Travel in Hungary

Traveling in Hungary: A Complete Guide

Hungary, located in the heart of Central Europe, is a country rich in millennia of history, natural beauty, and a culinary tradition that blends Central European and Balkan influences. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking culture, relaxation, and authentic flavors.

General Information

Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF), although euros are accepted in some tourist areas.
Prices: Hungary is on average cheaper Italy, but Budapest can have costs similar to European capitals.
Transportation: Budapest has an efficient metro, tram, and bus network. Rail connections are good, but a car is recommended for exploring the country.
Climate: Continental, with cold, snowy winters and hot, dry summers.
Electricity: Type C and F plugs (like in Italy).
Safety: Hungary is a safe country, with low crime; However, be careful of pickpockets in tourist areas.

Road rules in Hungary

Drive on the right and overtake on the left.
Speed limits:
- 50 km/h in residential areas
- 90 km/h outside the city
- 110 km/h on main extra-urban roads
- 130 km/h in Highway
Drinking while driving: zero tolerance (0.0 g/l).
Tolls: Highways are subject to electronic vignettes (e-matrica) that can be purchased online or at service stations.
Obligations:
- Always wear seat belts
- Leave headlights on outside built-up areas
- Wear a reflective vest in your car

What to visit in Hungary

Budapest
The capital, divided by the Danube into Buda (more historic and hilly) and Pest (modern and lively), is the cultural and economic center of the country.
- Castle of Budaand the Fisherman’s Bastion hill
- Hungarian Parliament, one of the most iconic buildings in Europe
- Thermal baths (Széchenyi, Gellért)
- Andrássy Avenue and the State Opera
Lake Balaton
The "Hungarian Sea," the largest lake in Central Europe, ideal for water sports, relaxation, and wine tasting in the nearby hills.
Debrecen
The country’s second largest city, known for its Great Reformed Church and the Flower Carnival in August.
Pécs
A city of art with Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, and the cathedral medieval.
Eger
Famous for the castle, the thermal baths and the red wine “Bikavér” (Bull’s Blood).
Hortobágy
The Puszta National Park, a UNESCO heritage site, where you can admire the traditional herds and Csikós horsemen.

What to eat in Hungary

Hungarian cuisine is hearty and tasty, with abundant use of paprika, meats and vegetables.

Gulyás (Gulasch): meat, potato and paprika soup (different from “German” goulash).
Pörkölt: Slow-cooked meat stew with onion and paprika.
Halászlé: Fish soup typical of riverine areas.
Lángos: Fried flatbread with sour cream, cheese, and garlic.
Töltött káposzta: cabbage stuffed with meat and rice.
Dobos torta and kürtőskalács (chimney cake): very popular traditional desserts.
Hungarian wines: among the most famous is Tokaji (sweet dessert wine) and the reds of Eger and Villány.

Traditions and customs

Hospitality: Hungarians are friendly, even if initially reserved. When invited to your home, it is customary to bring a small gift (wine, flowers, chocolate).
Greetings: Shake hands, and friends also kiss on the cheek.
Language: Hungarian is very different from neighboring European languages; English is widely spoken in tourist cities, while in rural areas it is easier to communicate in German.
Popular traditions: Gypsy music, folk dances, and traditional dress are still very much alive at local festivals.

In summary: Hungary is a popular destinationfascinating for those who love history, natural landscapes and good food. Budapest is the ideal starting point, but it’s worth exploring further afield to discover the baroque cities, lakes, vineyards, and rural tradition of the puszta.