Szerencs

Szerencs is one of the most accessible yet multifaceted small towns in Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County, making it an excellent starting point for exploring Tokaj-Hegyalja and the Zemplén region. The town's atmosphere is both urban and distinctly homely: within short distances, you can experience historical heritage, well-maintained public spaces, and local gastronomy. Szerencs is best known for its connections to the Rákóczi era, its castle, and its cultural programmes; alongside these, the town is naturally associated with its confectionery and chocolate traditions, which are particularly appealing to families and thematic food or heritage tourists. Szerencs is an ideal weekend destination: you can put together a fulfilling yet unhurried itinerary with a leisurely stroll through the town centre, museum and castle visits, coffee breaks, and excursions to nearby attractions. What to do in Szerencs? The backbone of sightseeing in Szerencs is its historical sites: the castle area, the churches, smaller squares, and memorial points that can be linked into urban walks. The town's identity is closely tied to its confectionery and chocolate traditions, so it’s worth planning your day to include a themed tasting, gift shopping, or even a short, family-friendly experience at the local visitor centre, where you can marvel at the famous Szerencs chocolate sculptures. If you're staying for several days, Szerencs makes an excellent base: from here, you can easily reach the settlements of the Hegyalja region, wineries, and hiking spots in the Zemplén mountains. When to visit? Szerencs is a year-round destination, but it truly shines from spring to autumn, when outdoor walks and nearby excursions are easier to enjoy. In summer, it’s an ideal “extra day” stop on a Hegyalja tour, while in autumn, it’s a great place to soak up the harvest atmosphere. In winter, the town is quieter, with museum programmes and wine experiences taking centre stage. Sustainability in Szerencs – responsible, slow exploration Sustainability in Szerencs is best reflected in “slow” travel that prioritises local values: the town centre is easily walkable, allowing you to plan a day’s itinerary without relying on a car, while spending more time with local service providers and cultural sites. It’s worth consciously choosing local businesses (smaller eateries, product shops, artisanal offerings), as this directly supports the town’s community and the region’s economic resilience. If you use Szerencs as a base for exploring the area, plan your routes so that nearby destinations are grouped into a single day, reducing unnecessary travel. The best sustainable experience here is not about ticking off as many places as possible but about connecting more deeply: heritage, local flavours, a relaxed pace, and genuine encounters.