3 Best Sights in Esztergom, Hungary

This immense basilica, the largest in the country and visible from miles around, is the seat of the cardinal primate of Hungary. Completed in 1856 on the site of a medieval cathedral and recently restored, the basilica's most wondrous feature is the Bakócz Chapel (1506). Named for a primate of Hungary who only narrowly missed out on becoming pope, the chapel—on your left as you enter—is the most beautiful work of Renaissance architecture in all of Hungary; note its red marble, magnificent carvings, and enormous altar painting. Other highlights to look for are the sacristy, which contains a valuable collection of medieval ecclesiastical art; the vast and deep crypt, where the cathedral's builders and key priests are buried; and the treasury, containing a trove of precious ecclesiastical objects. For a great view of Esztergom, climb the long, winding staircase up to the observation platform in the cathedral's cupola, or take a stroll around the back of the building to the impressive Szent István megkoronázása (St. Stephen's Coronation) sculpture. Each section of the basilica's interior requires an entrance fee, from 500 HUF to 2,000 HUF, so your best bet is to purchase the combination ticket.

Considered by many to be Hungary's finest art gallery, the Christian Museum is located in the Primate's Palace in the pretty riverside Víziváros district. It's home to the country's greatest collection of medieval Hungarian religious art, as well as Dutch, German, and Italian master paintings; the 14th- and 15th-century Italian collection is unusually large for a museum outside of Italy. The museum's showstopper is the intricately carved 15th-century Holy Sepulchre of Garamszentbenedek, depicting the 12 Apostles clustered around Christ's tomb, which was wheeled through the town during Easter processions. You can reach the museum from the basilica via the steep Macskalépcső, or Cat Stairs.

Situated right beside the basilica, the Castle Museum is housed in the former Royal Palace, built in the 12th century when Esztergom was the country's capital but later ransacked by the Turks. Today, it's an intriguing jumble of modern and medieval, with a historic collection of archaeological finds from the area, including pottery and artifacts dating from the 11th century. Visitors can also explore the remaining rooms of the Royal Palace, including the gorgeous chapel with its 13th-century frescoes.