Welcome to Hungary

Fascinating history, a rich cultural scene, thermal spas, astounding architecture – there’s something for every taste in this Eastern European gem. Shedding its Communism clock in the late 1980s, Hungary makes up for lost time with Roman ruins, baroque churches, lively folk life, a famously beautiful lake and more.

Listen for traditional Hungarian folk music as you tour the tiny villages of the Bereg region. Marvel at architectural masterpieces, from neoclassical to art nouveau in Budapest, Szeged, Kecskemett and Debrecen. Take a soak in one of 300 thermal springs – a popular one is the Cave Bath at Miskolc-Tapolca. Stroll through the massive Grand Market Hall of Budapest and meet local farmers and traders.

Join Hungarian families on vacation at the beaches of Lake Balaton. Sip sweet dessert wine from Tokaj and full-bodied reds from Eger. Finally, take a cruise along the Danube, lifeblood of Hungary, and reflect on your marvelous visit.

Unique Facts

• Hungary is one of the oldest countries in Europe. It was founded in 895!
• Get to the spa! Hungary has hundreds of public spas and bathhouses and Budapest has the highest number of thermal springs in the world – 70 million liters of thermal water rise to the surface each day.
• Say cheers and lift a pint of beer, but don’t clink your glasses – it’s considered rude in Hungary. Eye contact, on the other hand, is a must.
• Celebrate paprika! More than 1,000 tons of the red spice are produced each year in Hungary. Visit one of the two paprika musuems, Szeged or Molnar, for a look at the industry and a tasty sample.

Language

Hungary’s official language is Hungarian.

When To Go

The best times to go to Budapest are the shoulder seasons of March to May and September through November. July and August are the high season and have the advantage of longer days and a busy schedule of special festivals. However, this is the most expensive and crowded time to visit. The climate is always relatively mild.

Airports

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months past arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for stays of 90 days or less

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for most travelers when visiting Hungary: Hepatitis A. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B and Rabies.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C and F. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Forint

Getting Around

Highways and urban roads are generally in good condition. Areas under construction are not always adequately marked or blockaded. Use caution in rural areas as roads in these areas are often narrow and poorly lit.

Budapest has an excellent public transportation system, including a tram, subway and bus service. Outside of Budapest, public transportation is not as dependable.

Driver’s License

Valid US driver’s license as well as international driving permit required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Budapest
Szabadság tér 12
H-1054 Budapest
Hungary
Telephone: +(36) (1) 475-4400
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(36) (1) 475-4400
Fax: +(36) (1) 475-4133
acs.budapest@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Tourist Information Office
1052 Budapest
Sütő u. 2. (Deák Square)

1146 Budapest
Olof Palme sétány 5. (in the building of the City Park Ice Rink)

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Ambulance: 104
Police: 107
Fire: 105
24-hour English language emergency assistance: 112

Safety and Security

Pickpocketing regularly occurs on the trains between Budapest and Vienna. In general, do not walk along at night, keep your belongings secure at all times and do not accept food or drink from anyone but a server.