Veszprém: The City of Queens and History

• HelloHelló
  [heh-loh]
• GoodbyeViszontlátásra
  [vee-zont-la-taash-ra]
• YesIgen
  [ee-gen]
• NoNem
  [nem]
• Please/You're welcomeKérem
  [keh-rem]
• Thank youKöszönöm
  [koe-szoe-noem]
• Excuse me/SorryElnézést
  [el-ne-zesht]
• How are you?Hogy vagy?
  [ho-dj va-dj]
• Fine. And you?Jól vagyok. És te?
  [yoel va-djok. ays te]
• Do you speak English?Beszélsz angolul?
  [be-sails on-go-lool]
• I don't understandNem értem
  [nem air-tem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSzeretnék látni az étlapot, kérem
  [seh-ret-naek laat-nee az eht-loh-pot, keh-rem]
• I don't eat meatNem eszem húst
  [nem es-em hoost]
• Cheers!Egészségedre!
  [ay-gaish-say-ged-reh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseSzeretnék fizetni, kérem
  [seh-ret-naek fee-zeht-nee, keh-rem]

• Help!Segítség!
  [she-geet-saig]
• Go away!Menj el!
  [men yel]
• Call the Police!Hívd a rendőrséget!
  [heed a ren-dur-say-get]
• Call a doctor!Hívd az orvost!
  [heed az or-vosht]
• I'm lostElvesztem
  [el-vesh-tem]
• I'm illBeteg vagyok
  [be-teg va-djok]

• I'd like to buy...Szeretnék vásárolni...
  [seh-ret-naek va-shaor-ol-nee]
• I'm just lookingCsak nézelődöm
  [chak ne-zeh-loe-dum]
• How much is it?Mennyibe kerül?
  [men-nyi-be keh-rool]
• That's too expensiveEz túl drága
  [ez tool dra-ga]
• Can you lower the price?Le tudnád engedni az árat?
  [leh tud-naad eng-ed-nee az ah-rat]

• What time is it?Mennyi az idő?
  [men-nyi az e-doe]
• It's one o'clockEgy óra van
  [edj o-ra van]
• Half past (10)Fél tizenegy
  [fayl tee-zen-edj]
• MorningReggel
  [reg-gel]
• AfternoonDélután
  [del-oo-taan]
• EveningEste
  [es-te]
• YesterdayTegnap
  [teg-nap]
• TodayMa
  [ma]
• TomorrowHolnap
  [hol-nap]
• 1Egy
  [edj]
• 2Kettő
  [ket-toe]
• 3Három
  [ha-roem]
• 4Négy
  [ne-gy]
• 5Öt
  [oet]
• 6Hat
  [hat]
• 7Hét
  [hayt]
• 8Nyolc
  [nyoltz]
• 9Kilenc
  [ke-lents]
• 10Tíz
  [teaz]

• Where's a/the...?Hol van a...?
  [hol van a]
• What's the address?Mi a cím?
  [mee ah cheem]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Meg tudnád mutatni (a térképen)?
  [meg tud-naad moo-tat-nee a ter-keh-pen]
• When's the next (bus)?Mikor megy a következő (busz)?
  [mee-kor me-dj a ko-vek-tay (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Egy jegy (....-ra)
  [edj yedj (...-ra)]

Veszprem is one of the oldest urban areas in Hungary, with its origins tracing back to the Roman period. The settlement was first mentioned in documents from the early 10th century. According to legend, the city was named after Prince Veszprém, the son of the first Hungarian king, Saint Stephen, and his wife, Queen Gisela.

During the reign of Saint Stephen I of Hungary (1000-1038), Veszprem became an important religious and administrative center. Queen Gisela established one of the first Hungarian bishoprics here in 1009, making Veszprem a significant ecclesiastical hub. The city was granted the privilege of crowning Hungarian queens, a tradition that continued for centuries.

In 1241, Veszprem faced devastation during the Mongol invasion. The city was sacked, and many of its inhabitants were killed or taken as slaves. However, it was quickly rebuilt, demonstrating the resilience and strategic importance of Veszprem in Hungary’s medieval history.

In the 16th century, Veszprem fell under Ottoman rule, which lasted from 1552 to 1683. During this period, the city was heavily fortified and experienced significant cultural and demographic changes. Many buildings were repurposed as mosques and other Ottoman institutions.

The 18th century marked a period of recovery and growth for Veszprem. The city saw the construction of numerous Baroque buildings, including churches, palaces, and public institutions. This era of enlightenment brought about a cultural flourishing, with Veszprem emerging as a center for arts and education.

During World War II, Veszprem suffered significant damage due to bombings and military operations. After the war, the city underwent extensive reconstruction and modernization, which included the development of new residential areas and industrial facilities.

Today, Veszprem is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, educational institutions, and historical landmarks. It continues to be a vital cultural and economic center in Western Hungary, attracting visitors with its blend of historical charm and modern amenities.

Veszprem is located in central Hungary, approximately 110 kilometers southwest of Budapest. The nearest international airport is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. From Budapest, you can reach Veszprem by train, bus, or car. The train journey from Budapest to Veszprem takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, with frequent services departing from Budapest-Déli Railway Station. Buses are also available from Budapest's Népliget Bus Station and take approximately 2 hours. If you prefer driving, the journey via the M7 and M8 highways takes about 1.5 hours.

Veszprem is a relatively small city, making it easy to navigate on foot. For longer distances, the local bus network operated by V-Busz is reliable and affordable. Taxis are also available but ensure you use registered services. Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings. For trips outside Veszprem, renting a car provides flexibility, especially if you plan to visit the nearby Lake Balaton region.

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's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, markets, or rural areas. ATMs are readily available throughout Veszprem. Currency exchange services can be found at banks and exchange offices in the city.

Veszprem is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, like any destination, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists, but always exercise caution and use common sense.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which covers police, fire, and medical emergencies. The local police station is located at 1 Kossuth Lajos Street. Veszprem also has a hospital, the Veszprem County Hospital, located at 5 Kórház Street. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health concerns. It is highly recommended 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, and remember to dress appropriately in churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don’t eat, drink, or speak loudly on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly smile and basic Hungarian phrases like 'Jó napot!' (Good day) are appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and drinks, such as goulash and Tokaji wine. Don’t refuse food or drink offerings as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Veszprem like a local, visit the Veszprem Castle District, a historical area with charming streets and notable landmarks like the St. Michael's Cathedral. Attend local events and festivals, such as the VeszpremFest, which features a mix of music, theatre, and dance performances. Try traditional Hungarian cuisine at local bistros and family-run restaurants. Exploring the nearby Bakony Hills offers a great opportunity for hiking and enjoying nature. Engage with locals, who are usually friendly and willing to share insights into the city's history and culture.