Hajdú-Bihar is a county in eastern Hungary, lying along the border with Romania. It is a region of open agricultural land, and farming is central to its character, shaping the landscape a visitor sees from the road and the produce found in its markets and kitchens.
What the county is known for
- Agricultural production, which defines much of the countryside
- Its position on the Romanian border, making it a gateway between the two countries
- The city of Debrecen, the second-largest urban centre in Hungary
Debrecen is the natural focus for most visitors. As the county's principal city and Hungary's second-largest urban centre, it offers the widest range of services, shops, restaurants and cultural life in the area, and it makes a practical base for exploring the surrounding villages and farmland.
Planning a visit
The county suits travellers who want to see a less-trodden part of Hungary, where the pace is set by fields, farms and small communities rather than by the tourist trail. Travelling by car gives the most flexibility for moving between the countryside and the city, though it is worth checking local transport options before you set out.
Hajdú-Bihar rewards those who come with time and curiosity. Spend a day in Debrecen, then head out into the surrounding countryside to get a sense of the agricultural life that gives the county its identity.
