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 offers a unique blend of riverside and hillside charm: 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 name Tokaj Wine Region Historic Cultural Landscape. The World Heritage designation highlights the long tradition of viticulture and winemaking, the network of settlements, and the role of historic 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 too many 'must-see' attractions. 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 seems to 'settle' on the hills and rows of vineyards. Wine experiences are, of course, Tokaj's trademark. If you can only fit in one activity, make it a guided tour of a cellar or winery with a tasting session, as this is the best way to truly understand why Tokaj has become an international icon. The wine region's regulations, from grape varieties to styles, provide the framework for what you experience during a 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 landscape's 'dual character' becomes literally visible: the quieter, meandering world of the Bodrog meets the grander, more dynamic flow of the Tisza. This waterway junction is not only a picturesque spot but also a natural hub for water tourism: alongside riverside walks and viewpoints, boat trips, kayaking, canoeing, and nature observation (birdlife, floodplain habitats) are popular activities during the season. From the water, Tokaj reveals a completely different side: the hills, vineyards, and townscape unfold all at once, making it an excellent programme for those seeking active yet leisurely relaxation alongside wine experiences. As an additional activity, the town offers several hiking routes for visitors – both cycling and walking tours can be planned to explore other villages in the wine region and 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 area's World Heritage status inherently draws attention to the long-term preservation of the cultural landscape and wine culture. Practical, easy-to-implement sustainability tips for tourists: - Choose 'slow' activities: walking tours in the town, riverside routes, shorter tastings – less strain, more enjoyment. - Support the local value chain: smaller wineries, local products, artisan services. A larger share of the money stays in the community, strengthening local resilience. - Avoid peak-time overcrowding: if possible, visit on weekdays or outside the high season. This also allows service providers to operate more sustainably. - Consume 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 is home to sustainability-focused initiatives that have gained international recognition. For example, the neighbouring village of Bodrogkeresztúr's project was ranked the 3rd best globally in the Green Destinations TOP100 sustainable practices competition in spring 2025, while the Minaro Hotel and the Berzi Estate in Mád have received international sustainable tourism certifications. - editorial content -