tour handbook - Jeka Group Holidays

Handbook
Hungary 2016
© JEKA 2016
Introduction
Hungary is a republic and has a
population of roughly 10.2 people. The
largest part of the country has productive
lowlands which are no more than 100 to
200 m above sea level. Just one third of
Hungary is mountainous
Our centres are situated to the north of
Budapest where the Danube forces its
way through the Hungarian mountain
range and makes a sweeping bend, in the
shape of a knee. This area has been a
popular location for tourist for many years,
being just a shott journey from the capital
Budapest, known as “the Pearl of the
Danube”,
Local places of interest
Visegrád
Visegrád is one of the most visited villages along the Danube
Bend. With a back drop of mountains and forests and lying on the
banks of the Danube, with a Royal palace, a fortress and the
Soloman’s Tower, it is place well worth visiting. In fact, and hard
to believe now, according to records, in the 15th century the
Visegrád Royal Palace wasn’t equalled in Europe. The fountains in
the garden spouted white and red wine when celebrations were
organised. In the palace there were 350 rooms overlooking the
Danube.
Every summer tournaments are held in the excavated parts of the palace. These games
bring back the medieval atmosphere.
A well set system of footpaths leads from Visegrád to the protected nature reserve “Pilis
Parkbos” (Pilisi Parkerdö) with the Lepence-valley.
Museums
Excavation Site of the Royal Palace
Exhibitions at the King Mátyás Museum, Monday and Tuesday
2015 Price: 1 100 HUF per person (adults). 550 HUF per person (students)
Medieval weapons (Salamontorony) , Monday and Tuesday
2015 Price: 700 HUF per person (adult). 350 HUF per person (students)
Upper Castle
2015 Price: 1 700 HUF (adults) Open every day
Panoptikum to the castle: 1 700 HUF per person (adult). 700 HUF per person (students)
More info at: www.visegrad.hu .
Esztergom
The rich history of this millenial town goes back
to 977. It was from times immemorial the seat of
the highest Roman Catholic prelate, the
Archbishop. The basilica on the fortress hill, the
biggest church in Hungary, can be seen from a
great distance and from any direction you
approach the town. Also worth mentioning are
the Bakócz chapel from the 16th century, the
treasury and the museum for Christian art.
Not far from the basilica, the royal palace from
the Árpád times can be found. Here you can find
the oldest Hungarian living room, ‘Beatrix room’,
King Mátyás’ Italian wife, 15th century frescos
and the fine royal chapel.
The district between the fortress hill and the Danube bank is known as the water town.
In the lower parts of the medieval fortress system one can walk through the alleys, evoking
the atmosphere of olden times.
For more informatuion see: www.esztergom.hu.
Szentendre
The capital of the Danube Belt, 20km from
Budapest, is one of the most beautiful towns in
the country and is largely traffic free.
The casual ‘laid back’ atmosphere of this has
inspired numerous artists & writers over the
years. In addition to numerous museums,
Szentendre is known for its colourful array of
cafés, patisseries and restaurants, all in the
atmosphere of the colourful mix of its
inhabitants.
In the main square (Fõ tér) the most striking building is the Blagovesztenska Templom, a
baroque church. To the right of the church is the former merchant's house, which like other
buildings on the square dates from the 18th century.
You can take the steps to the former castle hill then descend on the other side of the hill to
the Serbian district. Here you witness the traditional division which for centuries was used in
Serbian churches where men and women used separate prayer rooms, each accessible via
a private entrance.
Skanzen
The open air museum named Falumúzeum or
Szabadtéri Néprajzi Múzeum is located just outside
the centre. Here you will find farmhouses, stables,
barns, a baker, a sheepfold and apiaries.
Opening hours : 9am till 5.00pm (tickets till 4.30pm).
Closed on Mondays and holidays
Entrance cost 2015:
1 800 HUF p.p. (adults); 900 HUF p.p. (students);
Skanzen-train: 700 HUF p.p.
15 000 HUF for an English speaking guide
This excursion is only possible with public
transport
You can travel to Szentendre by boat or by bus.
The folklore museum is accessible by bus from the
bus station and HEV.
For more information see www.szentendre.hu.
Vác
Opposite Tahitótfalu, on the other bank of the Danube, lies the town
of Vác.
It is an example of baroque architecture. Part of the building was
specially erected on the occasion of the visit of Maria Theresa of
Austria in 1764.
Not far from Vác is the village Vacratot, which has one of the finest
botanical gardens in the country. One can walk in the enormous
rock gardens and admire the tropical plants in the greenhouses and
in the summer classical concerts are performed in the park.
2015 Price: 600 HUF per person for groups of 15 persons
Brochures available in English. No guided tours possible.
For more information about the town : www.vac.hu.
Budapest
Introduction
The capital is basically an artificial creation. It originated in 1872 by the merger of three cities
that had developed independently until then. Buda (bourgeoisie) and Oboeda (craftsmen)
which were both on the right bank of the Danube and Pest (commercial center) on the left
bank.
Today Budapest is a bustling metropolis with more than two million people and is often
referred to as "the Paris of Eastern Europe ". With it’s many theaters, cozy coffee houses,
busy shopping streets, Art Nouveau monuments, thermal bath, the mighty Danube with its
many impressive bridges, and the imposing citadel, it is one fantastic city to visit. You will
need two days and more.
Parliament building
A visit to the neo-Gothic parliament over looking
the Danube is a must, however unless booked
well in advance it is near impossible to get a
reservation. Program:
English speaking tour at 10am, 12noon, 1pm,
2pm, and 3pm.
Price for EU citizens in 2015:
1 750 HUF per person (adults). 875 HUF per
person (students)
Duration : 45 minutes.
Buda Hills
The silhouette of Budapest with its steeply rising
castle hill (Vár -hegy) is unique in the line of
European capitals. The hill is only 167 metres
high but the steep eastern wall is a spectacular
sight from the opposite bank of the Danube with
the Buda Castle (Budavár) taking centre stage
displaying layers of baroque style on the old
mansions. Delightful alleys link the four streets
that converge on the church square. The
"skyline" of Budapest is completely dominated
by the citadel, the Buda Castle and the fortress
built inside the walls.
If you have time, or are spending a few days in the city, then you can also visit the
Fishermen's Bastion. From Moszkva tér you can also take bus 158 to the end station in
Zugligeti út. There you can take the chair lift to János – hegy, a 529 m, lookout tower). Open
daily except Mondays from 9am till 5pm. 2015 Price adults: 900 HUF (one way), 1 400 HUF
(return).
2015 Price students: 600 HUF (one way), 800 HUF (return).
Cross one of the bridges over the Danube and you are in Pest, the more modern part of the
city but still with many quaint streets and squares as well as several interesting museums
albeit hidden behind rather nondecript facades. But the real beauty of the Pest side of the
river is the view of Buda on the other bank.
Obviously there is a lot more to see in Budapest and far too much to put in this introduction
so we would recommend getting a travel guide or visiting www.budapestinfo.hu the official
website with more information about Budapest.
Cultural Evening
A lot of restaurants in Budapest generally have their own gypsy orchestra. They usually play
Hungarian folk music, enhanced with pieces from Viennese operettas and wild Hungarian
csárdás. For groups wanting to enjoy a folklore evening we have special arrangements with
certain restaurants.
Menu: Szeged goulash soup, turkey with fruit garnish and Szegedi pancakes with whipped
cream .
Prices 2015
For dinner with gypsy music: 5 000 HUF per person
For supper with folklore program (music and dance), 6 000 HUF per person
Address: Restaurant Szeged, Bartók Béla u. 1, Budapest (near the Géllerthotel )
Turkish baths
Hungary has a true bathing culture and no trip to Budapest is complete without a visit to one
of the city’s Turkish baths. The prices vary from bath to bath depending on what they have
to offer.
Gellertbaden
Art Nouveau style baths and part of a newly renovated
hotel of the same name.
Open: 6am till 7pm (weekdays)
6am till 5pm (weekends)
Price 2015: 4 900 HUF per person per day (weekday)
5 100 HUF per person per day (weekend)
Lukacsbaden
Boedapest, II Frankel L. ut. 35 - thermaal baths
Open: 6am till 6pm (Bathing caps obligatory)
Price 2015: 3 200 HUF per person per day Weekday)
2 600 HUF per person (afternoon weekday)
3 300 HUF per person per day (weekend)
3 000 HUF per person (afternoon weekend).
Széchenyibaden (nabij Hösök tér).
Open: 6am till 7pm weekdays
6am till 5pm weekends
Price 2015: 4 100 HUF per person per day Weekday)
3 800 HUF per person (afternoon weekday)
4 300 HUF per person per day (weekend)
4 000 HUF per person (afternoon weekend).
For more information about Budapest thermal baths visit www.budapestgyogyfurdoi.hu
Boat trips from Budapest
Organised by : restaurant Szeged Boedapest
A night cruise on the Danube starting in
Budapest including music and dancing and
optional meal .
Only available on Wednesdays and
Saturdays.
Choice of 1 or 2 hour cruise
1 hour cruise from 8pm till 9pm or 9pm till
10pm
2 hour cruise from 8pm till 10pm
Price 2015:
36 000 HUFper hour per group
Price per person for optional meal 6 000 HUF
Budapest public transport
Cost for public transport in Budapest 2015:
Single journey:
350 HUF
10 journey card: 3 000 HUF
Tickets are valid on all trams, trolley buses, metro buses and monorails in Budapest
Tickets must be puchased in advance and are available at the ticket desk in all stations.
All cards and tickets are valid for one trip on one type of transport and are not transferrable
www.bkv.hu
ACTIVITIES
Boat trips
From the Danube Bend
It is possible to make several trips on the
Danube, for instance you can sail to Estergom in
the morning, visit the city, and return again either
by boat or bus
Below is the timetable of sailings from Budapest
to Estergom and return
Line: Budapest - Visegrád – Esztergom
Budapest
Szentendre
Leányfalu
Tahitótfalu
Visegrád
Esztergom
10.00
11.30
12.00
12.15
13.30
14.30
line: Esztergom - Visegrád - Budapest
Esztergom
Visegrád
Tahitótfalu
Leányfalu
Szentendre
Budapest
15.00
15.30
16.10
16.25
17.00
18.00
Prices 2015:
Visegrád - Budapest 2 000 HUF (single); 3 000 HUF (return)
Visegrád - Esztergom 1 500 HUF (single; 2 250 HUF (return)
The price from village to village varies between 600 and 800 HUF for a single trip
Children between 4 and 14 years as well as sudents (in possesion of a valid student card)
receive a 25% reduction on the price.
Bowling
Visegrád, Hotel Silvanus, Nagyvillám
Open: 3pm till 11pm, 2 lanes available
Price 2015:
11 000 HUF per lane per hiour
Includes use of 1 billiard table +
Reservation required
Szentendre, V-8, Kalvària ut.,
Price 2015:
2 500 HUF per lane per hour (Mondays till
Thursday)
3 100 HUF per lane per hour (Friday till Sunday)
4 lanes available
Death ride
This activity takes place at Nagyvillám in
Visegrád
Each group is divided into smaller groups of 6 or
7 participants and each small group is
accompanied by two experienced guides.
Participants climb to the platform of the first
pillar where the pulleys are attached to the
harness. From here it is all the way down, from
pillar to pillar (11 in total) reaching speads of up
to 50 km per hour till the end of the ride at
Mogyorohegy. From here you hike back through
the forest to the starting point.
Price 2015 (only available in the morning )
Groups of up to 9 persons
Groups of 10 persons and more
weekdays
3 800 HUF
3 200 HUF
weekends
4 200 HUF
4 000 HUF
Includes all material as well as waterproof clothing when requiredj.
Minimum age for this activity : 16 years
For members under 18 years parents written consent is also required
www.canopy.hu
Two day hike to
Dobogókö
The highest point of the Pilis Mountains is
accessible by hiking from Dömös or Visegrád, or
by taking the bus from Esztergom and
Szentendre. From the top you have a fantastic
view over the Danube Bend and on a clear day
you can even see the Tatra Mountains of
Slovakia.
This can be made into a two day trip staying
overnight at the mountain lodge "Eötvös Lórlánd
Menedékház " tely Ödön út 26 (6- to 8 bedrooms).
Price 2015:
Overnight accommodation 3 000 HUF per person Breakfast 500 HUF per person
Evening meal 2 200 HUF per person
Accommodation for maximum 40 persons
Bike hire
Bikes can be hired in the village of Leányfalu but as there is a
maximum of 30 available it is highly recommended that you book
them well in advance.
Szentendre Island is ideal for biking as it is virtually traffic free as well
as having many inviting little beaches where you can stop and bathe.
You could also take the bike on the ferry and cross the Danube and
take a trip to the town of Vac.
You can also request a monitor to take you on a guided bike tour
Price 2015:
- Bikes: 2 800 HUF per bike per day (including helmet and delivery).
- A damage deposit 5 000 HUF per group is also required
- Cancellation costs Up to 4 days before hire date = no charge
Less than 4 days before hire date = 5 000 HUF.
- Monitor :
5 400 HUF per group.
- Ferry charge per person Tahitótfalu-Vác (single)
Adults
450 HUF
students:
400 HUF
Bike:
450 HUF
GPS-tour
Minimum 10 persons required.
Divided into two groups, located in a forest, using compass and
GPS alternately to perform various tasks.
Starts at either 10am or 2pm
Duation 3 to maximum 4 hours
Can take place at a suitable area near your accommodation centre..
Price 2015: 7.500 HUF per person
Home cooked Hungarian meal
If you want to try a typical Hungarian meal without paying restaurant prces, or just want
someone to do the cooking one night, this is possible
A Hungarian lady will come to your accommodation centre to prepare and cook a typical
Hungarian meal for your group.
The menu starts with a tomato salad, followed by Hungarian Goulash (porkolt) and for desert
their famous pancakes, (palacsinta). You even get the washing up done as well!
Price 2015 900 HUF per person
Canoe trips
It is possible to do half day, one day and two day
canoe trips on the Danube. Canoes are rented from a
local hire place in the village Leányfalu where there
are enough canoes able to cater for groups of up to 60
persons.
Before starting out you receive basic instructions from
the guide and the wearing of life jackets is mandatory.
Hungarian maritime law insists each canoe is
accompanied by an experienced guide with full
knowledge of the river. The suppliers have up to 12
canoes, each taking 4 passengers plus the guide. He
also has a number of two persons that can be used but with just one passenger and guide.
Price 2015 per person
½ day
Groups of between 11 and 20
4 300 HUF
Groups
4 000 HUF
persons.of between 21 and 40
Groups
3 900 HUF
persons.of more than 41 persons.
(must be paid on the spot in Hungaria Forint)
Full day
6 000 HUF
5 800 HUF
5 600 HUF
The transport to the point of departure or arrival point is NOT included in the price.
You can also do a one day canoe trip but overnight in tents at the end of the trip. Tents and
sleeping mats are provided but you have to provide your own sleeping bags. You have to
take a packed lunch with you but you can arrange with your Jeka representative that
provisions for the evening meal be transported to the camping place. (This should be
prepared and cooked the day before the canoe trip). The Hungarian boat owner makes a
campfire and cooks in the fire a typical Hungarian flying bacon for you to try.
Price 2015 for full day canoe trip and overnight in tents 7 400 HUF per person.
Laser battle
Laser battle, a war game using lasers rather than
bullets. The playing field near the town of Szentendre
and includes different types of battlefields, trenches,
urban settings and landing etc.
Price 2015: 4 500 HUF per person for a game of 2
hours
Possible in the morning or afternoon
Transport to and from Szentendre is not included in
the price but can be made using public transport.
Horse riding
This takes place on Szentendre Island at the Kisoroszi
stables. Your local Jeka representative will give you
directions how to get there and back.
Please note that this activity is only possible in the
afternoon.
Price 2015:
3 500 HUF per person per hour
Maximum 10 horses available
Minigolf
In Visegrád, near the upper castle next to the toboggan run as well as in the village of
Dömös Price 2015: 600 HUF per person.
Paintball
PAINTBALL SZENTENDRE (Survive all)
Near the town of Szentendre you can go paintballing
on the site of old Russian army barracks. Two teams
fighting on a varied terrain to capture the others flag
All participants have to wear protective clothing and
goggles that are provided.
2014 price: 5 000 HUF per person.
Each player gets 200 bullets.
Extra bullets: 10 HUF
Transport to and from Szentendre is not included in
the price but can be made using public transport.
Restaurant with
folklore evening
The Restaurant Siraly in Visegrad also arranges
folklore evenings some nights with a delicious
Hungarian meal and is a lot cheaper than in Budapest.
Price 2015: € 12 per person. (together with other
visitors)
If you wish you can also book the folklore evening with
a meal just for your own group
Price 2015: € 240 per group + evening meal €12 per
person .
You can also book transport back to your accommodation for a cost of €2.00 per person
High ropes park
In and around Budapest, there are several high rope parks The Orczy Kalandpark is located
in the Orzcy Park, just 3.5 km from the chain bridge, and is accessible by a metro station,
hence you can combine it with a visit to Budapest. This ropes course is also fully sheltered
by the trees, which gives great protection on a hot sunny day.
Price 2015: - Up to 18 years of age: 1 950 HUF per person
Adults :
2 350 HUF per person
Minimum group size 13 persons
Only open Monday to Friday
There is also a ropes course within walking distance from Visegrád (2km) in the direction of
Dömös. This course is suspended above a karting track and is not sheltered by trees.
Price 2015 : children up to 1m 45cm tall : 2 000 HUF per person
Adults
3 000 HUF per person
Knights
Tournament in
Visegrád
The sounds of trumpets and drums welcome
you to this event. You first receive a brief
explanation of the glorious history of the royal
residence and the Solomon Tower. From the
tower's roof terrace you have a magnificent
view over the Danube Bend. The event will
take place on the grounds next to the tower.
From your party a king and queen is chosen
and equipped by the Knights in the
necessary garments. In honour of the newly
elected king and queen the knights perform in the parade grounds and show their martial
arts to the Royal Box and their honoured guests. The Knights evoke - sometimes with a
touch of humor - the courage and the tournament spirit of the Middle Ages. There is a
display by the royal falconer. At the end of the tournament, guests get the opportunity, with
the help of the Knights, to try holding and using some of the weapons.
2015 Price: € 12 per person for groups of at least 30 people.
Groups wishing to can also book a royal banquet.
Dry Toboggan run
Close to Visegrad next to the “Nagy Villam” veiwpoint
parking
.
Prices 2015 (group rates from 15 persons up):
Children up to 14 years 250 HUF per person
Adults:
320 HUF per person
www.bobozas.hu
Rock climbing
Not far from Budapest there are two places where you can enjoy rock climbing under the
supervision of qualified instructors. As well as climbing the rock face you can also choose to
decend via a zip wire. The programme takes 3 hours and is available from 10am till 1pm or
from 2 pm till 5pm
2015 Price (without zip wire) 11 000 HUF per person, includes equipment instruction and
insurance
(minimum group size 10 persons maximum 30 persons at one time)
For this activity you have to wear long trousers, a long sleeved shirt and suitable footwear.
Speleology
As well as caves in Budapest for the usual tourist visitor there
are also caves open just for this sport. You are provided with
overalls and a helmet with light.
Minimum group size 10 persons
Only possible in the morning (no afternoon tours)
Choice of two tours
Caving – price 2015- 8 500 HUP per person
Extreme caving – price 2015 – 12 000 HUF per person.
To do this activity you have to wear old but clean clothes that
can take a beating as well as sturdy footware.
Waterskiing
It is possible to do an initiation course in water skiing on an artificial lake at the mall outside
of Szentendre. Rather than a speedboat you are pulled along by a wire that moves along a
rail. Only available in the mornings up till 11am.
Minimum group size - 5 persons
Price 2015 – 4 000 HUF per person
Could be combined with paintball in the afternoon
Swimming
Aquarena Water Park:
Aquarena is located near Mogyoród, about 45 km from the Danube Bend. This park offers
water fun for young and old (even very small children). There are swimming pools with and
without waves, cute kids swimming pools, toboggans, super toboggans, a flying carpet, multi
course shutes, water slides and more There are also facilities for playing games such as
beach-ball and water-soccer and badminton.
Each water attraction and pool are patrolled and monitored by experienced life guards.
Price 2015 (student price) 10% discount by booking via Jeka.
Monday to Friday:
4 200 HUF per person.
Saturday and Sunday: 5500 HUF per person
More information see www.aquarena.hu.
.
Thermal Hotel Visegrád:
Directly across from the beach complex is the Thermal hotel which has two outdoor pools
and an indoor pool. It is a rather luxurious hotel that is geared to the typical wellness
clientele but the baths are also open to non hotel guests
.
Leányfalu:
Groups staying in Tahitotfalu and Leányfalu can visit the thermal baths of Leányfalu.
Open daily from 08am till 8pm
2014 Price: 1,700 HUF per person (adults), 1150 HUF per person (students)
Aquasziget Ezstergom
Price in 2015 for groups up to 18 years of age
1 900 HUF per person (weekdays) – 2 950 HUF per person (weekends)
For more information see www.esztergomfurdo.hu
Along the Danube are numerous beaches which are freely accessible. Very popular are the
beaches on the island near Szentendre Pap, Horány or on Szentendre Island.
Excursions
Budapest.
Programme
9am Depart from your accommodation by coach
to Budapest
10.15am A coach tour of the city with a tour
guide. First visiting Pest including the Parliament
building, St. Stephen's Basilica, Heroes Square,
People's Park ... Then the bus goes to the Buda
hills with a visit to the Freedom Monument, the
castle on Castle Hill, Fisherman's Bastion ,
Matthias Church , etc. ...
13.45pm The tour ends at the Elizabeth Bridge.
You are then free in the afternoon to visit the city, museums, shoping in Vaci Utca or to enjoy
some time at one of the Turkish baths, it’s up to you
5pm Depart Budapest to return to the Danube Bend arriving at your accommodation at
about 6pm
This tour is well worth doing if it is your first visit to Budapest. It gives you an idea of the
layout of the city and makes it easier if going back a second
time.
Szentendre and
Skanzen
THIS EXCURSION IS ONLY POSSIBLE USING PUBLIC
TRANSPORT
This excursion to Szentendre can be made by boat or by bus.
The folklore museum is located close to the bus station. After
spending the morning in Szentendre you could visit the
folklore museum of Skanzen, closes at 5pm.
Gödöllő en Eger
Gödöllő
The royal palace in Gödöllő was one of the favorite haunts of
Empress Elisabeth, also Queen of Hungary. The castle is
now partially restored and open to the public.
Admission price 2015:
Adults: 2 200 HUF per person.
Students: 1 100 HUF per person
For tour with a guide 10 000 HUF / guide.
Please note that a guide should be requested at least three
weeks in advance.
Eger
A visit to this city in the northeast is highly recommended.
This very inviting town is rich in beautiful late-baroque
architecture. Not to be missed is the 13th century fortress, the
Dobó István (town square), where the town hall is situated and Minoriten Church, the
Archbishop's lyceum, the minaret, and much more...
Besides being a baroque town Eger is also a spa city. The current bathing area is located in
the area south of the Petőfi tér, and has an indoor pool, thermal pools, a sports pool and a
regular outdoor pool.
Eger is also known for its wine production and the town is full of cozy little wine cellars. The
best known wine from Eger is a red wine Egri Bikavér ("bull's blood")
Programme:
8.30 am Depart from your accommodation
10.00 am Arrive in Gödöllő and visit the Royal Palace
11.30 am depart Gödöllő and travel to Eger
12.30 pm Arrive in Eger in time for lunch followed by a visit of the town
3.00 pm A visit to the wine cellars
4.30 pm Depart Eger
7.00 pm Arrive back at the Danube Bend
Puszta in the
Lazar park of
Gödöllõ
The large Hungarian steppe zone of olden times
only exists nowadays as small parts of protected
nature reserve. The most important part of it is
now an enormous nature and horticulture region.
Near the town Kecskemét they organize some dressage demonstrations. Riders in
traditional costumes demonstrate their very extensive skills in horse-riding.
Price 2015 = 7 200 HUF per person (includes a meal), payment by cash only, cards not
accepted. For more information see www.lazarlovaspark.hu
Programme:
9.00 am Depart to the Lázár Park near Gödöllő
11.00 am Arrive and a welcome to the Lázár Park
11.30 am The famous horse show followed by a carriage ride
12.30 am Hot meal with live traditional Hungarian folk music
2.30 am leave the laser park to travel to Gödöllő for a visit to the Royal palace
5.30 am leave Gödöllő and return to the Danube Bend
6.30 am Arrive back at your accommodation
lake Balaton and
Tihany
Lake Balaton
Lake Balaton is the largest lake in Central
Europe and it’s quite shallow, which is why the
water warms up very quickly. The north side with
its volcanic character is much more attractive
than the rather flat south side. Tourism is mainly
located on the south side however due to the
fact that the water is warmer, the beaches are
wider and the banks are less steep.
The data from this lake at a glance:
- Surface: 596 km²
- From west to east 77 km
- From north to south on average 8 km
- Average depth: 2 to 3 m, with a trench of 12 m at the height of Tihany .
Close to it is Tihany (village and peninsula) which attracts many tourists. And that’s not
surprising because it has the nicest coastline, the widest view over the lake, beautiful nature
and historical sights.
Programme
7.00 am breakfast, make a packed lunch and be sure to pack your swimming gear
8.00 am depart for lake Balaton
11.00 am arrive at lake Balaton, swimming, shopping, etc…
12.30 pm lunch
1.30 pm depart to Tihany
4.00 pm depart Tihany
7.00 pm arrive back at the Danube Bend
PLEASE NOTE: There is an entry cost for some of the beaches
Lake Balaton and Siófok
After Keszthely, Siofok is the largest town on Lake Balaton, and is located on the lakes’
southern shore. It is the hometown of the famous operetta composer Imre Kálmán. Siofok is
a very vibrant place which has developed further in recent years. The actual centre of the
resort is located south of the railway line that runs through the town.
At the Szabadság tér is the striking water tower and close by a beautiful baroque style
church. Behind the water tower is the main Town Hall.
.
Programme
7.00 am breakfast, make a packed lunch and be sure to pack your swimming gear
8.00 am depart for lake Balaton
11.00 am arrive at Siofok, swimming, shopping etc…
4.00 pm depart Siofok
7.00 pm arrive back at the Danube Bend
Excursion price 2015
All prices are per person
BUS SIZE
EXCURSION DETAILS
BUDAPEST
With tour guide (only possible in the morning)
Without a tour guide
AQUARENA
3,500HUF
2,800 HUF
3,100 HUF
2,800 HUF
2,100 HUF
2,500 HUF
2,300 HUF
1,500 HUF
1,900 HUF
GÖDÖLLÕ – EGER
With a guide
Without a guide
PUSZTA LÁZÁR PARK
LAKE BALATON AND TIHANY
LAKE BALATON AND SIOFOK
6 450 HUF
5 450 HUF
3,500 HUF
4,000 HUF
3,600 HUF
5 650 HUF
4 850 HUF
2.200 HUF
3,000 HUF
2,700 HUF
4 950 HUF
3 000 HUF
2.000 HUF
2,400 HUF
2,150 HUF
25-29
Number of people
30-39
40 - 45
ESSENTIAL
INFORMATION
Below are some of the main telephone numbers you should have to hand while in Hungary
Adresses & telephone numbers
UK
JEKA Holidays Ltd
Victoria House, Victoria St. Taunton TA1 3FA
Somerset
01823 365777
info@jeka.co.uk
HUNGARY
Local JEKA Office
Fö u. 30
H-2025 VISEGRÁD
0036.26.397.252 ( tel.)
0036.30.964.77.22 (GSM)
0036.30.640.92.74 (Erzsi)
0036.26.397.252
MEDICAL
ALWAYS CONTACT THE JEKA OFFICE FIRST !
DOCTERS
Health Centre, Kossuth út 37, 2027 Dömös
Health Centre, Fö utca 38, 2025 Visegrád
Dr. Huszágh Lívia (GP)
398.100 (GP & Dentist)
AMBULANCE (Mentök)
POLICE (Rendörség)
FIRE BRIGADE (Tüzoltók)
104
107
105
Chemist
Tahitótfalu: Hõsök tere 6, 2021 Tahi
Visegrád: Fõ utca 44, 2025 Visegrád
Opeening hours:
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: 8am till 5pm
Tuesdays: 8am till 12 noon
Thursdays: 8am till 4pm
There is also a chemist in Dunabogdany.
Maps & hiking guides
We provide you with a copy of the hiking map No. 16 "A Pilis és a Visegrádi, hegység " on a
scale of. 1: 40.000 (published by Cartographia). The same publisher also produces map No.
5 "A Börzsöny " on a scale of 1 to 40 000, This details the mountainous region on the other
side of the Danube, and map No. 31 "A Dunakanyar " (The Danube Bend), on a scale of
1: 40.000. These maps can be purchased in travel agencies and information points.
Price 2015 : 1 700 HUF
Money
The national currency of Hungary is the Forint (HUF)
£1.00 = ca. 408.32 HUF or € 1,00 = ca. 312,30 HUF (exchange rate on 28.01.16)
100 HUF = ca. £0.24 or € 0,32
For an up to date exchenge rate check http://www.oanda.com/currency/converter/
The coins in circulation are in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 forint and notes are in
demininations of 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10 000 and 20 000 HUF.
In most U.K. banks you can order Forint however it is more advantageous to exchange
locally. It is not allowed to take Forint out of Hungary so make sure you don’t change too
much
Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, etc are accepted in most places
With a Maestro debit card or credit card you can withdraw cash from several ATMs in
Visegrád, Leányfalu, Szentendre and Budapest.
Mosquitos
Being in a warm climate and close to the river at dusk the mosquitos come alive. Be sure to
take an insect repellent with you.
Public transport
There is a regular bus service between Esztergom, Szentendre and Budapest.
Between Szentendre and Budapest it is also possible to travel by train.
Price 2015: 625 HUF (single), 1 250 HUF (return )
www.bkv.hu
We recommend taking the bus to Szentendre and from there using the train to Budapest:
Batthyány tér.
BUS TIMETABLE 2015
Going to Budapest
Esztergom ---
8.50
Dömös
Visegrád
Tahi
Szentendre
Budapest
9.17
9.27
9.50
10.20
10.50
8.22
8.32
8.50
9.20
9.50
Then every hour till 17.50
Detarting from Budapest
Budapest
7.30
9.30
Then every hour till 19.30
Szentendre
Tahi
Visegrád
Dömös
Esztergom
8.00
8.30
8.48
9.03
9.35
10.00 The last bus departs Budapest at
10.30 20.40
10.48
11.03
11.35
Price per person 2015
Visegrád-Szentendre (return):
Visegrád-Budapest (return):
920 HUF
1 470 HUF
Visegrád-Estzergom (return):
920 HUF
Tahitótfalu-Visegrád (return):
500 HUF
Tahitótfalu-Szentendre (return):
610 HUF
Tahitótfalu-Budapest (return):
900 HUF
Leányfalu-Szentendre (return):
320 HUF
Leányfalu-Budapest (return):
730 HUF
Ferries
In several places you can take a ferry across to the left bank of the Danube:
Visegrád - Nagymaros
Price 2015
400 HUF per person (adults), 330 HUF per person ( students)
Pilismarót - Szob
Dunabogdány -Kisoroszi - Kismaros
Szentendre sziget - Vác
Train
On the Vác side of the Danube there is a train every hour to Budapest.
Post
Most post offices of the Magyar Posta are open on week days from 8am till 4pm..
- Posta Visegrád, Fõ utca 77
- Posta Tahitótfalu, Hõsök tere 6 en Visegrádi út. 2
International airpost charges:
- post card: 295 HUF
- letter:
345 HUF
Summer Festival
On August 20th, Hungary celebrates Constitution Day.
This day is celebrated in almost all communities with a street parties or firework displays
Telephone
Public telephones are mostly located in or next the post office.
As very few now take coins it is best to buy a telephone card availoable at the post office.
To make an international call yiou first have to dial 00 followed by country number then are
code (without the 0) and phone number.
For calls within Hungary first dial 06 wait for the beep then area code and number.
Embassys
British Embassy in Budapest, Hungary
Harmincad Utca 6
Budapest 1051
Hungary
Phone (+36) 1 266 2888
FAX (+36) 1 266 0907
Open Monday to Friday · 9a.m.– 5p.m.
Embassy of Ireland
Budapest 1054.
Szabadsag ter 7.
Bank Center, Platina Tower 2, VI. Floor
Budapest
Hungary
Phone: +36 1 301 4960
Fax:
+36 1 302 9599
Open Monday to Friday · 9a.m.– 5p.m.
Tourist information
Hungarian National Tourist Office
46 Eaton Place,
London SW1X 8AL, United Kingdom
Phone:+44 20 7823 1032
Website www.gotohungary.co.uk
Hungarian Tourist Office
Hungarian Embassy
2 Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin 2
Phione +800 36 00 00 00
Website www.visithungary.ie
Tourist Office in Budapset
Sütõ u. 2, Budapest
Tel 317-9800
Fax: 317-957
E-mail: tourinform@mail.hungarytourism.hu
On the internet you can find a lot of information about Hungary, Budapsts and even Visegrad
www.hungarytourism.hu (official site of the Hungarian Tourist Office)
Getting there and back
Due to the distance and travel time we recommend to travel to
Hungary by air, flying to Budapest from where the transfer time to
our centres along the Danube Bend is just 90 minutes.
Outward journey overland
For overland tours by coach you depart from your local area in the morning of
day 1 and travel to Dover to take the ferry to Calais. From there we travel
through France and Belgium this into Germany stopping near Frankfurt for
overnight bed and breakfast at a budget hotel. Departing after breakfast on day
2 we continue our journey through Germany and Austria and arriving at our
centres in Hungary in the evening of Day 2.
Return journey overland
For the return journey it is much the same, departing on the second last day in the morning and
traveling as far as Frankfurt for overnight bed and breakfast. Then continuing to Calais and taking an
afternoon ferry to Dover and onwards to your drop off point in the eveing of the last day. On the day
before departure, the local JEKA team will deliver provisions for your packed lunches for the journey
home.
The exact itinerary regarding times and route will be forwarded to you one month before departure
in your final travel pack. JEKA reserve the right to revise routes and journey times given below, the
following is a guide to help you plan your trip.
Overland travel is always subject to there being a minimum number of 40 passengers on any
departure.
Duration
The journey time from Calais to the Danube Bend takes around 19 hours depending on the
weather,traffic conditions and the number and length of comfort stops en route. The time of
departure from your home town will depend on your UK location. The journey time from Calais to
Frankfurt is approximately 7 hours and from Frankfurt to Visegrad approximately 12 hours.
Stops
We make regular stops to comply with EC driving regulationsd at motorway service areas which all
have toilet facilities and somewhere we you can food, drinks or snacks. Please ensure you take some
euros for any drinks or snacks en route, some services also make a nominal charge for their toilet
facilities.
Rules, comfort & safety
a
c
d
e
We ask that you are at your meeting point 30 minutes before the stated departure time.
You may eat on the coach, but chewing gum is NOT allowed
No smoking on the coach, regular stops are made on the journey
Plastic bags will be placed on the armrest of most seats so please help the drivers keep the coach
tidy by emptying these during stops.
f Boxes and other items must not be placed in the aisle of the coach for obvious safety reasons
g If sharing the coach please compromise with the other group on the coach in regard to seating,
choice and volume of music and dvd’s etc.
Luggage (travelling overland)
There is strictly only 1 suitcase or backpack allowed per person and weighing a maximum of 20 kg
and 1 piece of hand baggage (20 x 30 x 30 cm) – which should contain everything you need for the
journey and ideally will double up as your day rucksack throughout your camp. A sleeping bag can be
carried in a separate bag but please do not attach to the outside of the case or backpack as this
makes it difficult for loading in the hold of the coach.
For every 20 coach passengers there is allowed 1 piece of group luggage (max size 100x55x44 cm.)
and weighing no more than 25kg. Baggage in excess of this amount will be refused. Please divide the
group luggage as much as possible between the individual luggage.
We provide different coloured luggage labels so in the case of two or more groups sharing the
coach, each group will have a different colour. This makes it easy for drivers to distinguish which
luggage belongs to which group, so please use these labels to mark your luggage clearly with the
owner’s name and address as well as the JEKA administration number allocated to your group.
Please designate a member of the group to be responsible to see that all luggage is loaded on the
coach both for the outward and return journeys. Neither JEKA nor the coach drivers can be held
responsible for luggage that is left behind.
All groups must supply their own: Bed Linen (1 sheet, a single duvet cover and pillowcase per person should cover any
eventuality – you will be provided with either blankets or a duvet and a pillow at your
chalet)
 Personal towels
 Tea towels
Though not exhaustive, the following list might be useful to you, if only to reduce your
chances of forgetting really indispensable items.
Individual
Documents :
 Valid passport
 Visa (only applies to non-British nationals who may require a visa, please check
with the embassy of the country you’re travelling to.)
 Parents written consent (for members aged under 16 )
 Medical file and prescriptions if necessary

EHIC (European Health Insurance Card)
Luggage: Bed Linen (see above)
 Towels and toiletries
 Suitable clothing for all types of weather
 Light rainwear
 Thick socks (to wear with hiking boots)
 Hiking boots with deeply profiled soles
 Slippers or trainers (hiking boots are not allowed to be worn inside the house)
 Sunglasses & sun protection cream (high factor)
 Swimwear
 Spare boot laces
 Thermos flask (for use on hiking trips)
Optional: Packed lunch for outward journey
 Camera
 Torch
 Writing material
 Medicines
Group Luggage
First aid kit, song books, games, sports materials, rucksacks, climbing gear, small tools,
binoculars, radio/CD player, sewing kit, shoe cleaning material.
Kitchen material
Tea towels, tin openers (for taking on picnics), herbs and spices, dilutable fruit squash (cold
drinks not supplied by JEKA and squash is not available to buy locally), household size
kettle.
Group Leaders
Administration, payment slips, invoice, parents written consent forms, group collective
passport (if applicable), original insurance policy with any related forms, list of all
travelling group members, including all staff and even children under 2 years with name,
address, telephone number and date of birth of each member. Please have at least 3 copies
of the group list with house as you will need one to hand over with your tourist tax, one
copy to the local JEKA representative and at least a spare copy for your own reference.
Luggage (travelling by air)
Please refer to the rules and relutaions laid down by whichever airline your flights are booked
with
Accommodation
The JEKA accommodation centres in Hungary are situated about 50 km to the
north of Budapest on the Danube Bend. They are spread between the villages
of Danubogdany, Leanyfalu, Tohitotfalu and Visegrad..
Each accommodation centre has a number of dormitories equipped with
bunk beds, sufficient modern sanitary facilities, a furnished kitchen and a
dining/recreation room. The kitchen is equipped with all cooking utensils necessary for preparing
JEKA’s carefully composed menu. So, you don’t need to bring any kitchenware or cooking utensils.
However, electrical appliances are not supplied so if you want to use a mixer or a coffee machine,
you will have to bring it with you.
In your JEKA-accommodation centre you will find a cleaning kit to keep your house neat and tidy
including washing-up liquid. JEKA also supplies toilet paper. You can apply for additional supplies of
these products at any time from our representative.
Kitchen towels and dishcloths have to be brought from home.
Our accommodation is comfortable but furnished simply so the team spirit is really important. That’s
also the reason why there is no television, radio. or telephone, however you can always be reached
in case of emergency via our local JEKA office.
Local tourist tax
In Hungary all tourists older than 18 and less than 70 years of age have to pay tourist tax.
The charge is per person per night and varies depending in which village you are staying,
see table of charges below.
Price 2015
Visegrád
410 HUF per person per night
Tahitótfalu
400 HUF per person per night
Leányfalu
350 HUF per person per night
Dunabogdány
400 HUF per person per night
Your local JEKA represntative will help you with the practical completion of the formalities.
Fire safety
Even though the necessary safety precautions are undertaken, our accommodation still contains
some combustible materials, therefore we urge you to be very careful in the kitchen. Smoking is
strictly forbidden throughout the property. Check how to use the fire extinguishers and, in case of
emergency, practise a fire drill, noting the nearest exits.
Noise and respect
We strongly urge the groups to consider local residents. Noise pollution is unacceptable. Reduce the
risk of annoying other people with excessive noise by for instance closing the windows.
Of course you must strictly observe the night rest between 10 pm and 8 am.
The upkeep of your
accommodation
JEKA must stress the utmost importance that departing groups leave their accommodation centre
in a good, clean condition. Every incoming group has the right to arrive in a clean and tidy
accommodation centre.
What we expect from you BEFORE YOUR DEPARTURE:
- clean the floors,
- clean all furniture, especially all tables and chairs,
- check all beds for damage you can possibly repair yourself. Make sure that all mattresses and
pillows have a JEKA-cover and are tidy,
- The evening before your departure switch both the refrigerator and the freezer on “defrost”, clean
them after they have been defrosted and switch them on again (before applying this procedure
first ask our JEKA representative what to do with possible leftovers),
- clean the gas fires thoroughly, without forgetting the steel frame and base structure,
- do not leave leftover food in places not reserved to store them,
- wash all cooking- and kitchenware thoroughly,
- clean all toilets, washbasins and showers thoroughly,
- Tidy the area surrounding your centre by collecting all rubbish in bags which you tightly tie
together and leave at the agreed spot.
It is strictly prohibited to take mattresses, JEKA-blankets, -pillows or -furniture out of the
dormitories or use them outdoors.
Groups staying in two different centres who need to take kitchenware from one house to the other
one, are kindly reminded to return these to their original location.
Any damage to furniture or kitchenware must to be reported to our representatives before your
departure. The claim will be settled by mutual agreement.
It’s the responsibility of every group leader to ensure that the above conditions are observed.
Any costs resulting from repair- and/or cleaning-activities as a result of m not following the above
conditions, will be claimed back directly or after your stay!
Delivery & service
The local Jeka team
JEKA guarantees you a PERMANENT SERVICE at your destination, offered to you
by voluntary and full-time representatives who are available 24 hours a day / 7
days a week for information as well as provision of services and cases of
emergency. Some of them speak your language and others also speak Hungarian.
You can call on them any time for more information regarding coach excursions,
walking tours, booking canoes and bicycles, etc. and for practical tips.
Food supplies
JEKA delivers all the food supplies you need during your stay, for trips, excursions and the returnjourney. The quantities are generous; the food is of high quality, variable and can be easily used for
packed lunches. We pay a lot of attention to the food which is an important factor for making your
holiday a complete success
Upon arrival you will find in your house the first supply of the basic ingredients (potatoes, butter,
milk, sugar, tea, coffee, etc. ...) as well as all the meat, vegetables and perishable items for the first 3
days of your stay. This also gives you a bit of flexibility with the menu. The rest of the food deliveries
are made on a regular basis during your stay.
The bread meals can easily be used as a packed lunch with the hot meal being
in the evening. We use as much fresh produce as is possible which includes a
piece of fresh fruit for almost every day you are there.
Apart from changing the menu on the days you already have the ingredients
no other changes are possible as we cannot deliver food that has not already
been delivered to us from the wholesalers, and these deliveries are only
made on certain days.
Delivery & amounts
The amount of food delivered as based on an average consumption of a group with the number of
participants you have. In the event this is too little or too much, please inform your local JEKA
representative as soon as possible to alleviate the problem. We try to ensure that everybody has
enough to eat so there is no limit on the amount of food provided. That said however we are
mindful that we live in a part of the world were food is plenty so we do not like to see un-necessary
food waste. In the event you decide to eat out or for some other reason you have not eaten a meal
there is no refund possible. Furthermore, apart from the lunch pack provisions we provide for your
return journey it is not allowed to take un opened food products home with you.
It is possible that on the last day of your stay the provisions for the next group will be delivered to
your house. We ask you please not to use any products from this delivery.
You will find at your accommodation two gas cylinders, one of which is connected to the cooker and
the other a reserve. Please inform the local JEKA representative if and when you change a cylinder
so as a new one can be ordered.
Vegetarians & special diets
We try our best to cater for vegetarians and some other dietry requirements however, there is no
great variety of vegetarian food available in the local area so we advise persons on special diets
should bring some of their own dietry products with them.
If any of your group members are vegetarian, coeliac or have a serious food allergy such as nut
allergy that may affect the food delivered for the whole group, we ask you to inform us no later than
21 days before your departure date.
Rubbish & recycling
Just like we do, in the Hungary all waste has to be sorted as follows
- Plastic (only real plastic)
- glass
- left over food (in the 50 liter barrels provided)
- paper / card
- general waste
Sample menu
Standard:
Bread, cornflakes, margarine, jam, instant coffee, tea, milk, sugar.
Day of arrival:
DINNER:
Soup, Spaghetti Bolognaise, biscuits
DAY 2
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Standard + corn flakes
Standard + cheese, ham, fresh fruit
Soup, potatoes, turkey cauliflower, dessert
DAY 3
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Standard + chocolate spread
Standard + salad with lettuce tomatoes cucumber ham, fresh fruit.
Soup, rice, sweet and sor chicken, pineapple.
DAY 4
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Standard + eggs, bacon
Standard + salami, cheese, paprika, fruit
Soup, potatoes, hamburger, frozen veg, pudding
DAY 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Standard + hot chocolate, cheese spread
Standard + ham, luncheon meat, fresh fruit
Soup, potatoes, roast pork, vegetables, fresh fruit
DAY 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Standard + egg
Standard + cheese, sausage, fruit.
Soup, potatoes, chicken kiev, letuce, tomatoes, dessert
DAY 7
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Standard + chocolate spread
Standard + cheese, salami
Soup, potatoes or rice, Hangarian Goulash, desert
DAY 8
Breakfast
Standard + chocolate spread
Lunch
Standard + cheese spread, salami, fresh fruit
Provisions for packed lunch for return journey:
Bread, cheese, fruit, biscuits, drink
NOTES
 We only provide milk and hot drinks mentioned – tea, coffee and hot chocolate.
 Lunch can be easily adapted as a packed lunch to take out with you for the day