"The crest of this Hegyalja is Tokaj" reads a chronicle from the 18th century. Tokaj became the brand name of Hegyalja and it is renowned for its famous vineyards and wineries. The area is called Tokaj-Hegyalja to distinguish it from other Hegyalja regions. "On the vines of Tokaj you are dripping nectar", wrote Kölcsey Ferenc in the national anthem.

Its history is one with that of the nation. The first written chronicle dates back to 1067. Anonymus mentions its defensive hill as Hímesudvar that translates to splendid court.

Later its real fortress, that opened to the waterfront, safeguarded the whole of Upper-Hungary and the single most important ferry in the region, the once-called Tisza Bridge. It served as the lone eastern gateway of Hungary and Transylvania to Poland and Russia. The Tisza Bridge was used for trading or to travel and attack in the 16th century during the surrender to the Turks.

Szapolyai János was pronounced king in Tokaj in 1526. Tokaj also played a significant role in the Rákóczi War of Independence but its fortress was destroyed during this period. The ruins can only be accessed through the river where the Bodrog joins the Tisza.

The king seized the Rákóczi estate following the Kuruts freedom fight and Tokaj became a Town of Chamber. During the, peaceful era it slowly became a market town and received the "Privileged Tisza-Tokaj Township" title.

The 17-18th century is the wineries' golden era. Tokaj gained world fame mainly by trading with the Polish and the Russians.

The decisive battle, that opened the glorious Spring Offensive in 1849, was fought in the Tarcal-Tokaj-Bodrogkeresztúr region in January of that year.

Tokaj is one of the most well-known small towns in Hungary today. It attempts to maintains its fame on the bases of culture and viticulture traditions.

Glimpse of the cityTokaj can rightly be proud of its scenery even among the communities in Hegyalja. From one side it has a riverbank, from the other it leans against the rocky slopes of the Great Hill. The land is splendid with its wide vine-yards and shrub and tree covered peaks. Opposite the town the flood-lands of Bodrog and Tisza are a nature preserve.

The Great Hill with its 516 metres peak is a landmark in the region. "...to the east is the former flame thrower, the mountain of Tokaj, which stands alone like a warlord before his army. He stands chin up in blue cape with dignity..." - Petofi wrote these lines in his Letter From the Journey in the year 1847.

The four hiking trails in the hills provide unforgettable sights and an interesting excursion. Those with a special interest in the local flora will find Woolly Michaelmas Daisy, Footgrass, Fringe flower, Desert Bloodgrass, and Red Lednek.

Where the Bodrog joins the Tisza, under the huge poplars, a trail invites you for a pleasant hike. It is called Széchenyi Trail. This is one of the most beautiful places in Tokaj. Across from it the beach and camping awaits guests. Both the Tisza and the Bodrog are suitable for canoeing and a ship will take those interested in a water journey between Sárospatak and Tokaj from spring through autumn. It is about a 37 km trip.

The Town of "Grape and Wine" also has a profuse collection of artifacts. In the museum, the former Greek markethouse, a display shows the history of religion in the area, and also an abundance of religious icons. A history of the lives of market townspeople, the progress of viticulture, grape growing, wine-making and the tools are displayed in the exhibit.

The Rákóczi-Dessewffy Castle was built around 1700 in Baroque style. First it was owned by the Rákóczi-family but later served as a Treasury building and storehouse for salt. Its arched gateway is typical in Hegyalja. The neighbouring building, the Count Széchenyi István High School Campus is in harmony with the castle with its intimate atmosphere which represents the high standard of planning the layout of the town. The Baroque Greek Catholic Church is a splendid structure and hosts displays of local craftsmen. It is a great concert-hall as well. The synagogue is under reconstruction.

Among all the cellars, the Rákóczi-cellar is the most famous. Its unique design resembles a church aisle and is curiously inviting to everyone.