Visit Hungary - The Heart of Central Europe

General Information

- Capital: Budapest
- Area: 93,030 km²
- Population: Approx. 9.6 million
- Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF) (~0.0026 EUR)
- Languages: Hungarian (English is spoken in major tourist areas)

Visa Requirements

All visitors to Hungary must:
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Have an onward or return ticket.
- Show proof of accommodation and sufficient funds for the stay.
- Many nationalities qualify for visa-free entry for up to 90 days.

Visa-Free Entry for Citizens of:

EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, UAE. Schengen visa holders can enter Hungary without an additional visa. Other nationalities may require a visa from a Hungarian consulate.

About Hungary

Hungary is a country of stunning architecture, thermal baths, and rich cultural heritage.
From the romantic Danube River to the historic castles of Transdanubia, Hungary offers a perfect blend of history, relaxation, and culinary delights.

Climate

Hungary has a continental climate, with four distinct seasons:
- Spring (March - May): Pleasant temperatures, ideal for sightseeing.
- Summer (June - August): Warm and sunny, perfect for festivals and lake visits.
- Autumn (September - November): A great time for wine tourism and colorful landscapes.
- Winter (December - February): Cold and snowy, with Christmas markets and thermal baths.

Main Attractions

- Budapest – The capital, known for its stunning Parliament, Buda Castle, and thermal baths.
- Lake Balaton – The largest lake in Central Europe, a top summer destination.
- Eger – A charming baroque town famous for its castle and red wine.
- Hortobágy National Park – A UNESCO-listed steppe region with traditional Hungarian cowboys.
- Pécs – A cultural hub with Roman ruins and a Mediterranean vibe.
- Debrecen – The second-largest city, home to historic churches and festivals.
- Szentendre – A colorful riverside town with art galleries and cafés.
- Tokaj Wine Region – Famous for Hungary’s world-renowned sweet wines.
- Visegrád – A medieval castle with stunning views of the Danube Bend.
- Gödöllő Palace – A former royal residence of Empress Sisi.

Transportation

Hungary has a well-developed transport network:
- Domestic Flights – Limited, but available between Budapest and major cities.
- Trains – Efficient and affordable for travel between cities.
- Buses & Coaches – A good alternative to trains for intercity travel.
- Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps – Bolt and Főtaxi are popular in Budapest.
- Car Rentals – Recommended for countryside exploration.

Must-Try Food & Drinks

Food:
- Gulyás (Goulash) – A hearty beef and paprika stew.
- Halászlé – A spicy Hungarian fish soup.
- Pörkölt – A slow-cooked meat stew, similar to goulash.
- Töltött Káposzta – Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice.
- Lángos – Deep-fried dough with cheese and sour cream.
- Dobos Torte – A layered sponge cake with caramel glaze.

Drinks:
- Tokaji Aszú – Hungary’s famous sweet wine.
- Egri Bikavér – Known as “Bull’s Blood,” a robust red wine.
- Pálinka – A strong fruit brandy, a Hungarian specialty.
- Unicum – A herbal liqueur, often enjoyed as a digestive.

Travel Tips for Hungary

1. Entry & Visa: Most travelers enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days.
2. Best Time to Visit: May - October for warm weather and outdoor activities.
3. Transportation: Trains are a great way to explore; buses are reliable for smaller towns.
4. Local Etiquette: Hungarians appreciate politeness; always greet with a handshake.
5. Money: ATMs are widely available, but some smaller places only accept cash.
6. Food: Try Goulash, Lángos, and Tokaji wine.
7. Shopping: Visit Budapest’s Central Market Hall for paprika, sausages, and wines.
8. Safety: Hungary is very safe, but be cautious of overcharging in tourist areas.
9. What to Avoid: Avoid taking unlicensed taxis; always check fares in advance.
10. Cultural Experiences: Attend a thermal bath, a Hungarian folk music show, or a wine tasting tour.

Summary

Hungary is a cultural and historical treasure, offering breathtaking architecture, relaxing thermal baths, and a rich culinary scene.
Whether you’re exploring Budapest, tasting world-class wines, or relaxing by Lake Balaton, Hungary is an unforgettable destination.