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, the city of the Bükk Mountains, also places special emphasis on public transport and nature conservation.

Health tourism isn’t just about well-being; it’s also about sustainability. The city of Hévíz has recognised that protecting its natural thermal waters, promoting energy-efficient hotels, and implementing conscious visitor regulations 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 values through SDG filters.

Alföld Slow isn’t just a single location but a philosophy: slow, community-focused tourism in often tiny villages. By involving local artisans, producers, and hosts, the offerings support the local economy while allowing visitors to forge deeper connections with the landscape and culture. Here, I-DEST primarily aids in measuring community participation, short supply chains, and social impacts.

The UNESCO-recognised Novohrad–Nógrád Geopark, the world’s first cross-border geopark from its inception, is an exemplary model of linking geological heritage preservation with sustainable tourism. The I-DEST system enables geological sites, nature trails, and local museums to function not only as natural assets but also as community treasures.

Bodrogkeresztúr, one of the most authentic villages in the Tokaj-Hegyalja World Heritage wine region, is where nature and culture go hand in hand. Walking through the village, you’ll find historic wine cellars, pilgrimage sites, and stork nests – the birds return to the banks of the Bodrog year after year, signalling the area’s liveability and ecological stability. Programmes centred around the storks have earned the village a spot 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 I-DEST tools, Bodrogkeresztúr measures how it can offer visitors experiences that are authentic, environmentally conscious, and community-building.