Szeged: The Sunlit Jewel of Southern Hungary

• HelloSzia
  [see-ah]
• GoodbyeViszontlátásra
  [vee-zont-la-tash-ra]
• YesIgen
  [ee-gen]
• NoNem
  [nem]
• Please/You're welcomeKérem
  [key-rem]
• Thank youKöszönöm
  [koh-suh-noem]
• Excuse me/SorryElnézést
  [el-nay-zayst]
• How are you?Hogy vagy?
  [hoj vahdj]
• Fine. And you?Jól vagyok. És te?
  [yol vahdj-ok. ays teh]
• Do you speak English?Beszélsz angolul?
  [bes-ales ang-oh-lool]
• I don't understandNem értem
  [nem air-tem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSzeretnék a menüt látni, kérem
  [seh-reht-nayk ah meh-nooht laht-nee, key-rem]
• I don't eat meatNem eszem húst
  [nem eh-sem hoost]
• Cheers!Egészségére!
  [eh-geh-sheh-geh-reh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseFizetnék, kérem
  [fee-zeht-nayk, key-rem]

• Help!Segítség!
  [sheh-geet-saig]
• Go away!Menj el!
  [men 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-tehg vahdj-ok]

• I'd like to buy...Venni szeretnék...
  [vehn-nee se-reht-nayk]
• I'm just lookingCsak nézelődöm
  [chahk nay-zeh-loh-dohm]
• How much is it?Mennyibe kerül?
  [men-nyee-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 eng-ehd-nee ahz ah-raht]

• What time is it?Mennyi az idő?
  [men-yee ahz 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
  [deh-leh-lohht]
• EveningEste
  [eh-shteh]
• YesterdayTegnap
  [teg-nahp]
• TodayMa
  [mah]
• TomorrowHolnap
  [hol-nahp]
• 1Egy
  [edj]
• 2Kettő
  [ket-toh]
• 3Három
  [hah-rom]
• 4Négy
  [naydg]
• 5Öt
  [oot]
• 6Hat
  [haht]
• 7Hét
  [hayt]
• 8Nyolc
  [nyolts]
• 9Kilenc
  [kee-lents]
• 10Tíz
  [teedz]

• 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?
  [mehg-moo-taht-nahd ah tair-kay-pehn]
• When's the next (bus)?Mikor jön a következő (busz)?
  [mee-kor yern ah kuh-veht-keh-zoh boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Egy jegyet (....-ra)
  [edj yeh-gyet ....-rah]

Szeged's history stretches back to ancient times, with evidence of settlements from the Roman era. Known as Partiscum, it was an important trading post and military garrison. The remnants of this period can still be found scattered throughout the city, including artifacts and ruins that provide a glimpse into its early significance.

During the Middle Ages, Szeged blossomed into a thriving market town due to its strategic location along the Tisza River. The city received its town privileges in 1247, marking the beginning of its development as a significant commercial hub. The medieval architecture, including the Votive Church and remnants of fortifications, reflect this period of prosperity.

From 1543 to 1686, Szeged was under Ottoman rule. This period saw the construction of mosques, baths, and other Islamic architectural influences, some of which have been preserved or repurposed. The Turkish influence left a lasting imprint on the city's cultural and architectural landscape.

One of the most pivotal events in Szeged's history was the catastrophic flood of 1879, which nearly destroyed the entire city. The disaster prompted a massive reconstruction effort, led by Emperor Franz Joseph, which transformed Szeged into a modern urban center with wide boulevards and grand public buildings. The Votive Church was built as a symbol of the city's rebirth.

The 20th century brought significant upheavals to Szeged, from World War I and the Treaty of Trianon, which redrew Hungary's borders, to the devastation of World War II. The city endured occupation and battles, but it also saw periods of reconstruction and growth. The post-war era brought industrialization and modernization, reshaping the economic and social fabric of Szeged.

Szeged is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, which experienced a renaissance in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The city is home to the National Theatre of Szeged, the Szeged Open-Air Festival, and numerous museums and galleries. This cultural richness is a testament to its historical legacy and ongoing commitment to the arts and education.

Today, Szeged is a bustling university town and a center of research and innovation. The University of Szeged, one of Hungary's most prestigious institutions, attracts students and academics from around the world. The city's blend of historical charm and modern amenities makes it a unique destination, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors.

Szeged is located in the southern part of Hungary. The nearest international airport is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, approximately 170 kilometers away. From Budapest, you can take a direct train from Budapest Nyugati railway station to Szeged, which takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes. Alternatively, there are bus services available from various locations in Budapest to Szeged. For those driving, the M5 motorway connects Budapest to Szeged, making the journey by car about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Szeged has an efficient public transportation system that includes trams, buses, and trolleybuses. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, from the driver, or via mobile apps. The city is also very bike-friendly, with numerous bike paths. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone or apps. For a unique experience, consider renting a bike or electric scooter to explore the city at your own pace.

The official currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout Szeged, and currency exchange offices can be found in the city center.

Szeged is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is wise to take usual precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The city center and popular tourist areas are typically safe, but exercise caution in less populated neighborhoods. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur, especially in busy areas.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Szeged has several hospitals and clinics that provide medical care. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but modestly. Avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Cover your head when entering churches and be mindful of ongoing services. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket upon boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Szeged like a local, visit the local markets such as Mars tér Market, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Hungarian goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about the city’s history and culture. Don’t miss the chance to relax at the Anna Thermal Baths, a favorite spot among residents. For a unique experience, take a leisurely walk along the Tisza River, especially during sunset.