Baroque Elegance & The Legend of Bull’s Blood

Duration: 8 hours
Type of tour: Walking + car
Includes: Professional guide services and transportation services
Excludes:
Lunch: You will have the flexibility to choose a restaurant that fits your taste and budget.
Museum Entrance Fees: This allows you to decide which historical sites you wish to explore from the inside.
Wine Tasting: Tasting fees in the Valley of the Beautiful Woman are paid locally, allowing you to select the specific wines and cellars you prefer.
Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation is available up to 48 hours before the tour start time

Number of participants:	Vehicle:	Price / Tour:
up to 2 people	Standard car	€ 550
up to 7 people	Standard Van	€ 600

The indicated maximum number of participants means that this tour is intended for a single booking (e.g., a family, a group of friends, or colleagues). You can be sure that your journey will be comfortable and private, tailored to your needs and schedule.

Experience the enchanting charm of Eger, one of Hungary’s most beautiful and historic cities. Nestled at the foot of the Bükk Mountains, Eger is a place where history isn’t just found in books—it is carved into the stone of its fortress, whispered in its winding Baroque alleys, and aged to perfection in its volcanic wine cellars.

A Walk Through History

Your experience begins in the beautifully preserved historic center, where every cobblestone tells a story. You will start in the vibrant Dobó Square, the city’s main forum named after the national hero István Dobó. Surrounded by magnificent Baroque buildings and the twin-towered Minorite Church—considered one of the most beautiful Baroque houses of worship in Central Europe—this square is the perfect place to feel the true pulse of the city.

As you stroll through the winding streets, your guide will point out the Eger Castle (Egri Vár), which majestically dominates the skyline. While this tour does not include entry to the fortress grounds, its powerful presence is felt everywhere. While admiring the silhouette of the castle from below, you will hear the stirring story of the year 1552, when a small, outnumbered Hungarian garrison famously repelled the Ottoman army—a victory that remains a symbol of national pride to this day.

Baroque Masterpieces and Hidden Gems

As you wander through the city, your guide will lead you through the architectural legacy of Eger’s powerful bishops, revealing the stories behind these iconic landmarks:

The Archiepiscopal Palace: This grand U-shaped residence served as the seat of Eger’s powerful archbishops for centuries. As you admire its Baroque facade, you will learn how the city was painstakingly reconstructed after the Turkish occupation. Today, the palace remains a symbol of the immense cultural and political influence the church held in shaping the region’s identity.

The Lyceum (Eszterházy Károly University): A stunning 18th-century masterpiece of late Baroque architecture, the Lyceum was originally intended to be a university. You can marvel at its majestic exterior and hear about its world-famous Diocesan Library, which houses over 130,000 rare volumes, including a 15th-century manuscript signed by King Matthias. Its astronomical tower is home to the oldest “Camera Obscura” (periscope) in Europe, which still projects a live image of the city onto a table in a darkened room.

The Eger Basilica: Standing at the top of a grand staircase, this Neoclassical giant is the second-largest cathedral in Hungary. As you look up at its 54-meter-high dome and the massive statues of Saints Peter and Paul, you will experience the spiritual heart of the city. The interior is equally breathtaking, featuring a world-renowned pipe organ and ethereal light that floods through its grand nave.

The Eger Minaret: This 40-meter-high limestone tower is a hauntingly beautiful relic of the Ottoman Empire. Standing as the northernmost minaret of its kind in Europe, it survived the 17th-century Christian reconquest—legend says the locals tried to pull it down with 400 oxen, but it wouldn’t budge. Today, it stands as a striking testament to Eger’s 91 years of Turkish rule and offers a unique silhouette against the sky.

The Fazola Gates: Located within the County Hall, you will find these exquisite wrought-iron masterpieces. Crafted in 1761 by the legendary blacksmith Henrik Fazola, the gates are famous for their intricate vine leaves, flowers, and the coat of arms of the bishops. They are considered some of the finest examples of Rococo ironwork in the world.

The Serbian Orthodox Church (Rác-templom): Tucked away on a quiet hill, this “hidden gem” is a must-see for its artistic value. While the exterior is modest, the interior features a jaw-dropping iconostasis—a wall of icons carved by Nikola Jankovic. It tells the story of the Serbian refugees who settled in Eger, contributing to the city’s rich, multicultural tapestry.

The Wine Heritage of Eger

In the Valley of the Beautiful Woman (Szépasszony-völgy), you will go beyond simple tasting to explore the true essence of Hungarian viticulture. The volcanic soil of the Eger region imparts a unique character to every bottle.

Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood): This is the crown jewel of the region. As you swirl this deep red wine in your glass, you will notice its complex, spicy, and fruit-forward notes. Legend says that in 1552, the Turks saw the Hungarian soldiers with wine-stained beards and fled in terror, believing they gained superhuman strength by drinking the blood of bulls. Today, it is a protected, high-quality blend of at least three grape varieties, representing the strength and character of Eger.

Egri Csillag (Star of Eger): For those who prefer white wine, you will enjoy this refreshing and aromatic blend. Created as a white counterpart to Bull’s Blood, it is known for its floral scents and crisp finish—perfect for a sunny afternoon in the valley.

The Cellar Experience: You will step into traditional cellars carved directly into the soft “tuff” (volcanic rock). These caves maintain a natural temperature of 10–12°C year-round and are often covered in a thick layer of noble mold, which is essential for the aging process and creates a truly mystical atmosphere.

Join us for an unforgettable day where history comes to life and every glass tells a story. From the grand Baroque squares to the cool, quiet wine cellars of the Valley, you will experience the very best that Northern Hungary has to offer.

We look forward to showing you the magic of Eger!

Transport Options for Your Private Eger & Wine Tasting Tour

Up to 3 People Vehicle: Standard Sedan (Skoda Octavia, Ford Focus)
Perfect for solo travelers or small families, our Standard Sedan offers a cozy and flexible way to explore the beauty of Eger. Enjoy a comfortable ride through the Hungarian countryside, with the freedom to make spontaneous stops for photos or scenic views. It is the ideal choice for a personalized journey into the heart of Baroque Hungary.

Up to 7 People Vehicle: Standard Van (Opel Vivaro, Ford Transit)
Ideal for families or small groups of friends, the Standard Van provides extra space for both passengers and your local wine purchases. Travel together in comfort as you visit the grand Eger Basilica and the charming Valley of the Beautiful Woman, all at your own pace and without the need for multiple vehicles.

Up to 20 People Vehicle: Mercedes Sprinter (Minibus)
Perfect for tour groups, corporate outings, or extended families, the Mercedes Sprinter offers spacious seating and a smooth, professional ride. You can enjoy a full-day private tour with guided commentary while keeping the entire group together in comfort as you transition from the historic city center to the volcanic wine cellars.

Up to 55 People Vehicle: Volvo, Setra, MAN, or Mercedes Tourismo (Large Coach)
Designed for large-scale excursions, our modern coaches ensure maximum comfort for your day trip to Eger. Whether for school trips, corporate events, or organized tourist groups, you can travel in style and convenience, ensuring every guest enjoys the city’s top sights and the scenic drive through Northern Hungary.

VIP Transport for an Exclusive Eger Experience

For those who seek the ultimate in comfort, privacy, and prestige, our VIP transport options offer a luxurious way to explore the Baroque elegance of Eger. Travel at your own pace, enjoy personalized service, and arrive at the wine tasting refreshed and relaxed.

VIP Vehicle Options:

• Mercedes E-Class: Perfect for business travelers or couples seeking a refined, stylish ride to the city of heroes.
• Mercedes S-Class: The pinnacle of luxury and comfort for those who expect only the best for their Hungarian journey.
• Mercedes V-Class: Ideal for VIP families or small groups wanting spacious elegance and premium features during their tour.
• VIP Mercedes Sprinter (8 or 12 Passengers): These luxury minibuses feature premium leather seating and extra legroom, ensuring privacy and a high-end travel experience for discerning small groups.