Tipping in Hungary is customary for good service, typically around 10% to 15% in restaurants, cafes, and for taxis. Many restaurants automatically add a 12.5% to 15% "service charge" (szervízdíj), in which case no extra tip is required, though rounding up is appreciated.
In Hungary, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. It's standard practice to tip between 10 to 15 percent but many establishments include a 12.5 percent service charge so check your bill when it arrives. If service charge is included, there's no need to leave any extra.
If you are taking a tour, whether around ancient ruins or along the breathtaking Tunisian coral coast, tour guides typically expect a tip ranging from 10 to 20 Tunisian dinar.
Greet people with a polite “jó napot” (good day) when entering shops or restaurants. Avoid loud conversations in quiet areas, especially on public transport or in museums. Tipping is customary in restaurants, usually around 10% to 15%, and is appreciated for good service.
In Hungary, tipping is more than just a polite gesture – it's often expected. In restaurants, you might find a service charge already included in the bill, but if not, leaving 10-15% is the norm. The same goes for taxi drivers, masseurs, or hotel staff – tips are seen as a sign of appreciation.
DON'T go jogging in the city. The streets can be dirty, the sidewalks are narrow, and you always have to stop when you cross a street. DON'T change too many Hungarian forints. Awful currency, in a few years the nice 20,000 forint banknote will be worth only a few USD.
Calling someone by their first name before being invited to do so is considered rude. Many Hungarians find whistling, humming or singing in public impolite.
The good news is that Budapest is one of the more tourist-friendly cities in Europe, and English is widely understood in many areas. However, knowing a bit more about where English is spoken and how to navigate language barriers can make your trip smoother.
While card is king for most transactions, you'll need to carry some Hungarian forint cash with you. As we said before, you should get it from an ATM instead of an airport exchange office.
Yes, in the U.S., a 10% tip is often considered low and potentially insulting for standard sit-down restaurant service, where 15-20% is the norm, but it can be acceptable for mediocre service or in regions where tipping culture differs (like parts of Europe). The perception depends heavily on location, service quality, and the type of establishment, with fine dining expecting more and takeaway sometimes expecting less, but a 10% tip generally signals dissatisfaction with service in America.
Countries Where Tipping Is Uncommon: Sweden, Norway, Iceland, South Korea, and Finland have tipping customs that generally do not require gratuities. Unique Tipping Norms: Countries like Japan and China may not expect tipping, as excellent service is standard.
Hungarians take politeness seriously, especially in formal settings. Saying “thank you” and responding with “you're welcome” isn't just polite—it's a way of showing respect. Even in casual settings, a quick “köszi” or “szívesen” goes a long way in leaving a positive impression.
In Hungary, people traditionally do not clink their glasses or mugs when drinking beer. There is an urban legend in Hungarian culture that Austrian generals clinked their beer glasses to celebrate the execution of the 13 Martyrs of Arad in 1849.
Tap Water. Tap water is safe to drink in Hungary so be sure to bring a reusable bottle to fill up before you start your day. If you decide to buy bottled water pay attention to the coloured lids, you will notice different coloured caps.
No, Budapest remains one of Europe's most budget-friendly capital cities in 2025. It's approximately 47% cheaper than Western European capitals like Paris or London.
The major ethnic groups in Hungary are the Magyars, Germans, Slovaks, and Romanians. The Magyars are the dominant group, outnumbering the others by over 80%.
Petty crime, theft from vehicles and highway robberies can happen. Be careful on public transport, in tourist areas, petrol stations and highway parking areas. Use secure parking facilities. Bars and restaurants can overcharge travellers.
Chicken, pork and beef are common, while turkey, duck, lamb, fish and game meats are mostly eaten on special occasions. Hungary is also known for relatively inexpensive salamis and sausages it produces primarily from pork, but also poultry, beef and others.
Hungary is a free country and no religious or other restrictions are there for people to prevent them dress the way they want to. It is a very modern country, just like any other European countries.
Budapest is generally considered a safe destination for solo travelers, including women, with a low crime rate compared to many other European capitals. The city's central districts, where most tourist attractions are located, are well-lit and safe to walk around even at night.
Should you carry your passport with you in Hungary?
Contents. While you are in Hungary, you are legally obliged to carry some form of official photographic identification with you at all times, such as driving licence or passport, and produce it when asked by an official, e.g. police office. A simple photocopy is not sufficient.
