Csepeli Helytörténeti Gyűjtemény🏛 museum
Local history collection in Csepel, Budapest.
🌐 csepelivaroskep.hu🕒 We 08:00-14:30, Fr 14:00-18:00, Sa 09:00-13:00
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Soroksar Danube
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River
The Soroksar Danube, also known as the Ráckeve Danube branch, is a 58-kilometer-long side branch of the Danube south of Budapest, separating Csepel Island from the Pest mainland. Its upper end is controlled by the Kvassay Sluice and its lower end by the Tassi Sluice, resulting in a nearly constant water level and extremely low flow velocity. This artificial regulation has transformed the branch into one of Hungary's most significant standing-water environments, famous for its unique floating moors and extensive reed beds. Ecologically, it is of outstanding importance, providing habitat for numerous protected waterfowl and rare fish species as part of the Natura 2000 network. Historically, the branch played a vital role in the milling industry and local transport, but today it primarily serves recreational purposes. The shores are lined with numerous weekend settlements, fishing spots, and water sports centers, making it a key leisure destination in the region.
- Location: Hungary
- Top sights: Csepeli Helytörténeti Gyűjtemény · Hajóorr szobor · Csepeli strandfürdő
- Nearby: Óbuda (16 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 0 | 5 | 11 | 16 | 21 | 23 | 22 | 17 | 11 | 5 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 39 | 40 | 41 | 35 | 65 | 70 | 66 | 63 | 57 | 51 | 44 | 43 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The Soroksár Danube is typically easy to access from the southern districts of Budapest and the town of Ráckeve. Many visitors use the suburban railway or local buses for convenient transit.
Best season
The handy conditions for a visit generally occur between the late spring months and early autumn. During this time, the calm waters are excellent for extended boating trips and peaceful recreation.
Terrain & paths
The shoreline areas are predominantly characterized by flat and easily accessible terrain. There are mostly paved paths that are excellent for relaxing walks or cycling trips along the calm river.
What to bring
For exploring the paths, comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are usually entirely sufficient. If you plan a boat trip, you should definitely ensure adequate sun protection.
Parking
Parking options are typically found in the adjacent residential areas and near the local marinas. On warm weekends, it is advisable to look for a suitable parking spot early in the morning.
Safety
The current in this side arm is typically very weak, yet swimming should only be done in designated zones. Always pay attention to boat traffic and respect the local nature conservation areas.
Time needed
Visitors typically plan between two and four hours for a leisurely excursion to the water's edge. Those who want to fish or paddle extensively can easily spend an entire, relaxing day here.
Geography
Facts
- The total length of the Danube branch is exactly 58 kilometers.
- The Kvassay Sluice at the northern end was completed in 1927.
- The area contains the second largest floating moors in Europe.
- The average width of the riverbed ranges between 150 and 300 meters.
- The total water surface area is approximately 1,650 hectares.
- Over 40 different species of fish have been recorded in these waters.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Soroksar Danube (10)
Csepeli strandfürdő
Beach bath in Csepel, Budapest, with outdoor pools.
🌐 csepelistrandfurdo.hu🕒 06:00-18:00
Nagyboldogasszony-templom
Parish church in Hungary, dedicated to the Assumption.
Fedák Sári Színház
Theatre in Budapest, named after actress Fedák Sári.
Soroksári Sváb Tájház🏛 museum
Swabian folk museum in Soroksár, Budapest.
Soroksári Helytörténeti Gyűjtemény🏛 museum
Local history collection in Soroksár, Budapest.
Tamariska-domb TT
Nationally protected nature reserve in Csepel, Budapest.
Gubacs-pusztai láp
Ex-lege protected marshland in Budapest.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What are the floating gardens/islands?
These are rare peat formations made of reeds and vegetation that float on the water, hosting unique wildlife.
Can you go kayaking on the river?
Yes, the calm waters of the Soroksár Danube are handy for kayaking and canoeing, with several rental spots available.
Are there spots for swimming?
There are designated beaches, for example in Ráckeve or Szigetszentmiklós, where swimming is allowed.
Is the river a good spot for fishing?
Yes, it is one of Hungary's most popular fishing waters, with many private piers and diverse fish species.
Is there a ferry across the river?
Yes, ferries operate in several places, for example between Soroksár and Csepel-Királyerdő.
Soroksar Danube: where is it located?
Soroksar Danube is located in Hungary.
Soroksar Danube: what is there to see?
Highlights include Csepeli Helytörténeti Gyűjtemény, Hajóorr szobor, Csepeli strandfürdő.
Soroksar Danube: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Soroksar Danube: why is it worth visiting?
The Soroksar Danube, also known as the Ráckeve Danube branch, is a 58-kilometer-long side branch of the Danube south of Budapest, separating Csepel Island from the Pest mainland.
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