Szentendre Skanzen

Skanzen – The Living Museum of Hungarian Folk Culture in Szentendre

The Szentendre Skanzen, officially called the Hungarian Open Air Museum, is the largest ethnographic open-air museum in Hungary. Located just 25 km north of Budapest in the picturesque town of Szentendre, it is an ideal destination for those who wish to explore the traditions of rural Hungarian life.

What can you see at the Skanzen?

The museum is spread across a vast outdoor area, with different regions of Hungary authentically recreated through traditional buildings and village layouts. Visitors can stroll among old farmhouses, peek into historic homes and workshops, and explore wooden churches, barns, and village streets. All buildings were relocated from their original sites and carefully reconstructed.

The museum is divided into regional units, such as:

- Northern Hungarian Village – with wooden houses and mining settlements
- Southern Great Plain Farmstead – with whitewashed adobe homes
- Transdanubian Vineyard Region – featuring press houses and wine cellars
- Upper Tisza Region – with richly decorated wooden churches
- Transylvanian Village – showcasing carved wooden Székely gates

It is a true time-travel experience, often brought to life with live demonstrations, folk performances, and interactive activities.

Events and seasonal programs

Throughout the year, the Skanzen hosts a variety of cultural programs:

- Easter, Pentecost, and Harvest festivals
- Reenactments of traditional Hungarian weddings
- Craft workshops for adults and children
- Cooking demonstrations, such as chimney cake or lángos preparation

How to get there

By public transport: Take the HÉV suburban train from Batthyány tér (Budapest) to Szentendre. From the station, take a local bus or taxi to the museum.

By car: About a 30–40 minute drive from Budapest via the M0 ring road or Route 11. Free parking is available on-site.

By organized tour: Several travel agencies offer guided day trips combining the Skanzen with a visit to Szentendre town.

Opening hours and tickets

The museum is typically open from March to November, and closed in winter except for special events. For current hours and prices, visit the official website: www.skanzen.hu

Visitor tips

- Wear comfortable footwear – the area is extensive and mostly outdoors
- Bring a picnic or eat on-site – there's a restaurant offering traditional dishes
- Combine with Szentendre town – famous for its art galleries, cobbled streets, and riverside charm