Hungary’s Waterways
Hungary is a landlocked country in the heart of Europe, surrounded by seven other nations. Despite not having a coastline, Hungary is rich in waterways, thanks to its geography and the Danube River. The country has over 1,300 rivers, large and small, that run through its territory, making them important natural resources for the nation’s economic, cultural, and ecological well-being. From north to south and east to west, Hungary’s rivers play a crucial role in shaping the country’s landscape, culture, and history.
The Danube: Hungary’s Iconic River
The Danube is Hungary’s most famous river and the second-longest river in Europe. It is also one of the most important waterways in the world, connecting ten European countries to the Black Sea. In Hungary, the Danube runs for 417 kilometers, crossing the country from the northwest to the southeast. The river has significant economic, cultural, and ecological value for Hungary, including its role as a source of transport, energy, and tourism. In Budapest, the Danube divides the city into two parts, Buda, and Pest, and is home to many of the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Parliament, the Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge.
Tisza: The Second Longest River in Hungary
The Tisza is the second-longest river in Hungary, spanning 598 kilometers from its source in Ukraine to its confluence with the Danube in Serbia. The river is an important tributary of the Danube and one of the most significant rivers in Central Europe. In Hungary, the Tisza flows through several regions, including Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg, Hajdú-Bihar, Jász-Nagykun-Szolnok, and Bács-Kiskun. The Tisza is essential for Hungary’s agriculture, fishing, and tourism industries, and is home to many protected plant and animal species, including the European otter and the white-tailed eagle. The river is also known for its annual "Tisza blooming," a natural phenomenon when the river’s surface is covered with yellow flowers.
Drava: A Natural Border between Hungary and Croatia
The Drava is a 710-kilometer long river that flows through four countries: Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, and Hungary. It is a significant tributary of the Danube and one of the most beautiful rivers in Hungary. The river forms a natural border between Hungary and Croatia and is an important source of water for the region’s agriculture. The Drava is also home to many rare and endangered species, such as the Danube salmon, the freshwater pearl mussel, and the European mudminnow. The river is a popular destination for canoeing, fishing, and nature lovers, with many natural parks and reserves along its banks.
Raba: A Major Tributary of the Danube
The Raba is a 244-kilometer long river that flows through Hungary, Austria, and Slovakia. It is a significant tributary of the Danube and an essential source of water for western Hungary. The Raba basin is home to many protected plant and animal species, such as the kingfisher and the marsh harrier. The river is also an important recreational area, with many hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, and campsites along its banks. The town of Győr, one of Hungary’s most beautiful cities, is located on the Raba River.
Szamos: A Cross-Border River Shared with Romania
The Szamos is a 403-kilometer long river that flows through Romania and Hungary. It is a significant tributary of the Tisza and an important waterway for both countries. The Szamos basin is home to many traditional Hungarian villages and towns, such as Szatmárnémeti and Mátészalka, where visitors can experience authentic Hungarian culture and cuisine. The river is also known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with many species of freshwater fish, such as the carp, the pike, and the catfish.
Kapos: A River in Southern Hungary
The Kapos is a 198-kilometer long river that flows through southern Hungary. It is a significant tributary of the Drava and an important water source for the region’s agriculture and industry. The Kapos basin is home to many protected areas, such as the Kapos valley, which is a popular destination for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. The river is also known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with many species of fish, such as the bream, the roach, and the zander.
Zagyva: A River in Central Hungary
The Zagyva is a 188-kilometer long river that flows through central Hungary. It is an important tributary of the Tisza and an essential source of water for the region’s agriculture and industry. The river is home to many protected areas, such as the Zagyva valley, which is a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers. The river is also known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with many species of freshwater fish, such as the barbel, the chub, and the common nase.
Bodrog: A Scenic River in the Northeast
The Bodrog is a 67-kilometer long river that flows through northeastern Hungary and Slovakia. It is a significant tributary of the Tisza and an important source of water for the region’s agriculture and wine production. The river is also known for its scenic beauty, with many picturesque villages and towns along its banks, such as Tokaj, which is famous for its wine. The Bodrog is suitable for canoeing and kayaking, and visitors can also enjoy fishing and birdwatching.
Ipoly: A River That Flows through Hungary and Slovakia
The Ipoly is a 243-kilometer long river that flows through Hungary and Slovakia. It is a significant tributary of the Danube and an important waterway for both countries. The Ipoly basin is home to many protected areas, such as the Börzsöny Mountains, which is a popular destination for hiking and skiing. The river is also known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with many species of fish, such as the brown trout, the grayling, and the rainbow trout.
Hernad: A River in the Northern Part of Hungary
The Hernad is a 149-kilometer long river that flows through the northern part of Hungary. It is a significant tributary of the Sajo and an important source of water for the region’s agriculture and forestry. The Hernad basin is home to many protected areas and natural reserves, such as the Hernad valley, which is a popular destination for hiking and birdwatching. The river is also suitable for fishing, with many species of fish, such as the pike, the carp, and the catfish.
Rinya: A Small but Significant River in Hungary
The Rinya is a 79-kilometer long river that flows through western Hungary. It is a small but significant river that is an important source of water for the region’s agriculture and industry. The Rinya basin is home to many protected areas and natural reserves, such as the Rinya-Moson-Sopron Landscape Protection Area, which is a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers. The river is also suitable for fishing, with many species of fish, such as the bream, the carp, and the catfish.
In conclusion, Hungary’s rivers are vital natural resources that play a crucial role in the country’s economy, culture, and ecology. From the iconic Danube to the small but significant Rinya, each river has its unique story and significance, shaping Hungary’s landscape, history, and identity. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or a fishing enthusiast, Hungary’s rivers offer something for everyone to explore and enjoy.
