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Tour Guides Hungary

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Idegenvezetők magyarul.

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Magyarországon

Egyéni utazók és csoportok, iskolai kirándulások, múzeumlátogatás Magyarországon.

Fedezd fel a világ városait magyar nyelven, magyar támogatással, kényelmesen, profi háttérrel.

Welcome to our website. This is a nonprofit page for licensed tourist guides in Hungary. You can find guides and their tours in 26 languages.

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"With a language unrelated to any in Europe, and food and wines different from many, Hungary is a country that has always forged its own path"

Chris, Travel Director

Visit the Fisherman's Bastion in Budapest

Straight out of a storybook, the Fisherman’s Bastion is an ornate lookout tower and terrace of Buda Castle. Built from 1895 to 1902, there are seven decorative turrets, with spectacular views over Budapest. As one of our favorite ways to see the city, the Fisherman’s Bastion is a Budapest must see.

See the Great Synagogue, the largest in Europe

Also known as the Dohány Street Synagogue, the Great Synagogue is one of the most impressive Budapest attractions. With the capacity to seat 3,000 people, it’s the largest synagogue in Europe, set within a wider complex that includes the Jewish Museum, Heroe’s Temple, Memorial and graveyard.

Go shopping for Hungarian embroidery

Hungarian embroidery is a beautiful folk art tradition where dresses, slippers and smocks are intricately threaded with bright flowers and leaves. We’ll take you shopping at the Great Market Hall for your special souvenir, or the Váci útca, a pedestrian street with shops selling handcrafted designs.

Relax in the Szechenyi Baths

After a day of adventure, a visit to the Szechenyi Baths is one of the most fun things to do in Budapest. Built in the early 20th century as a medicinal spa, this bathing complex is now one of the largest in Europe. Soak in the pools, saunas and whirlpools, with water sourced from two hot thermal springs.

Venture up Gellert Hill for spectacular views of Budapest

Take a walk up the parklands of Gellert Hill for incredible views over the Danube River and Budapest. We’ll also reveal several other attractions such as the St. Gellért Monument, Budapest’s Statue of Liberty, a former citadel and Gellert Hill Cave, which served as a church and a field hospital during WWII.

Our top 5 things to do in Hungary

A day of Budapest sightseeing with Trafalgar takes you from the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, to the soothing Szechenyi Baths, to the top of the city on Gellert Hill and beyond.

Hungarian National Gallery

Located in Buda Castle, the Hungarian National Gallery is home to 100,000 permanent artworks spanning from the 11th to the 20th century. We’ll also take you to up the 54 steps to the dome of Buda Castle, where you can admire the spectacular views over the city.

House of Terror

A former headquarters of the Hungarian Nazi Party during WWII, the House of Terror now contains a chilling exhibition to commemorate the totalitarian regimes of 20th century Hungary, and a memorial to the victims who were tortured and killed in the building.

Museum of Fine Arts

Located in Heroes’ Square in Budapest, the Museum of Fine Arts houses an impressive collection of more than 100,000 pieces of international and Hungarian art. Opened in 1906, the works now span six exhibitions including Egyptian, Modern, Antique, Graphics and Old Sculpture collections.

Best museums in Hungary

You’ll visit the country’s best museums on a Hungary tour with Trafalgar. Visit a museum in Buda Castle and learn about Hungary’s past horrors at the House of Terror.

Goulash (gulyás)

No Budapest food tour is complete without a taste of traditional Hungarian goulash. We’ll show you the top places to try this delicious stew of beef and vegetables in a spicy paprika seasoned broth. Served with noodles or potatoes, this is the best way to stay warm.

Fisherman’s soup (Halászlé)

A bright red soup made with paprika and river fish, Fisherman’s soup is one of the most famous (and spiciest) foods to try when you visit Hungary. The soup was traditionally prepared in kettles on an open fire by fishermen, and it’s served straight from the kettle with a side of bread.

One of the most-loved dishes, lángos is a Hungarian national specialty and the star of street-food. It’s a deep-fried dough - crispy on the outside and soft inside - topped with delicious layers of cheese, sour cream and garlic butter. You can even find modern sweet versions with chocolate sauce and whipped cream.

Best food in Hungary

Often hailed as one of the best in the world, Hungarian cuisine is a fiery blend of rich meats, vegetables, doughy pastry and lashings of paprika. You'll savor the finest examples of local cuisines every day on our Hungary holidays.

What to pack for Hungary

Swimsuit and towel

These are essential items when you visit the Szechenyi Baths. There are 21 pools, saunas, steam rooms, and whirlpools, brimming with soothing thermal water.

With some of the most enchanting scenery and architecture in Europe, you’ll want a camera on hand to capture all the magic.

Budapest is a wonderful city for picking up original souvenirs like handmade porcelain and Hungarian embroidery. A small day bag will keep your hands free while you shop.

A big appetite

With a smorgasbord of traditional dishes, created over thousands of years of Magyar history, you’ll love diving into the delicious Hungarian cuisine.

An adapter plug

Voltage in Hungary is 230V and the sockets are of Type C and F, with standard European 2-pin plugs.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and toiletry bottles.

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Hungary Tours & Vacations

Hungary offers travelers a slice of classic, Central European grace and grandeur.

With cobbled streets, charming castles, magnificent concert halls and historic churches, Hungary is all class. But what might surprise travelers is that Hungary is also a burgeoning wine-producing region, home to bucolic villages, thermal lakes, steaming hot springs and markets filled with organic produce - what's not to love?  

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Hungary tour reviews

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Europe Christmas Markets: Budapest to Zagreb

Cycle the Danube

Articles of Hungary

The top 8 destinations for travel in June 2024

Our guide to the best Christmas markets in Europe

Everything you need to eat and drink in Hungary

5 budget destinations in Europe you won’t want to miss

Feeling Hungary? Our perfect weekend in Budapest

East meets best: seven things you didn’t know about Eastern Europe

Hungary at a glance

Capital city.

Budapest (population 2 million)

9.9 million

(GMT+01:00) Belgrade, Bratislava, Budapest, Ljubljana, Prague

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Hungary

Best time to visit hungary.

July and August are the busiest months for tourists in   Europe , outside of these times it tends to be less crowded. The Hungarian summer is warm, sunny and unusually long, but the tourist areas tend to get very crowded in late July and August, so some of the best months to visit are May, June and September. Hungary can be a little wet in May and June, but spring is just glorious. Autumn is beautiful, particularly in the hills around Budapest and in the Northern Uplands. Hungarian winters are typically cold and bleak, with museums and other tourist sights often closing.

Geography and environment

Located in Central Europe, landlocked Hungary shares borders with   Slovakia , Ukraine ,   Romania ,   Serbia ,   Croatia ,   Slovenia   and   Austria . While most of Hungary is flat, there's some mountainous terrain to be found in the north and near the Austrian border. While Hungary has no coastline, the country is rich in rivers, brooks, lakes and hot springs, with the Danube and the Tisza flowing through, as well as other tributaries. Blessed with a vast amount of arable land, Hungary has an extensive agriculture/viticulture industry, with vineyards, orchards, farms and grazing livestock a common sight when traveling out of the city.

Top 5 classic castles of Hungary

1. vajdahunyad castle.

A blend of many different architectural styles, this urban castle located in Budapest showcases Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque and Renaissance features. Modeled on a Transylvanian castle, this unique building is now home to a museum dedicated to Hungarian agriculture, wine making and forestry.

2. Fisherman's Bastion

Providing exceptional panoramic views of Budapest, this white stone castle-like structure was built in 1905. Retaining a distinct 'Disney-like' air, this charming building has winding staircases, towers, parapets and a conical roof - hallmarks of all good fairytales!

3. Festetics Palace

This Baroque palace located in Zala County may technically not be a castle but definitely has all the opulence and grandeur of one. Built in the 18th century for the wealthy Festetics Family, this palace is now home to a coveted book collection (considered the greatest surviving aristocratic library in Hungary) as well as a museum and concert hall.

4. Castle of Eger

This ancient castle has survived invasions, explosions and the ravages of time to become one of Eger's most popular attractions. Surrounded by cobbled streets, the panoramic views from atop the fortress walls are splendid in clear weather.

5. Brunswick Castle

Built in 1775 for Count Antal Brunswick, this grand neo-gothic castle once played host to Beethoven. Now surrounded by a nature reserve and home to a museum, church and research institute, this impressive castle just outside of Budapest is well worth a day trip.

Further reading

Hungary travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Is tipping customary in Hungary?

Tipping is generally expected by service workers in Hungary. A tip of around 10% is sufficient for taxi drivers, wait and hotel staff.

What is the internet access like in Hungary?

Travelers will be able to access the internet at cyber cafes and hotels in Hungary's cities. Regional and rural areas may have less internet access, but overall, Hungary is well connected to the web.

Can I use my cell phone while in Hungary?

Cell phone coverage is good in most parts of Hungary. Be sure to activate global roaming on your phone before leaving home if you wish to use your mobile.

What are the toilets like in Hungary?

Most toilets in Hungary are of the modern, flushable variety. Public toilets are quite scarce in Hungary and expect to pay a small fee when visiting, as is standard practice in many other Central European countries.

What will it cost for a…?

• Slice of cake in a cafe = 300-400 HUF
• Public transport ticket = 320 HUF
• Bottle of local beer = 600 HUF
• Bowl of hearty soup = 600 HUF
• Simple fast food meal = 1,000-1,500 HUF
• Three-course meal in a restaurant = 3000-10,000 HUF

Can I drink the water in Hungary?

The tap water in Hungary is considered safe to drink unless otherwise marked.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Hungary?

Major credit cards are usually accepted by large hotels, restaurants, boutiques and shops. Smaller retailers like family-run restaurants, market stalls and small shops may not accept credit cards, so always carry enough cash to cover smaller purchases.

What is ATM access like in Hungary?

Travelers will be able to find ATMs throughout most of Hungary, especially in large cities and regional towns.

What public holidays are celebrated in Hungary?

• 1 Jan New Year's Day
• 15 Mar Revolution Day
• Good Friday*
• Easter Monday*
• 1 May Labour Day 
• 5 Jun Whit Monday
• 20 Aug Saint Stephen's Day
• 23 Oct Republic Day
• 1 Nov All Saints' Day
• 25 Dec Christmas Day
• 26 Dec 2nd Day of Christmas

*Please note these dates may vary. For a current list of public holidays in Hungary go to World Travel Guide's website .

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Stunning architecture, vital folk art, thermal spas and Europe's most exciting capital after dark are Hungary's major drawing cards.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Castle Hill

Castle District

Castle Hill is a kilometre-long limestone plateau towering 170m above the Danube. It contains some of Budapest’s most important medieval monuments and…

Esztergom Basilica

The largest church in Hungary sits on Castle Hill, and its 72m-high central dome can be seen for many kilometres around. The building of the present…

Great Synagogue

Erzsébetváros & the Jewish Quarter

Budapest's stunning Great Synagogue is the world's largest Jewish house of worship outside New York City. Built in 1859, the synagogue has both Romantic…

Memento Park

Home to more than 40 statues, busts and plaques of Lenin, Marx, Béla Kun and others whose likenesses have ended up on trash heaps elsewhere, Memento Park,…

Basilica of St Stephen

Budapest’s neoclassical cathedral is the most sacred Catholic church in all of Hungary and contains its most revered relic: the mummified right hand of…

House of Terror

The headquarters of the dreaded ÁVH secret police houses the disturbing House of Terror, focusing on the crimes and atrocities of Hungary's fascist and…

The Eclectic-style Parliament, designed by Imre Steindl and completed in 1902, has 691 sumptuously decorated rooms. You’ll get to see several of these and…

Hungarian National Museum

The Hungarian National Museum houses the nation’s most important collection of historical relics in an impressive neoclassical building, purpose built in…

Latest stories from Hungary

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Mar 7, 2022 • 6 min read

Budapest is a symbol of Hungary’s history, architecture, and identity, but there’s more to experience beyond the capital

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Hungary Tours & Trips

On the banks of the Danube River lies the alluring city of Budapest. But try also a walking tour or a romantic cruise adventure, luxuriate in one of the many thermal bath-houses, or experience the vastness of the grassy plains in Hungary’s north on horseback.

17 Hungary tour packages with 52 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Tailor-Made Holiday of Hungary History & Wine with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• In-depth Cultural

Tailor-Made Hungary Private Trip with Daily Departure

Budapest, Hungary

I am very happy with my experience of Tour Radar. The trip to Budapest was great and Tour Radar was extremely helpful with any questions I had regarding the trip and the area. They provided a clear itinerary before the trip as well as offered suggestions of other things in the city that might be of interest. I would definitely book with Tour Radar again!

Trip to Budapest in 5 Days

Cycle the Danube

Tour guides/leaders were incredible...very knowledgeable of the area and history and culture and food! The final stay in Budapest at the Star City Hotel was disappointing...staff were stressed, aloof, and not customer service oriented ( in a positive way) Be nice to choose a true 4 star hotel for the last night of the trip

Prague & Budapest

Enjoyed every moment!!! Hotel was great, just wished it was closer to Old Town.

Vienna and Budapest ( 4 days )

Hotel in Vienna Prinz Eugene was so so and Breakfast buffet did not have much choice for vegetarias, but Budapest hotel Novim Cenrum is good. Overall city Tour of Vienna and Budapest with local guides are goid. especially local guide Mario in Budapest was very informative.

Looking for tours beyond just Hungary?

Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Hungary.

Architecture Hungary

Austria and Hungary in a week - Vienna and Budapest

• Self-Guided Cycling
• Road Cycling

Cycling the Danube from Vienna to Budapest

some part directions were too confusing

DANUBE TRAIL

• River Cruise

From the Tisza to the Danube, through the Real Hungary (port-to-port cruise)

From the Danube to the Tisza, through the Real Hungary (port-to-port cruise)

Tailor-Made Best Budapest Tour with Daily Departure

Customized Hungary Vacation with Daily Departure, Private Guide and Driver

What people love about hungary tours.

Sasa Tour Guide and Andro the driver were great. They took care of the group with their jovial attitude and ensured that individual's needs were met. They provided easy to follow directions and kept the group together. There were occasions when things would have gone wrong but Sasa and Andro ensured that they are there on every step along the way to make it trouble-free and enjoyable experience. I highly recommend intrepid tours and would consider future tours through Intrepid.

Very good overall experience. Some glitches in pick up timing but they were all resolved. Very happy with experience.

Hungary Destinations

• Vienna Budapest Prague (11)
• Transdanubia (5)

Travel Styles

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• Explorer (7)
• In-depth Cultural (7)
• 7 Day Tours (9)
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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Hungary Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

Hungary is one of the many underrated gems of Europe . Compared to pricey Western Europe, Hungary offers incredible value. It boasts beautiful landscapes, rich history, hearty food, and affordable nightlife ( Budapest is one of the best nightlife spots on the continent).

You’ll also find fewer crowds, cheaper prices, beautiful national parks, historic city centers, and friendly people.

It’s one of my favorite places to explore in Europe!

While most visitors only visit Budapest, there is so much to see elsewhere around the country. It always surprises me that, for a country in the middle of Europe, so few people actually bother to explore it!

This travel guide to Hungry can help you visit the country on a budget and ensure you have an epic trip without breaking the bank.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Hungary

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in hungary.

1. Explore Budapest

With its cheap accommodation, a multitude of thermal baths, and historic castles, Budapest is always a big hit with travelers. On a visit to Hungary’s capital city, you can explore underground caves, marvel at the stunning architecture, and enjoy the incredible nightlife. Cruise the river Danube on a riverboat to check out the views during the day, and then dance the night away when the boats turn into some of the city’s best late-night clubs. It has lots to do, cheap food, and a lively atmosphere. It’s one of my favorite cities in the world!

2. Visit the ruin bars

After World War II, many buildings in the city were left ruined and abandoned. Squatters, then artists, and now hipsters moved into them and have turned them into eclectic “ruin bars” that even the locals love. The atmosphere is grungy and unique with rundown exteriors that open into hip spaces for dancing, performance art, and theater. Decorated with reclaimed materials and quirky antiques, the ruin bars are an iconic part of Hungary’s nightlife. Szimpla Kert and Fogasház are among my favorites.

3. Soak in the largest thermal lake in the world

Hévíz is located near Lake Balaton and is home to the largest swimmable thermal lake in the world, Lake Hévíz. Whatever the season, the lake remains a perfect temperature for taking a dip in the therapeutic waters which are rich in minerals like magnesium, calcium, sulfur, and hydrogen carbonate (Hungary’s thermal waters have been used for thousands of years for their health benefits). In the early 1900s the area became a popular spa resort destination, with visitors flocking from all around Europe. There isn’t much to the town beyond this, but it makes for a neat day trip if you’re in the area. Single entry tickets are 3,500 HUF for three hours and there is a range of spa services available too.

4. Hike Gulács Hill

This inactive volcano stands around 400 meters (1,312 feet) high and makes for a wonderful hike. The path is rugged and often covered in dense forests or fallen trees, so it’s not ideal for children. Various trails snake up the mountain, and on the way, you can visit other landmarks like an old, abandoned quarry. Mysterious paths continuously intersect and lead to nowhere, so it’s easy to get a little lost, and dense woods add to the mystique of the hike. From the first observation point, you can see all the way to Lake Balaton. You’ll get stunning views of the entire area and it’s only a 3-kilometer (2-mile) trek. It makes for an easy day trip from Budapest.

5. Take a trip to Eger

Tucked away in northern Hungary near the Bükk Mountains, this town dates all the way back to the 10th century. It is known for its historic castle, which was originally a manor house and chapel that overlooked the valley. Throughout the 11th and 12th centuries, the castle suffered major damage and was rebuilt and fortified multiple times until the church began to demolish the structure in the late 1700s. Luckily, the demolition was stopped, and archeological digs and excavations began in the 20th century. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the medieval bishop’s castle for 2400 HUF. Eger is also famous for its stunning Baroque and architecture and Turkish ruins, thermal baths, and the best red wine in the country. You can buy wine directly from those who make it, so this is a good place for souvenirs — or to stock up for yourself!

Other Things to See and Do in Hungary

1. dance at the sziget music festival.

The Sziget Music Festival is one of the largest music festivals in Europe. It takes place every August for one week on Margaret Island in Budapest, right on the Danube River. Because of its size and international popularity, tourists and locals alike flock to Budapest to take in the scene. With over 1,000 performances, there is something for most musical tastes. You can book tickets online. Prices start around 132,000 HUF for a full festival pass.

2. Relax at Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton is the biggest freshwater lake in Central Europe and is known affectionately as the Hungarian inner sea. It’s a popular tourist destination both for visitors and nationals thanks to its beaches and volcanic hills. In Tihany, you can visit a Benedictine Abbey that dates to 1065 CE (admission is 2,200 HUF). Towards the north of the lake is a wine-growing region, wetlands, and some epic hiking trails. For those looking for more relaxation, you’ll find over 1,000 hot springs famed for their medicinal properties here. One of the most popular is Héviz Lake (mentioned above) which also offers visitors a whole range of different spa treatments. Treatments start from 3,900 HUF for a 35-minute massage.

3. Cruise along the Danube

The Danube is the second-longest river in Europe (the Volga is the longest). The river runs through the entire country and you can visit many of the small towns that line its coast by taking a boat cruise (you can even cruise into Germany if you have time). Expect to pay around 22,000 HUF for a full-day cruise that includes lunch. For a shorter 4-hour cruise without food included, prices start at 4,000 HUF.

4. Visit the Necropolis in Pécs

Located just a couple hours from Budapest, this UNESCO World Heritage Site dates to the 4th century. It’s the largest necropolis in Europe, with several burial chambers open to the public, including multi-level chambers. Admission is 1,700 HUF. It’s currently closed for renovations and expected to reopen in early 2023.

5. Take a food tour

Hungarian cuisine is both delicious and hearty. If you’re a foodie like me and want to sample the country’s most popular dishes (while learning about their cultural importance), take a food tour. Food Tour Budapest runs in-depth guided tours around Budapest that can introduce you to the region’s best dishes and teach you how they came to be. Tours last a few hours and start at 18,200 HUF.

6. Admire the National Gallery

Established in 1957 and located in the Royal Palace in Budapest, the National Gallery is home to works from prominent Hungarian and European artists. There are a lot of paintings and sculptures here, as well as a collection of altarpieces from the 1400s. You can also tour the building’s dome for views of the city. It’s not a huge gallery, so you only need a few hours to take it in. Admission to the gallery is 3,400 HUF per person and an audio guide is 1,100 HUF.

7. Go birdwatching

Hungary is home to a surprising number of bird species. Hot spots for birding include Hortobágy, Lake Ferto, Kiskunság, Lake Tisza, Bükk, and the Zemplén Mountains. In these places, you have a fair chance of seeing great bustards, sakers, imperial eagles, pygmy cormorants, woodpeckers, and even Ural owls. There are several companies that can arrange small group trips to these places (often combined with other activities, like wine tastings). Tours aren’t cheap, though — multi-day tours cost upwards of 240,000 HUF — so consider a self-guided trip if you’re on a budget.

8. Visit the House of Terror museum

Hungary is infamous for the brutality of its leaders under the Nazi and Soviet regimes. This building is both a museum and a memorial paying homage to the thousands of people who were tortured and brutally killed here. It’s not a light way to spend your afternoon, but you’ll get heaps of insight into Hungary’s complex history. Admission is 4,000 HUF.

9. Cycle the countryside

There are over 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles) of cycling paths in the Hungarian countryside (and 200 kilometers/125 miles around Budapest). Lake Balaton has a popular cycling route that runs all the way around its perimeter. For those looking to go further afield on a multi-day excursion, the paths in Hungary also connect with routes in Germany and Austria . The routes are easy to navigate, though if you prefer to take a guided tour there are plenty available. A one-day guided tour costs between 22,220-55,550 HUF per person. If you are traveling with a bicycle, it can be transported by train within Hungary.

10. Explore Tengerszem Nature Preserve

This nature preserve is in an old stone mine, which closed in 1907. Nature has slowly reclaimed the area and water has filled the massive gorge. The site was declared the most beautiful area in all of Hungary in 2011. It’s a unique location to spend the day as its protected status means there are all kinds of incredible flora and fauna to be seen. The preserve is near Sarospatak in the northeast of the country (it’s just 20 minutes from the border with Slovakia ).

11. Soak in the baths

Thermal baths are a big part of Hungarian culture. Whether you’re relaxing in the famous Szechenyi Baths in Budapest or checking out a small hot pool in the countryside, you can’t leave Hungary without partaking in this local pastime (there are over 1,300 thermal baths in the entire country). Weekday admission is around 3,800 HUF per person, with prices rising slightly on the weekend.

12. Visit the Royal Palace (Buda Castle)

They call it a castle, but the Royal Palace in Budapest is more of a palace complex than a proper ‘castle.’ Though it was originally constructed in the 13th century, the huge Baroque complex you see today was built between 1749 and 1769. The palace’s days of being a luxurious living space ended in World War II when Nazi (and then Russian) troops looted it. Today, it’s home to a collection of museums. Beneath the castle, there is a spooky labyrinth that tourists can explore for 3,000 HUF.

13. Wander the Great Market Hall

At the head of Budapest’s Vaci Utca, the kitschy shopping street in town, is the Great Market Hall. Built in 1897, this is the oldest and largest indoor market in the country. Its incredible exterior is covered in the same ceramic tiles as are on the roof of Matthias Church on the top of Buda Hill. Walk the aisles and check out local produce and artisanal crafts, buy local spices like paprika, and sample the tasty food stalls. This is the perfect place to people-watch, have lunch, and pick up souvenirs. Food tours are also available at 11am every Saturday and cost around 13,300 HUF for a two-hour tour. The market is open Monday-Saturday.

14. Soak in the Cave Bath

If you enjoy spas and are in need of some pampering, the Cave Bath at Miskolctapolca is a must. Located within a natural cave system two hours east of Budapest, here the water is rich in natural minerals and is said to contain healing properties. The water is a relaxing 30°C (86°F) and there are several different pools to enjoy as well as reasonably priced spa treatments available. The baths are open year-round (except January) and admission starts at 3,500 HUF.

15. Attend the Busójárás Festival

This slightly scary festival happens annually in the lead-up to Ash Wednesday in the town of Mohács. During this time, locals parade through the town dressed in traditional clothing and wearing demonic face masks. No one is 100% certain where the tradition comes from as there are two very different stories, so it really depends on who you ask. One story is that it stems from an attempt to frighten off the Ottoman invaders. The other is that it’s part of a pagan tradition to frighten away the winter. Either way, it’s an interesting festival to witness. The dates of the festival change each year to coincide with Easter.

16. Tour the wine region

If you are a wine fan, the region of Eger in northern Hungary is where you’ll find the country’s best wines. There are many vineyards here where you can take a tour as well as sample and buy wine. A private wine tour and tasting costs upwards of 60,000 HUF so if you are on a tight budget keep an eye out for special wine-tasting evenings. Here you can tour the cellars and enjoy plenty of samples at a discount. Two of the most popular wineries to visit are the Gál Tibor winery and Bolyki Pincészet.

17. Explore the Caves of Aggtelek Karst

The Caves of Aggtelek Karst are part of Aggtelek National Park, one of the only UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country. There are 712 caves spread out over 138,000 acres that run along the border of Hungary and Slovakia. The site is made up of seven areas with five in Hungary and two in neighboring Slovakia. Within the caves, you can see some of the largest stalactites and stalagmites in Europe. You can also book a tour that takes you across the border to see the caves in Slovakia. To enter the caves, you must be part of a guided tour. Admission is 2,200 HUF. For more information on tour times check the official website .

18. Go hiking in Hortobágy National Park

Located in the eastern part of Hungary, this is the largest protected landscape in the country. The park was created in the 1970s and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. The grassy plains (also known as a steppe) are home to all sorts of domestic animals, including cattle, horses, and water buffalo tended to by traditional herdsmen. Some of the rarest animal breeds can be found here, including great bustards, lesser white-fronted geese, white-tailed eagles, and falcons. The landscape is incredibly stunning.

19. See the Bokod Floating Houses

Bokod and Oroszlány are two towns located outside Budapest. The towns are home to a collection of cottages and cabins on stilts that line the coast of Lake Bokodi. The cabins and cottages are popular with the locals in the summer months, though there are some fishermen who spend time here in the winter as well (the lake is famous for almost never freezing, even though Hungary has cold winters). It’s an off-the-beaten-path destination that few tourists visit.

20. Visit the Hungarian Versailles

Eszterháza is a vast palace located near the border with Austria and is often considered the Hungarian version of France’s Versailles . Constructed in the late Baroque style, the palace was built throughout the 18th century after being commissioned by Prince Nikolaus Esterházy, who wanted a palatial getaway for his hunting expeditions. There are 126 rooms in the palace and the library houses over 22,000 books. Daily tours are available in English if you want to see this decadent getaway with your own eyes. Admission is 6,000 HUF and guided tours are 7,300 HUF.

For information on specific cities in Hungary, check out these guides:

• Budapest Travel Guide

Hungary Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels are incredibly affordable in Hungary, costing around 3,200 HUF per night for a bed in a dorm with 6-8 beds. Private rooms can be found for as little as 9,000 HUF per night. Free Wi-Fi is common, and a few hostels also offer free breakfast. Most hostels have kitchens if you plan on cooking your own meals.

Campsites can be found around the country, usually costing 3,500 HUF for a basic tent plot for two people without electricity. Wild camping is not legal.

Budget hotels can be found for as little as 9,800 HUF per night. For a double room with Wi-Fi and free breakfast, expect to pay closer to 15,300 HUF.

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at 7,000 HUF per night (though they average 15,000 HUF). For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay closer to 15,000-20,000 HUF.

Food – Traditional Hungarian food is inexpensive and hearty. It’s very much a “meat and potatoes” country, with popular dishes being meat stew, smoked meats, casseroles, and dumplings. Túró is a popular local cheese and fruit pastries are a popular (and traditional) dessert. Be sure to try halászlé , a hot and spicy fish soup with paprika.

A meal at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 2,000 HUF. For a multi-course meal and a drink at a restaurant with table service, expect to pay closer to 6,000 HUF. In the larger cities, fast food (think McDonald’s) can be found for around 2,200 HUF.

You can find pizza for around 2,100 HUF for a medium while Chinese food costs around 2,900 HUF. Beer costs around 500 HUF while a latte/cappuccino is 450 HUF. Bottled water is 275 HUF.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 12,000 HUF. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Hungary Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 11,500 HUF per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook most of your meals and eat a little fast food, limit your drinking, use public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like walking tours and hiking. If you plan on drinking, add another 600-1,200 HUF to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 29,500 HUF per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out at cheap restaurants serving traditional cuisine, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting museums and lounging in the thermal baths.

On a “luxury” budget of 48,000 HUF per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you want, rent a car for day trips, and do more guided tours and paid tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in HUF.

Hungary Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Hungary is a very affordable destination. It’s hard to spend money here unless you’re out partying all the time or splashing out to visit spas. That said, it never hurts to save more money! Here are some tips to help you make the most of your budget in Hungary:

• Take a free walking tour – Free walking tours are available in Budapest and are the best way to get the lay of the land for cheap. You’ll learn a lot about the city and get access to an expert local guide who can answer your questions. Be Original Tours runs an interesting tour to get you started. Just be sure to tip your guide!
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing is a great way to save money and meet a knowledgeable local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Cook your own meals – While eating out isn’t too expensive here, if you’re on a budget it’s cheaper if you cook your own meals. Head to a local grocery store and save money!
• Rideshare – Ridesharing apps like BlaBlaCar allow you to share rides with locals in order to get around the country (it’s best for medium and long distances). Everyone is registered and verified so it’s quite safe, and while it isn’t free it’s likely more interesting (and faster) than taking a train or bus.
• Walk everywhere – Most cities in Hungary are quite walkable (even Budapest). Plan your days strategically so you can limit your use of public transportation and capitalize on the opportunity to explore on foot.
• Get the Budapest Card – The Budapest Card is a travel pass that provides discounts and deals on attractions and activities in the city. You get free public transport, entry to the Lukács thermal baths, and entry to 17 museums. A 24-hour card costs 11,870 HUF, a 48-hour card costs 17,600 HUF, and a 72-hour card costs 23,000 HUF.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Hungary

Hungary has lots of hostels in its major cities. Here are some of my suggested places to stay in Hungary:

• Vitae Hostel (Budapest)
• Carpe Noctum Original (Budapest)
• Wombats City Hostel (Budapest)
• Tisza Corner (Szeged)
• Active Hostel & Guesthouse Keszthely (Keszthely)
• Nap Hostel Pecs (Pécs)

How to Get Around Hungary

Public transportation – Public transport is well developed in Hungary. Most cities have buses and trams, and Budapest has an underground. Single-journey tickets vary by city but expect to pay around 350 HUF, while a day pass costs around 1,650 HUF.

When using the local public buses in Hungary, you need to validate your ticket when you board. Traveling without a ticket is a fineable offense so be sure to validate your ticket before you ride.

Train – Hungary’s train network is still being modernized and there is a big difference in comfort between local trains and long-distance and international trains. As the Hungarian rail network was built around Budapest, most long-distance journeys take you through one of the capital’s three train stations (Keleti, Nyugati, or Deli).

When traveling by rail in Hungary you can choose to take the cheaper and slower local trains, or pay extra for more modern and faster InterCity rail services (be sure to reserve a seat in advance if you’re taking the InterCity train).

From Budapest to Lake Balaton, the train takes around 90 minutes and costs 3,000 HUF. From Budapest to Pécs, the journey takes around 2.5 hours and costs just 4,000 HUF. If you want to take the train into Slovakia, the train from Budapest to Bratislava takes around 2.5 hours and costs 3,500 HUF.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

Bus – Volánbusz is the main bus company in Hungary. It’s cheap and is sometimes even faster than the train. Flixbus also has routes that connect to nearby countries like Austria, Czechia, and Slovakia.

The ride from Budapest to Pécs takes around 4.5 hours and costs around 3,500 HUF. The 2.5-hour bus from Budapest to Bratislava costs around 3,200 HUF.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Flying – Flying around Hungary will not save you any time or money compared to the train so I’d avoid it. You can fly to nearby countries though, such as Austria, Czechia, Slovakia, and Poland, for under 18,000 HUF with Ryanair or Wizz Air (if you book early).

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 6,500 HUF per day for a multi-day rental, though this isn’t necessarily the most economical way to get around as the buses and trains here are super affordable. If you’re driving, make sure to bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) — you’ll need one for any car rental.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Hungary

The most popular time to visit Hungary is June-August. Temperatures hover around 23-29°C (73-84°F) and Hungary (especially Budapest) experiences an influx of visitors. Prices increase during this time as well, but the cities are lively and there are lots of events and festivals.

Winter stretches from November to March. Expect rain and snow, with many tourist attractions shutting down for the season. Temperatures drop below freezing so it’s too cold for hiking and exploring on foot. That said, November-December brings Christmas markets galore, so it’s a fun time for shorter city trips.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Hungary is the shoulder season in the spring and fall. Temperatures hover between 10-17°C (50-62°F) so it’s still warm enough to hike and explore but prices are a little lower and there are fewer crowds.

How to Stay Safe in Hungary

Hungary is a safe country and travelers shouldn’t worry about violent crimes here. However, in the tourist areas of Budapest (as well as on crowded public transportation), scams and pick-pocketing can occur. Avoid flashing your valuables around and always keep an eye on your things when on the bus or train.

If you head out to the ruin bars, only bring enough cash for the night. Take a taxi home if you’re intoxicated.

For more information on potential scams in Hungary, here is my list of common travel scams to avoid

Solo female travelers should feel safe here but will want to take the standard precautions (avoid walking alone at night while intoxicated, keep an eye on your drink at the bar, etc.).

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Members of the LGBTQ community will want to be mindful here as the government has been cracking down on the LGBTQ community in recent years.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Hungary Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Hungary Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

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From the sulphuric Art Deco baths of Budapest to the historic streets of Pecs and beautiful Balaton, be sure to explore this gem of middle Europe with help from a tour guide Hungary.

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István Aranyi

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George Salamon

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I am a licenced tour guide, specializing in tailor made tours for groups and ...

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Welcome!I’m a professional tour guide here, in Budapest and Hungary for 6 years.I am passionate ...

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Hello everyone, and welcome to my page!A traveller myself, I spend about 8 months a year in ...

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An exotic stretch of land and life amidst Europe’s more conventional countries, Hungary is destination unlike any other. While the landscape is simplistically pretty, the architecture within it is anything but modest; baroque churches, medieval houses, and Roman ruins exist as unchanging backdrops for the evolving cities around them. Some architectural treasure lies in the plain sight of Budapest’s main squares, while others exist in the secluded beauty of Pecs and Szeged. Hungary’s splendor lies in its’ ability to turn this olden charm to modern use. Today, old bathhouses remain in their original beauty, while new ones crop up around them; both utilize water from the country’s 300 thermals hot springs. As any Hungary tour guide will tell you, their national cuisine is matched in quantity and quality by its’ wine. Desperately underrated, Hungarian’s food culture is among the most sophisticated in the region. With a greater interest in taste than health, deliciousness pours out in fried treats and bowls of goulash; but you can trust the calories will be worth it!

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Hungary Tours

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Popular budapest private tours.

Budapest Greatest Hits-A Full-day Private Tour

A full day tour that features 101 things in budapest that you need to see (and taste) before you leave. must-see sights, good food and a friend who’ll take you everywhere. this full day tour combines the major sights of the city with amazing traditional food so you’ll be able to blend into the local crowd and admire budapest’s urban gems from up close. all this while you learn about hungarian history and culture from a native perspective..

Breakout 1945: The End of the Siege of Budapest

It is Feb. 1945, the Siege of Budapest is reaching its dramatic finale. One desperate act remains: The Breakout. This walk will take you to Feb. 11th 1945, with events and locations brought to life. Up until late 1944, Budapest had remained largely unscathed. This was to change with Soviet and Axis forces fighting to the last man. Casualties in the hundreds of thousands and 20% of the City destroyed, this walk will bring to life the final days where 40,000 Axis soldiers try to break the siege.

Budapest Jewish Heritage Tour

Explore the historic jewish quarter, one of the oldest and most popular parts of budapest, characterised by the culture of the jewish community. the second largest synagogue in the world, the jewish museum and archives with a rich collection and the most important jewish religious and cultural institutions are located here. the quarter has been on the list of the unesco world heritage since 2002. let's discover the history,costumes, traditions and festivals together.

Budapest Historic and Cultural Private Tour

Discover the beautiful capital of hungary on this half-day walking tour and explore the must see sights of budapest with a local licensed personal guide the aim of this tour is to provide you an enjoyable, informative journey which give you a general overview of the hungarian history, culture, arts, traditions, gastronomy. . . and make you get a glance into the daily life. the tour is flexible in its duration and it can be customized according to your requests, popular zala private tours.

Keszthely Walk'n'Talk

Visit the beautiful city of keszthely, located on lake balaton. you will discover the renowned festetics palace. after that, we stroll through the charming streets of keszthely where you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic countryside atmosphere and admire the breathtaking views of lake balaton. this tour is a perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty, allowing you to experience the best of what keszthely and its surroundings have to offer..

Hungary Tour Reviews

Personal Walking Tour

“ Personalized visit with determined themes ”

Pieter is a very experienced guide with a knowledge spanning all topics of interest you may have ....and beyond. He is flexible, personable and a pleasure to be with. I can highly recommend Pieter to any visitor to Budapest

Thank you Laurent and Alexa, it was a pleasure to spend those hours in conversation with two people genuinely interested in Hungary and its heritage. And thankfully, the weather was great for the time of year. We covered a lot of ground both historically and physically :) Hopefully you get that chance to see the Balaton and Pécs on a future visit. Best wishes, Pieter

“ First class tour ”

Pieter did an outstanding job guiding the Budapest 1945 siege breakout tour for my brother and I on this largely forgotten a/o inexplicably ignored topic. He had absolute command of the subject. Particularly good were the photos he downloaded from Hungarian National Archives, showing then and now vantage points. Really brought the events to life. Sprinkled the tour with survivors’ anecdotes. Highly recommend the tour for anyone interested in the topic. Well done.

Budapest city tour by bus

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Enhance your Hungary trip with a local tour guide, gaining exclusive access to off-the-beaten-path destinations and cultural depths unlike any other journey.

Hungary’s world renowned landmarks are a sight to behold, but once you venture further towards the countryside, true beauty awaits. The Tokaj wine region offers a serene retreat for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Renowned for its sweet Tokaji wines, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and historic wine cellars dating back centuries.

With a private tour guide, you can gain exclusive access to boutique wineries, meet passionate winemakers, and indulge in private tastings tailored to your preferences. For those seeking tranquility and natural beauty, the Danube Bend presents a captivating escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Hungary waits for you.

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Ildikó Kánya private guide Budapest, Hungary

I’m Ildikó Kánya, your private guide who not only shows you the city and its hidden gems but makes sure that it is a great experience for you!

I always customize my tours to suit your needs, interests and requests. I plan every single tour to be interesting and entertaining, but also comfortable. I like to show the city in a way that it becomes a unique experience, one that makes you feel that you are exploring and tasting the real Budapest, the real Hungary together with a nice, smiling local friend.

Just send an email to [email protected] and start planning your next adventure with me!

Testimonials

“We took a trip to Budapest, Hungary, to visit our daughter who was studying abroad. I was very interested in learning about the rich history of Budapest. Our tour guide, Ildiko, was wonderful! She provided us with a plethora of information about Budapest, as well as taking us to some of the most beautiful places. She was knowledgeable in every aspect of the Budapest culture. I highly recommend a tour with Ildiko if you ever have the pleasure of visiting this beautiful city!”

“My family and I took the Buda tour with Ildiko and we’re so impressed. She is so personable: upon meeting her, she makes you feel like you’ve been friends you’re whole life. Her knowledge of Hungarian history and politics is unbelievable. She’ll show you the most beautiful buildings, monuments and views of Budapest while explaining their relevancy. I would recommend this tour to any foreigner visting Budapest, your stay will not be complete without it!”

Trevor, USA

“I worked with Ildiko for over 13 years. She planned and led the field excursions for my students and I had the privilege to travel with her on dozens of excursions throughout Hungary. Ildiko is exceptionally knowledgeable, has extensive contacts, an unerring sense of what will prove to be both fun and educational and she is one of the best people I know in any country. I recommend her as a tour guide in the very highest terms. Like the great Bob Dent, her love of Hungary is infectious.”

Charles, USA

“Ildiko was a wonderful host. The tour was very informative. Ildiko is very passionate about history of Budapest and Hungary. The tour took us through beautiful areas of the city, with many places to stop for photos. Ildiko also took us to a wonderful pastry shop for an authentic taste of Hungarian delights. The balance of history, views, a pastry and Ildiko’s personal touches made this a wonderful experience! She also suggested other things to do and places to eat during our visit. A great experience!”

Private Tours Budapest and Hungary

Budapest Private Tours

Do you want to get an overall impression of beautiful Budapest? Then this is the perfect walking tour for you! Even if this is not your first time in this gorgeous capital city I can show you hidden gems that you haven’t seen before. For first time visitors it is the best starting point!

Thematic Tours Budapest

Looking for a walking tour that is focused more on the topic you favor? You have found it! Check out my thematic tours offer and if you have a special preference just send me a message, and I will make a thematic tour just for you! This is what I like the most in the private tours, they are all unique.

Day Trips from Budapest

Hungary is so diverse regarding sights and cities that you can visit! Do you want to see a different location next to Budapest? You will be amazed how many things we can do within a few days. My favorite spot is the Danube Bend because is so picturesque. Let’s see which will be yours?!

Best tours in Budapest

Buda 3 hours walking tour

Jewish Budapest

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For food lovers

Óbuda 3 hours walking tour

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Budapest 4 hours walking tour

Your safeness is important for me.

• With me you won’t have unexpected surprises
• With me you don’t need to worry about anything
• I will tell you the most important local&cultural habits that you have to know
• I will also explain the places and restaurants you shouldn’t visit during your stay
• You will get information regarding tipping and money exchange as well

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Travel Guide Hungary

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Bordered by countries as diverse as Austria, Serbia and Ukraine, Hungary is a crossroads at the centre of the continent - what was once known as Mitteleuropa – and it fuses old Europe and new in its mix of Hapsburg grandeur and Communist-era grittiness. There is a Central European solidity to its food, buildings and culture, but the more exotic, and undeniably romantic, founding myth of the nomadic, warrior Magyars from the Central Asian steppe is also key to Hungarians’ fiery national pride.

Where to go in Hungary

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16 days  / from 5243 USD

Gorgeous gems of Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia

From the spas of Budapest to Lake Bled with its castle and further on to Croatia - this itinerary takes you across 3 countries, with a special focus on Slovenia's lake area and the Dalmatian coast in Croatia.

8 days  / from 2087 USD

Fairytale Czech Republic and Hungary

Visit 3 countries at once: Czechia with the beautiful cities of Prague, Cesky Krumlov and Kutna Hora. Afterwards, visit Bratislava in Slovakia before continuing to Budapest. Hungary's capital is full of interesting activities and wonder.

4 days  / from 1177 USD

Danube capitals

Keen to explore three of Europe's capital cities but short on time? This three-country trip allows you to visit Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest, three remarkable capital cities with a wealth of history and culture at your fingertips.

Budapest , the capital, is a city of imposing scale and wide Danube vistas, split by the river into historic Buda and buzzy Pest, and offering both the old (imperial-era boulevards, Art Nouveau coffeehouses, bubbling Turkish baths) and the new (quirky warehouse bars and summer riverboat clubs). A few hours’ travel beyond Budapest is enough to access Hungary’s other key charms, from Serb-influenced Szentendre , a short way north along the Danube bend, to the lush wine-growing Badacsony region on the shores of Lake Balaton to the southwest. Balaton, the “nation’s playground”, also plays host to crowded summer party resorts such as Siófok , or gentler Keszthely . Hungary’s three most culture-rich towns beyond Budapest are scattered across the country but not to be missed: Sopron , close by the border with Austria; Pécs , on the far southern tip, ringed by alpine hills; and Eger , just northeast of Budapest, a mellow, historic city famous for its Bull’s Blood wine. Across southeast Hungary stretches the enormous Great Plain, covering half the country and home to some beautiful national parks and the cities of Szeged , Kecskemét and Debrecen .

Whilst Budapest deservedly takes centre stage, there is much more besides; gorgeous Baroque towns stand cheek by jowl with ancient castles and fortresses, while nature asserts itself spectacularly in the form of Lake Balaton, the thickly forested Northern Uplands, and the immense sweep of the Great Plain, not to mention one of the grandest stretches of the great Danube River. Aside from the country’s extraordinary concentration of thermal spas, there is a wealth of other activities available, including watersports, horseriding, cycling and hiking, while nearly two dozen wine regions offer the chance to sample a range of quality wines little known beyond its own borders.

Top image: Parliament building, Budapest © photo.ua/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Hungary

Population 10 million

Language Hungarian

Currency Forint (Ft)

Capital Budapest

International phone code t 36

Time zone GMT 1hr

Travel advice for Hungary

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Hungary

• Culture and Etiquette in Hungary
• Eating and drinking in Hungary
• Getting around Hungary: Transportation Tips
• How to get to Hungary
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Hungary
• Travel Tips Hungary for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Hungary

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updated 26.04.2021

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Hungary Guided Tours 2024/2025

Our Hungary guided tours will take you deep into the history, culture and natural wonders of this Central European gem. Get historical insights behind each monument in Budapest, such as Fisherman's Bastion and Buda Castle, and learn about the city's Ottoman, Habsburg, and communist past. In the southern part of Hungary, the town of Pecs offers a blend of Roman, Turkish, and Hungarian influences. A guided tour through Pecs will show you its archaeological treasures, including the early Christian Necropolis. Meanwhile, the Tokaj wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers an opportunity to savor the unique terroir and learn about the wine-making process. Craving a bit of adventure? Join our guided adventure tours in Hungary that offer activities ranging from caving in Baradla Cave to kayaking at Danube Bend. Scroll down to see our top guided tours in Hungary .

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126 guided tours in Hungary

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Best of Central Europe

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Budapest to Bucharest

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Krakow to Budapest Adventure

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• Starts Prague, Czech Republic

Highlights of Central Europe

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Budapest to Prague Adventure

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Eastern Europe Explorer

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• Brochure Price: US$ 4,015
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Croatia and the Balkans

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Budapest to Berlin: Graffiti Walls & Market Halls

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Balkan Adventure

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• Starts Munich, Germany

Europe Christmas Markets: Munich to Budapest

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Hungary Guided Tour Reviews

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Julia Kravianszky, Private Tour Guide in Budapest, Hungary

Why Choose Me?

Budapest has always been my home and my love. As a Budapest private tour guide, I promise not only to show you its main attractions but to give you the perspective of a true local, too. I grew up in Budapest, I lived here my entire life, this is the city that I know the best and I love the most. I’m committed to tell you everything about how we live, what we experienced during the last few decades.

I’m offering personalized, fully customized tours for you and your family members or friends only, in order to make sure that you make the most of your time when you visit Budapest. All the tours are tailor-made, organized according to your preferences, I’m happy to provide as many options as you wish, so that you can have the most amazing Budapest experience.

Showing around my city and my country really is my passion, so you’ll feel like spending a day with a friend.

Destination

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HEREND FACTORY AND MUSEUM TOUR

HALF-DAY DRIVING HALF DAY WALKING BUDAPEST PRIVATE TOUR

PÉCS AND VILLÁNY WINE TOUR BY CAR

ON-THE-SPOT LIVE VIRTUAL BUDAPEST TOUR

GYOR, SOPRON AND THE ESTERHAZY PALACE IN FERTOD

BUDAPEST CULINARY AND ETYEK WINE COUNTRY DRIVING TOUR (Customised for 6 people)

Budapest culinary and etyek wine country driving tour.

VIRTUAL HUNGARIAN COOKING CLASS - BUDAPEST FOODIE TOUR

COMMUNIST BUDAPEST WALK

EGER AND WINE TOUR BY CAR

FAMILY RESEARCH - ANCESTRY TOUR

BAROQUE TOUR IN GÖDÖLLŐ AND HOLLÓKŐ BY CAR

The Perfect 2-Week Hungary Itinerary

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From thermal spas and fairytale architecture to towering mountain peaks and endless steppe, Hungary is a destination that never fails to entrap even the most seasoned European vacationers. 

Your 14-day Hungary itinerary begins in Budapest , where you’ll explore the castles and palaces of Buda before soaking up the culture and nightlife in Downtown Pest. You can follow up a night out in the Hungarian capital’s famed Ruin Bars with a soak in the soothing mineral waters of Budapest’s historic public baths before day-tripping north along the Danube to ancient royal capitals and crumbling castles. 

But remember, Hungary is more than its iconic capital city. While Budapest has enough allure to keep you for 2 weeks – if not longer – our Hungary itinerary sees you traveling to parts unknown. First, you’ll journey to the mountainous northeastern border with Slovakia, where you can scale high peaks, explore deep subterranean cave systems, or relax in rural vineyards in the Hungarian countryside. 

From the mountains, you’ll travel to the broad steppe of Hortobagy National Park, where the first Hungarian horsemen and herders settled in Europe. Explore Debrecen, then visit the southern cities of Szeged and Pecs before you arrive on the banks of Lake Balaton for a well-earned break at Hungary’s most popular holiday destination. 

Your 2 weeks in Hungary come to a close when you reach the wineries of Sopron in the northwest, where you’ll sample the nation’s finest vintages before saying goodbye. If you’re getting set for a Central European adventure, then keep reading as we explain exactly how to plan the perfect 2-week Hungary itinerary! 

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Two Weeks in Hungary

Preparing for hungary.

A little bit of advance preparation can ensure that your trip to Hungary goes smoothly. Firstly, it’s helpful to know that Hungary is a European Union member nation in the Schengen Zone. If you’re also from a European Union member nation, you’ll be able to live and work in Hungary with no restrictions. 

For other nationalities, such as the UK, US, Australia, and New Zealand, you can enter Hungary visa-free, but your stay counts toward the total number of days you’re allowed to stay in the Schengen Zone. Currently, this is 90 days within 180 days. If you’re on an extended European trip, remember to keep track of how long you’ve been in the Schengen Zone. Other nationalities may need a Schengen Zone visa to enter Hungary. 

Although Hungary is in the Schengen Zone, it’s not in the Eurozone. Hungary’s currency is not the Euro, but the Forint (HUF), which currently holds a low value against the Euro, Dollar, and Pound Sterling (1 USD is worth around 350 HUF at the time of writing). Forint isn’t widely available outside of Hungary, but you’ll be able to exchange cash when you arrive or, better yet, withdraw money straight from an ATM. 

As soon as you arrive, you’ll be immersed in the Hungarian language. Unless you’re a linguist, though, don’t expect to be able to speak too much Hungarian after only 2 weeks in Hungary. 

The language isn’t related to any neighboring European languages, although it’s written in the Roman alphabet. Instead, Hungarian is related to languages that developed in the Urals several thousand years ago, and it’s distantly related to modern Finnish rather than German or Slovak. 

Hungarian is notoriously difficult to pronounce, but you’ll endear yourself to the locals if you try. In Budapest and other areas of Hungary that see large numbers of tourists, English is widely spoken as a second language. 

The Best Time to Visit Hungary

Hungary is located in Central Europe, and its landlocked geography ensures that the country experiences a continental climate. This means that seasonal differences can be extreme in Hungary.

The winters are cold, with snow and ice turning Hungary into a wintery wonderland between November and February. Temperatures often drop well below freezing even in big cities like Budapest, while in the mountains, conditions are even harsher. Winter is the perfect time for a thermal bath in Budapest, while the cities are packed with tourists visiting the Christmas markets . 

The summers couldn’t be more different, and the long, hot days can become unbearably hot in June, July, and August when temperatures reach highs in the late 20s (80s in Fahrenheit). 

It’s swelteringly hot in Budapest, and it might seem that all of the capital is in Lake Balaton, where Central Europe’s largest lake offers a refreshing escape. Summer is the time to revel in Hungary’s festival season, although you’ll have to endure higher prices and larger crowds.

If you’re in Hungary for hiking, then spring or autumn are beautiful times to visit. The countryside (and the wineries, in particular!) is a fantastic place to stay during autumn when the harvests are being collected. Any time of year is a good time to visit Hungary, and the best time to visit really depends on what you’re planning to see and do.

Getting Around Hungary

Hungary sits at the crossroads of Central Europe. The large nation shares land borders with Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia, with excellent road and rail connections to major European capitals like Vienna, Bratislava, Zagreb, and Belgrade, to name just a few. 

This makes it easy to arrive and depart Hungary by bus, train, or car, and it’s a popular stop on European travel circuits. Hungarian cities are well connected internationally by long-distance sleeper trains, while major airlines fly into Budapest International Airport and budget airlines connect smaller cities like Debrecen.

If you’re arriving in Budapest, you can transit into the city center on trams, buses, and by using the metro system. Just remember to validate your ticket before you get on any public transport in the capital. 

From Budapest, you can take trains and buses all over Hungary (try Flixbus for affordable buses that can be booked online). In other cities, there are trams and public buses, while ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt are an excellent way to get around quickly. 

Hungary might be landlocked, but you’ll be able to spend some time getting around on boats. The River Danube is the lifeline of the nation, and it’s plied by ferries and cruise ships throughout the year. You can even take a cruise all the way to Vienna.  

Hungary Itinerary: 2 Weeks to Explore the Highlights of the Country

Budapest – 3 nights.

Budapest has enthralled travelers for centuries. Divided by the River Danube, the glamorous regal heights of Buda overlook the flat streets of Downtown Pest, and you’ll explore both sides of the Hungarian capital as you spend 3 nights in the city .

Budapest is the perfect place to start your Hungarian adventure. You can fly in from most major international airports, or you can arrive by bus, train, or boat as generations of tourists did before the onset of mass air travel. Jump on Budapest’s metro (it’s the second-oldest underground railway in the world), and make your way to Deak Ferenc Square to settle into the city.

Budapest Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

Downtown Budapest

You can spend a lifetime in Budapest and still find new things to do, so with just 3 days, it’s time to get started on the highlights. We recommend a walking tour of Downtown Budapest (this is the Pest side of the river) to gain an overview of the city’s layout, its character, and its history. 

There are several walking tour companies in Budapest, and while you’ll want to start with the standard tours, you can also pick from communist-themed tours, tours of the Jewish District, or nightlife tours in the evenings. 

Walking tours will take you to highlights like the Hungarian Parliament Building (one of the largest buildings in Europe), St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Hungarian State Opera. Take a stroll along the River Danube, where you’ll see the “Shoes on the Danube,” a moving memorial to the Jewish victims killed here during World War II. 

Visit the Parliament Building

You can also visit museums like the House of Terror to learn more about the secret police’s reign of terror during Hungary’s fascist and communist eras in the 20th century. You can visit the Hungarian National Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts , and you can forge on food peppered with paprika at the Great Market Hall .

Explore the Hungarian National Museum

Castle Hill

Across the river, prepare yourself for a stunning panorama when you take the funicular to the top of Castle Hill. The views are glorious when you stand at Fisherman’s Bastion, while the sunset over Szechenyi Bridge below from the heights of Gellert Hill by the Liberty Statue is phenomenal. 

On Castle Hill, you can also tour the former royal palace, explore the historic architecture of the Old Town, and learn about the Siege of Budapest during World War II at the Hospital in the Rock Museum .

Tour the Hospital in the Rock

Memento Park

If you’ve still got time, you can take a half-day tour of Memento Park , where Budapest’s communist statues were sent to an open-air museum after the fall of the regime in the 1990s, or you can take a boat north along the River Danube to the former royal city of Visegrad.

You’ll be on the go constantly in Budapest, and nightlife lovers will have a roaring time at the iconic Ruin Bars in Pest. These were once abandoned buildings, and they were taken over by makeshift bars that have now morphed into huge quirky drinking bars, complete with art galleries and street food markets that form the core of the city’s nightlife offerings. The original is Szimpla Kert , while you’ll also love Mazel Tov and Instant-Fogas .

Get a Memento Park Ticket

Thermal Bathhouses

Szechenyi thermal baths.

Relax at Széchenyi Thermal Baths

If you’re feeling the strain the next day (or just love a good spa session), then you’re in the right city. Budapest is also renowned for its thermal waters, which have been channeled to bathhouses since Roman times. The biggest bathhouse is Szechenyi Thermal Baths , but you can also try smaller art deco bathhouses like Gellert Baths and Lukacs Baths , which are often quieter. 

Gellert Baths

Enjoy the Gellért Spa

Miskolc – 2 nights

Now it’s time to escape Budapest. If you can draw yourself away from the bathhouses and bars of the capital, you’ll find that you’re one of just a handful of travelers who do so. That’s just perfect, though, because you’ll have the next stop all to yourself.

Bukk National Park

You’re traveling 2 hours east to the city of Miskolc, which just happens to be the gateway to some of the most beautiful places to see in Hungary. While Miskolc is a fairly industrial city, it’s just a short drive away from the tranquility of Bukk National Park. We recommend booking a room at the Palace Hotel in Lillafured, an opulent neo-renaissance building that sits on the beautiful shores of Lake Hamori. 

Book a Room at Palace Hotel

Bukk National Park is where the northeastern mountains begin, and you can hike to Hungary’s largest waterfall, explore Lake Hamori, and ride the magnificent narrow-gauge Lillafured Forest Railway. This is Hungary’s largest national park, and you’ll find it’s home to Istvan Cave , the country’s deepest and longest cave. It’s some 400 meters long and 245 meters deep (1,312 feet long and 804 feet deep)!

Aggtelek National Park 

You can also day-trip to Aggtelek National Park, where extensive cave systems cross the border into Slovakia. The nearby city of Eger is an art deco dream, while the Tokaj Wine Region is renowned for its vineyards and rolling hills.

Debrecen – 2 nights

From Miskolc, you’ll be journeying southeast to the city of Debrecen, Hungary’s second-largest city. Although Debrecen is only 1/10th the size of Budapest, the city has a stronghold on the national character, and it’s a wonderful place to visit on your Hungary itinerary. 

Debrecen was founded by the first Hungarians to arrive on the steppe, and the city is the gateway to the great Hungarian plains. For centuries, it was the most important city in Hungary and even served briefly as the Hungarian capital during the 1848-49 Hungarian Revolution.

You’ll love the laid-back feel Debrecen has (compared to Budapest), and you can spend your first day strolling between historical sites like the Great Reformed Church (where independence was declared in 1848), the Deri Museum (a baroque museum dedicated to art and history), and the MODEM Centre for Modern and Contemporary Arts . 

Great Plains 

Your second day is going to be spent on the Great Plains as you venture into Hortobagy National Park. Make your way to the Hortobagy National Park Visitors Centre, where you’ll learn about the lives and culture of the traditional Hungarian shepherds who roamed the plains. 

You can then join a “Steppe Safari” into the vast national park as you look out for wild horses, wolves, and eagles. There’s so much more you can do in Hortobagy National Park if you have extra days, including hiking, camping, biking, horse riding, and boating.

Discover the National Parks

Szeged – 1 night

Your next stop is Szeged, one of the best cities to visit in Hungary. It’s a 3-hour drive from Debrecen to Szeged. It’s best to get an early start, so you’ve got time to explore. This is Hungary’s third-largest city, and it’s best known for its glorious art nouveau architecture.

Nouveau Architecture

Despite being settled since Roman times, take a tour of Szeged, and you’ll learn that the city was almost completely wiped out by a flood in 1879. From the ruins of this great catastrophe, the old city was rebuilt in the art nouveau style that was flourishing throughout Europe at the time. 

You’ll see this distinct style across Szeged, with notable examples being the magnificent Reok-Palota (a palace turned cultural center) and the buildings around Szechenyi Square. You can also visit the world’s fourth-largest synagogue and stop off at the Mora Ferenc Museum to learn more about local history. 

Wander the Historic Center of Szeged

Pecs – 1 night

You only need one night to see the main sights in Szeged, and your whistle-stop tour of southern Hungary continues as you travel west. It’s another 3-hour drive to Pecs, Hungary’s fifth-largest city, which is found close to the Croatian border.

Pecs is a great place to unravel the unique layers of history that make Hungary the country it is today. This has traditionally been a multicultural city, a status it’s held since it was first founded as the Roman city of Sopianae in the 2nd century BC. 

In later centuries, the city became one of the first centers of Christianity in Europe, and today, you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Early Christian Mausoleum to learn more about this intriguing era of Pecs’ history. 

Pecs was then conquered by the Hungarians, who arrived here in the 9th century AD. The cathedral dates to the 11th century AD, although it was heavily redeveloped in the 19th century. Pecs was also conquered by the Ottomans, who left behind an Islamic legacy in the 16th century Yakovali Hasan Pasa Mosque , which you can visit during your stay. 

Much of the city center architecture then dates to the 19th and 20th centuries, including grand squares and museums. Take a tour with a local guide to learn more about the layers of history. 

Day Tour around Pécs

Lake Balaton – 3 nights

After two fast-paced days of city hopping in the south, it’s time for a well-earned break on the beautiful banks of Lake Balaton. At around 50 miles in total length, Lake Balaton is the largest lake found anywhere in Central Europe. It’s also one of the best places to visit in Hungary, and we recommend spending three nights here to relax, unwind, and enjoy the sights. 

The lakeside is lined with little tourist towns and resorts. One of the best bases is Siofok on the southern shores, although this popular town gets busy in summer when all of Budapest descends on the lake. 

On the northern shore, you’ll find volcanic hills and beautiful vineyards that produces excellent vintages from the fertile soil. One of the best bases here is Balatonfured, where you’ll find lots of apartments and hotels for rent. 

Bathhouses in Heviz

Once you’re settled in, it’s time to take a well-earned rest day around the lake. Take a stroll along the lakefront, rent a bicycle, or visit one of the many outdoor pools for a swim in the fresh water. You could travel to the nearby town of Heviz (just inland from the lakeshore), where thermal waters have been channeled to the bathhouses for centuries. 

The next two days are yours to enjoy. You can soak up more mineral waters in Heviz or take a cruise across Lake Balaton. The charming town of Tihany, with its 11th-century Benedictine Abbey and famous “Tihany Echo,” is one of the must-see places in Hungary, while Szigliget Castle is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. In summer, the lake plays host to Balaton Sound , one of the best music festivals in Central Europe. 

Lake Balaton Paddle Board Tour

Sopron – 2 nights

After an action-packed trip exploring the best Hungary attractions, it’s time for one last stop as your 2-week Hungary itinerary comes to a close. Suitably refreshed after your break in Lake Balaton, it’s a 2-hour drive north to Sopron. 

This wonderful city is located just miles away from the Austrian border, and it’s the traditional crossroads between the two nations. Take a tour through the city, and you’ll see Austrian influences in the architecture, while the “Loyalty Gate” went down in local history as the location where citizens were made to choose between Austrian and Hungarian citizenship.

Discover the Best of Sopron

Sopron Wineries

Explore the sights of the Old Town, then take a trip into the surrounding vineyards. Sopron’s wineries are known for producing a delectable range of red and white wines (Hungary is predominantly a red wine-drinking nation, so the white wine is fairly unusual here). 

Ferto-Hansag National Park

Take a tour of the wineries, then visit the nearby Ferto-Hansag National Park, a marvelous area of wetlands that stretches across the border into Austria. It’s a beautiful yet relatively unknown section of wilderness in Hungary’s northwest, and you’ll love the space, the unique scenery, and the wildlife that’s protected here. 

Sopron is closer to Vienna (a 1-hour drive) than it is to Budapest (a 2-hour drive), so you can travel onwards into Austria rather than backtracking to the Hungarian capital if you prefer. You’ll find that Vienna is well connected to the rest of the world, so this often makes for a more convenient departure point than Budapest. 

Vienna Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

There you have it! That’s our perfect 2-week Hungary itinerary. Where will you be traveling during your trip to Hungary?

Planning a trip to Hungary? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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Hungary Travel Guide

Your ultimate hungary travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in hungary. great for first-time and returning travelers..

After WW2 in 1949, Hungary was declared a people’s republic and was ruled by communism.

The iron curtain fell in 1989 but when you tour Budapest, you will see that there are reminders of the Communist regime scattered throughout the city today. 

This Hungary travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular City Guides

• Remarkable Pictures of Budapest

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Hungary

• Hungarian power voltage is 230 V 50Hz;  Plug C & F
• The Hungarian currency is the  Hungarian forint  and is around 280 HUF to 1 USD.
• The signature national dish is gulyás, which you probably know as goulash. Make sure to try a bowl or attend the annual goulash festival held in September in Szolnok.
• Sip on some tokaji or tokay wine from the Tokaj wine region. In fact, tokaji is so good that Louis XIV of France called it the “Wine of Kings the King of Wine.”
• Although Hungary is a Schengen member state, you will need to have a return ticket or proof of funds to purchase a visa when you enter the country.

Things to See and Do in Hungary

• Thermal Lake of Heviz – This is the second-largest thermal lake in the world and a great place to spend the day outdoors in the summer.
• Segway tour – Take a tour of Budapest and other larger cities by way of a Segway tour.
• Visit Budapes t – It truly is one of the most romantic and beautiful cities on the continent.
• Take a history tou r   – The iron curtain fell in 1989 but when you tour Budapest, you will see that there are reminders of the Communist regime scattered throughout the city today.

Hungary Travel Guides

• Budapest Bamako Rally – The Ultimate Overlanding Adventure
• 23 of the Best Things to do in Budapest (Hungary)
• Budapest Communist Tour

Accommodation

Budget – You can stay in budget hotels in Hungary starting at $10 US. These often have safes, free Wi-Fi, and TVs.

Mid Range – Mid-range hotels can be found in Hungary starting at $50. They often have family suites available, a breakfast buffet, and a pool.

High End – Luxury hotels begin at $100 and may include balconies with a view, minibars, restaurants, and a fitness center.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and Air B&B for the best deals on accommodation in Hungary.

• Lángos – This tasty snack is made of fried dough and topped with cheese and sour cream, garlic sauce, or ketchup.
• Palacsintas – If you love crepes, you’ll love palacsintas. They are often filled with meat, fried onions, and paprika sauce or sour cream.
• Rétes – This is similar to a strudel and a popular dessert filled with poppyseed, cherry, or apple filling.
• Töltött Káposzta – This stuffed cabbage dish is often filled with meat, rice, cabbage, and sour cream.

The Best Ways to Get Around Hungary

Getting to hungary.

Flights: There are 6 airports in Hungary, with the most popular one being the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. You can fly direct from many countries in Europe.

You can check for the best flights to Hungary on Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Buses : A one-way bus ticket costs around 350 HUF, or one euro.

Taxis / Uber : Taxis in Hungary have a base price of 700 HUF plus a mileage rate of 300 HUF/km. There are no Ubers in Hungary.

Car Rental:  Car rentals in Hungary start at $40 for a basic car and increase with the make and model. You can also compare prices here .

When to go To Hungary

• The best time to visit Hungary is between April and May or September or October.
• These are the times the weather is still pleasant, but accommodations can be cheaper, as there are fewer tourists.
• But November and December are also great times to visit as the Christmas markets are in full swing and it is a magical time to be in places like Budapest.

Where to Stay in Hungary

• Hotel Palazzo Zichy – This Budapest hotel is close to a tram stop and located in a 19th-century palace. There is free breakfast each morning, a lobby bar, and a fitness center.
• Malom-tó – This beautiful hotel is a great place to stay when you’re looking to relax. The hotel offers rooms with terraces, family suites, and many nearby attractions.
• Danubius Hotel Gellért – This luxury hotel is close to the Danube River and many restaurants. Some rooms have balconies, breakfast is free, and a spa is available.

What to Pack for Hungary

Hungary has four very distinct seasons, a very warm summer from June to August, a very cold winter and spring and a mild autumn. Rain falls during the whole year with snowfalls in winter.

• Swimsuit  – Hungary has more than 1,000 natural springs in the country and the largest thermal lake at Hévíz. There are around 118 natural springs in Budapest alone so make sure to bring along a swimsuit and towel.
• Classic Basic items  – You do not need to be a fashionista to blend in. The key is in embracing neutral toned items that can be mixed and matched easily. Avoid logos, baseball caps, shorts, hoodies, flip-flops and running shoes as these items scream  tourist!
• Leave your heels at home  – Cobblestone streets are common in many cities and towns across Hungary. Heels and cobblestone do not mix so opt for flats, boots and/or sandals.
• Footwear  – Pack a pair of lightweight, durable and comfortable shoes. Known for its outside activities, including breathtaking hiking trails in the countryside, travellers eager to hike should also pack a pair of hiking boots or trainers.

Hungary Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Hungary Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Hungary click here.

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