Hungary Travel Information

Hungary is a beautiful country in Central Europe, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. From the charming city of Budapest to the rolling hills of the countryside, there are many things to see and do in Hungary. Here are ten of the top things to do in Hungary:

1. Explore Budapest

Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is a must-visit destination. The city is divided by the Danube River and is home to numerous landmarks such as the Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion, and the Hungarian Parliament building.

2. Relax in a Thermal Bath

Hungary is famous for its thermal baths, and visiting one is a unique and relaxing experience. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath in Budapest is the largest medicinal bath in Europe.

3. Visit Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton, the largest lake in Central Europe, is a popular summer destination for Hungarians and tourists alike. The lake is surrounded by beautiful hills and is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and sailing.

4. Discover Hungarian Wine

Hungary has a long history of winemaking, and there are many excellent vineyards and wineries to visit. The Tokaj wine region is one of the most famous in Hungary and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

5. Explore the Danube Bend

The Danube Bend is a scenic stretch of the Danube River that winds through the hills and valleys of Hungary. The area is home to picturesque villages, historic castles, and stunning natural landscapes.

6. Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building is an iconic landmark in Budapest, and it is one of the most impressive government buildings in Europe. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building to learn about its history and architecture.

7. Experience Hungarian Cuisine

Hungarian cuisine is delicious and hearty, with dishes such as goulash, stuffed cabbage, and chimney cake. There are many excellent restaurants and street food vendors in Hungary to sample these traditional dishes.

8. Explore Eger

Eger is a beautiful town in northern Hungary, famous for its thermal baths and stunning baroque architecture. The town is also home to the Eger Castle, a historic fortress that played a significant role in Hungarian history.

9. Visit the Szeged Open-Air Festival

The Szeged Open-Air Festival is a popular cultural event that takes place in the summer months. The festival features theatrical performances, concerts, and exhibitions.

10. Discover the Hortobágy National Park

Hortobágy National Park is the largest protected area in Hungary, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park is home to unique wildlife, such as the Hungarian Grey Cattle and the Racka Sheep, and visitors can explore the beautiful landscapes on foot, by bike, or on horseback.

Hungary has a temperate continental climate, which means that it experiences warm summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Hungary depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do. Here are some details about the climate and the best time to visit Hungary:

Spring (March - May)

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Hungary, with mild temperatures and colorful blossoms. The average temperature during this time is around 15°C (59°F). It is a great time to explore the cities, take a walk in the countryside, or attend outdoor festivals.

Summer (June - August)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Hungary, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The average temperature during this time is around 25°C (77°F), making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the outdoors. However, be prepared for crowds and higher prices.

Autumn (September - November)

Autumn is a pleasant time to visit Hungary, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. The average temperature during this time is around 15°C (59°F), and the changing leaves create a beautiful backdrop for exploring the countryside.

Winter (December - February)

Winter in Hungary is cold and snowy, with average temperatures around 0°C (32°F). However, the holiday season brings festive markets and events, and the thermal baths offer a cozy respite from the cold.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Hungary has a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury properties. Many hotels are located in the city centers, making them convenient for exploring the local attractions.

Hostels

Hostels are a popular option for budget-conscious travelers, and there are many in Hungary. Hostels offer shared dorms or private rooms, making them a great option for solo travelers or groups.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are small, family-run properties that offer a more intimate and personal experience than hotels. They are often located in the countryside, providing a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.

Apartments

Apartments are a great option for travelers who want more space and the flexibility to cook their meals. Many apartments in Hungary are located in the city centers, making them convenient for exploring the local attractions.

Bed and Breakfasts

Bed and breakfasts are small properties that offer a cozy and home-like atmosphere. They usually include breakfast in the price of the room, making them a great value.

Farmstays

Farmstays are a unique accommodation option in Hungary, providing an opportunity to experience rural life and learn about local agriculture. They offer a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, with fresh air and natural surroundings.

Camping

Camping is a great option for travelers who want to experience the beautiful Hungarian countryside. There are many campsites throughout Hungary, offering a range of facilities and amenities.

Public Transportation

Hungary has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. Budapest, in particular, has an extensive network of public transportation, making it easy to get around the city.

Taxis

Taxis are a convenient option for getting around Hungary, especially in cities. They are readily available and offer a fast and efficient way to get around.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is a great option for travelers who want to explore Hungary at their own pace. Many car rental companies operate in Hungary, and it is relatively easy to navigate the roads and highways.

Trains

Hungary has a well-developed rail network, offering connections to many major cities and towns. Trains are a comfortable and efficient way to travel, and they often offer scenic routes through the countryside.

Bicycles

Cycling is a popular way to explore Hungary, with many scenic bike paths and trails throughout the country. Many cities offer bike rental services, making it easy to explore on two wheels.

River Cruises

The Danube River runs through Hungary, and taking a river cruise is a great way to see the country from a different perspective. River cruises offer a unique and relaxing way to explore Hungary's cities and countryside.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.