5 Hungarian Destinations Where Sustainability Matters

Miskolc is a great example of how a former industrial hub can redefine itself as a sustainable city. Through the collaboration of local providers (Bükk Circle) and the city’s tourism organisation, numerous accommodations and attractions have joined the I-DEST system. The Avas, the Szeleta Park Visitor Centre, the Pannon Sea Museum, and the Lillafüred State Forest Railway all offer experiences that support local communities while minimising environmental impact. Miskolc is the city of the Bükk Mountains, and it places special emphasis on public transport and nature conservation.

Health tourism can be about more than just wellness – it can also focus on sustainability. The city of Hévíz has recognised that protecting its natural thermal waters, promoting energy-efficient hotels, and implementing mindful visitor management are key to long-term success. With the help of I-DEST, the city actively measures and communicates its sustainability performance, enabling guests to choose services based on their values through SDG filters.

Alföld Slow is not about a single settlement but a philosophy: slow, community-focused tourism in often small villages. By involving local artisans, producers, and hosts, the offerings support the local economy while allowing visitors to connect more deeply with the landscape and culture. Here, I-DEST primarily aids in fostering community participation, supporting short supply chains, and measuring social impacts.

The UNESCO-recognised Novohrad–Nógrád Geopark, the world’s first cross-border geopark from its inception, exemplifies how geological heritage preservation can be harmonised with sustainable tourism. The I-DEST system provides opportunities for geological sites, nature trails, and local museums to function not only as natural assets but also as community treasures.

Bodrogkeresztúr is one of the most authentic villages in the Tokaj-Hegyalja World Heritage wine region, where nature and culture go hand in hand. Strolling through the village, you’ll find not only historic wine cellars and pilgrimage sites but also white stork nests – the birds return to the banks of the Bodrog year after year, signalling the area’s livability and ecological stability. The village’s programmes, centred around its connection with the storks, have earned it a place among the best in the Green Destinations TOP100 competition. 

The locals prioritise protecting natural values: stork conservation, eco-friendly farming, local products, and small-scale tourism all contribute to sustainable development. With the tools provided by the I-DEST system, Bodrogkeresztúr measures how it can offer guests experiences that are authentic, environmentally conscious, and community-building.