About Békés

Békés County in southeastern Hungary offers travelers an authentic glimpse into Hungary's Great Plain region, where traditional culture meets serene natural landscapes. The county's heart is Békéscsaba, famous for its vibrant paprika production and the annual Békéscsaba Sausage Festival celebrating local culinary heritage. History enthusiasts will appreciate Gyula's magnificent 15th-century castle, one of Hungary's best-preserved brick fortresses, and its charming thermal spa. Nature lovers can explore the Körös-Maros National Park, a wetland paradise perfect for birdwatching, with rare species like herons and eagles. The region's rich folk traditions come alive in settlements like Tótkomlós and Szarvas, where you can experience traditional Hungarian music, embroidery, and architecture. Békés provides a peaceful alternative to Hungary's bustling cities, with thermal baths, horse shows, and welcoming rural hospitality that immerses visitors in authentic Hungarian life.

Travel Tips for Békés

Getting Around

Public buses connect major towns, but service is limited in rural areas. Trains run between Békéscsaba, Gyula, and Budapest. Taxis are available in cities—use reputable companies or apps like Bolt. Car rental is recommended for exploring villages and natural areas. Bicycles are popular in flat terrain; some hotels offer rentals. Navigation apps like Google Maps work well.

Best Time To Visit

May to September offers warm weather ideal for exploring castles and national parks. July hosts the Békéscsaba Sausage Festival. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter can be cold but offers cozy thermal spa experiences.

Local Customs

Handshakes are common greetings. Dress modestly when visiting churches. Tipping is customary: 10-15% in restaurants, round up for taxis. Remove shoes when entering homes. Respect thermal bath etiquette: shower before entering, wear swim caps if required. Hungarians value punctuality. Avoid discussing sensitive historical topics.

Safety Information

Békés is generally safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in urban areas. Rural areas are very safe. No specific areas to avoid, though standard vigilance in less populated areas at night is advised. Scams are rare, but be cautious with unofficial taxi services. Road safety is good, but watch for agricultural vehicles on rural roads. Emergency services are reliable.

Health Information

Medical facilities are adequate in cities like Békéscsaba and Gyula, with hospitals and clinics available. The Békés County Central Hospital in Békéscsaba is the main facility. No special vaccinations are required beyond routine immunizations. Tap water is generally safe to drink. Travelers should carry European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or travel insurance. Tick-borne encephalitis exists in rural areas—use insect repellent and check for ticks after outdoor activities. Summer heat can be intense; stay hydrated.

Languages Spoken

Hungarian

Quick Facts

Currency

Hungarian Forint (HUF)
Ft

Timezone

Europe/Budapest +02:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+36

Electricity

Type C, F; 230V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

335,000

Area

5631 km²

Government

County with elected council and appointed commissioner

ISO Code

HU-BE