Spring
A vibrant season with blooming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
Hungary
Hungary, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, offers travelers a diverse experience beyond its capital, Budapest. From thermal baths to picturesque towns, there's much to explore.
Budaors_hegy1.jpg : grin derivative work: Jjtkk · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best MonthsApril to June, September to October
- AirportsBudapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD
- TransitExtensive public transport system
- Power230V, 50Hz
- Tipping10-15% in restaurants
- LanguageHungarian
01
When to go
The best time to visit Hungary is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
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Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Summer
Hot weather attracts tourists to lakes and festivals, making it a lively time to visit.
Autumn
A cooler season with beautiful foliage, ideal for wine tasting and cultural events.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Central
Budapest - District V
This central district is home to iconic landmarks like the Parliament and St. Stephen's Basilica.
Busy area, but close to attractions.
Nightlife
Budapest - District VII
Known for its vibrant nightlife and ruin bars, this district is a hub for young travelers.
Can be noisy at night.
Wine
Eger
Famous for its historic castle and red wine, Eger is a charming town in northern Hungary.
Quieter than Budapest.
Culinary
Szeged
This southern city is known for its beautiful squares and the famous Szeged Fish Soup.
Less touristy, authentic experience.
Culture
Pécs
A cultural hub with a rich history, Pécs boasts Roman ruins and a vibrant arts scene.
A bit off the beaten path.
Education
Debrecen
Hungary's second-largest city, known for its university and the Great Reformed Church.
Less crowded than Budapest.
Nature
Lake Balaton - Siófok
A popular summer destination, Siófok offers beaches and water sports on Lake Balaton.
Busy during peak season.
Scenic
Keszthely
Home to the Festetics Palace, Keszthely is a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Balaton.
Great for a relaxing getaway.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Gulyás (Goulash)
A traditional Hungarian stew made with beef and vegetables, found in many local eateries.
→ Try it in a local bistro.
Lángos
Deep-fried flatbread often topped with sour cream and cheese, popular at markets and festivals.
→ Best enjoyed hot.
Hortobágyi palacsinta
Savory pancakes filled with meat, typically served in restaurants across Hungary.
→ Look for it in traditional restaurants.
Pörkölt
A hearty meat stew, often served with dumplings or bread, available in many homes and eateries.
→ A comfort food staple.
Töltött káposzta
Stuffed cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice, a classic dish found in family-run restaurants.
→ Great for a filling meal.
Dobos torte
A layered sponge cake with chocolate buttercream, commonly found in bakeries.
→ Perfect for dessert lovers.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Buda Castle
A historic castle complex offering stunning views of Budapest and rich history.
Fisherman's Bastion
A neo-Romanesque terrace with panoramic views of the Danube and the city.
Heroes' Square
A major square featuring the Millennium Monument and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Lake Balaton
The largest lake in Central Europe, ideal for swimming, sailing, and sunbathing.
Eger Castle
A historic fortress with a rich past, offering guided tours and beautiful views.
The Great Market Hall
A bustling market in Budapest where you can find local produce, meats, and souvenirs.
Szentendre
A charming riverside town known for its art galleries and cobblestone streets.
The Hungarian Parliament Building
An architectural masterpiece located along the Danube River, open for tours.
Gellért Hill
Offers breathtaking views of Budapest and is home to the Citadel.
Visegrád
A historic town with a castle overlooking the Danube Bend, perfect for day trips.
Pécs Cathedral
A stunning example of Romanesque architecture located in the city of Pécs.
The Danube Promenade
A scenic walkway along the Danube River, ideal for leisurely strolls.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
The main airports are Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) and Debrecen International Airport (DEB).
BUDBudapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport
DEBDebrecen International Airport
Train Travel
Hungary has an extensive train network connecting major cities and towns, making it easy to travel across the country.
Public Transport
Cities like Budapest have efficient tram and bus systems, ideal for getting around.
Car Rental
Renting a car can be a great option for exploring rural areas and the countryside.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Hungary uses Type C and F plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V.
Cash
While cards are widely accepted, it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.
Tipping
A tip of around 10-15% is customary in restaurants and cafes.
Language
Hungarian is the official language; English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A week is ideal to explore major attractions and regions.