Eger Minaret & Turkish Bath
Climb a historic Ottoman minaret for panoramic Eger views, a unique cross-topped tower with a challenging ascent.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier climb
Eger Minaret & Turkish Bath
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier climb
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Climb a historic Ottoman minaret for panoramic Eger views, a unique cross-topped tower with a challenging ascent.
"Fantastic views from the top, but the narrow spiral stairs are a real challenge!"
Cash is King! 💰
Admission is 1000 HUF per person, payable only in cash. Come prepared!
Mind the Steps! :athletic_shoe:
The 97 steps are steep, narrow, and can be slippery. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Minaret Terrace
Ascend the narrow stairs for breathtaking 360-degree views of Eger's charming cityscape and the historic Keep.
The Cross-Crowned Minaret
Eger Minaret
Marvel at this unique Ottoman minaret, topped with a Christian cross, symbolizing centuries of history.
The Steep Spiral Staircase
Inside the Minaret
Experience the thrill of climbing 97 narrow, steep, and winding steps – a memorable part of the adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb
A Glimpse of History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cash is King! 💰
Admission is 1000 HUF per person, payable only in cash. Come prepared!
Mind the Steps! :athletic_shoe:
The 97 steps are steep, narrow, and can be slippery. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time.
Fear of Heights? 🤔
The narrow space and waist-high railings can be daunting. Consider if you're comfortable before ascending.
Quick Visit :stopwatch:
The entire experience, including the climb and enjoying the view, takes about 15-20 minutes.
Tips
from all over the internet
Cash is King! 💰
Admission is 1000 HUF per person, payable only in cash. Come prepared!
Mind the Steps! :athletic_shoe:
The 97 steps are steep, narrow, and can be slippery. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time.
Fear of Heights? 🤔
The narrow space and waist-high railings can be daunting. Consider if you're comfortable before ascending.
Quick Visit :stopwatch:
The entire experience, including the climb and enjoying the view, takes about 15-20 minutes.
Historical Significance :scroll:
This is one of the few surviving Ottoman minarets in Hungary, a significant historical landmark.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Eger Minaret a fascinating historical site offering stunning city views, though the climb up its narrow, steep stairs can be challenging and is not recommended for those with a fear of heights or claustrophobia. The unique cross atop the minaret and the manageable duration of the visit are frequently praised.
"Mamma Mia!
I thought that it could be fun to hike up to the top of this minaret. I had mixed feelings about as clearly you can see how narrow is them stairs leading to the top.
We had about 10-15 minutes wait. The spiral stair are very steep (30 cm at least) and getting smaller and smaller the space as you nearing the top. Once you’re up, another scare stuff awaiting you the waist height handrails. I honestly almost got a heart attack. People was behind me so there’s no stop. I had a full walk around before started my journey down.
Good fun, fantastic views on the top, however I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone who has fear of heights and claustrophobic.
As a bucket list it was a great fun, takes about 15 minutes for the whole experience."
R S G
"The only minaret in the world with a cross on top. According to legend, after the end of the Turkish occupation, the oppressed Hungarians wanted to tear down the 40-meter-high building, but even 400 oxen could not pull it down. After the failure, the building was left standing, but a cross was placed on the top above the star and crescent. 97 thick steps lead to its terrace, which can still be visited today. worth visiting if you are in town. Payment only in cash, 1000 Huf / person. The view is stunning from up there."
Alice Vassy
"I loved this climb, but if you are claustrophobic you might give it a pass. The views from the top are worth the 98 steps and the 1000Huf."
Kevin D Sherman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Eger Minaret is centrally located in Eger, Hungary, making it easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city. It's a short walk from Dobó Square and other main attractions.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the minaret, there are several public parking lots and street parking options available in the vicinity of Eger's city center.
Eger has a bus station and train station, and from there, you can walk or take a local bus to reach the city center where the minaret is located.
Unfortunately, due to the narrow spiral staircase, the Eger Minaret is not wheelchair accessible. The climb requires physical mobility.
Many visitors find that exploring Eger's historical sites, including the minaret, is best done on foot. Consider a guided walking tour to get the most out of the history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for the Eger Minaret is 1000 Hungarian Forint (HUF) per person.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site. It's advisable to have cash ready as payment is often cash-only.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check locally or with your accommodation for the most up-to-date information, but it's generally open during daylight hours.
The climb and visit typically take around 15-20 minutes, so there isn't a strict time limit imposed on visitors once inside.
Yes, groups can visit, but be mindful of the narrow staircase. It's recommended to coordinate group visits to avoid congestion.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The climb involves ascending 97 narrow, steep, and winding spiral steps made of stone. The space is tight and can feel claustrophobic.
From the terrace at the top, you'll get stunning panoramic views of Eger, including the city center, the Basilica, and the Eger Castle (Keep).
While the structure is historic, the narrow steps and waist-high railings at the top can be a concern for those with a fear of heights. Exercise caution.
The entire experience, from entering to climbing up, enjoying the view, and descending, usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
It's one of the northernmost surviving Ottoman minarets in Europe, built in the late 16th century. It's unique for having a Christian cross on top, a symbol of historical transitions. 
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique cross atop the minaret, the intricate red sandstone architecture, and the panoramic city views from the terrace.
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of the tight spaces and other visitors, especially on the staircase.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for city views. Morning can also be good before crowds build up.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical city centers. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
Try shooting from below to emphasize the height, or from the terrace looking down at the city. The contrast of the cross against the sky is also striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the overall Eger experience for families. The city offers other attractions like the Eger Castle and thermal baths which might be more universally appealing and less physically demanding for younger visitors. The minaret is best suited for families with older children or teenagers who can appreciate the historical significance and the physical challenge.
💰 Budget Travelers
Remember that payment is cash-only, so ensure you have the correct Hungarian Forint on hand. The short duration of the visit also means it won't take up a significant portion of your day, allowing you to explore other affordable attractions in Eger.
❤️ Couples
Consider visiting during the late afternoon to catch the golden hour light, which can make for beautiful photos and a more romantic atmosphere. Afterwards, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through Eger's historic center or find a cozy cafe for a drink.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Ottoman Hungary
+1What makes the Eger Minaret particularly fascinating is its transformation over time. Originally part of the Kethüda mosque, it was later topped with a Christian cross after the end of Ottoman rule. Legend has it that locals tried to tear it down, but even 400 oxen couldn't move it, leading to its preservation with the addition of the cross. This unique feature symbolizes the complex historical narrative and the blending of cultures in Eger.
Visiting the minaret offers not just a historical perspective but also a physical challenge. The climb up its 97 narrow, steep spiral steps is an experience in itself. While the ascent can be daunting, the reward is a breathtaking panoramic view of Eger, allowing visitors to appreciate the city's layout and historical landmarks from a unique vantage point.
The Thrill of the Climb
Many travelers describe the climb as an adventure, with some even experiencing a 'heart attack' moment due to the intensity. The limited space and the need to navigate past other climbers can add to the adrenaline. However, the experience is relatively short, typically taking around 15-20 minutes for the entire visit, including the time spent at the top.
Upon reaching the terrace, visitors are greeted by waist-high railings, which, while providing a safety measure, can also be a source of anxiety for those with a fear of heights. Despite these challenges, the stunning 360-degree views of Eger are widely considered to be worth the effort, offering a memorable perspective of the city and its surroundings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit