2 Best Sights in Veszprém, Hungary

Hungary’s reputation for creating fine pieces of porcelain was sparked by the purchase of a dinner set by Britain’s Queen Victoria in 1851 (the chosen pattern of colorful and detailed butterflies and flowers was later coined the “Victoria” collection). Some 600 mold-makers, potters, and painters are still trained here to craft Herend’s high quality dinnerware, decorative items, and figurines, while the porcelain-prone public are welcomed to share the experience in the Porcelanium Visitor Center. You can see how products are made in the Minimanufactory and check out a treasure trove of precious pieces in the Museum of Porcelain Art. In the adjoining Apicius Restaurant and Café you can even experience dining off their collection of dinnerware. The town of Herend lies 16 km (10 miles) northwest of Veszprém on Route 8, and regular buses ply the route all day (20 minutes each way).

The cobblestone Vár utca (Castle Street), north of Szabadság tér (Freedom Square), runs through the most picturesque part of town. It also has most of the sights worth seeing in Veszprém. The Hosök kapuja (Heroes’ Gate) at the entrance commemorates those who died during World War I and has a small exhibit on Hungary’s history. Farther up, Szent Mihály Főszékesegyház (St. Michael's Cathedral) is a beautifully light and colorful basilica that's been rebuilt many times since the 11th century. Nearby, the Gizella kápolna (Gisele Chapel), named for St. Stephen's wife, is home to gorgeous Byzantine-style frescoes of the apostles from the 13th century. From here, walk to the top of the hill to see giant stone statues of St. Stephen and Gisele, as well as lovely views to a rocky outcrop with a crucifix; a popular Easter procession stop. On the way back down the hill, stop in to see Ferences-templom and Piarista templom, two churches with very different depictions of St. Stephen (his outfits reflect the fashions of the time), as well as some interesting museums and galleries, including Vass László Gyűjtemény and Dubniczay-palota. Finally, just before you are back at Szabadság tér, you'll pass by the half-medieval and half-baroque Tűztorony (Fire Tower).