Winetaste in Villany, sightseeing in Pécs, private tour

Key Points

• Price: $473 per person for a full-day private excursion
• Duration: 12 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Budapest
• Highlights: Castles, UNESCO World Heritage sites, Ottoman remnants, and renowned Hungarian wines
• Includes: Transfers, guide, wine tasting in Villány or nearby villages
• Not included: Entrance fees to museums, Siklós Castle, and lunch
• Accessibility: Wheelchair friendly, guided in multiple languages including English, Spanish, Italian, German, and French

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Castles and Cities of Hungary’s Baranya Region

This private tour offers a comprehensive look at southwest Hungary’s Baranya region, known for its lush forests, historic towns, and vibrant vineyards. Starting from Budapest, the journey covers 12 hours, with convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off included. The tour is perfect for those seeking an immersive experience in Hungary’s cultural and wine heritage without the hassle of organizing transport or guides.

We like how this tour combines sightseeing, history, and wine tasting into a seamless full-day experience. The route takes you through pictorial cities, ancient castles, and the hillside vineyards of Villány, providing a well-rounded view of this lesser-explored part of Hungary. The tour suits those interested in Hungarian history, architecture, and wine, with the added bonus of expert guiding.

Pécs: Exploring a City of Ottoman and Roman Heritage

The first stop is Pécs, a city rich in history and culture. The tour includes two hours of sightseeing, where you’ll see remnants of Ottoman rule such as the Gazi Kasim Mosque and the 4th-century Christian Necropolis, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guide explains the significance of these historic sites, offering insights into Pécs’s diverse past.

Next, there’s an additional one-hour visit in Pécs, giving time to admire the Romanesque Cathedral and visit the Csontváry Museum, dedicated to the Hungarian painter Tivadar Kosztka Csontváry. The Zsolnay Museum displays traditional Zsolnay porcelain, reflecting Hungary’s ceramic craftsmanship.

Scenic Transfer Through the Mecsek Mountains

After exploring Pécs, the group boards the coach for a short 20-minute drive through the forested slopes of the Mecsek mountains. This scenic transfer leads to the wine region, where the landscape transforms into rolling hills dotted with vineyards. The drive is comfortable and provides a preview of the region’s natural beauty.

Tasting Hungary’s Prizewinning Wines in Villány and Siklós

The core highlight of the tour is wine tasting at a vineyard in Villány, part of Hungary’s oldest closed wine route. This protected wine-growing area boasts a sub-Mediterranean climate, ideal for producing Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Blue Portuguese, Blue Franc, and Merlot.

In Villány, the focus is on ruby reds reminiscent of Médoc wines. Travelers also get to taste white wines in Nagyharsány, including Rhine-ish Rieslings, Chardonnays, and Traminis. The 1.5-hour wine tasting provides an opportunity to sample award-winning wines in a relaxed setting.

The tour also visits the nearby Siklós, where you can view the castle (entrance not included), and enjoy the picturesque countryside that surrounds these vineyards.

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The Architectural and Cultural Gems of Pécs

Back in Pécs, the tour emphasizes some of the city’s most notable architectural sites. The Romanesque Cathedral is a striking structure, with its imposing façade and historical significance. The Gazi Kasim Mosque offers insights into Ottoman influence on the city.

The Csontváry Museum showcases works by the celebrated painter, giving a glimpse into Hungary’s artistic heritage. The Zsolnay Museum exhibits the famous porcelain, which has been crafted in the region for centuries, making it a key part of Hungary’s cultural identity.

Practicalities of the Tour: Logistics and Inclusions

This private tour departs from Four Seasons parking in Budapest, with transfers included. The guide leads the group through each stop, providing informative commentary in multiple languages including English, Spanish, Italian, German, and French. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

The tour includes wine tasting in Villány or nearby villages, hotel pickup and drop-off, and guidance throughout. However, it’s important to note that entrance fees to sites such as Necropolis Gazi Kasim Djami, Csontváry Museum, Zsolnay Museum, and Siklós Castle are not included.

The Experience of a Full Day with a Knowledgeable Guide

The tour is designed to balance sightseeing, wine tasting, and cultural exploration, with 12 hours allowing ample time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge are frequently praised, making the experience both informative and engaging.

Travelers appreciate the personalized attention of a private group, which allows for flexible timing and a more tailored experience. The pacing is generally comfortable, with enough time to explore each site and enjoy the wine tastings.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private excursion suits those who are interested in Hungarian history, architecture, and wine. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip from Budapest with an emphasis on culture and vineyard visits. Since lunch is not included, those who prefer a sit-down meal can plan to bring a snack or eat independently before or after the tour.

The cost per person is $473, reflecting the exclusivity of a private guide, transportation, and wine tastings. It’s a good value for anyone wanting an in-depth, curated experience of Hungary’s Baranya region.

The Sum Up: A Rich Day of History and Wine in Hungary’s Southwest

This 12-hour private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Hungary’s southwest, blending historic city sightseeing in Pécs with vineyard visits in Villány. The guide’s expertise and personalized approach make it a strong choice for travelers eager to learn about the region’s cultural heritage and wine tradition.

While entrance fees are not included, the tour’s comprehensive itinerary, scenic drives, and tastings provide clear value. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer private, tailored experiences and want to explore Hungary beyond Budapest’s city limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Budapest.

How long is the wine tasting session?
The wine tasting lasts approximately 1.5 hours at a vineyard in Villány or a nearby village.

Are entrance fees to museums and castles included?
No, entrance fees to sites like the Necropolis Gazi Kasim Djami, Csontváry Museum, Zsolnay Museum, and Siklós Castle are not included.

What languages does the guide speak?
The guide offers commentary in English, Spanish, Italian, German, and French.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

How does the private tour differ from group options?
The private format allows for more personalized attention, flexible timing, and a tailored experience, ideal for those seeking an exclusive day trip.

What is the overall duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts 12 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, and tastings.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby