Art Nouveau Treasures of Hungary

This new tour for 2027 explores the distinctive expression of Hungarian Art Nouveau, or Szeccesszió, through architecture, interiors and the decorative arts, from the grandeur of Budapest to the southern cities of Pécs and Szeged. At the turn of the 20th century, Hungarian architects and artists sought a modern style rooted in national identity, drawing on folk motifs, symbolic colour and new materials, most notably innovative ceramics and stained glass. From grand civic monuments and elegant town palaces to villas, synagogues and complete urban ensembles, this tour reveals Art Nouveau not only as an architectural style, but as an artistic vision that shaped whole cities and their cultural life.

ITINERARY

Day 1: London to Budapest
Depart London Heathrow for Budapest then transfer by coach to our hotel. Evening welcome drink, dinner with wine and talk by Professor Anne Anderson.

Day 2: Budapest
The day begins in Buda on Castle Hill, where a visit to the richly ornamented Matthias Church reveals interior patterns and colour that anticipate the flowering of Art Nouveau. A stroll around the Fisherman’s Bastion follows, its romantic revival architecture offering sweeping views over the Danube and Pest beyond. Continue to the Hungarian National Gallery, where a curated selection of late 19th- and early 20th-century works introduces the artists who shaped a distinct Hungarian visual identity. After lunch at leisure, cross the river into Pest for a guided exploration of the city’s early Art Nouveau façades. Highlights include the elegant Bedő House and visit to Gresham Palace. The route also takes in the Opera House and the lavishly decorated Paris Department Store, illustrating how the style flourished in both commercial and civic settings.

Day 3: Hungarian Szecesszió in Focus
Begin at the Kazinczy Street Synagogue, where early 20th-century decorative innovation meets Jewish architectural tradition. Continue to Villa György Ráth, one of Budapest’s most refined Art Nouveau residences, showcasing furniture, ceramics and interiors connected with the Museum of Applied Arts, and offering a distinctly Hungarian interpretation of the movement. Following lunch (own expense), visit the Liszt Academy of Music, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau design, rich in stained glass, mosaics and sculptural detail. In the afternoon, a walking tour along Andrássy Avenue and its surrounding streets reveals further architectural highlights, including the Török Bank House and the Postal Savings Bank (viewed externally), alongside a number of lesser-known private villas that reward closer attention.

Day 8: Departure
Free time today before our transfer to Budapest airport for the return flight to London Heathrow.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 25 travellers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as moderate due to the amount of time spent walking and standing for viewing at attractions. For further information, please visit the mobility page on our website, or call our team if you have any questions prior to booking. 

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Heathrow to Budapest
• Three nights’ bed and breakfast at the four-star Alice Hotel, Budapest, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Two nights’ bed and breakfast at the four-star Palatinus Grand Hotel, Pécs, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Two nights’ bed and breakfast at the four-star Art Hotel, Szeged, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Welcome drink 
• 3 dinners
• 1 lunches
• All tours and entrance fees as detailed
• Airport transfers and full coach touring itinerary
• Accompanied by expert tour lecturer Professor Anne Anderson throughout
• Tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double for sole use supplement - from £546
• Meals other than those stated
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Alice Hotel, Budapest
This four-star hotel is a stylish boutique property set in a beautifully restored historic villa, blending elegant period charm with contemporary design. Ideally located on prestigious Andrássy Avenue near Heroes’ Square, it offers easy access to the city’s main sights. The hotel features a restaurant, terrace, and modern amenities, while its individually designed bedrooms are comfortable and offer TV, safe, hairdryer, toiletries, and tea/coffee-making facilities.
Hotel Website  

Palatinus Grand Hotel, Pecs
The Palatinus Grand Hotel in Pécs is an elegant Art Nouveau–style landmark, beautifully set on the city’s main square, offering guests immediate access to the historic centre. Inside, the hotel combines period charm with modern comforts, featuring a restaurant, café, and wellness facilities for a relaxing stay. The bedrooms are tastefully furnished, ranging from classic to contemporary in style, and provide comfortable amenities
Hotel Website  

Art Hotel, Szeged
This four-star hotel is a stylish, contemporary property located just steps from the city’s iconic Cathedral Square. Its modern design is complemented by excellent facilities, including a restaurant, wellness area, and sauna, ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Bedrooms are bright and spacious, thoughtfully furnished in a sleek, minimalist style and equipped with all the comforts needed for a relaxing stay.
Hotel Website