Suggestions for family of 4- travelling by train

Efficient route? Sorry to tell you, but if traveling by train all routes return to Budapest. But you did identify all the good places. Dress cool, especially in Pecs.

Thanks, James. We are noticing that about the trains- I guess it will be a good way to see a lot of the countryside! We are really looking forward to our trip.

If you can afford it get an apartment that sleeps four ($65 and up per night), so you only have to carry light luggage on your overnight/2night trips. In the Summer I would put Pecs last on the list if it is particularly warm when you are there. You can buy the train tickets when you are in Budapest to increase the flexibility of the trip.

Good to know! I am wondering about the heat since we are used to very mild Bay area summers... maybe we should head to the mountains around Eger instead. I am intrigued by that area also. I wonder how much construction will still be happening in Eger in August? Didnt have much luck finding info about that online so far.

It averages I think in the mid80s but you can google that. The real ptoblem is that AC is rare which can make indoor activities Uncomfortable. Eger is a higher elevation, so ghat should help...then head further to Tokaj and into the wine regions to the NE.

Tihany will be hot but thats when the Lake is most appreciated.

I managed to book a little apartment near Tihany, so we were lucky! I see that Eger will be warm also, but have found a few places with AC. It looks like a beautiful area... can't wait to sample the local wines!

Looks like you're on the right track. Enjoy Hungary!