Before You Go
- Check visa requirements – Most EU citizens can enter visa-free, but always verify based on your nationality.
- Best time to visit – Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Winter magic – December is great for Christmas markets, but pack warm clothes.
- Currency – Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF), not the Euro. Always carry cash for smaller shops.
- Avoid airport currency exchange – Use ATMs in the city for better rates.
- Learn basic Hungarian phrases – “Szia” (Hello), “Köszönöm” (Thank you), and “Egy sört, kérem” (One beer, please) go a long way.
- Get travel insurance – Especially if visiting thermal baths or partying ruin bars.
Getting Around
- Public transport is excellent – Metro, trams, and buses are cheap and efficient.
- Buy a travel pass – A 24/48/72-hour pass saves money if using transport frequently.
- Validate your ticket – Fines for riding without a validated ticket are steep.
- Bolt is the best ride-hailing app – Cheaper and more reliable than taxis.
- Avoid unmarked taxis – They often overcharge tourists.
- Walk the city center – Many attractions are within walking distance.
- Try Tram Line 2 – One of Europe’s most scenic tram routes along the Danube.
Where to Stay
- Stay in District V or VI – Central locations near major sights.
- Pest vs. Buda – Pest is livelier; Buda is quieter and more scenic.
- Hostel tip – Hostel One Basilica is great for social travelers.
- Splurge on a thermal hotel – Some hotels offer direct spa access (e.g., Gellért Hotel).
Must-See Attractions
- Visit Parliament early or late – Fewer crowds and stunning lighting at night.
- Free walking tours – Great introduction to the city’s history.
- Fisherman’s Bastion at sunrise – Avoid crowds and get the best photos.
- Matthias Church – Worth the entry fee for its stunning interior.
- Ruin bars are a must – Szimpla Kert is the most famous, but explore others too.
- Thermal baths – Széchenyi is iconic, but Gellért is more elegant.
- Go beyond the baths – Try Rudas Baths for a historic Ottoman experience.
- Take a Danube cruise – Sunset cruises offer the best views.
- House of Terror Museum – A sobering but important visit.
- Memento Park – See communist-era statues just outside the city.
Food & Drink
- Try lángos – Fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese.
- Goulash is a must – Best at Hungarikum Bisztró.
- Chimney cake (kürtőskalács) – Get it fresh from street vendors.
- Paprika is king – Bring some home as a souvenir.
- Eat at a “kifőzde” – Cheap, authentic Hungarian canteens.
- Drink pálinka – A strong fruit brandy, best in small doses.
- Ruin bar cocktails – Creative and strong, but pricey.
- Forget Starbucks – Budapest has amazing specialty coffee shops.
- Great Market Hall – Best for souvenirs and local food.
Money-Saving Tips
- Free attractions – Buda Castle grounds, Fisherman’s Bastion (partially free), and city parks.
- Student discounts – Many museums offer reduced prices with an ISIC card.
- Happy hours – Many ruin bars and pubs have early-evening deals.
- Avoid touristy restaurants near Váci Street – Overpriced and mediocre.
- Buy bath tickets online – Sometimes cheaper than at the door.
- Walk instead of taxi – The city is very pedestrian-friendly.
Safety & Etiquette
- Beware of scams – Overcharging taxis, fake petitions, and rigged ATMs.
- Keep an eye on belongings – Pickpockets operate in crowded areas.
- Tipping culture – 10% is standard in restaurants.
- Shoes off in spas – Some baths require it in certain areas.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
- Margaret Island – A peaceful escape with bike rentals and a musical fountain.
- Hospital in the Rock – A fascinating underground Cold War museum.
- Jewish Quarter street art – Explore beyond the ruin bars for cool murals.
Budapest is a city of contrasts—grand historic buildings, wild nightlife, and relaxing thermal baths. Plan ahead, stay smart, and soak up every moment!
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