Home to beautiful architecture and fine museums, this city’s modern façade belies its rich medieval heritage.
Located at the meeting point of three rivers, the Danube, Rába and Rábca, Győr is often known as the “Town of Rivers.” One of Hungary’s largest industrial centres, Győr features some of the country’s most important buildings and monuments. Admire its well-preserved historic architecture and view the superb collections housed in its impressive museums.
The Győr Benedictine ChurchOpens in a new window is a highlight of any visit to the city. Modelled after Rome’s Church of the Gesù, the Benedictine Church was the first church built by the Jesuits after they settled in Győr in 1627. Notice its 18th-century towers and admire its monastery and school, which date back to the 17th century. View its altarpiece, ceiling and nave, all of which were painted by Austrian artist Paul Troger.
Head to Káptalan Hill, one of the oldest parts of the city, to find the Győr Basilica. Note the range of architectural styles incorporated into its design, including foundations that date back to the 11th century, Romanesque apses, a neoclassical exterior and a Gothic chapel. Step inside and marvel at its impressive religious artefacts, including the Weeping Icon of Mary, an altarpiece said to have once cried tears of blood.
To learn more about the city’s history, visit Győr’s main museum, the János Xánthus Museum. Named for a local 19th-century naturalist, the museum features exhibits ranging from archeological artefacts to contemporary artwork. It’s set in the Apátúr House, one of the city’s loveliest Baroque buildings.
Visit the House of the Iron Butt to see the Imre Patkó Collection, a selection of treasures and artwork collected by journalist and art historian Imre Patkó. View 20th-century works of Hungarian and Western European art as well as objects collected during Patkó's travels in India, Tibet, Vietnam and West Africa.
The closest airport to Győr is Bratislava Airport, but it’s also accessible from the airports in ViennaOpens in a new window and BudapestOpens in a new window. Győr has excellent train, bus and boat links with Vienna and Budapest.
Don’t miss a visit to one of Hungary’s most important economic and cultural centres.
