Is it better to have cash or card in Budapest?

Should I Use Cash or Card in Hungary? Hungary is quite card-friendly, especially in larger cities like Budapest. Most restaurants, shops, and hotels accept credit and debit cards. However, cash is still king in many smaller towns and when dealing with smaller businesses, such as market vendors or local eateries.

What is the best way to pay for things in Budapest?

Hungarian locals still mostly use cash for paying. Although this is expected to change, it's still the best option for a trip to Budapest. And if you want to spend like a local in Hungary and 150+ countries without worrying about exchange rates and hidden fees, the Wise card might be just the thing you're looking for.

Should I exchange money before I travel to Budapest?

As mentioned before, in Hungary foreign currency is not accepted anywhere, so you will need the local currency the Hungarian Forint (HUF) during your stay. We suggest not to buy forint in your home country, because HUF is likely an exotic currency and its exchange rate is less favourable than in Hungary.

Is the Budapest card worth getting?

Depending on what you plan to visit in Budapest throughout the three days, it can either be worthwhile or not. If you're planning on visiting several museums and attractions and you wish to eat in the restaurants included in the tourist pass, the card is probably worth purchasing.

What is the best currency to take to Budapest from the UK?

Agreed. Paying by card is the easiest in most places. If you prefer to use cash, though, you should get Forints (HUF). Some places will accept Euros, but usually at a very favorable (to them) exchange rate.

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Is it worth having cash in Budapest?

Hungary is quite card-friendly, especially in larger cities like Budapest. Most restaurants, shops, and hotels accept credit and debit cards. However, cash is still king in many smaller towns and when dealing with smaller businesses, such as market vendors or local eateries.

Is Buda Castle included in the Budapest Card?

The 72h Plus Budapest Card has all the benefits listed above. In addition to them, you can get on the Funicular free of charge, and get to Buda Castle while enjoying a mesmerizing panorama.

What is the 72 Plus Budapest Card?

Experience the best of Budapest with the Budapest Card 72h Plus. Enjoy significant discounts on top attractions like transfers, trips, museums, guided tours, thermal baths (free to Lukacs Baths, 20% off Szechenyi daytime, not the bath party though, or Gellert), concerts, and restaurants.

What to do for free in Budapest?

How many HUF to a pound?

£ 1 GBP = Ft 450.8691 HUF

Last updated Sunday, 31 August 2025 07:13. Rates shown are interbank rates. eurochange rates will differ.

What should I know before traveling to Budapest?

Should I pay in euros or pounds on a debit card?

Always select to pay in local currency

It could cost you more than paying in the local currency. Point-of-sale currency conversion rates are set by the retail outlet and they're usually less favourable. For example, if you are in the eurozone then select to pay in euros, not pounds, at the card machine.

How much is a meal in Budapest in pounds?

Average Meal Cost in Budapest

Generally, you can expect to pay around £5 to £10 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant. For a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant, prices typically range from £25 to £40. These prices make Budapest an appealing destination for budget-conscious travellers.

Can I use an UK debit card in Hungary?

Most ATMs in Hungary are equipped to accept international debit cards. These ATMs typically display logos of international card networks like Visa and Mastercard. When inserting your card, the ATM usually prompts you to choose your preferred language and transaction type.

Do you pay tips in Budapest?

Tipping. 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.

Is it better to buy forints in Hungary?

Hungarian currency

However, shops and restaurants in the city centre commonly accept EUR and US Dollar, but typically at a higher exchange rate, so you end up paying more than you would in local currency. For this reason, it is better to exchange local currency and always keep some Forint on you.

How much does it cost to use the public toilets in Budapest?

There are few which take cards but generally you need 200 or 100 Huf coins, but the 1 euro also fits. It depends on location but 200huf is standard in outer areas, 300 or 400 huf in the inner areas.

Is Budapest cheap to eat and drink?

Budapest's daily prices are lower than those of other European capitals. For example, you can have a good meal for € 10 ( US$ 11.63) at many restaurants or eat during a boat ride for around € 54 ( US$ 62.84).

Do taxis in Budapest take credit cards?

Yes, all taxis accept credit cards. Of course, you can pay in cash. Although paying with Euro can be an option it's not recommended because of the bad exchange rate.

Should I tell my bank I'm going abroad?

It's not essential, but it helps our fraud detection systems to know in advance that you're travelling abroad. Find out how to get it at How do I get the mobile banking app?

How do I avoid foreign transaction fees?