Europe
Hungary
Budapest is the draw: thermal baths, ruin bars and grand architecture at mid-range prices. Lake Balaton and wine regions are easy add-ons; English thins out beyond Budapest.
- US travel advisoryLevel 1Exercise normal precautionsDetails
- Visa93 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyHUFUS$1 ≈ Ft327.47Details
- Price level52%of US prices (World Bank PPP)Details
- English4/5Widely spokenDetails
- PlugsType C, F230 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency112Police 107 · Ambulance 104 · Fire 105 · All emergencies 112
- Tap waterYes, drinkableTap water is safe nationwide; Budapest's comes from riverbank filtration.Details
- LGBTQ+LegalAfter the 2026 change of government, Budapest Pride got permits again and Orbán-era laws are under review.Details
- Internet271 MbpsMedian fixed broadband · mobile 94 MbpsDetails
- DrivingOn the rightEU licences valid; others should carry an IDP. Zero alcohol limit; buy an e-vignette before using motorways.
- Digital nomad visaYesWhite Card (Fehér Kártya)Details
Where to go in Hungary
4 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BudapestCapital city | 4/5 | $2,440–3,660 | Apr–Jun, Sep | 20/100 |
| Lake BalatonRegion | 4/5 | $1,980–3,050 | Jun–Sep | 31/100 |
| EgerCity | 4/5 | $1,680–2,600 | May–Jun, Sep–Oct | 46/100 |
| PécsCity | 4/5 | $1,590–2,440 | Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct | 51/100 |
When to visit Hungary
April–June and September–October are best; July–August is hot (often 35°C) but Lake Balaton peaks. December has Christmas markets, and thermal baths suit winter.
Good to know
Entry
- Schengen country. Non-EU visitors are fingerprinted and photographed under the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) at first entry; passports are no longer stamped.
- ETIAS pre-travel authorisation is not required yet; its launch has slipped beyond 2026.
- Borders with Serbia and Ukraine are Schengen external borders; expect full EES checks and queues there.
- Schengen visa applicants need travel medical insurance with at least €30,000 cover.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Validate paper tickets or use the BudapestGO app; inspectors fine on the spot.
- Zero alcohol limit for drivers.
- Drinking alcohol in public spaces is banned in many Budapest districts.
Etiquette
- Many Hungarians still avoid clinking beer glasses
- Take shoes off in homes; bring flowers or wine for hosts
- Hungarian names put the family name first
Tipping
10–15% in restaurants, but check the bill first: many Budapest places already add a 10–15% service charge (szervizdíj).
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Speedtest Global Index – Hungary
- National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing – White Card
- National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing – Fees
- Visit Hungary – Getting around
- European Commission – Entry/Exit System
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.