Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a city that offers stunning architecture, therapeutic thermal baths, picturesque river views, and mouth-watering cuisine. In this ultimate travel guide to Budapest, we journey through the city’s fascinating past and explore the treasures that make it stand out among the world’s most remarkable cities. We will provide all the essential information you need to plan your visit to Budapest. From the best things to do and the best time to visit to practical tips on transportation, accommodation, dining, and cultural etiquette, we have you covered with this comprehensive Budapest travel guide.
Location and Significance of Budapest
Located on the banks of the Danube River, Budapest is the capital and largest city of Hungary. It spans an area of 525 square kilometres (203 square miles) and is home to approximately 1.7 million people. Budapest is divided into two distinct parts by the Danube: Buda, with its historic hills and medieval architecture, and Pest, known for its bustling city centre and cultural scene.
The city is a pivotal economic and cultural hub within Hungary and Central Europe. Its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe has enabled a diverse network of international links and global collaborations. Moreover, Budapest stands as a testament to the resilience and progress of the Hungarian people, having endured a tumultuous history of conquests, wars, and political transformations.
Where does the name “Budapest” come from?
The name Budapest is a combination of three separate cities, Buda, Pest, and Óbuda, which were merged in 1873. This merger brought together the historic Buda Castle on the hilly western bank of the Danube River, the bustling city of Pest on the flat eastern bank, and the district of Óbuda.
Founded as a Celtic settlement, the city witnessed Roman rule, the arrival of the Magyars, and the reign of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Over the centuries, Budapest has been shaped by Ottoman conquests, Habsburg influence, and the struggles of the Hungarian Revolution. The city’s architecture, streets, and cultural fabric bear the scars of these historical events.
5 Unique Things That Make Budapest Stand Out
In this travel guide, let’s look into five things that make Budapest stand out among other cities:
- Architectural Splendour: Budapest is a haven of architectural wonders, with its splendid buildings and bridges showcasing a variety of styles. The city’s architecture will leave you in awe, from the Gothic revival of the Hungarian Parliament Building to the Art Nouveau elegance of the Gellért Baths.
- Thermal Baths: Budapest is often called the “City of Spas” due to its abundance of thermal baths. With over 100 natural thermal springs, the city boasts the highest number of thermal and medicinal baths in the world.
- Ruin Bars: Budapest is known for its unique ruin bars, which are converted abandoned buildings transformed into hip nightlife spots. These venues, filled with eclectic decor and a lively atmosphere, offer a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking a night out in Budapest.
- Caves and Underground Wonders: Budapest has a fascinating underground cave system stretching over 120 kilometres. These caves, formed by thermal waters, contain unique geological formations and are a popular destination for caving enthusiasts.
- The Second Oldest Metro: Budapest’s metro system holds the title of the second oldest underground railway system in the world, after London’s Underground. The first line, the Millennium Underground, opened in 1896.
10 Best Things to See and Do in Budapest
With so much to see and do in Budapest, planning your itinerary is essential to make the most of your time. In this comprehensive travel guide to Budapest, we’ve carefully selected the top 10 attractions and experiences to ensure your first visit is truly unforgettable.
Please note that this travel guide only provides a high-level overview of the must-see highlights to get you started on your Budapest adventure. If you want a more in-depth guide on what to do with more tips and pictures, check out our article featuring the top things to do and see in Budapest.
Buda Castle
Perched on a hill overlooking the Danube, Buda Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Budapest. Explore the Royal Palace, visit the Budapest History Museum, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Fisherman’s Bastion
Located adjacent to Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion offers breathtaking views of Budapest’s skyline. This fairytale-like structure with its seven turrets is an excellent spot for photography.
Hungarian Parliament Building
No Budapest travel guide would be complete without mentioning one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Hungarian Parliament Building. This magnificent structure showcases stunning Gothic Revival architecture and offers a captivating glimpse into Hungary’s political history. Be sure to take a guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building to marvel at its grand interiors.
Hungarian State Opera House
If you’re a fan of opera or architectural beauty, visiting the Hungarian State Opera House is a must. Take a guided tour to admire its opulent interiors, including the stunning auditorium.
House of Music
Nestled amongst the trees of Budapest’s City Park, you’ll find the House of Music. It offers exhibitions, education, and concerts – but most of all, a fabulous roof structure and extensive glass walls. The iconic building design has won numerous awards since its opening in 2022, including one of the world’s most prestigious architectural awards, the Design of the Year award. In our opinion, any Budapest travel guide should include the House of Music!
Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library
Discover the magnificent Ervin Szabó Library, hailed as one of the world’s most gorgeous libraries. Part of the library is housed in an old palace, Wenckheim Palace. The City Council bought it in the 1920s and transformed it into a library. Unlike other historic buildings limited to museum tours, visitors can actively engage with this grand palace as a functional space.
Ruin Bars
Embrace the unique charm of Budapest’s ruin bars, where abandoned buildings have been transformed into lively bars and social hubs. These venues offer an artistic and bohemian atmosphere, each with its own style and themes. Just get yourself a drink, sit back, and soak in the captivating atmosphere.
Hungarian National Museum
The Hungarian National Museum is full of artefacts and exhibits that showcase the nation’s rich heritage. You can explore centuries of culture, from archaeological finds to historical artefacts, and gain insights into the events that have shaped Hungary’s identity.
Vajdahunyad Castle
Transport yourself to a fairy tale setting at Vajdahunyad Castle, an enchanting architectural masterpiece in Budapest’s City Park. This striking castle boasts a blend of architectural styles, from Gothic to Renaissance, creating a captivating backdrop for strolls and memorable photo opportunities.
St. Stephen’s Basilica
Ascend to the heights of St. Stephen’s Basilica for stunning panoramic views of Budapest’s skyline. Marvel at the intricate details of this neoclassical gem. And as you reach the dome, be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the city’s iconic landmarks.
As we mentioned at the beginning of this section, this Budapest travel guide only provides a high-level overview of the must-see highlights. There are a lot more incredible things to do in Budapest. You can find the full list of the best things to do and see in Budapest here.
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Best Time to Visit Budapest
Perfect month to visit: June
If you’re searching for the perfect time to visit Budapest, June is an excellent choice. With around nine hours of sunshine and lower-than-average rain days, June provides an ideal balance for exploring the city’s attractions and enjoying its outdoor spaces.
Another excellent time to visit Budapest is September, when the weather is relatively warm and the city is not too crowded. It’s a great opportunity to take in the city’s architectural wonders and soak up the atmosphere. Additionally, April can be a good time to visit, with the advantage of even lower crowds and a decent number of sunshine hours. However, the average day temperature of 13°C/55°F might be too mild for some.
On the other hand, July and August are the peak tourist months in Budapest, attracting the highest number of visitors. If you prefer to avoid larger crowds, planning your visit during other months is advisable. May, although it has the highest number of rainy days, is still worth considering for its warmer weather and manageable tourist numbers.
January, February, March, October, November, and December have fewer daily sunshine hours (4 hours or less). January and February are great options if you prioritise months with the lowest number of tourists. December, in particular, is an excellent time to experience Budapest’s enchanting Christmas markets and festive lights.
We’d like to highlight that the tourist arrival data we’ve provided in this Budapest travel guide is from 2019. More recent figures have been significantly impacted by COVID-19.
Regardless of the month you choose, Budapest’s attractions, thermal baths, and cultural scene will ensure a truly unforgettable journey.
How Long to Stay in Budapest
Our recommendation: at least 3 full days
We recommend staying in Budapest for at least three days to fully experience the city. This will allow you to visit popular attractions such as the Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, the Hungarian Parliament Building, House of Music, and Vajdahunyad Castle, as well as explore some of the ruin bars and try some of the local cuisine (see section ‘Best Things to Eat in Budapest‘ further down in this Budapest travel guide).
For a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore additional attractions, we recommend extending your stay to four days. This extra day allows for a more in-depth experience and will enable you to visit even more cultural sites. Additionally, you can take some time to unwind and indulge in Budapest’s renowned thermal baths.
If you have five to seven days, you can truly delve into Budapest’s offerings and discover its diverse neighbourhoods. Consider embarking on a day trip, such as visiting Hungary’s open-air museum, Szentendre Skanzen, or exploring the scenic Lake Balaton.
Where to Stay in Budapest
Popular Neighbourhoods to Stay In
When choosing your accommodation in Budapest, you’ll find many options catering to different preferences. The city’s walkability and efficient transportation system make it easy to explore various neighbourhoods. Here are some districts that we recommend staying in:
- Budapest’s District V (Inner City): Located in the heart of the city, District V provides a central location with easy access to major landmarks, shopping areas, and dining establishments. It’s ideal for those who want to be close to the bustling city centre.
- District VII (The Jewish Quarter): Known for its nightlife and unique ruin bars, District VII offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of cultural and entertainment options. It’s a popular choice for those seeking an energetic neighbourhood.
- District I (Castle District): Perched on the hilly western bank of the Danube River, the Castle District boasts historic charm and breathtaking views. With its medieval streets, stunning architecture, and proximity to Buda Castle, District I is perfect for travellers seeking a more tranquil and picturesque setting.
Hotel Recommendations
Here are some noteworthy hotels we recommend:
- Barceló Budapest: With its modern design and location in Budapest City Centre, Barceló Budapest provides stylish rooms and easy access to popular attractions.
- Up Hotel Budapest: Offering clean and comfortable rooms, this 4-star hotel offers air-conditioned, spacious rooms with comfortable beds. We particularly loved the diverse breakfast selection.
- Hotel Oktogon Haggenmacher: Located in the Oktogon area, this 4-star hotel offers a blend of comfort and convenience with its well-furnished rooms and proximity to public transportation.
- Monastery Boutique Hotel Budapest: For a unique stay, this boutique hotel, housed in a 300-year-old monastery, combines historic charm with modern amenities.
Getting from Budapest Airport to the City Centre
Budapest Airport has excellent connections to the city centre. There are several convenient transportation options available to take you from the airport to the city centre. Here are the two that we can recommend:
- Airport Express Bus (100E): The airport is served by bus line 100E. It provides a direct connection between the airport terminals and Deák Ferenc Square in the heart of the city. The bus runs daily every 7-10 minutes during the day; check the official website for the full schedule. It takes around 40 minutes to get from the airport to the city centre. The cost of the journey is HUF 2,200 (approximately 6€ or £5) per person. The bus is the easiest and most affordable option.
You have three options to buy a ticket for the 100E: (1) buy your ticket directly on the bus by simply touching in on the orange card reader as you board using a contactless payment method (card or device), such as VISA card or Apple/Google Pay, (2) buy a paper ticket at the ticket machine outside of the airport, or (3) purchase a digital ticket on the BudapestGo app. We’ll explain more about this app in the section ‘Best Mobile Apps for Travelling in Budapest‘ further down in this Budapest travel guide.
- Rideshare: Another convenient option is to use ride-hailing apps. The advantage of using these apps is the ability to track your driver, get an estimated fare in advance, and pay securely through the app.
While Uber does not exist in Hungary, the ride-share app Bolt is a cheap and efficient way of getting from the airport to your accommodation. We’ve used this service and were very happy with the experience. Make sure to download the app before you arrive so you can organise a Bolt taxi as you leave the airport arrivals hall. The trip should cost you around HUF 6,500-8,000 (approximately 17€-21€ or £15-£18) and takes around 30 minutes.
Getting Around Budapest
As you might have read in one of our other travel guides, we’re all about walking the streets and hopping on public transport when exploring a destination – and Budapest is no different. It’s the best way to immerse ourselves in the local atmosphere and truly capture the authentic beauty of each city.
So, this travel guide to Budapest will guide you on the best ways to navigate its public transport system. Here’s a breakdown of how to get around Budapest:
Walking
Budapest is a pedestrian-friendly city and the best way to explore the city. The city’s compact size makes it convenient to stroll from one attraction to another. This allows you to soak in the charm of the streets, take in the magnificent architecture up close, and discover hidden gems along the way.
Public Transportation
Budapest has a well-developed public transportation system, including metro lines, trams, buses, and suburban trains. You can purchase tickets at metro stations, newsstands, or the BudapestGo mobile app. Validate your ticket before boarding and keep it throughout your journey.
- Metro: Budapest’s metro system consists of four lines (M1, M2, M3, and M4) that cover most parts of the city. The metro is a convenient way to travel between major attractions and neighbourhoods.
- Trams and Buses: Trams and buses operate throughout Budapest and provide access to areas not served by the metro. Trams, in particular, are excellent for sightseeing. A ride along Tram Line No. 2 will treat you to splendid views of the city’s Pest side. You’ll pass by iconic landmarks such as the Great Market Hall, the Chain Bridge, The Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, and the majestic Hungarian Parliament building.
- Suburban Trains: The suburban train network, known as HÉV, connects Budapest with surrounding towns and villages. It’s useful if you plan to explore areas outside the city centre, such as Szentendre or Gödöllő.
It’s worth noting that Budapest’s public transportation operates on an honour system, and ticket inspections are common. Make sure to have a valid ticket or travel pass when using public transport to avoid fines.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services
Taxi prices in Budapest are regulated across all taxi operators. The fare structure consists of a base fee of HUF 1,000 (€3 or £2), along with a distance-based charge of HUF 400 per kilometre (€1 or £1). Licensed taxis in Budapest display corporate logos on both sides of their front doors and prominently show official prices on one of the rear doors.
While it’s theoretically possible to hail any yellow cab off the street without the risk of overcharging, we recommend using one of the mainstream providers for a more reliable experience. Bolt, the Uber of Hungary, offers an easy-to-use app for convenient booking. It’s important to note that Hungary banned Uber in 2016.
It is advisable to avoid freelance cabs. They’re also yellow in colour, but you can distinguish them by the word “freelance” written in black on their front doors. Opting for licensed taxis and using reputable providers like Bolt will ensure a safe and trustworthy transportation experience during your time in Budapest.
Best Things to Eat in Budapest
When exploring Budapest, one cannot overlook the diverse food scene that awaits. From traditional Hungarian delicacies to international flavours, the city offers a wide range of culinary delights. That’s why dedicating a section to the best things to eat is an indispensable component of this Budapest travel guide!
Here are some of our top recommendations for experiencing the best of Budapest’s food culture:
- Goulash (Gulyás): Hungary’s national dish is a must-try when visiting Budapest. Unlike the stew-like versions served elsewhere, authentic gulyás is a flavourful, thin broth simmered with chunks of beef, onions, paprika, tomatoes, and pepper. It’s usually served with fresh white bread and chopped hot paprika on the side. For an authentic goulash experience, head over to Gettó Gulyás.
- Lángos: As you wander through the streets of Budapest, be sure to treat yourself to Lángos, a beloved Hungarian street food. This deep-fried flatbread is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. You can top it with various delicious options, ranging from the classic combination of sour cream and cheese to indulgent garlic butter or even Nutella.
While people often nickname Lángos as the “Hungarian pizza”, if you compare it to an Italian pizza, you may find yourself disappointed. The dough for Lángos is essentially the same as pizza dough, but instead of being baked, it undergoes frying in oil. Lángos has a very different flavour. We recommend the walk-up joint Retró Lángos Budapest.
- Dobos Torte: Also known as Dobosh or Dobos Torta, you’ll see this sweet treat served in cafes and bakeries across Budapest. This decadent treat consists of layers of sponge cake filled with rich chocolate buttercream and topped with a thick layer of caramel. The sides of the cake are often coated in ground nuts like hazelnuts, walnuts, or almonds. It was first served to King Franz Joseph I and Queen Elisabeth at the National General Exhibition of Budapest in 1885 and continues to captivate dessert lovers to this day.
- Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács): No Budapest travel guide is complete without Chimney Cake, a sweet pastry that is a beloved Hungarian treat. Bakers wrap the dough around a cylinder, bake it to golden perfection, and finally coat it with toppings like cinnamon or ground walnuts. These treats are designed to be shared, with each person tearing off a strip of the hot and crunchy dough. There are tons of stalls selling these sweet treats all over Budapest. For some of the best chimney cakes in town, make your way to Kató Néni Finomságai Downtown. We’ve been there several times and had chimney cakes with Oreo topping, Nutella, and M&Ms. They were all delicious!
- Stuffed Cabbage (Töltött Káposzta): This Hungarian speciality features cooked cabbage leaves stuffed with minced pork and beef, rice, tomatoes, and sauerkraut. As with many Hungarian dishes, this dish comes generously flavoured with paprika.
- Mazel Tov: Located in the heart of the Jewish quarter, Mazel Tov is a Middle Eastern restaurant that combines a café bar and a cultural venue in a lush, garden-like atmosphere. In fact, it’s our absolute favourite restaurant in Budapest. Mazel Tov stands out among Budapest’s ruin bars for its upscale ambience. It’s renowned for its delicious hummus plates, pita sandwiches, and Israeli fusion kitchen. While slightly pricier compared to other ruin bars we visited, the elevated experience and refined atmosphere justify the value. Read more about Mazel Tov and other ruin bars in our guide about Budapest’s top things to do and see.
- Blue Agori: For a taste of Greek street food that rivals many of the restaurants you’d find in Greece, head over to Blue Agori. This affordable eatery serves up mouthwatering Greek delights that will transport you to the Mediterranean, so we had to include it in this Budapest travel guide.
Practical Information & Essential Tips
When planning your trip to Budapest, it’s important to be well-prepared with practical information and essential tips to make the most of your visit. In this Budapest travel guide, we’ve compiled key details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. From currency and banking options to local customs and safety considerations, these insights will help you confidently navigate the city.
Currency and Payment
In Budapest, the local currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF), not the Euro, despite Hungary being a European Union (EU) member. The Hungarian currency abbreviation for the forint is “Ft”.
Where does the name “Hungarian Forint” come from?
The name “forint” finds its origins in the city of Florence, where gold coins called fiorino d’oro were minted starting in 1252. In Hungary, a gold-based currency known as florentinus (later referred to as forint) was used from 1325.
The good news is that most hotels, restaurants and shops in Budapest accept card payments. This includes popular options like Google Pay and Apple Pay. We found that we could pay by card in every place we visited, so we never needed to withdraw cash.
Here’s what you need to know about currency exchange and payment methods in Budapest:
- Currency Exchange: You’ll find currency exchange offices throughout Budapest, especially in tourist areas. It’s advisable to compare exchange rates and fees before making a transaction. Avoid exchanging money at unauthorised places or on the street, as they may offer unfavourable rates or engage in scams.
- ATMs: ATMs are widely available in Budapest, and most accept international debit and credit cards. They offer a convenient way to withdraw Hungarian Forints at a favourable exchange rate. However, be aware of any fees your bank charges for international withdrawals. It’s advisable to use recognised banks for cash withdrawals, such as K&H Bank, OTP Bank, Erste Bank, Budapest Bank, MKB Bank, or Raiffeisen Bank. These banks offer fair exchange rates and reasonable withdrawal fees.
Power Plugs & Sockets
Budapest uses two plug types: type C and F. The power supply in Budapest operates at 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Popularly known as the Europlug, the Type C plug is the standard in Europe and has two round pins. It’s used in all countries of Europe except the United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta and Cyprus. Type F plugs are the earthed European standard, with conductive clips at the top and bottom.
It’s important to note that a type C plug fits perfectly into a type F socket. When purchasing a plug adapter for Budapest, either type C or type F will work, although type C is considered the better choice. With a type C adapter, you can easily plug it into a type F socket, but the reverse may not always be possible.
Language and Communication
The official language of Hungary is Hungarian. In Budapest, you can expect to find English speakers in hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions and shops catering to tourists. However, English proficiency may be limited outside of these areas, especially in more local establishments. Consider downloading a translation app on your smartphone, such as Google Translate. This will assist you in effortlessly translating Hungarian signs and communicating effectively during your visit.
Climate
Budapest experiences a temperate continental climate characterised by four distinct seasons. Here’s what you need to know about the climate in Budapest:
- Spring (March to May): Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming landscapes to Budapest. The weather can be variable, with occasional rain showers. Average day temperatures range from 8°C (46°F) to 17°C (63°F).
- Summer (June to August): Summers in Budapest are warm, with plenty of sunshine. It can get quite hot during the daytime. Average daytime temperatures typically range from 22°C (72°F) to 24°C (75°F), but occasionally they reach 35°C (95°F) or higher.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Budapest is characterised by mild temperatures and beautiful colours. Average day temperatures range from 7°C (45°F) to 17°C (63°F), gradually decreasing as the season progresses.
- Winter (December to February): Budapest experiences cold winters with frosty biting wind and occasional snowfall. Day temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) to 4°C (39°F) but can drop below freezing.
Regardless of the season, it’s advisable to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
Local Laws and Customs
When visiting Budapest, always carry your passport, as it’s a legal requirement to have some form of identification with you. Keep in mind that a photocopy of your passport isn’t acceptable, so make sure to have the original document handy.
It’s important to note that transporting individuals without proper identification is illegal in Hungary and could lead to arrests. This is because the country takes a strong stance against human trafficking, and law enforcement agencies are vigilant in enforcing these laws.
Additionally, it’s crucial to be aware of Hungarian laws regarding the possession and use of drugs. The country has strict drug regulations, and any involvement with illegal substances can result in penalties.
Understanding and respecting Budapest’s local etiquette and cultural norms can enhance your experience and interactions with the locals. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Punctuality: Hungarians value punctuality, so it’s essential to be on time for scheduled appointments, meetings, or tours. Arriving a few minutes early is considered polite.
- Dress Code: Budapest has a relatively relaxed dress code. But it’s suitable to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending formal events. Casual and comfortable attire is suitable for most other occasions.
- Dining Etiquette: When dining in restaurants, it’s customary to wait to be seated by the host or hostess. Table manners are similar to Western norms, such as using utensils and not talking with your mouth full. It’s polite to wait until everyone at the table has been served before eating.
- Respect for Culture and Heritage: Hungary has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions. Avoid making insensitive comments about Hungarian history or politics. When visiting religious sites, dress appropriately and observe any guidelines or restrictions. For instance, when exploring the Dohány Street Synagogue in Budapest, men have to cover their heads, such as by wearing a hat, cap, or kippah. Also, entry may be denied if your attire is deemed inappropriate, such as sleeveless tops, short skirts, or shorts.
By being aware of and respecting the local etiquette and cultural norms, you can create positive interactions and leave a good impression on the locals in Budapest.
Safety
When it comes to safety, Budapest is generally a safe city for tourists. According to the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), Hungary is the 18th safest of 163 countries. Hungary’s safety score surpasses that of countries like Belgium, Norway and Spain, and the crime statistics remain below the European average.
While Budapest is a relatively safe destination, it’s always wise to take sensible precautions, particularly against petty crimes. Bag snatching and pickpocketing can occur in Budapest, especially in busy tourist areas. To ensure a safe visit, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be cautious of pickpockets: Just like in any major city, keep a watchful eye against pickpocketing, especially in crowded tourist areas, public transportation, and busy markets. Secure your belongings and keep your valuables safe.
- Use licensed taxis or reliable ride-sharing services: If you need a taxi, choose licensed taxis or reliable ride-sharing services such as Bolt. Avoid unmarked or unofficial taxis to avoid scams or overcharging. Also, please exercise caution when taxi drivers offer recommendations for bars, clubs, or restaurants. They may receive commissions for their referrals.
- Stay in well-lit and populated areas at night: While Budapest generally maintains a safe environment at night, it’s advisable to stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the city.
- Be cautious with your drinks: When enjoying Budapest’s nightlife, be mindful of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your drink and refrain from accepting beverages from strangers. Although drink-spiking incidents are rare in Budapest, it’s essential to remain cautious.
As with any travel destination, it’s essential to use common sense, trust your instincts, and take necessary precautions. By staying alert, informed, and adhering to these safety measures, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Budapest.
Cost
Budapest remains one of the cheapest cities to travel in Europe, mainly due to Hungary not being part of the Eurozone. The Hungarian national currency, the Forint, has consistently depreciated in value in recent years. This factor adds to the allure for those interested in visiting Hungary.
According to the 2023 City Cost Barometer, which compares the costs of short breaks in European cities, Budapest secures an impressive 8th place out of 35 cities surveyed. This ranking highlights the favourable affordability of Budapest compared to its European counterparts.
Tipping
Tipping is customary in Budapest, although it’s worth noting that in most restaurants, the service charge is already included in the bill. However, if the service charge is not included and you’re satisfied with the service, it’s common to leave a small additional tip of around 10% as a gesture of appreciation.
When it comes to taxi rides, it’s customary to either round up the fare or leave a small tip for the driver. In bars and cafes, round up the bill or leave a small tip.
Additionally, it’s customary to tip tour guides, hotel staff, and other service providers who offer exceptional service. A tip of around 10% is a customary way to show appreciation for their efforts.
Drinking Tap Water
One of the conveniences of visiting Budapest is the availability of clean and safe tap water. The city’s tap water is of high quality and meets the standards set by the European Union. By drinking tap water in Budapest, you not only save money but also contribute to the sustainability efforts of the city.
Useful Resources
Best Mobile App for Travelling in Budapest
- BudapestGo: Although you can easily explore Budapest by foot, you might want to hop on a bus if you ever feel tired or encounter unfavourable weather conditions. Budapest’s public transportation system is very easy to use, and the BudapestGo app makes it even easier to navigate the network. It’s the official app of the BKK, the operating company of the Budapest public transport. The app provides real-time vehicle locations and arrival times at stops. Additionally, you can buy tickets online, including for the Airport Express bus 100E. To validate a ticket on your phone, simply scan the QR code located on the outside of the bus; see the pictures below. Please note that you will need to register an account to purchase tickets.
For an extensive selection of mobile apps that can elevate your Budapest travel experience, be sure to check out our dedicated article highlighting the top mobile apps for enhancing city exploration.
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Internet: SIM cards
Do you live in the European Union (EU)? When you travel outside your home country to another EU country, you don’t have to pay additional charges to use your mobile phone. This is known as “roaming”. Your calls, text messages and data usage are charged at domestic rates, i.e. the same price as calls, texts and data within your home country. Since Hungary is an EU member state, this rule applies to you.
If you’re not a member of an EU state, don’t worry! If your phone is eSIM capable (many of the phones produced in the past few years are), we highly recommend buying an eSIM. Providers such as Airalo, Holafly, and Ubigi offer reliable eSIM options for Hungary. We’ve tested all three eSIM providers in other countries and can confidently recommend all of them for a seamless and hassle-free mobile experience during your stay.
In Summary
Budapest is a beautiful city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re exploring its historic landmarks, relaxing in its thermal baths, or indulging in its gastronomic delights, Budapest offers something for every traveller. It surely is one of our favourite cities in Europe.
We hope that our comprehensive travel guide to Budapest, along with the incorporation of our tips into your itinerary, will ensure you have an unforgettable adventure in the “Pearl of the Danube”. For more Budapest tips, ensure to check out our article featuring the best things to do and see in Budapest. Safe travels!