Sümeg Castle crowns a solitary hilltop rising above the western part of the Balaton Uplands, its silhouette visible for miles around. It's one of the best-restored medieval castles in Hungary, offering a rewarding mix of history and sweeping views.

The climb up to the castle hill is short but scenic, rewarding visitors with wide panoramas over the surrounding countryside and the hills of the Balaton Uplands. In summer, colorful knight tournaments bring the courtyard to life, while in quieter seasons the weathered stone walls take on a moodier, more atmospheric character.

How to get there

• From Sümeg town center - short uphill walk, about 20-30 minutes, easy difficulty
• Parking available at the base of the castle hill

Practical information

• The castle is a state-owned historic monument (registration no. 10292)
• Renovation works are ongoing under the National Castle Program (since 2016)
• Summer knight tournaments are held in the castle courtyard

In 1605, Bocskai's rebel troops murdered the Bishop of Veszprém here and rolled his head down the hillside - a grim tale still told by local guides today.