Top Student Cities in Hungary
Hungary is home to a range of vibrant and historic cities, each offering unique cultural experiences and excellent educational opportunities. From the bustling capital to charming university towns, here are three of the country’s major cities for students:
Budapest: The Heart of Hungary
Divided by the iconic Danube River into the historic Buda and the lively Pest, Budapest is one of Europe’s most visually stunning cities. Its impressive architecture and rich history have earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list, recognized as “one of the world’s outstanding urban landscapes.”
Beyond its architectural beauty, Budapest is a city full of life and activities. Students can explore world-renowned thermal spas, art galleries, and classical music venues, or dive into its vibrant social scene with trendy cocktail bars, bohemian cafés, and outdoor clubs. The city also hosts major cultural events, including the famous Sziget Festival—a massive music festival held every August on Óbudai Island.
Budapest is also a significant hub for higher education. Three of its universities are featured in the QS World University Rankings 2018:
- Eötvös Loránd University (ranked 651-700)
- Budapest University of Technology and Economics (751-800)
- Corvinus University of Budapest (801-1000)
Other institutions include Budapest Business School, Hungarian University of Fine Arts, Semmelweis University (specializing in medicine), and Óbuda University (a technical university). The city is also home to Central European University, a postgraduate institution ranked among the world’s top 50 for politics. Many of these universities participate in Erasmus and other student exchange programs, attracting a diverse international community.
Debrecen: The Cultural Capital of Eastern Hungary
As Hungary’s second-largest city, Debrecen is a key educational and cultural center in the eastern part of the country. Although much smaller than Budapest, with a population of around 207,000, it offers a dynamic student experience.
Debrecen holds historical significance, having twice served as Hungary’s capital—once after the Hungarian Revolution of 1848 and again at the end of World War II in 1945. Today, the city is known for its thriving arts scene, theater performances, live music venues, and energetic nightlife. Students can also enjoy the city’s famous thermal spas and natural hot springs.
A highlight of the city’s cultural calendar is the Flower Carnival, held every August. This spectacular event features a parade of flower-covered floats and attracts visitors from across the country.
Szeged: The City of Sunshine
Located in southern Hungary along the Tisza River, Szeged is the country’s third-largest city and a major university hub. Known as the “City of Sunshine” due to its warm climate and high number of sunny days, Szeged offers an inviting atmosphere for students.
The city is celebrated for its cultural vibrancy, particularly the Open Air Festival, which features outdoor theater performances throughout the summer. Szeged also boasts a lively nightlife scene and is a paradise for food lovers. Local specialties include halászlé (fisherman's soup) and Szegedi salami, which are popular among residents and visitors alike.
Szeged is home to the University of Szeged, the highest-ranked university in Hungary, making it a top choice for students seeking academic excellence.
Hungary’s major student cities each offer a distinctive blend of history, culture, and academic opportunity. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling metropolis of Budapest, the cultural richness of Debrecen, or the sunny charm of Szeged, studying in Hungary promises a rewarding and unforgettable experience.
