During your trip around Hungary, you can taste goulash, meat pancakes, fisherman's soup, stuffed cabbage leaves, sour cherry soup and other local specialties.

If you arrive at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International airport (BUD) in Budapest, which is also the largest airport in the country, and you’re traveling further, no worries. It takes a maximum of a several hours to get to any city within the country.

General information about Hungary

Hungary accepts Forint (HUF). Therefore, we advise you to exchange money before your trip for the best rates.

Nowadays, almost 9.75 million inhabitants live in Hungary.

The only official language in Hungary is Hungarian. Whilst the majority of residents speak Hungarian, it is usual to hear locals talking in English, German – these are the languages most used in Hungary.

Hungary shares borders with Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria.

Weather in Hungaria

Hungary has a temperate seasonal climate which is pretty similar to some countries in that part of Europe. If you are considering a visit to Hungary during the summer holidays, then you don’t need to take warm clothes with you as the weather is usually nice and balmy. Although if you are coming in August you might want to bring a light jacket with you as it can get a bit chilly in the evenings. Nevertheless, when you’re going to Hungary it’s better to check the weather forecast before your trip to be prepared for any situation.

Frequently asked questions

What are the main airports in Hungary?

The main airports in Hungary are Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, Debrecen International Airport, and Sármellék International Airport. These airports offer domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to different parts of Hungary.

When is the best time of the year to fly to Hungary?

The best time to fly to Hungary is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. It's also a great time to explore popular cities like Budapest and enjoy outdoor activities without the summer crowds.

What to do in Hungary?

Hungary offers a variety of activities for visitors. Explore the historic sites of Budapest, soak in thermal baths, visit beautiful castles like Buda Castle and Eger Castle, taste traditional Hungarian cuisine, enjoy wine tasting in Tokaj or Villány, or take a relaxing boat ride on the Danube River.

When to book your flight to Hungary?

It is recommended to book your flight to Hungary at least 2-3 months in advance for better deals and availability. However, prices can vary depending on the season and demand. Keep an eye out for promotions or sign up for fare alerts from flight aggregator websites.

What part of Hungary is visited the most?

Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is visited the most by tourists. It offers a rich blend of history, culture, stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious food. The iconic landmarks such as Buda Castle, Hungarian Parliament Building, and Chain Bridge attract visitors from all over the world.

What are top tourist attractions in Hungary?

Some of the top tourist attractions in Hungary include Fisherman's Bastion and Matthias Church in Budapest, Széchenyi Thermal Bath in Budapest for relaxation, Lake Balaton for its scenic beauty and water sports activities, Hortobágy National Park for wildlife enthusiasts, and Eger Castle for history buffs.

Is Hungary an expensive country?

Hungary is generally considered affordable compared to other European countries. Prices for accommodation, dining out, transportation, and attractions are relatively reasonable. However, costs may vary depending on your preferences and travel style. It's always a good idea to plan your budget accordingly.

Hungary travel tips

What is a traditional Hungarian meal?

Goulash is a rich, thick meat soup that is considered one of the symbols of Hungarian cuisine. It is served in literally any cafe, and each chef has his own recipe. An analogue of goulash is the pörkölt dish — a thick stew with different types of meat, potatoes, and vegetables.

Should I exchange money before I travel to Hungary?

There is no problem with changing money into local currency forint (HUF) in Hungary. You can do it in banks or specialized exchange offices. Tourists are often offered to exchange currency just on the street by some individuals. We recommend you avoid doing that, as they will charge you a higher rate.

What is the best time to fly to Hungary?

Hungary is beautiful in any season, but the best time to go there is spring since there are not so many tourists, the temperature is comfortable for walking, and there are trees in blossom everywhere. Summers can be quite hot, and prices are higher in the city due to the festivals. In winter, Hungary can get very cold, down to -15 Celsius, but this is offset by wonderful Christmas fairs.

Is it customary to tip in Hungary?

It is customary to tip 10-20% in cafes and restaurants, depending on how much you liked the service. If you catch a taxi on the street, be prepared that the taxi driver will also expect you to tip.

Is the Budapest city card worth buying?

If you want to get the most out of the city, the Budapest Card might come in handy. It is a tourist card that gives you unlimited use of public transport, access to 30+ attractions in Budapest, and discounts at some restaurants. The card can be bought for any number of days, from 1 to 5. The Budapest Card for 24 hours costs 22 euro.

How do I get from the Budapest airport to the city center?

Budapest Airport is located 25 km from the city center and is connected to it by buses 200E (which goes through the railway station to the Nagyvárad tér station) and 100E (the final stop is Deák tér). The ticket costs 350 HUF (1 euro) when bought from a ticket office or vending machine, or 450 HUF right from the driver.

Do they speak English in Hungary?

Hungarian is a very peculiar language, one of the most difficult in the world. Looking at the signs, you will not see a single familiar word, whether you speak English, French, German, or most other European languages. The local elderly may speak a little Russian. In any case, it would be convenient to install a translator app on your smartphone.

What should I avoid in Hungary?

In Hungary, there is a tradition not to clink glasses. It started in 1848 when the Austrian Habsburg dynasty stopped the revolution in Hungary. Austrian soldiers celebrated this event by clinking glasses. Since then, the Hungarians have vowed never to clink glasses, and you should avoid the usual “cheers” if you don't want to offend the locals.

What is a tasty Hungarian street food?

Langos is a yeast pancake fried in a vat with butter, on which sour cream and cheese (classic version) or vegetables and bacon of your choice are placed. You can taste langos at any market or fair.

Can you drink alcohol in public in Hungary?

Drinking alcohol right on the street is prohibited in Hungary. Therefore, if you decide to drink a bottle of Tokaji wine, you will have to do it in a cafe.

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