Szombathely
Szombathely, Hungary's oldest recorded city, blends Roman ruins and baroque squares with a lively cultural calendar near the Austrian border.
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About Vas County
Szombathely is the county seat of Vas County in western Hungary, close to the Austrian border and roughly 220 km from Budapest. As one of Hungary's oldest cities, it began as the Roman settlement of Savaria and still carries that layered past through its compact historic centre.
Roman history remains visible in the Iseum (Isis sanctuary), the Garden of Ruins and parts of the ancient city walls, while the Baroque cathedral, Bishop's Palace and restored Main Square shape the present-day centre. The Savaria Museum and the Diocesan collection document the city's long history from antiquity to the present.
Around the lively Fő tér and adjoining streets, cafés, restaurants, shops and small galleries give the centre a local, unhurried feel. The Kámon Arboretum, city parks and the Savaria Historical Carnival in late August add open-air attractions, while nearby Bük, Sárvár and Kőszeg offer thermal baths, castle heritage and easy day trips.
Szombathely also works as a regional business, education and transport hub for western Hungary. Its position near Austria and Slovenia makes it practical for cross-border travel, while the compact size, historic character and surrounding spa towns appeal to both short leisure breaks and business visitors.
Vas County Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit
Late spring and early autumn offer mild weather for exploring Szombathely's historic centre and nearby countryside. August is lively thanks to the Savaria Historical Carnival, while winter is quieter and suits indoor museums and nearby thermal baths.
How to Get Around
Szombathely's centre is compact and easy to walk, especially around Fő tér and the main landmarks. Local buses serve the wider city, taxis are available, and the railway station links Szombathely with Budapest and nearby western Hungarian towns.
Where to Stay
The central area around Fő tér and Király utca is convenient for landmarks, cafés and restaurants. Hotels near the railway station suit short stays, while thermal hotels and guesthouses in nearby Bük and Sárvár work well for spa breaks.
Food & Drink
Try Hungarian classics such as goulash, stuffed cabbage and local Vasi dishes, often paired with west Hungarian wines. Cafés and pastry shops on Fő tér, plus wine bars and neighbourhood restaurants, offer a relaxed introduction to the region's food.
Ground Transportation Services in Vas County
Airport Transfers
Arrange private transfers between Vienna International Airport and Szombathely, including hotels, business addresses and thermal spa resorts in the Vas County area.
Hourly Chauffeur
Book a chauffeur by the hour for flexible travel around Szombathely, cross-border business meetings in Austria or Slovenia, and trips to nearby spa towns.
Car Rental
Rent a car in Szombathely for independent travel across western Hungary and easy journeys to Bük, Sárvár, Kőszeg and the Austrian border.
Bus & Group Transfers
Organise minibuses or charter buses for groups travelling between Vienna Airport and Szombathely, or for corporate events, excursions and thermal spa visits in Vas County.
Frequently Asked Questions
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