Ultimate Hungary Travel Guide
Hungary is where Roman ruins, Gothic castles, thermal spas, and ruin bars coexist—often within the same city block. This Hungary travel guide will help you navigate a country that blends history and modernity in the most delicious and surprising ways.
Whether you’re soaking in a 16th-century bath, sampling goulash in a countryside tavern, or sipping Tokaji wine in a centuries-old cellar, Hungary invites you to slow down, look deeper, and enjoy the unexpected.
What To Know At A Glance
- Language: Hungarian
- Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET)
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and Fall (September–November)
- Visa: Not required for U.S., Canadian, Australian, or EU citizens for stays under 90 days (Schengen rules apply)
- Transportation: Trains, regional buses, metros in Budapest, affordable taxis and rideshares
Why Visit Hungary?
Hungary might just be Europe’s best-kept secret. This Hungary travel guide is your gateway to a country where thermal baths bubble beneath Belle Époque boulevards, and medieval castles rise above rolling vineyards and wide-open plains.
Whether you’re soaking in a centuries-old spa, sipping sweet Tokaji in a candlelit cellar, or discovering paprika-laced dishes that redefine comfort food, Hungary offers a travel experience that’s both grounded in history and alive with quirky charm. It’s off the beaten path—and all the better for it.
Getting to & Around Hungary
International Flights
The main international gateway is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, with additional service from Debrecen International Airport for flights within Europe. Flying midweek or during shoulder seasons often means better fares.
Transportation Within Hungary
- Trains: Efficient and scenic between major cities like Budapest, Eger, Pécs, and Szeged
- Buses: Widespread network, especially useful for smaller towns
- Car Rentals: Ideal for the countryside, wine regions, and national parks
- Public Transport in Budapest: Metro, trams, and buses are easy to navigate with a travel card
- Ride Shares: Bolt and Uber operate in Budapest
Do You Need a Visa?
Hungary is part of the Schengen Area, so most short-term travelers don’t need a visa.
U.S., Canadian, Australian, and EU citizens can stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
If you do require one:
- Apply early
- Bring a valid passport, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and return ticket
(Always double-check with official sources before you go.)
Popular Destinations in Hungary
Budapest
Hungary’s capital is split by the Danube into Buda (historic, hilly) and Pest (flat, buzzing, urban). Visit Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, thermal baths, and ruin pubs. Stay in the Jewish Quarter for nightlife or Castle District for old-world charm.
Debrecen
The country’s second-largest city, known for its Great Reformed Church, thermal baths, and proximity to Hortobágy National Park. A cultural hub with a small-town vibe.
Szeged
A sunny southern city with stunning Art Nouveau architecture and a lively café scene. Famous for its paprika, open-air theater, and youthful energy.
Pécs
Artistic, multicultural, and rich in Roman and Ottoman history. Visit the early Christian burial chambers, Zsolnay ceramics museum, and wander the Mediterranean-feeling streets.
Top Things to Do in Hungary
Cultural Experiences
- Budapest: Parliament Building, Chain Bridge, Gellért Hill
- Thermal Baths: Széchenyi, Gellért, Rudas—relax in history
- Castles & Fortresses: Visegrád, Eger, Buda Castle
- Baroque Towns: Szentendre, Győr, and the Danube Bend
Festivals & Events
- Budapest Spring Festival: Classical music, ballet, opera
- Sziget Festival: One of Europe’s biggest music festivals
- Wine Harvest Festivals: Held in Eger, Tokaj, Villány, and more
- Christmas Markets: Budapest’s Vörösmarty Square is magical
Outdoor Adventures
- Lake Balaton: Swim, sail, sunbathe, or bike around the “Hungarian Sea”
- Bükk National Park: Hike forested trails and spot wildlife
- Aggtelek Caves: A UNESCO-listed labyrinth of limestone
- The Puszta: Vast plains, horse shows, and Hungarian cowboys
Culinary Highlights
- Goulash: Rich beef stew with paprika
- Lángos: Deep-fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese
- Kürtőskalács (chimney cake): Sweet spiral pastry cooked over an open flame
- Wine: Try Tokaji Aszú, Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood), and crisp whites from Badacsony
- Pálinka: A strong fruit brandy served as a welcome or a challenge—or both
Regional Highlights
Central Hungary
- Home to Budapest, the Danube Bend, and cultural landmarks
- Day trips: Gödöllő Palace, Szentendre, Visegrád
Transdanubia
- Rolling hills, lakes, and wine regions west of the Danube
- Visit Lake Balaton, Veszprém, and Pannonhalma Abbey
Northern Hungary
- Castles, caves, and wine
- Explore Eger, Aggtelek National Park, and the Bükk Mountains
Great Hungarian Plain
- Also called the Puszta
- Visit Hortobágy National Park and the regional capital Debrecen
Day Trips & Excursions
From Budapest
- Szentendre: Art, river walks, and charm
- Visegrád: Panoramic castle views of the Danube
- Esztergom: Hungary’s largest basilica
From Debrecen
- Hortobágy: Traditional herding, native animals, and open-air folklore
- Tokaj Region: Wine tastings in ancient cellars
From Pécs
- Villány: One of Hungary’s best red wine regions
- Siklós Castle: A medieval gem with panoramic views
Practical Travel Tips
Safety Tips for Older Travelers
- Hungary is generally safe, but pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas
- Stay alert in the Budapest metros and at major tourist sites
- Use registered taxis or rideshares at night
Health & Travel Insurance
- Pharmacies (gyógyszertár) are easy to find
- Many pharmacists speak English
- Travel insurance is highly recommended
Money Matters
- Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)
- Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash in rural areas
- Tipping: 10% is standard in restaurants and for services
Packing Tips
- Summer: Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Winter: Warm layers, especially in Northern Hungary
- Spring/Fall: Layers and a light jacket
- Always: Comfortable shoes for cobblestones, markets, and castle staircases
Roam Like A Local
Take a dip in a thermal bath, sip a fröccs (wine spritzer) at a sidewalk café, and join locals for a long stroll along the Danube at sunset. Visit a weekend market, taste the paprika at its source, and linger in a coffeehouse with cake and conversation. Hungarians take pride in hospitality and tradition—and you’ll be welcomed like family.
The Good, the Bad, and the Quirky
The Good
Hungary is richly layered:
- Architecture that spans centuries in a single city block
- Thermal baths that soothe your soul and joints
- Wine regions that rival Western Europe, without the crowds
- A vibrant culture that’s proud, poetic, and very affordable
The Bad
- Public transport in rural areas can be infrequent
- Language barriers exist outside cities—few signs in English
- Cash is king in smaller towns and markets, so come prepared
- Service culture can be more formal—don’t expect speedy smiles
The Quirky Side
- Pálinka: Offered before noon? Totally normal. Say yes with confidence—and a chaser
- Fröccs culture: Hungarians are very opinionated about how much soda water belongs in wine
- Name order: Last name comes first, so don’t be surprised if you see “Nagy István”
- Christmas on December 24: Expect fish soup, walnut pastries, and festive cheer a day early
Roaming Insights
Hungary has a way of revealing itself slowly. At first glance, it’s all majestic bridges and paprika-laced stews. But look closer, and you’ll find a country rooted in history, pulsing with creativity, and overflowing with quiet wonder. Whether you’re floating in a bathhouse or exploring a forgotten fortress, Hungary has a story for you—one worth hearing, and one you’ll want to tell.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling To Hungary
Is Hungary part of the EU?
Yes, Hungary is a member of the European Union and part of the Schengen Zone—but it uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF), not the Euro.
Is English spoken in Hungary?
In Budapest and tourist hubs, yes. In rural areas, less so. Basic Hungarian phrases and Google Translate will go a long way.
What’s the best way to get around Hungary?
Trains are great between cities. For countryside or wine region travel, consider renting a car. In Budapest, the metro and trams are efficient and affordable.
Is Hungary expensive?
Not compared to most of Western Europe. Budapest is more budget-friendly than Paris or Rome, and countryside travel is very affordable.
Is it safe to drink the tap water?
Yes! Hungary has excellent tap water—often from thermal sources. Fill your bottle and roam freely.
Conclusion: Hungary Travel Guide
Hungary may not always top the bucket list—but once you visit, it climbs to the top of your must-return list. With its dreamy architecture, soul-warming food, and poetic beauty, this underrated gem in the heart of Europe offers an unforgettable experience for travelers who like their history with a side of hot springs.
Keep calm, clink your pálinka glass, and roam on.
Europe Travel Planning Essentials
The short answer – YES! The long answer – YES! Travel insurance is not just for travel delays and cancellations. More importantly, it can cover medical emergencies. That’s super important because your own health insurance probably won’t cover you outside your home country.
Our go-to travel insurance provider – Travel Guard
Entry documentation varies depending on your citizenship and your length of stay. If you are visiting from the U.S., you will need a passport. Visas may be required if you are planning a stay of more than 90 days. Check here for your specific requirements.
If you’re booking hotels by the night rather than a package or a tour, our go-to hotel site is Booking.com.
If you want an apartment or hotel – VRBO.
Use Rail Europe for point-to-point rail tickets and multi-day rail passes.
Auto Europe is great for booking car rentals anywhere in Europe.
Try Skyscanner!
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