Europe
Is Hungary safe?
L1Exercise normal precautions
Is Hungary safe?
Safe overall, with low violent crime. Budapest's real risks are tourist-trap bars, pickpockets on busy trams and the metro, and late-night chaos in the party district.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 1: Exercise normal precautions, updated 2026-04-14.
- Homicide rate: 0.7 per 100,000 people (2023, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 7.7 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: Police 107 · Ambulance 104 · Fire 105 · All emergencies 112.
- Solo women: Generally safe for solo women; take care late at night in the District VII party zone and with drinks offered by strangers.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Pickpockets on trams 4/6, the metro and at Keleti station
- Drunk crowds in Budapest's District VII party zone
- Intense summer heat in July and August
Common scams
- Friendly strangers suggest a bar; the bill runs to hundreds of euros
- Restaurants without menu prices or with hidden service charges
- Euronet ATMs and exchange booths with poor rates
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.
Safety by place in Hungary
| Place | Safety |
|---|---|
| Budapest | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| Lake Balaton | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| Eger | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| Pécs | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
Quick answers
Is Hungary safe for tourists?
Safe overall, with low violent crime. Budapest's real risks are tourist-trap bars, pickpockets on busy trams and the metro, and late-night chaos in the party district.
Is Hungary safe for solo female travelers?
Generally safe for solo women; take care late at night in the District VII party zone and with drinks offered by strangers.
What is the emergency number in Hungary?
Police 107 · Ambulance 104 · Fire 105 · All emergencies 112.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- 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
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.