Tokaj

Tokaj is one of Hungary's most renowned small towns, located in northeastern Hungary at the confluence of the Bodrog and Tisza rivers. The town has a unique charm, blending riverside tranquillity with hilly landscapes: the proximity to water, the walkable town centre, and the surrounding vineyards together create that distinctive 'Tokaj' atmosphere, ideal for a short weekend getaway or a leisurely multi-day trip. The town is the namesake and heart of the Tokaj wine region, which has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002 under the title Tokaj Wine Region Historic Cultural Landscape. The World Heritage designation highlights the long-standing traditions of viticulture and winemaking, the network of settlements, and the historical cellar systems, as well as the fact that the quality and 'management' of Tokaj wines have been regulated for centuries. What to do in Tokaj? One of Tokaj's greatest strengths is that it offers a variety of experiences without an overwhelming list of 'must-dos'. Simply strolling through the town is a delight: within short distances, you can encounter the riverside, the historic urban fabric, and the winemaking heritage. The viewpoints and walks are particularly stunning around sunset, when the light from the rivers bathes the hills and vineyard rows in a golden glow. Wine experiences are, of course, Tokaj's hallmark. If you can only fit in one activity, make it a guided tour of a cellar or winery with a tasting, as this is the best way to truly understand why Tokaj has become an international symbol. The wine region's regulations, from grape varieties to styles, provide a framework for what you experience during the tasting; among the classic white varieties, Furmint and Hárslevelű hold a special place. One of Tokaj's most unique natural attractions is the confluence of the Bodrog and Tisza rivers, where the 'dual character' of the landscape becomes visibly apparent: the quieter, meandering world of the Bodrog meets the larger-scale dynamism of the Tisza. This aquatic meeting point is not only a picturesque spot but also a hub for water-based tourism: in addition to riverside walks and viewpoints, boat trips, kayaking, canoeing, and nature observation (birdwatching, floodplain habitats) are popular during the season. From the water, Tokaj reveals a completely different side: the hills, vineyards, and townscape unfold in a way that makes it an excellent activity for those seeking active yet leisurely relaxation alongside wine experiences. As an additional activity, the town offers several hiking and cycling routes – perfect for planning trips to other villages in the wine region or to Nagykopasz Hill. Sustainability in Tokaj – how to travel responsibly? Preserving the values of Tokaj and the wine region is not just a local responsibility; visitor choices also matter. The region's World Heritage status inherently draws attention to the long-term preservation of the cultural landscape and wine culture. Specific, easy-to-implement sustainability tips for tourists: - Opt for 'slow' activities: walking tours of the town, riverside routes, shorter tastings – less impact, more enjoyment. - Support the local value chain: smaller wineries, local products, artisanal services. A larger share of the money stays within the community, strengthening its resilience. - Avoid peak-time overcrowding: if possible, visit during weekdays or outside the high season. This also helps service providers operate more sustainably. - Drink responsibly in the wine region: after a tasting, plan your transport to avoid driving; this is both a safety and social responsibility. - Seek out conscious service providers: the wine region has seen the emergence of sustainability-focused initiatives that have gained international recognition, such as the neighbouring Bodrogkeresztúr project, which ranked 3rd in the world in the Green Destinations TOP100 sustainable best practices competition in spring 2025. Additionally, the Minaro Hotel and Berzi Birtok in Mád hold international sustainable tourism certifications.