Discover the Historic Charm of Pécs

• HelloSzia
  [see-ah]
• GoodbyeViszontlátásra
  [vee-sont-la-tah-shra]
• YesIgen
  [ee-gen]
• NoNem
  [nem]
• Please/You're welcomeKérem
  [keh-rem]
• Thank youKöszönöm
  [kur-suh-nurm]
• Excuse me/SorryElnézést
  [el-nay-zayst]
• How are you?Hogy vagy?
  [hohdge vahdj]
• Fine. And you?Jól vagyok. És te?
  [yol vahdj-ok. aysh teh]
• Do you speak English?Beszélsz angolul?
  [bes-ales ang-oh-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 ahs ayt-lah-pot, keh-rem]
• I don't eat meatNem eszem húst
  [nem es-em hoost]
• Cheers!Egészségedre!
  [ay-gays-shay-gehd-reh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseSzeretnék fizetni, kérem
  [seh-reht-nayk fee-zeht-nee, keh-rem]

• Help!Segítség!
  [she-geet-shayg]
• Go away!Menj el!
  [mehn yel]
• Call the Police!Hívd a rendőrséget!
  [heed oh rend-ersh-ay-get]
• Call a doctor!Hívd az orvost!
  [heed ahs or-vosht]
• I'm lostElvesztem
  [el-veh-stem]
• I'm illBeteg vagyok
  [beh-tehg 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-nyee-beh keh-rool]
• That's too expensiveTúl drága
  [tool dra-gah]
• Can you lower the price?Le tudnád engedni az árat?
  [leh too-dnaad en-geh-dnee ahs ahr-aht]

• What time is it?Mennyi az idő?
  [men-nyee ahs ee-doh]
• It's one o'clockEgy óra van
  [edj oh-rah vahn]
• Half past (10)Fél tizenegy
  [fayl tee-zen-edge]
• MorningReggel
  [rehg-gehl]
• AfternoonDélelőtt
  [day-leh-loht]
• EveningEste
  [eh-shteh]
• YesterdayTegnap
  [tehg-nahp]
• TodayMa
  [mah]
• TomorrowHolnap
  [hol-nahp]
• 1Egy
  [edj]
• 2Kettő
  [ket-toh]
• 3Három
  [hah-rom]
• 4Négy
  [naydj]
• 5Öt
  [oht]
• 6Hat
  [haht]
• 7Hét
  [hayt]
• 8Nyolc
  [nyolts]
• 9Kilenc
  [keelents]
• 10Tíz
  [teaz]

• Where's a/the...?Hol van a...?
  [hohl vahn ah]
• What's the address?Mi a cím?
  [mee ah cheem]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Megmutatnád nekem (a térképen)?
  [me-gmoo-taht-naad neh-kem a tehr-keh-pehn]
• When's the next (bus)?Mikor jön a következő (busz)?
  [mee-kor yuhn ah kev-et-keh-zoh boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Egy jegyet (....-ra)
  [edj yeh-get (rah)]

Pécs, originally known as Sopianae, was founded by the Romans in the 2nd century AD. It quickly became a vital regional center due to its strategic location along Roman trade routes. The city flourished with the construction of public baths, temples, and an amphitheater. The Early Christian Necropolis of Pécs, a UNESCO World Heritage site, dates back to this era and showcases elaborate tombs and burial chambers adorned with frescoes.

During the Middle Ages, Pécs became an important ecclesiastical center. The founding of the University of Pécs in 1367 by King Louis I of Hungary marked a significant milestone, making it the first university in Hungary. Gothic architecture from this period, such as the Pécs Cathedral, still stands as a testament to the city's medieval prosperity and cultural significance.

In the 16th century, Pécs fell under Ottoman rule following the Battle of Mohács in 1526. The city experienced significant cultural and architectural transformations. Many churches were converted into mosques, and new Islamic structures, such as the Gazi Kasim Pasha Mosque, were built. The Ottoman influence is still evident in the city's architecture and cultural heritage.

With the end of Ottoman control in the late 17th century, Pécs became part of the Habsburg Monarchy. The city underwent a period of reconstruction and modernization. The 19th century brought industrialization, with the establishment of factories and the expansion of the coal mining industry. This era also saw the construction of significant public buildings, including the Neo-Romanesque Pécs Synagogue.

The 20th century was a period of significant upheaval and transformation for Pécs. The city faced the ravages of World War I and II, which led to economic and social challenges. However, the post-war era saw renewed growth and development. Pécs was designated a European Capital of Culture in 2010, which spurred cultural investment and infrastructure improvements, solidifying its status as a vibrant cultural and educational hub.

Today, Pécs is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. The Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, named after the famous Zsolnay ceramics factory, hosts a variety of cultural events and exhibitions. The city's diverse history is reflected in its architectural landmarks, museums, and cultural institutions, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Pecs is located in the southwest of Hungary, about 200 kilometers from Budapest. The nearest international airport is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). From Budapest, you can take a direct train to Pecs, which typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Budapest's Népliget Bus Station to Pecs. If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and take the M6 motorway, which connects Budapest to Pecs.

Pecs is a relatively compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Public transportation includes buses and taxis. The local bus system is efficient and covers most parts of the city. Taxis are also available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone or app. For a more flexible experience, consider renting a bicycle or a car. Parking is available but can be limited in the city center.

The official currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, markets, and public transport. ATMs are readily available throughout Pecs, and currency exchange services are also accessible.

Pecs is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places such as markets and public transport. Areas around the train station and some parts of the city outskirts may have higher crime rates, so stay vigilant and avoid these areas at night.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the EU-wide emergency number. Pecs has several medical facilities, including the Clinical Centre of the University of Pecs, which provides comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual clothing in nicer restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your hat and be quiet when entering churches. Public Transport: Do validate your bus ticket upon boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A polite nod or slight bow is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don't leave food on your plate, as it can be considered wasteful.

To experience Pecs like a local, visit the Pecs Market Hall for fresh produce, local cheeses, and meats. Explore the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter to understand the city's artistic heritage. Engage with locals in cafes; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to hike in the nearby Mecsek Mountains for stunning views and outdoor activities. Also, consider attending a performance at the Pecs National Theatre for a taste of local culture.