc, leading to further industrialization and socialist urban planning.

The fall of communism in 1989 marked the beginning of a new era for Miskolc. The transition to a market economy brought challenges, including industrial decline and economic restructuring. However, the city has also seen significant investments in education, culture, and tourism. The University of Miskolc has become a prominent institution, and the city boasts several cultural attractions, such as the National Theatre of Miskolc and the annual Miskolc Opera Festival. Efforts to preserve and promote the city's historical heritage are evident in the restoration of medieval buildings and the development of the Avas Wine Region.

Miskolc is located in northeastern Hungary. The nearest international airport is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, approximately 180 kilometers away. From Budapest, you can take a direct train to Miskolc, with journey times ranging between 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, buses and car rentals are available for a more flexible travel option. For those driving, the M3 motorway connects Budapest directly to Miskolc.

Miskolc has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams, that can take you to most parts of the city. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or directly from the driver. Taxis are also available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. For exploring the surrounding areas, renting a car is advisable. Biking is another popular mode of transportation, with several bike rental services and dedicated cycling paths.

The official currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is recommended to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful in Miskolc, and currency exchange offices are available in the city center for converting foreign currencies.

Miskolc is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any city, it is important to remain vigilant. Be cautious in the Avas district, especially at night, as it has higher crime rates. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and avoid poorly lit and unfamiliar places after dark. Emergency numbers are: 112 for general emergencies, 104 for ambulance, 105 for fire, and 107 for police.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The main hospital in Miskolc is the Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County Hospital, which offers comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are widely available and can provide over-the-counter medication for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When entering churches, it's customary to dress conservatively and remain silent. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket upon boarding buses or trams. Don’t forget to give up your seat to elderly passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. A polite 'Jó napot' (Good day) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like Lángos and Gulyás. Don’t forget to say 'Egészségedre!' (Cheers) when drinking.

To experience Miskolc like a local, visit the Miskolctapolca Cave Bath for a unique thermal spa experience. Stroll through the historic streets of the old town and explore the Diósgyőr Castle. Don’t miss the Avas Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and visit the ancient wine cellars. For local cuisine, head to the central market hall where you can taste fresh, regional products and interact with local vendors.