Roman excavations in the city center, an important cathedral and a large arboretum offer different ways to explore the city’s history and nature in Szombathely. These are complemented by recurring annual events tied to specific times of year. When planning your stay, you can choose between enduring cultural and nature themes and a specific seasonal occasion.
Roman Heritage and Cathedral
The Járdányi Paulovics István Romkert contains remains of Roman Savaria. These include building complexes of Colonia Claudia Savariensium, founded around 50 AD. These building complexes have been excavated in the center of Szombathely since the 1930s; the Romkert is the adjoining Roman site. The two dates tell different chapters: around 50 AD marks the founding, while excavations since the 1930s refer to the later uncovering of the building remains.
The Sarlós Boldogasszony Cathedral offers another cultural focus. It is the main church of the Diocese of Szombathely and an important architectural landmark of the city; locals also call it Nagytemplom. Together with the Roman heritage, it offers another historical focal point: while the excavations tell of the ancient Colonia, the cathedral combines religious significance with an urban architectural landmark. Nagytemplom is the local name for the same cathedral.
Nature and Seasonal Experiences
Kámoni Arboretum is located in the north of Szombathely. Its grounds cover 27 hectares and contain around 3,200 tree and shrub species and varieties; the collection may change over time. The area and species diversity describe different measures: the number of hectares indicates the size of the grounds, while the around 3,200 species and varieties indicate the diversity of the collection. The arboretum also has an ecotourism visitor center with an exhibition room and a small exhibit on the history and research of the arboretum. This adds a perspective on its history and research to the botanical experience.
Every year, during the Savaria Történelmi Karnevál, Gayer Park hosts Kalandvár, an activity for children. It includes numerous play opportunities for younger and slightly older children. The event is therefore tied both to a recurring occasion and to a specific park.
Herényi Virágút offers a different seasonal focus: the one-kilometer route opens every spring after St. George’s Day. Visitors can view and buy plants there; the Virágút also features children’s programs and concerts. The timing matters when planning your trip: Kalandvár takes place during the carnival, while the Virágút opens every spring after St. George’s Day. Check the dates and program details before booking your hotel if you plan to attend either event.
Vas County: Landscapes and Thermal Baths
The Írottkő Nature Park is located in the northwestern part of Vas County. The nature park includes the entire 4,303-hectare Kőszeg Landscape Protection Area. Vas County is also home to two internationally recognized thermal baths: one in Bük and one in Sárvár. The two baths are 25 kilometers apart.
Discover more destinations: Gencsapáti, Torony, Balogunyom, Dozmat, Vasszécseny, Zsennye, Táplánszentkereszt.
For the main travel overview: Szombathelyi.
