Tokaj

Tokaj

Independent tourism and recreation in the city of Tokai Historical information about the city of Tokai Tokaj i...

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Oh. Tokaj

Independent tourism and recreation in the city of Tokai

Historical information about the city of Tokai

Tokaj is a small historic town in northeastern Hungary located at the confluence of the Tisza and Bodrog rivers. Despite its small size, Tokai is known all over the world for its unique wine region, Tokaj-Hegyalja, which is considered one of the oldest wine regions in Europe.

The history of the city is closely connected with viticulture, trade and cultural heritage of Hungary. For centuries, Tokai has been an important trading center and a place for the production of famous dessert wines.

Ancient settlements

Archaeological finds indicate that people lived on the territory of modern Tokai in the Bronze Age.

Due to the fertile soils, the presence of rivers and convenient location, trade routes connecting Central Europe with the eastern regions of the continent passed through this area.

Later it was here:

  • Celtic tribes;

  • Daki.

  • the Germanic peoples;

  • Slavic tribes.

The arrival of the Hungarians

In the IX-X centuries after the resettlement of Hungarian tribes in the Carpathian basin, the territory of Tokay became part of the emerging Hungarian Kingdom.

Convenient location near the rivers contributed to the development of:

  • trade;

  • fishing;

  • agriculture;

  • winemaking.

It was during this period that the first vineyards began to appear.

Medieval Tokai

The first written mention of the city belongs to the XIII century.

After the Mongol invasion of 1241-1242, the Hungarian kings began to actively strengthen the region.

Fortresses and guard fortifications were built in the vicinity to protect trade routes.

In the XIII-XIV centuries, Tokai gradually became the center of the wine region.

A special role was played by immigrants from Italy, France and Germany, who brought new technologies for growing grapes and producing wine.

Development of winemaking

The real flourishing of Tokai began in the XV-XVI centuries.

Local winemakers noticed a unique natural phenomenon - the development of noble mould Botrytis cinerea on grape berries.

Under the influence of this mold, the berries dried up, concentrating sugar and aromatic substances.

It is thanks to this that the famous sweet wine Tokaji Aszú was produced.

It is believed that the technology of production of such wine was finally formed in the XVII century.

Ottoman wars

In the XVI-XVII centuries Hungary was the arena of wars between the Ottoman Empire and the Habsburgs.

Despite the constant threat, Tokai has retained its importance as a winemaking center.

Local wines continued to be exported to various European countries.

During this period, the famous Tokai wine cellars began to be actively built, many of which have survived to this day.

Golden Age of Tokai Wine

XVII-XVIII centuries became the time of the highest glory of the region.

Tokai wines were supplied to the courts of many European monarchs.

Among the fans of Tokai wine were:

  • King Louis XIV of France;

  • Russian Tsar Peter I;

  • Empress Catherine II;

  • Austrian Habsburgs.

King Louis XIV of France called Tokai wine:

The Wine of Kings and the King of Wine.

This phrase made the region famous throughout Europe.

Russian ties

In the XVIII century, the Russian Empire became one of the largest buyers of Tokai wines.

Representatives of the Russian court were constantly in the region to control supplies.

There was even a special Russian commission responsible for the purchase of wine for the imperial family.

nineteenth century

In the XIX century, winemaking remained the basis of the city's economy.

However, in the second half of the century, the region faced a serious problem: the phylloxera epidemic.

This pest destroyed a large part of the vineyards of Europe.

Many Tokai plantations were also damaged and subsequently restored to American rootstocks.

XX century

After World War I and the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Tokai became part of Hungary.

During World War II, the city escaped serious destruction.

During the socialist period, wine production was nationalized.

The main emphasis was placed on the mass production of wine, which partially reduced its quality compared to historical samples.

Post-1990 revival

After the fall of the socialist regime, the restoration of traditional winemaking began.

Foreign investors and well-known wine companies came to the region.

Ancient technologies of production of Tokai wines were restored.

Today, Tokai is once again considered one of the leading wine regions in the world.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 2002, the Tokai Hedyalya wine region was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as a unique cultural landscape.

This recognition confirmed the world importance of the region and its centuries-old wine-making traditions.

Modern Tokai

Today Tokai is a popular tourist center of Hungary.

Guests are attracted to:

  • historical center of the city;

  • old wine cellars;

  • Tasting rooms;

  • vineyards on the hillsides;

  • river landscapes of Tisa and Bodrog;

  • Gastronomy festivals.

The city is visited annually by thousands of lovers of wine and cultural tourism.


What is interesting about Tokai

World famous wine region

The main reason for the popularity of Tokai is the legendary wines of the region.

It produces:

  • Tokaji Aszú;

  • Tokaji Szamorodni;

  • Furmint?

  • Hárslevel;;

  • late dessert wines.

In many wineries you can visit tastings, get acquainted with the process of wine production and see ancient cellars, which are several hundred years old.

Atmosphere of Old Hungary

Tokay has preserved the appearance of a traditional Hungarian town.

Tourists are attracted by:

  • old mansions;

  • cozy streets;

  • wine cellars;

  • small areas;

  • historical buildings of the XVIII-XIX centuries.

The city is great for leisurely walks and relaxation away from the noise of large metropolises.

Vineyards and beautiful landscapes

The surroundings of Tokai are covered with vineyards, which are especially beautiful in spring and autumn.

From the hills there are magnificent views of:

  • Bodrog river valley;

  • wineries;

  • rural landscapes of the region.

In autumn, during the harvest, the local landscapes become especially picturesque.

Old wine cellars

One of the main features of the city are the historical wine cellars.

Some of them have been around for over 300 years.

Inside you can see:

  • old oak barrels;

  • The walls are covered with noble mould;

  • collections of rare wines.

For many tourists, visiting such cellars becomes the main impression of the trip.

Rivers Tisa and Bodrog

Tokai is located at a unique confluence of two rivers.

Visitors to the city can:

  • take a river ride;

  • boat ride;

  • go fishing;

  • Watch the birds.

The waterfronts are especially popular in summer.

Gastronomic tourism

The region is famous not only for wine, but also for traditional Hungarian cuisine.

At local restaurants, you should try:

  • Goulash;

  • halasle fish soup;

  • Duck and goose dishes;

  • household sausages;

  • Hungarian cheeses;

  • traditional desserts.

Many establishments offer special wine menus with a selection of drinks for each dish.

Historical sights

You can visit Tokai:

  • Tokaj Museum;

  • historical center of the city;

  • ancient wine estates;

  • Catholic and Protestant churches;

  • Viewpoints on the surrounding hills.

Festivals and wine festivals

During the year, there are:

  • wine festivals;

  • harvest festivals;

  • gastronomic fairs;

  • musical events;

  • folk festivals.

During festivals, the city becomes especially lively and colorful.

Outdoor recreation

Tokai is suitable for lovers of outdoor activities.

Popular occupations:

  • Hiking;

  • cycling;

  • water excursions;

  • walks through the vineyards;

  • phototourism.

Convenient location

Tokai is conveniently accessible from:

  • Budapest;

  • Miskolc?

  • Debrecena.

The city is connected to other regions of Hungary by rail and bus.


You'll be met in Tokai. private guides And they'll offer you a copy. individual tours


Living standards in Tokai

Hotels 5★ Hotels

This is the best option for lovers of comfortable rest, spa treatments and wine tourism.

Popular options:

  • Minaro Hotel Tokaj - MGallery Collection is one of the most luxurious hotels in the region with a modern spa complex and views of vineyards.

  • Andrássy Kúria & Spa is a historic manor with thermal spa and haute cuisine restaurant.

  • Grof Degenfeld Castle Hotel is a hotel in an ancient palace among vineyards.

Average cost:

  • from 180 to 400 euros per night.

Hotels 4★

The most popular category among tourists.

Popular options:

  • Mercure Tokaj Center is a modern hotel in the city center with a swimming pool and restaurant.

  • Grof Degenfeld Castle Hotel

  • Tokajvár Hotel is one of the most famous hotels in the city.

Average cost:

  • from 90 to 180 euros per night.

Hotels 3★ Hotels

Suitable for most travelers.

Popular options:

  • Hotel Csillag Tokaj

  • Toldi Inn

  • Hotel Kelep.

Average cost:

  • from 60 to 120 euros per night.

Wine hotels and wine estates

Tokai is famous for such accommodation options.

Guests have the opportunity to:

  • live near vineyards;

  • attend tastings;

  • get acquainted with the wine traditions of the region;

  • Rest in ancient wine cellars.

Popular options:

  • Paulay Borház és Vendégház

  • Myrtus Pince és Vendégház

Guesthouses (Vendégház)

The most common option of living in Tokai.

Popular options:

  • Angéla Vendegház

  • Beáta Vendégház

  • Lipták Vendégház

  • Babér Tokaj Vendégház

  • Bone Guest House

Average cost:

  • 35 to 80 euros per night.


Where to go and what to see in Tokai

1. Tokyo Historic Center

The old city center is the main tourist area.

Here you can see:

  • ancient mansions of the XVIII-XIX centuries;

  • cozy squares;

  • wine shops;

  • traditional Hungarian restaurants;

  • Historical wine-making buildings.

Transport accessibility

  • It is located in the city centre;

  • Easy to walk from the station and most hotels

  • There are bus stops nearby.

2. The Tokaj-Hegyalja wine region

The main attraction of the region, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Tourists come here for:

  • vineyards

  • tastings;

  • wine tours;

  • beautiful panoramic views.

Transport accessibility

  • located around the city;

  • excursion routes are available;

  • It is convenient to get by car, bicycle or tourist bus.

3. Tokai wine cellars

Ancient cellars are considered a symbol of the city.

Features:

  • Some basements are over 300 years old.

  • tasting the famous Tokai wines;

  • A unique microclimate for wine storage.

Transport accessibility

  • Most are located in the city center;

  • Many can be reached on foot in a few minutes.

4. Tokaj Museum (Tokaj Museum)

The museum introduces visitors to the history of the city and the wine region.

Expositions are devoted to:

  • winemaking;

  • local culture;

  • archaeology;

  • history of Hungary.

Transport accessibility

  • located in the centre of Tokay;

  • Available on foot from most hotels.

5. Kopasz Hill (Kopasz-hegy)

One of the best viewing platforms in the region.

From the top there are views of:

  • city of Tokai;

  • rivers Tisa and Bodrog;

  • vineyards

  • surrounding villages.

Transport accessibility

  • about 5-10 minutes by car from the center;

  • Hiking tourist routes are available;

  • It's a popular place for cycling.

6. Confluence of the Tisa and Bodrog rivers

One of the most beautiful natural places in the region.

Here you can:

  • walk along the waterfront;

  • go on a river tour;

  • Take beautiful pictures.

Transport accessibility

  • It is located near the city center;

  • easily accessible on foot.

7. Roman Catholic Church of St. Stephen

One of the main religious attractions of the city.

Interesting:

  • architecture;

  • historical interiors;

  • church art.

Transport accessibility

  • city centre;

  • walking distance.

8. Tokaya Synagogue

It reminds us of the rich history of the Jewish community in the region.

Today the building is an important historical monument.

Transport accessibility

  • is within the city limits;

  • accessible on foot.

9. Regional wineries

The most famous farms offer excursions and tastings.

Popular:

  • Disznókő Winery;

  • Gróf Degenfeld Winery;

  • Sauska Tokaj.

Transport accessibility

  • located in the vicinity of the city;

  • available by car, bicycle or as part of excursion tours.


Events and entertainment in Tokai

1. Tokaji Wine Days (Tokaji Bornapok)

When: Early June

The main city festival is Tokai.

During the festival, there are:

  • Tokai wine tastings;

  • concerts;

  • performances of folklore groups;

  • artisan fairs;

  • gastronomic programs.

This is one of the biggest events of the wine region.

2. May holiday on the banks of Bodrog

When: May

A traditional spring holiday.

Guests are waiting:

  • family entertainment;

  • concerts;

  • folk dances;

  • riverside picnics;

  • children's activities.

3. Night of Museums (Múzeumok Éjszakája)

When: June

A popular cultural event throughout Hungary.

In Tokai on this day:

  • Museums are open until late at night.

  • special excursions are held;

  • Historical programs are organized;

  • There are exhibitions and concerts.

4. Summer festival season at the Festival Amphitheatre Fesztiválkatlan

When: June - August

The main concert venue of the region.

This is where they go.

  • concerts of Hungarian performers;

  • Theatrical productions;

  • musicals;

  • comedy shows;

  • music festivals.

5. Furmint Wine Festival (Furmint Ünnep)

When: July

Dedicated to the famous grape variety Furmint, from which many Tokai wines are produced.

In the program:

  • wine tastings;

  • excursions to wineries;

  • meetings with winemakers;

  • gastronomic evenings.

6. Musical evenings in wineries

When: June - September

Almost every week in the wineries of the region are:

  • jazz concerts;

  • classical music nights;

  • folklore performances;

  • Gastronomy dinners with live music.

7. Harvest Festival (Tokaji Szüreti Napok)

When: September

One of the most beautiful events of the year.

During the holiday, there are:

  • procession of winemakers;

  • festivities;

  • concerts;

  • fairs;

  • Tasting young wine.

It is in September that the collection of the famous Tokai grapes begins.

8. Autumn Festival of Wine and Gastronomy

When: September - October

Dedicated to the traditional cuisine of the region and new wine harvests.

Tourists can try:

  • Tokai wines;

  • Hungarian cheeses;

  • sausages;

  • game dishes;

  • local desserts.

9. St. Martin's Day (Márton-nap)

When: November

A traditional Hungarian holiday.

Main activities:

  • goose dinners;

  • tasting of young wines;

  • folk music;

  • family programs.


What weather is suitable for traveling to Tokai

Spring (March-May)

In spring, nature quickly comes to life, vineyards and gardens begin to turn green.

march

  • air temperature: +4... +11 °C

  • Water temperature: +5...+7 °C

April

  • air temperature: +9... +17 °C

  • Water temperature: +8... +11 °C

May

  • air temperature: +14... +23 °C

  • water temperature: +14... +18 °C

Spring is considered a good time for excursions and walks around wineries.

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Tokai is sunny and quite warm.

June

  • air temperature: +18... +27 °C

  • Water temperature: +19... +22 °C

July

  • air temperature: +20... +30 °C

  • Water temperature: +22... +25 °C

Augustus

  • air temperature: +19... +30 °C

  • Water temperature: +22... +25 °C

In summer there are numerous festivals, concerts and wine events. On the hottest days, the temperature can rise above +35 ° C.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is considered the most beautiful time of year in Tokai.

September

  • air temperature: +15... +25 °C

  • Water temperature: +18... +22 °C

October.

  • air temperature: +9... +18 °C

  • Water temperature: +12... +16 °C

November

  • air temperature: +3... +10 °C

  • Water temperature: +6... +9 °C

It is in autumn that the grape harvest begins and the main wine festivals of the region are held.

Winter (December – February)

Winter in Tokai is cool, sometimes snowy.

December

  • air temperature: -1...+5 °C

  • Water temperature: +2...+5 °C

January

  • air temperature: -3...+3 °C

  • water temperature: +1... +3 °C

February

  • air temperature: -2...+6 °C

  • Water temperature: +2...+4 °C

In winter, tourists are much less, and the city acquires a calm and cozy atmosphere.


What traditions and customs should be observed in Tokai

Language of communication

Hungarian Language (Magyar)

The official language is Hungarian.

It's the one that communicates:

  • local residents;

  • employees of state institutions;

  • shopkeepers;

  • residents of small villages in the region.

In touristic places, hotels, restaurants and wineries, many employees understand English.

English

English is widely used:

  • in hotels;

  • tourist centers;

  • wineries;

  • popular restaurants.

In small family establishments, knowledge of English may be limited, so a few Hungarian words will be helpful.

Features of communication

Hungarians are usually friendly and polite, but may seem a bit reserved when first introduced.

Copy that:

  • Say hello when entering a store or restaurant.

  • Thank you for your service;

  • Respectfully treat older people.

Locals have a positive attitude towards tourists who try to pronounce a few words in Hungarian.

Traditions and customs

Respect for the winemaking tradition n

Tokai is one of the most famous wine regions in the world.

During the visit to the winery accepted:

  • listen carefully to the guide;

  • Do not rush the tasting;

  • Be interested in the history of wine;

  • Respect the work of winemakers.

For residents of the region, winemaking is part of the cultural heritage, not just the production of beverages.

Hospitality

Hungarians like to receive guests.

If you are invited to a house or a family winery, a good tone is considered:

  • Bring a small gift;

  • Thank the hosts for the meal;

  • Take an interest in local culture.

Family values

The family plays an important role in Hungarian culture.

Many wineries in Tokai have been owned by families for generations.

Harvest celebrations

In autumn there are traditional festivals of grape harvesting.

During such events, it was adopted:

  • to participate in folk festivals;

  • respect the local traditions;

  • observe the rules of public order.

Behaviour in restaurants and wineries

During wine tasting, it is recommended:

  • drink moderately;

  • No noise;

  • Do not interfere with other visitors;

  • Do not criticize local traditions.

In many wineries, tours are held in historic cellars, where caution should be exercised and staff instructions followed.

Visiting temples

There are Catholic and Protestant churches in Tokai.

When visiting religious sites, it is recommended:

  • keep quiet;

  • Turn off the sound of the phone;

  • do not interfere with the conduct of services;

  • dress neatly and modestly.

Basic laws that are important for tourists to know

Alcohol

The purchase of alcohol is allowed to persons over 18 years of age.

Tokai is known for its wines, but alcohol should be consumed responsibly.

Forbidden:

  • driving a vehicle in a state of intoxication;

  • Disturbance of public order under the influence of alcohol.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited:

  • in public transport;

  • inside restaurants;

  • inside hotels;

  • in most public buildings.

There are special places for smoking.

Public order

Hungary strictly treats:

  • vandalism;

  • damage to historical sites;

  • Noisy behavior in public places;

  • garbage on the streets.

Fines may be imposed for violations.

Photography.

Photography on the streets is usually allowed.

However, some museums, wineries and religious sites may have restrictions on filming.

Before taking photos inside buildings, it is better to clarify the rules with the staff.

Tipping

Tipping in Hungary is a common practice.

Usually left:

  • 10% in restaurants;

  • a small amount for taxi drivers;

  • at the request of hotel staff.

Sometimes the service fee is already included in the bill.


Popular phrases and dialogues with translation for a trip to Tokai

Welcome and introduction

Jó napot! (Yo napot!) Hello! Good afternoon!

Szia! (Sia!) Hello!

Jó reggelt! (Yo reggelt!) Good morning!

Jo estét! Good evening!

Viszontlátásra! (Viszontlátásra!) Goodbye!

Hogy van? How are you?

Jól vagyok. I'm fine.

Örülök, hogy megismerhetem. Good to meet you.

Polite words

Kérem. Please.

Köszönöm. Thank you.

Nagyon köszönöm. Thank you very much.

Szívesen. (Siveshen.) You're welcome.

Elnézést. Excuse me.

Sajnálom. I'm sorry.

Useful Questions for Tourists

Beszél angolul? - Do you speak English?

Beszél oroszul? - Do you speak Russian?

Tud segíteni? can you help?

Hol van a központ? Where's downtown?

Hol van a vasútállomás? ? Hal van, what about allomash? Where's the train station?

Hol található a borospince? ) Where is the wine cellar?

At the hotel.

Population

Foglalásom van. (Foglalosom van.) I have a reservation.

A nevem Ivanov. My last name is Ivanov.

Mikor van a reggeli? What time is breakfast?

Van ingyenes Wi-Fi? Is there free Wi-Fi?

Hol van a szobám? ) Where is my room?

Hotel dialogue

Tourist:

- Jó napot! Foglalásom van.

(Yo napoth) Foglalos van.

Hello there! I have a reservation.

Administrator

- Mi a neve?

(Mi neve)

What's your last name?

Tourist:

- A nevem Ivanov.

(And Nevam Ivanov.)

My name is Ivanov.

Administrator

- Üdvözöljük Tokajban!

(Yudvezeljuk Tokaiban!)

Welcome to Tokai!

At the restaurant.

Egy asztalt kérek. A table, please.

Megkaphatom az étlapot? Can I have a menu?

Mit ajánl? (Meet Ayanl) What would you recommend?

Szeretnék tokaji bort. I'd like some Tokai wine.

A számlát kérem. (And Samlat Keheram.) Check, please.

Restaurant dialogue

Waiter:

- Jó estét! Mit szeretne?

(Yo Ashtat) Meat siretne?

Good evening! What do you want to order?

Tourist:

- Szeretnék egy pohár tokaji bort.

(Seretnack is a tokayi ship.)

I'd like a glass of Tokai wine.

Waiter:

- Kiváló választás.

(Kivalo Valastash)

Great choice.

At the winery.

Szeretnék borkóstolón részt venni. I would like to take part in the wine tasting.

Melyik a leghíresebb bor? What is the most famous wine?

Ez Tokaji Aszú? Is that Tokai Asu?

Nagyon finom. ) Very good.

Hol készül ez a bor? ) Where is this wine produced?

In the store.

Mennyibe kerul? ) How much is it?

Bankkártyával fizethetek? Can I pay by card?

Van kisebb vagy nagyobb méret? ) Is there a smaller or larger size?

Csak nézelődöm. (Chuck stay away.) I'm just looking.


What to try and what souvenirs and gifts to bring from Tokai

What to bring from food

1. Tokaji Wine (Tokaji)

The main symbol of the city and region.

The most famous varieties are:

  • Tokaji Aszú;

  • Tokaji Szamorodni;

  • Furmint?

  • Hárslevel;;

  • late dessert wines.

Tokai wine is considered one of the most famous dessert wines in the world and is the most popular gift from the city.

2. Grape honey

The region produces natural honey from plants and flowers growing near vineyards.

Popular:

  • acacia honey;

  • flower honey;

  • honey with the addition of grape must.

3. Hungarian paprika

Hungarian Paprika

One of the symbols of Hungarian cuisine.

It can be purchased:

  • sweet paprika;

  • smoked paprika;

  • spicy varieties.

Paprika is sold both in packages and in beautiful gift packages.

4. Goose pate

Hungary is known for the production of pate and foie gras.

Popular options:

  • goose liver pate;

  • Duck liver pate;

  • Delicate meat platters.

5. Hungarian sausages

Particularly popular are:

  • salami

  • smoked sausages;

  • Farm meat delicacies.

6. Homemade jams and jams

In Tokai, you can find:

  • apricot jam;

  • plum jam;

  • grape jam;

  • Jams with the addition of Tokai wine.

7. Hungarian sweets

Popular:

  • marzipan;

  • handmade chocolate;

  • honeycakes;

  • fruity candy.

Useful and medicinal products

1. Grape-based cosmetics

Due to the wine traditions in the region produce:

  • creams with grape extract;

  • face masks;

  • anti-aging agents;

  • skin care oils.

2. Natural cosmetics with thermal water

Popular in Hungary:

  • medicinal creams;

  • cosmetics for sensitive skin;

  • products for the care of joints and muscles.

3. Herbal remedies

Tourists often buy:

  • chamomile

  • Fake tea;

  • mint

  • Soothing herbal blends.

4. Hungarian balms

Various herbal tinctures and balms are popular, which are used as traditional means to improve digestion and the general tone of the body.

Souvenirs

1. Wine accessories

The most popular purchases:

  • corkscrews;

  • Glasses;

  • decanters;

  • wine sets;

  • wooden bottle stands.

2. Souvenirs with Tokay symbols

It can be purchased:

  • magnets;

  • cups;

  • postcards;

  • calendars;

  • decorative plates.

3. Products by local craftsmen

Fairs sell:

  • pottery

  • wood products;

  • handmade jewelry;

  • interiors.

4. Wine barrels and miniatures

Popular decorative:

  • oak barrels;

  • models of wine cellars;

  • winemakers.

5. Embroidery and textiles

Traditional Hungarian products:

  • tablecloths;

  • napkins;

  • towels;

  • decorative elements with folk ornaments.

6. Porcelain products

In Hungary, high-quality porcelain is widely known.

Small souvenirs are often sold in tourist shops in the region.


Rest safety and availability of travel documents for Tokai

Tokai is considered one of the most peaceful tourist cities in Hungary. There are rarely serious security problems, and the majority of guests are fans of wine, gastronomic and cultural tourism. The city is small, cozy and well suited for independent travel, family holidays and travel of older people.

What documents are necessary for a tourist

It is recommended to prepare:

  • foreign passport;

  • Schengen visa (if required for entry);

  • health insurance;

  • confirmation of hotel or apartment reservation;

  • return tickets;

  • documents confirming the availability of funds for the period of travel.

It is advisable to have electronic copies of documents on your phone or in cloud storage in case of loss of originals.

Health insurance

Although insurance is not always a requirement, it is not recommended to travel without it.

It is desirable to issue an insurance policy with coverage:

  • emergency medical care;

  • hospitalization;

  • treatment of injuries;

  • transportation home if necessary;

  • baggage insurance;

  • travel cancellation insurance.

Medical care in the European Union can be quite expensive for foreign tourists.

Emergency phones

There is a unified emergency system throughout Hungary.

112 is a single emergency number.

This number can be used to call:

  • police;

  • ambulance;

  • fire service;

  • rescuers.

Additional use is made of:

104 ambulance.

105 Fire Department.

107 police.

Medical assistance

Tokai has pharmacies, medical offices and family doctors.

For specialized medical care, tourists usually turn to the larger cities of the region:

  • Miskolc;

  • Nyíregyháza;

  • Satoraljaújhely.

Pharmacies in Hungary are marked with a green cross and the inscription Gyógyszertár.

Mobile and Internet

The largest operators of Hungary are confidently working on the territory of Tokay:

  • Magyar Telekom;

  • Yettel?

  • One Hungary.

Tourists can purchase a local SIM card or use an eSIM.

Free Wi-Fi is usually available:

  • in hotels;

  • cafes and restaurants;

  • wineries;

  • tourist information centers.

Personal security

Tokai has a calm atmosphere and low crime rate.

For comfortable rest it is recommended:

  • Keep documents and large amounts of money in the hotel safe;

  • Do not leave things unattended;

  • closely monitor personal belongings at the station and on public transport;

  • Use official taxi services.

Most tourist areas are safe both day and evening.

Safety during wine excursions

Since Tokai is a world-famous wine region, many tourists visit tastings.

During such excursions it is recommended:

  • observe moderation in the use of alcohol;

  • Do not drive after tasting;

  • follow the instructions of the winery staff;

  • Be careful in old basements and on stairs.

Bank cards and cash

Most establishments accept:

  • Visa;

  • Mastercard;

  • contactless payment by smartphone.

However, for visiting markets, small family wineries and rural cafes, it is helpful to have a little forint cash.

How long can I stay in Hungary?

Hungary is part of the Schengen area.

For most tourists, there is a rule:

up to 90 days of stay within 180 days on a Schengen visa or visa-free regime, if it is provided for citizens of a particular country.

For a longer stay, a long-term visa or residence permit will be required.

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