Planning a trip to Pecs

Getting There -- Eight IC (InterCity) trains depart daily from Budapest's Keleti Station; others leave from Deli Station, but take considerably longer to get there. The fare is 3,780 Ft for a one-way, second-class ticket. You will need a reservation for these IC trains for an additional 520 Ft. An intercity train will get you there in just under 3 hours. The trains leaving from Deli Station take 4 1/4 hours, but you don't need a reservation, and the trains are not as good. If you are driving from Budapest, take the M6 south for approximately 3 hours (the distance is 210km/130 miles).

Visitor Information -- Once you leave Budapest, English speakers are harder to find except in hotels and some restaurants. The best source of information in Pécs is Tourinform, at Széchenyi tér 9 (tel. 72/213-315; www.tedeempecs.hu). Tourinform is open April and May, Monday through Friday from 9am to 6pm; June through September, Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm and on Saturday 9am to 2pm; October through March, Monday through Friday, 9am to 4pm. Tourinform can provide a list of local private-room accommodations, though you'll have to reserve the room yourself. You can also get city information online at www.pecs.hu. Look for the English link at the top.