Overview
Hungary, a landlocked country in Central Europe, is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the grand palaces and historic landmarks of Budapest to the natural beauty of Lake Balaton, Hungary offers a unique blend of cultural and natural experiences. Explore the thermal baths in Budapest, wander through the medieval streets of Eger, or experience the beautiful landscapes of the Puszta. With a long history of traditions and modern developments, Hungary provides a delightful mix for any traveler.
Quick Facts
- Language: Hungarian (official), English is widely spoken in major tourist areas
- Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)
- Climate: Continental climate with hot summers and cold winters
- Best Time to Travel: May to September for pleasant weather and outdoor activities
- Visa: Hungary is part of the Schengen Area, so you may need a Schengen visa for stays longer than 90 days
- Power Plugs: Type C and F, 230V
- Time Zone: CET (Central European Time), UTC +1, CEST (Central European Summer Time) during daylight savings time
Where to Fly Into
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is the main international gateway to Hungary. Other airports include Debrecen International Airport (DEB) and Hévíz-Balaton Airport (SOB).
Budget
- Accommodation: Budget hostels range from $20-50 per night, mid-range hotels from $50-100, and luxury accommodations start at $100+ per night.
- Food: Casual meals at restaurants typically cost $10-20, while fine dining can range from $30-60 per person.
- Transport: Public transportation in Budapest is affordable, with metro and tram tickets costing around $1-2. Trains and buses to other cities can range from $15-50.
Climate
Hungary has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is in the summer when the weather is warm, but the country is also beautiful in the autumn with colorful foliage.
- Average Temperature (Celsius/Fahrenheit):
- Winter (December to February): -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F)
- Summer (June to August): 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
- Spring/Autumn (March to May, September to November): 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
Safety
Hungary is a safe country for travelers, with low crime rates in most areas. As always, stay cautious in crowded places to avoid pickpockets, especially in Budapest’s busy tourist districts.
Top 10 Things to Do in Hungary
- Relax at Széchenyi Thermal Bath in Budapest: One of Europe’s largest and most famous thermal baths, offering a rejuvenating experience with its outdoor and indoor pools.
- Visit Buda Castle in Budapest: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Buda Castle offers panoramic views of the city and houses several museums and galleries.
- Stroll Along the Danube Promenade: Take a walk along the Danube River, enjoying views of landmarks like the Parliament building and the Chain Bridge.
- Tour the Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest: This grand architectural masterpiece is one of the largest parliament buildings in the world, with stunning interiors.
- Visit the Great Market Hall in Budapest: Explore this massive indoor market for a taste of Hungarian food, souvenirs, and local products.
- Take a Danube River Cruise: See the stunning cityscapes of Budapest from the water, especially beautiful at night when the city is illuminated.
- Explore the Wine Region of Eger: Known for its wine cellars, medieval castles, and scenic vineyards, Eger is perfect for wine lovers and history enthusiasts.
- Discover Lake Balaton: Hungary’s largest lake, offering boating, hiking, and relaxing beach spots, along with charming towns and vineyards surrounding it.
- Visit Hortobágy National Park: Experience Hungary’s great plains (Puszta) with wildlife, traditional Hungarian culture, and herding demonstrations in this UNESCO-listed park.
- Tour the Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest: A neo-Gothic terrace offering incredible views of the city, especially over the Danube to the Parliament and Pest district.