What should I know before traveling to Budapest?

Do and don'ts in Hungary?

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.

What do you need to travel to Budapest from the UK?

British citizens don't need a visa to enter Hungary but must have a valid passport. You can check your passport's valid for Hungary using our handy tool. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/hungary/entry-requirements.

What is the rough guide to Budapest?

Part of the Rough Guides Main Series series

This Budapest guidebook is perfect for independent travellers planning a longer trip. It features all of the must-see sights and a wide range of off-the-beaten-track places. It also provides detailed practical information on preparing for a trip and what to do on the ground.

How much money will I need for 3 days in Budapest?

How much money you need for 3 days in Budapest? Depending on your needs and taste, the minimum budget you need for visiting Budapest is €40-€55 including all meals of the day and at least one attraction. From here the limit is the sky as the city is offering luxurious accommodation, dining and sightseeing options.

BUDAPEST: 15 Things you MUST KNOW before visiting! | Hungary Travel Guide

Is Budapest cheap for Brits?

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.

What is the best month to visit Budapest?

In spring and fall — May, June, September, and early October — travelers enjoy fewer tourist crowds and milder weather. This is one of the best times to visit Budapest.

What to be careful in Budapest?

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Tourists can be targets for petty crime. Bag-snatching and pickpocketing are common, especially in Budapest and other cities. Street crime is more likely: on busy public transport.

Can you wear trainers in Budapest?

Pack comfortable walking shoes (but not sneakers)

Since Budapest is a highly walkable city, you're going to be on your feet all day. Pack shoes that you'll be comfortable wearing for hours while you're out exploring – while keeping in mind that sneakers will likely single you out as a tourist.

How English friendly is Budapest?

Navigating a new city when every street is named something like “Bajcsy-Zsilinszky ut” or “Vörösmarty tér” can make culture shock set in pretty quickly. But luckily, in the city center and more touristy areas, English is pretty commonly spoken.

What can you not bring into Hungary?

The list of what is prohibited to bring into and take out of Hungary includes: canned food, milk chocolate candies, meat and dairy products, explosives, weapons, narcotics and psychotropic substances, and poisons.

What is the cheapest month to go to Budapest?

The cheapest month to fly from London to Budapest is typically January. The most expensive month to fly is typically August.

Is there Uber in Budapest?

Yes. The Uber app gives you the power to request a ride to get around Budapest anytime, 24/7. What's the most affordable way to travel in Budapest? With Uber, you can choose the ride option that works best for your budget when you travel in Budapest.

What is considered impolite in Hungary?

It is considered to be impolite to leave food on the plate. This is interpreted as an indication that you are dissatisfied with the food that was served. Discussions during mealtime should be formal. Talking about things that are dirty or irreverent (such as animals) may offend your Hungarian counterpart.

Is there a dress code in Budapest?

There's no official dress code, and plenty of tourists abuse that, attending in really shabby clothes (jeans, sneakers, etc.). Don't be like those people.

What does buda mean in Hungarian?

According to some medieval chronicles, the name came from the brother of Attila, King of the Huns, and Buda was a popular person's name in use at the time. Other sources refer to Slavic and Celtic origins and something related to water, so Buda came from the word voda ('water').

What is the number one thing to do in Budapest?

What is the rainy season in Budapest?

Rainfall. In Budapest rainiest months of the year are June, October, November, May, August and September during which monthly rainfall average reaches 70 mm. On the other side, driest months are January, March, April, July, December and February when the average rainfall is reduced to 30 mm per month.

How many days should you have in Budapest?

Budapest demands at least two full days — and that assumes you'll be selective and move fast. To slow down and really dig into the city, give it a third or fourth day. Adding more time allows for day trips.

Should I take cash to 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.

Can Brits drink water in Budapest?

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.

Do they speak English in Budapest?

English is widely spoken in Budapest, especially in the touristy area. In most of the restaurants, bars and at the main tourist sights you won't experience any language problems. Although, outside the touristy zone most people don't really speak English well.

Is Budapest walkable?

Explore on foot: Budapest is a very walkable city and thrilling to explore. Go across the Danube and see both sides of the city by the water, or bask in the beauty of the city's gorgeous architecture and energetic atmosphere that can only be felt on foot.