Pécs: culture and students in the south
Pécs lies on the slopes of the Mecsek hills in southern Hungary and is often described as having a Mediterranean atmosphere. It has Roman, Ottoman and Habsburg heritage, including early Christian tombs on the UNESCO World Heritage list and a mosque turned church on the main square. It was a European Capital of Culture in 2010.
The University of Pécs, founded in 1367, is Hungary’s oldest university, and its medical school teaches many international students in English and German. Students give the city much of its energy.
Which platform for which goal
The sites in our Hungary ranking are in Hungarian:
- Randivonal: our pick for a serious relationship, free to register.
- Szexrandi.hu: for adults looking for something casual.
Tinder, Bumble and Badoo offer free matching and chat and are popular with students and young professionals.
Where to meet people in Pécs
Széchenyi tér, the main square with the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, is the heart of the city. Király utca, the pedestrian street running east from it, is lined with cafés, bars and terraces and is the centre of nightlife.
The Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, built in the old Zsolnay porcelain factory, hosts exhibitions, concerts and events, and is a good place for a cultural date. The Mecsek hills, with the TV tower and its viewing platform, offer walks and views over the city.
University associations, international student groups and sports clubs are central to social life. Language exchanges are a good way to meet Hungarian students.
Etiquette and safety
Pécs is relaxed and welcoming. Interest in the city’s history and culture is appreciated. Meet in public, tell a friend about your plans and never send money to someone you met online.
Dating tips for Pécs
Pécs is a city of terraces and evening walks, and many first dates are spent strolling between the squares of the old town. The academic year keeps the city busy, while summer brings festivals and outdoor concerts.
International students often find that the Hungarian student community is easiest to meet through sports, university events and language exchanges. For professionals, cultural venues and the Zsolnay Quarter offer plenty of reasons to go out, and the city’s size makes it easy to bump into the same people again.
The Mecsek hills and nearby Villány wine region are popular for weekend trips.
Which site fits you in Pécs?
Felix, 24, German medical student
He wants to meet Hungarian students. Badoo and Tinder are free and widely used. Free tip: a walk up the Mecsek hills is an easy first date.
Réka, 33, museum curator
She is looking for a serious relationship. Randivonal is our pick. Free tip: suggest an exhibition at the Zsolnay Quarter for a first date.
Daniel, 40, Irish lecturer at the university
He speaks little Hungarian. Bumble works in English for free. Free tip: university events are a good way to meet people.
Norbert, 29, wants something casual
He is not looking for a relationship right now. Szexrandi.hu is dedicated to casual dating. Free tip: meet first for a drink on Király utca.
Dating in Pécs: FAQ
Is Pécs good for dating?
Yes, especially for students and those who enjoy culture.
Which free dating apps work in Pécs?
Tinder, Bumble and Badoo let you chat for free.
Where do people go out in Pécs?
On Király utca and around Széchenyi tér.
Is Randivonal in English?
No, it is Hungarian. A translation tool helps you use it as an English speaker.

