Sümeg (Sumeg), Hungary

Sümeg (Sumeg) highlights

Known for castle, museum, viewpoint

The Sümeg castle is located in the town of Sümeg, about 20 kilometers north of Lake Balaton, in Hungary. The Sümeg castle was built in the mid or late 13th century and is situated at the top of a lonely mountain peak called ＂Castle Hill＂. During its existence, it has been expanded several times. In the 15th century, it was fortified, and the second of two towers was built. It has been under siege several times, and has experienced two fires.

You understand, it is impossible to see Hungary just in a couple of days. Come with us to explore Hungary in a 1-2 week road trip. We will pass Sümeg (Sumeg), along with other Hungary' attractions, to discover the soul of the country, its way of life, culture and traditions, food and drinks. Browse our tours passing Sümeg (Sumeg), or contact us directly for a custom tour in Hungary. By the way, we charge nothing for a custom itinerary. Contact us directly, let's plan all the details of your trip and get it done!

Other places in Hungary that we are familiar with

Bory - Known for castle

Budapest - Known for architecture, castle; historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Ozora - Known for castle, museum

Siklós (Siklos) - Known for castle, museum

Szigliget - Known for fortress, ruines

Last reviewed: 22 August 2023

Sümeg (Sumeg) description

The Sümeg castle was originally built by Béla IV, the King of Hungary and Croatia, where he lived during the Mongolian invasion between 1241–1242. Later, it was presented as a gift to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Veszprém by Stephen V of Hungary.

The Sümeg castle is irregular in shape, and situated in a north–south orientation atop a mountain. It has two towers, and is 125 meters long and 80 meters wide. The interior contains a walled pathway. This leads to internal gatehouse that opens into the main courtyard. The core of the three-part castle is the lower level of the old tower built in the 1260. The walls of the citadel were completed a century later, and during the 15th century the plateau in front of the castle was also surrounded by a strong, high defensive wall. The Sümeg castle was the strongest stone castle in the area.

In 1552, in response to the capture of Veszprém by the Turks, the castle was rebuilt and fortified to serve as a frontier fortress.

Rákóczi’s troop occupied the castle in 1705. In 1709 the Austrians recaptured it, and troops burned it down in 1713. It was abandoned for a quarter millennium, until in 1957 the National Office of Cultural Heritage explored and conservated it.

During the 20th century, parts of the castle were restored. Since 1989, the castle has been continuously renovated, it was restored on a large scale, and is now operated as a tourist attraction, providing events and tournaments. It is considered to be Hungary's most well-preserved fortress.

From 2016, the castle will be renovated as part of the National Castle Program, and so these parts of Sümeg castle can be seen: inner castle, external castle, and the citadel. The Sümeg castle is the best restored medieval stone castle of the Balaton area, where the lives of the former heroes are evoked with colorful castle games every summer.

Sümeg (Sumeg) related tours

We at Monterrasol Travel welcome you to see Sümeg (Sumeg) during multi-day small group car tour. Contact us if you would like to customize your tour to Sümeg (Sumeg).

We have developed several small group tours that visiting beautiful Sümeg (Sumeg). But, if you have a special conditions or any from these tours fit you, please do not hesitate to contact us, we can organize a tour exactly as you would like. We charge nothing for develop a custom itinerary. And remember, we have no problems to take you from almost any place where you stay, hotel or private accommodation.

Balkans castles tour 13 days. Visit 17 castles & fortresses in Hungary, Croatia, Bosnia. All seasons cultural tour across 3 countries. all seasons tour 13 days Price from € 4,358 View tour details Request this tour tour starts in: Budapest, Hungary tour finishes in: Budapest, Hungary tour duration: 13 days (12 nights) tour countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Hungary tour destinations: Banja Luka, Bory, Doboj, Dubovac, Gradačac, Keszthely, Ključ, Medvedgrad, Ostrovica, Ostrožac, Ozora, Siklós, Srebrenik, Szigliget, Sümeg, Tešanj, Trakošćan, Varaždin, Velika Kladuša, Veliki Tabor, Zagreb Balkans castles tour in 13 days. With this tour we going to visit 5 castles located in Hungary, 5 castles located in Croatia, together with historical center of Zagreb, and 3 castles and 4 fortresses in Bosnia & Herzegovina. Most of the sites are national monuments in own countries. Most of them dated back to 15-16 centuries and everyone have rich history.

Adriatic Grand tour 29 days from Budapest to Athens. Visit the most interesting places in Hungary, Croatia, Bosnia, Albania, Greece. all seasons tour 29 days Price from € 10,073 View tour details Request this tour tour starts in: Budapest, Hungary tour finishes in: Athens, Greece tour duration: 29 days (28 nights) tour countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Hungary, Montenegro tour destinations: Arta, Blagaj, Bory, Corinth canal, Dajbabe, Dodoni, Epidaurus, Gjirokastër, Ioannina, Kalamata, Kravica, Krujë, Mesolongi, Messene, Međugorje, Mostar, Mycenae, Mystras, Nafpaktos, Nafplio, Olympia, Parga, Patras, Podgorica, Počitelj, Primošten, Rogoznica, Sarajevo, Sparta, Split, Szigliget, Sümeg, Tiryns, Trakošćan, Trebinje, Trogir, Tvrdoš, Varaždin, Zagreb, Šibenik We welcome you to travel with us with 29-day long trans-Adriatic Grand tour across Hungary, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Albania, and Greece. This tour is more than just a trip; it's an immersive experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to explore new cultures, this 29-day odyssey from Budapest in Hungary to Athens in Greece is the perfect adventure for anyone. Join us and discover the unparalleled beauty and richness of the Balkans. Imagine a journey that weaves through the rich tapestry of Eastern Europe, offering a kaleidoscope of cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and historical treasures. Our 29-day tour, starting in Hungary and culminating in Athens, Greece, is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will leave you enchanted and inspired, with highlight the unique heritage of each visited country. Experience the warm hospitality of the Balkans by interacting with locals communities. Indulge in the diverse and flavorful cuisine of the Balkans, from hearty Hungarian goulash to the seafood delights of the Adriatic coast, and the rich pastries of Greece. Each meal is a culinary journey through the region's history and culture. Discover the excellent wines and spirits of the region, such as rakia and Greek ouzo, often enjoyed in traditional taverns and wineries. Visit iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites and explore the ancient civilizations that once thrived there. Delve into the rich history of the Balkans through visits to museums and wander through the imposing castles and fortresses that dot the landscape. Visit ancient monasteries and churches, stroll through the charming old towns, each with its unique architecture and historical significance. With 29 days, you have ample time to explore each country without feeling rushed, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the local culture and history. Enjoy the scenic routes that connect these countries, often featuring picturesque landscapes and charming villages along the way. Our tour is designed to balance travel days with leisure time, ensuring you have opportunities to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.