Backpacking Hungary Travel Guide (BUDGET TIPS • 2025)

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Why Go Backpacking in Hungary?

Are you wondering, “Is it worth backpacking in Hungary”? Yes, Hungary is totally worth backpacking! Hungary is an affordable destination in Europe and has everything from culture and history to nightlife and delicious food.

I am originally from Budapest and even after years of travel, whenever I go home, I am always amazed by how beautiful backpacking Budapest is.

Budapest is famous for its architecture, thermal baths, ruin bars, and river cruises. The city is walkable, and it is a great place to try Hungarian food and drinks.

While Budapest is the most popular place to visit in Hungary, there is so much more to see! Apart from Budapest, some of the best places to visit in Hungary are Szentendre, Lake Balaton, Eger, and the Hortobágy National Park. To go truly off the beaten path, swim in the cave bath in Miskolctapolca, party at the Valley of Arts, walk through the Aggtelek Cave, or visit the floating houses at Lake Bokod.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Hungary

Depending on how much time you have, Backpacking Hungary can be done in as short as 4 days or extended to around 2 weeks. 

If you only have a short time to visit Hungary, the best plan is to just stay in Budapest and small towns nearby. 

If you have around 7-14 days in Hungary, it gives you enough time to explore places outside of Budapest and visit places such as Lake Balaton, Eger, or Hortobágy National Park.

#1 Hungary Itinerary: 4 Days: The Bare Minimum

Places to Visit in 4 Days in Hungary: Budapest (3 days), Szentendre (1 day)

Spending 4 days in Hungary is short but great if you are backpacking through Europe and you want to make a quick stop in Hungary.

Budapest is the most popular place for travelers in Hungary and it is good to spend around 3 days in the city. 3 days in Budapest gives you time to explore the city and get to know Hungarian culture without it feeling too rushed.

In addition to the 3 days in Budapest, you can also add 1 day to explore places near Budapest. 

Szentendre is a charming small town and it is one of the best places for a day trip from Budapest. It is known for its cobblestone streets, museums, galleries, architecture, and walks along the River Danube. 

Szentendre is around 40 minutes from Budapest, and you can get there by taking public transport (HÉV trains) from Budapest.

While 4 days is short to see all of Hungary, it still gives you time to explore the best Budapest has to offer, including thermal baths, river cruises, ruin bars, historic attractions, Hungarian food and drinks!

#2 Hungary Itinerary: 7 Days: “I’ve Seen More Than Just Budapest!”

Places to Visit in 7 Days in Hungary: Budapest (3 days), Danube Bend (1 day), Lake Balaton (2 days), Gödöll? (1 day)

Let’s be real, most travelers that come to Hungary only visit Budapest and possibly some places near Budapest.

7 days in Hungary gives you enough time to explore the best places in Budapest, historic towns near the city and even go on a trip to Lake Balaton. It’s a busy schedule, but with 7 days, you can visit places outside of Budapest and get to know Hungarian culture better!

The Danube Bend is near Budapest, and it is a nice place to escape the city, go hiking and have great views of the River Danube. The best places to visit at the Danube Bend are Szentendre, Esztergom and Visegrád.

Lake Balaton is a bit further from Budapest but you can get there in about 2-3 hours by train. It is a popular destination in Hungary during the summer as you get to swim in the lake, relax, and eat and drink. 

The northern side of Lake Balaton is also known for its wine region, so you can go wine tasting. Balaton can also be visited off season. In the off season you won’t get to swim in the lake, but it’s a great time to go hiking.

#3 Hungary Itinerary: 2 Weeks: The Hungary Travel Expert

Places to Visit in 2 Weeks in Hungary: Budapest (3 days), Danube Bend (2 days), Gödöll? (1 day), Lake Balaton (3 days), Eger (1 day), Lake Tisza (2 days), and Hortobágy National Park (2 days).

Spending 2 weeks in Hungary is great to explore places beyond Budapest, see the countryside and places not many international travelers visit.

With 14 days, you have a lot of time in Hungary. You don’t have to rush and can decide on where to stay longer or where to stay shorter.

2 weeks in Hungary is not just about exploring Budapest (though you’ll have time for its more unique attractions), but you can go wine tasting at Lake Balaton, bird watching at Hortobágy National Park, cycle around Lake Tisza, visit the Beatles Museum in Eger, and see historical places at the Danube Bend. 

Travelling around Hungary extensively is a unique experience as you get to see the countryside in Hungary and really get to know Hungarian culture. Hungary is most famous for Budapest, but if you go outside of Budapest, that’s when you truly get to know the country!

Best Places to Visit in Hungary

The places I think should be on every Hungary itinerary…

Backpacking Budapest

Budapest is the capital of Hungary, and it remains an affordable destination in Europe. It’s the most popular place to visit in Hungary, and there are many things to do in Budapest all year round.

Budapest is famous for its historic buildings, and some of the best places to visit in the city are the Hungarian Parliament, Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica.

There are many thermal baths in Budapest, and they are a nice place to chill and recharge. There are both warm and cold water baths, as well as indoor and outdoor pools. 

Budapest is also a nice place to take a river cruise! The best time for a cruise is at sunset and in the evening, as you get to see the city in the evening lights.

In addition, the city has many parks and museums, and it is a great place to try Hungarian food. You can also visit the Central Market Hall in Budapest, which is a traditional Hungarian market, and shop for Hungarian delicacies (paprika, Hungarian salami).

Backpacking the Danube Bend

The Danube Bend is famous for its historic towns along the River Danube and beautiful views. It is only around 40 km from Budapest and can be reached by train or even by boat.

The Danube Bend is a great place for a day trip from Budapest, but if you have more time, you can extend it to a 2-3 day trip. It is a nice place to escape the city and spend time exploring places by the River Danube.

The best places to visit at the Danube Bend are Szentendre, Esztergom and Visegrád. It is best to spend one day at each place to have time to explore the area well.

Szentendre is the most popular destination for a day trip from Budapest, and if you only have a short time, it is a great place to visit. Szentendre is a charming town and is known for its cobblestone streets, architecture and museums.

Esztergom is known for its Basilica, which is the biggest church in Hungary. The fun part about visiting Esztergom is that it is connected by a bridge to Slovakia. So, you can just walk across the bridge, have a coffee in Slovakia and then go back to Esztergom.

Visegrád is most famous for the Visegrád Castle, and the town used to play an important role throughout history. The Visegrád Castle is on a small hill, so there is also a nice view of the Danube and the surrounding landscape. Apart from the castle, it is also a great place for hiking.

Backpacking Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton is often referred to as the “Hungarian Sea” as Hungary is a landlocked country with no sea of its own, and Balaton is the biggest lake in the country.

Balaton is a popular destination in the summer and if you only have time to visit one place outside of Budapest, Balaton is the perfect choice while you’re backpacking Eastern Europe!

Balaton is a great place for water sports (swimming, sailing, windsurfing) and to relax by the beach. Other activities around Lake Balaton include cycling, hiking and wine tasting.

There are many towns and villages along the lake, but some of the best places around Lake Balaton are Badacsony, Siófok, Tihany, and Keszthely.

Siófok is located on the southern shore of Balaton, it’s great for nightlife and people usually come here to party. The places on the northern shore of Balaton (Badacsony, Tihany) are great for wine tasting and hiking.

Backpacking Eger

Eger is a chill town, 138 km east of Budapest, and it can be reached in about 2 hours by train from the Budapest Keleti Train Station.

Eger is a great choice to visit as there are many things to do in the city, whether you like history, want to chill in a thermal bath or go wine tasting! There is even a Beatles Museum with an extensive collection of photos, instruments, and live recordings.

Eger is not a big city, and the main attractions are located close to each other, so it can be walked easily.
For wine tasting in Eger, the best place to visit is the Szépasszony-völgy (Valley of the Beautiful Woman,) which has lots of wine cellars, and you can go wine tasting. Some of the famous wines from Eger you must try are the Egri Bikavér (red wine) and Egri Olaszrizling (white wine).

Backpacking Lake Tisza

Lake Tisza is the less touristy version of Lake Balaton and it has become a popular destination in recent years.

Lake Tisza has undergone a lot of development, and its main attraction is the cycling lane that was built around it. While most people visit Lake Tisza for cycling, if you are not up for it, it is a good place to just relax by the beach. And unlike most other beaches you’ll see while traveling Europe, this one isn’t overcrowded!

The most popular places at Lake Tisza are Abádszalók, Poroszló, Tiszafüred and Kisköre. They are nice to visit to experience small-town, non-touristy vibes in Hungary.

If you are deciding between Lake Tisza and Lake Balaton, I would say Balaton is a good choice if you are looking for nice beaches, wineries and hiking. Lake Tisza is less visited, so it is a great choice if you have already been to Balaton or if you are looking for a quiet getaway.

Backpacking Gödöll?

Gödöll? is a small town near Budapest and can be visited as a day trip from Budapest. It is mostly famous for the Royal Palace of Gödöll? that was frequently visited by Empress Sissi.

The city also has many museums and nice parks where it is nice to relax. It is not a very touristy place, as most travelers visit Szentendre for a day trip from Budapest. So overall, Gödöll? is a good choice to see a less touristy place in Hungary.

Gödöll? can be reached by public transport (HÉV trains) from Budapest. The HÉV trains go from Örs vezér tere station and takes around 45 minutes to get there.

Backpacking Debrecen

Debrecen is the second largest city in Hungary, and there is everything here from museums, art galleries and theatres to pubs and thermal baths.

It is a charming city, and some of the best places to visit are the Aquaticum Waterpark, Déri Museum, parks, the Debrecen Zoo, and the Great Church of Debrecen.

If you happen to visit Debrecen in August, that’s when its famous Flower Carnival takes place! The carnival usually runs for a couple of days in mid-August with concerts, theatre plays and kids activities. The main event, the carnival procession, takes place on 20 August with flower floats and performers.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Hungary

Budapest is the most popular destination in Hungary and most of the travelers visiting Hungary only visit Budapest. Budapest has a lot to offer but if you have more time in Hungary, it is great to get off the beaten path and explore other parts of the country!

Hungary has an extensive train network and it is easy to get around the country by trains. There are also long-distance buses but the trains tend to be faster.

Some of the best less touristy, off-the-beaten-path places in Hungary are the Miskolctapolca Cave Bath, Lake Tisza, Lake Bokod and the Hortobágy National Park. These places are popular for Hungarian tourists, but are less visited by foreign travelers, so it offers a great experience into local culture.

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Top Things to Do in Hungary

1. Explore the Historic Landmarks in Budapest

Budapest is famous for its beautiful architecture and historic buildings, and visiting these sites is one of the best things to put on your itinerary!

The best places to visit in Budapest are the Parliament, Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, Heroes’ Square, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Jewish Quarter, and the Shoes on the Danube.

The River Danube flows through Budapest and splits the city into two parts: Buda and Pest. When exploring the city, it is best to spend one day visiting places on the Pest side, and one day on the Buda side. 

Buda is the wealthier part of Budapest, and it is quieter. Nevertheless, Buda has many famous attractions, such as the Buda Castle and the Fisherman’s Bastion.

The Pest side has lots of activities to do and is also known for its nightlife. The downtown area of Pest is full of restaurants and bars, including the famous ruin bars.

2. Go on a Danube River Cruise

Going on a Budapest river cruise is a must, and it is one of the best ways to see the historic attractions along the River Danube!

There are boat tours all throughout the day, but the best time for a cruise is at sunset and evening. The buildings along the river are lit up in the evenings, and you get a really nice view of the main attractions, such as the Parliament and Buda Castle.

The boat tours are usually between 1-3 hours and you can sign up for a regular boat tour, or cruises that also include traditional Hungarian music, folk dance show, and dinner and drinks.

Some of the cruises can be pricey but there are also a couple of affordable options. The cruises that include a welcome drink tend to be the cheapest and you can get tickets for around USD 13 for a 1-hour boat tour.

4. Chill in the Thermal Baths

Hungary is known for its thermal baths and due to the high number of thermal baths in Budapest, the city is also called the “City of Spas”. 

Chilling in the thermal baths is one of the most relaxing activities to do and it is perfect after a long day of sightseeing.

The thermal baths are open throughout the year and one of the best times to visit is in the winter. I always found the baths are great to escape the cold and relax in the warm water baths!

Two of the most famous thermal baths in Budapest are the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and the Gellért Thermal Bath. They can get very busy, so it is best to go in the morning to enjoy the baths before most visitors arrive.

There are also thermal baths in Budapest that are less touristy and are mainly visited by locals. These baths are smaller but the tickets are also cheaper! For more local thermal baths, check out Veli Bej Baths, Lukács Baths and Dandár Baths.

The thermal baths have both warm and cold water baths, saunas, spa, steam rooms, massage and beauty treatment services, so it’s the perfect place to treat yourself and recharge!

5. Have Drinks at the Ruin Bars

Budapest is famous for its nightlife and the ruin bars are one of the most unique places for a night out in the city!

The ruin bars are not like regular bars. They are quirky, colorful bars in Budapest and are known for their unique designs. Ruin bars have a fun atmosphere, with bathtubs for chairs and furniture stuck to the ceiling!

The most popular ruin bars in Budapest are Szimpla Kert and Instant, and they are popular among both locals and travelers in Budapest. 

Szimpla Kert also has a farmers’ market on Sunday mornings which is a great place to have breakfast and try Hungarian delicacies.

6. Go on a Walking Tour of Budapest

Budapest is a safe and walkable city and one of the best ways to explore the city is on foot! A walking tour is always a great activity as you get to see everyday life in a new place.

The walking tours in Budapest include the main historic sites but also offer food tours, pub crawls, cave tours, or even a vampire walking tour!

There are both free and paid walking tours in Budapest. The free walking tours are run by GuruWalk and focus mostly on the historic landmarks in the city.

The free walking tours are nice as you can reserve a spot without a fee, and you also have a professional guide for the tour. Although there is no fee for the free walking tours, it is recommended to tip your guide at least USD 10 at the end of the tour.

7. Relax by the Beach at Lake Balaton

Balaton is the biggest lake in Hungary and is a popular destination for its beaches and wineries. The lake can be visited all year round, but the best time is in the summer when the water is warm enough to go swimming.

The beaches at the lake are generally well-maintained, especially the ones that are located at popular resort towns like Siófok, Badacsony, Tihany and Keszthely.

Balaton is also a great place to try Hungarian food like Lángos (deep-fried dough with sour cream) and Hungarian sausages. Due to the wine region at Lake Balaton, it’s great to go wine tasting and to have Hungarian wine.

There are also other activities you can do around the lake (hiking, cycling, sailing), but if you are just looking for a relaxing holiday, the best thing to do is to just chill by the lake.

8. Go Wine Tasting

Hungary has pretty good wine, and there are three major wine regions in the country that are great to go wine tasting.

The main wine regions are the Tokaj wine region, the wineries in the Northern Balaton, and the wine region in Eger.

For wineries at Balaton Lake, the wineries are on the north side of the lake, and you can check out the towns of Badacsony and Badacsonytomaj for wine tasting. Balaton is mostly known for its white wine, but you can also get red wine.

For wine tasting in Eger, the best place is the Szépasszöny-völgy (The Valley of the Beautiful Woman), and the most famous wine you should try is the Egri Bikavér, a popular red wine.

9. Explore the Caves in Hungary

Visiting caves in Hungary is one of the most adventurous things to do! There are many caves in Hungary, and some even have a hot spring where you can go swimming.

There are two popular caves in Budapest that can be easily visited if you are already in Budapest. They are the Buda Castle Cave and the Pál-völgyi Cave.

The Buda Castle Cave is like a labyrinth, and you can go on a guided tour to learn more about its history. The Pál-völgyi Cave is like a proper cave where you get to climb and crawl through the cave.

There is also a cave in Miskolctapolca in Hungary where you can go swimming in a hot spring inside the cave. The Miskolctapolca Cave Bath is a bit far from Budapest, but it is one of the most unique experiences in Hungary.

10. Cycle Around Lake Tisza

Lake Tisza is a popular place for cycling trips, and the great thing about it is that you can stop at villages along the way and go for a swim.

Lake Tisza is less touristy and not as lively as Lake Balaton, but it is a nice place to see a different part of Hungary. Some of the most popular villages by the lake are Tiszafüred, Abádszalók, Poroszló and Kisköre.

There are two loops around Lake Tisza, but they both follow more or less the same path. The longer route (95 km) is just an extended version of the shorter route (65 km). 

The shorter route can be generally completed in about 5 hours if you want to cycle it in one go. However, it is best to take it slow and stop by the villages along the way. 

If you go cycling at Lake Tisza in summer when the weather is really hot, then make sure to start early, drink plenty of water and take a long break around lunchtime when the temperature is the hottest.

11. Visit the Hortobágy National Park

The Hortobágy National Park is a massive steppe in Eastern Hungary, and it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural history.

The Hortobágy National Park is famous for its bird habitat, wetlands, and the Nine-Arched Bridge. The best time to visit the Hortobágy National Park is in the Spring or Autumn, as you can see migratory birds at those times. 

You need at least one full day to explore the national park, however, if you have more time, it is better to spend 3-4 days at the park.

12. Go Hiking

Hungary does not have high mountains, but there are mountainous areas that are nice places for hikes and to spend time in nature. 

There are hiking routes near Budapest that can be accessed easily, such as Dobogó-k? and Normafa in the Pilis region. These hikes can be done as a day trip from Budapest.

Other hiking routes in Hungary include the Mátra Mountains (Kékestet?), Bükk and Börzsöny. They are located further from Budapest, so it is best to plan at least 2 days for a visit.

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Backpacker Accommodation in Hungary

When visiting Hungary, finding backpacker accommodation depends on where in Hungary you are traveling.

Budapest is the most popular place to visit in Hungary and due to the high number of visitors, it has a wide range of options for accommodation, including hostels, mid-range and high-end hotels. If you are visiting Budapest, it is easy to find affordable accommodation.

Finding hostels and backpacker accommodation outside of Budapest is a bit trickier. Most of the towns don’t have hostels, only guesthouses and hotels that cost a bit more.

At Lake Balaton, there are a few bigger towns (Siófok, Badacsony) where they have campsites. The campsites are right next to the beach, very affordable (USD 10/night), and the tents are usually provided.

If you are visiting Hungary in the summer, it is best to pre-book accommodation as early as possible as summer is the busiest period, and many hotels and guesthouses may sell out in advance. 
For booking accommodation, booking.com and AirBnB work great.

The Best Places to Stay in Hungary

Some Unique Experiences in Hungary

Visiting Hungary is not just about thermal baths and river cruises in Budapest. There is so much more to the country, and here are the top 10 unique experiences in Hungary:

1. Visit the Aggtelek Cave
2. Watch the sunrise from the Fisherman’s Bastion
3. Shop for Hungarian delicacies at the Central Market Hall in Budapest
4. Have some ‘pálinka’ (Hungarian fruit brandy)
5. Swim in an underground cave bath in Miskolctapolca
6. Have a drink (or two) in Budapest’s ruin bars
7. Go fishing at the floating houses at Lake Bokod
8. Watch bands play at the Sziget Festival
9. Have fun at the Valley of Arts
10. Go on a Vampire Walking Tour in Budapest

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Hungary Backpacking Costs

A look at how expensive Hungary really is…

A Daily Budget in Hungary

Hungary is an affordable destination in Europe, however, the prices have gone up in recent years.

Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint which is a weak currency compared to USD, EUR or GBP. So, although prices have gone up in Hungary, overall, Hungary remains an affordable destination.

Nevertheless, when planning a trip to Hungary, the best plan is a minimum USD 70 per day. 

If you can find free accommodation on Couchsurfing, you could get the daily budget down to USD 40, but it would be really really tight!

Money in Hungary

The currency used in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Although Hungary is part of the EU, the Euro was never introduced. 

The Hungarian currency is weak, and approximately USD 1= HUF 370.

Cash or Card in Hungary

Card payments are accepted widely in Hungary, especially in Budapest and other big cities. This means that there is no need to withdraw or exchange a large amount of cash.

In case you visit a remote, non-touristy area then it is advised to have cash, but otherwise card payments work well.

Currency Exchange in Hungary

Card payments are widely accepted in Hungary, so there is no need to exchange a large amount of money. You can exchange a small amount of money (USD 20-30) for emergencies, but otherwise paying by card should be fine. 

It is best to exchange money once you arrive in Hungary. Most travelers arrive at the Budapest International Airport, but it is better to exchange money only once you get to the city center of Budapest.

The currency exchange rate is not so good at the Budapest Airport. Once you get to the city center of Budapest, there are many currency exchange shops and the rates are much better.

ATMs in Hungary

There are lots of ATMs in Budapest and other big cities in Hungary. However, if you withdraw money using an international bank card, the exchange rate is not good and the ATMs also charge a withdrawal fee.

So, instead of using an ATM, it is better if you have USD/EUR/GBP with you and exchange a small amount of cash into Hungarian Forint at a currency exchange shop.

Travel Tips – Hungary on a Budget

Hungary is an affordable destination, but there are a few ways you can save even more money. 

In Budapest, many of the historic attractions are free to visit unless you want to go inside. Using public transport or exploring places on foot is also a great way to save money.

Money Saving Tips

• Use Public Transport: The public transport in Hungary is safe and is an affordable way to get around. 
• Walking: Walking is one of the best ways to explore a new place! The city center of Budapest and other towns in Hungary are generally easy to walk and many famous attractions are in close walking distance.
• Use a Water Bottle: Tap water is safe to drink in Hungary, so if you have a reusable water bottle, it not only saves you money but also reduces plastic waste!
• Budget Activities: There are many activities that you can do for free or for a low cost in Hungary. Check out free walking tours, low-cost river cruises, and non-touristy thermal baths for the best prices.
• Visit Hungary during the Shoulder Season: The high season in Budapest is during the summer and Christmas holidays, and the prices are higher then. If you visit Budapest in the shoulder season (Spring, Autumn), you get lower prices for flights and hotels.
• Taxis: Using taxis is more expensive than public transport or walking, but if you want to take a taxi in Budapest, it is best to take Uber or Bolt. The taxi prices in Budapest are the same for all taxi companies but regular taxis sometimes try to scam tourists and get them to pay higher prices. Uber and Bolt have fixed prices so taxi drivers are not able to scam you.

Best Time to Travel to Hungary

There are many activities to do in Hungary all throughout the year, and when deciding when to visit, you should consider factors such as the weather, prices and crowds.

Generally, Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) are considered the best times to visit Hungary as the weather is good but it is not crowded with travelers. Spring and Autumn are shoulder season, and the hotel and flight prices are more affordable during these times.

Summer can be very hot and crowded due to the summer holidays, but nevertheless, Hungary is a great place during the summer as there are lots of outdoor events and festivals going on. The prices for hotels and flights tend to be more expensive during the summer as it is peak tourist season.

Winter is cold in Hungary and while it is busy during the Christmas period, it is quiet in January-February. December can be pricey, but once the holiday season is over, January and February are the cheapest times to visit Hungary! 

What to Pack for Hungary

When packing for Hungary, make sure to pack clothes appropriate for the weather.

Summertime is hot, so you can pack proper summer clothes. Winters tend to be very cold, and you need to pack warm winter clothes that you can wear in layers. In addition, here are 5 must-have items that are good for a trip to Hungary at any time of the year!

Product

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Somewhere to hide your cash

Somewhere to hide your cash

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

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Microfiber Towel

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When the power goes out

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Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

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Keep your laundry organized and stink free

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Hanging Laundry Bag

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Staying Safe in Hungary

Hungary is generally a safe country and is safe to visit for all travelers, including solo female travelers. Nevertheless, you should remain cautious and exercise normal precautions. 

The most common crime in Hungary is pickpocketing, so make sure to look after your belongings in crowded places, such as bars and public transport.

It is also good to watch out for taxi drivers as they sometimes try to overcharge foreign passengers. In Budapest, all taxis operate under the same fare (even Uber and Bolt), but if you hail a regular taxi, the driver might overcharge foreign passengers.

So, the best is to get a taxi through apps like Uber or Bolt as they have fixed prices. If you hail a regular taxi, you can check the fare on Uber or Bolt beforehand to give you an idea how much the fare should be.

In addition, Hungary is considered safe at night, however, you should remain cautious and vigilant. If you go home alone at night, stay in well-lit areas and use normal precautions.

Safety Tips for Hungary

• Carry a photocopy of your passport with you, and keep your original passport in the locker in your hotel room
• Watch out for your belongings in crowded places (public transport, bar)
• Carry a small amount of cash. Almost all places accept card payments, especially in Budapest. It’s good to have more cash if you visit places in the countryside, but most big cities and touristy places accept card payments.
• Save the contact details of your embassy/consulate in Budapest
• Get travel insurance

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Hungary

Budapest is the most popular destination in Hungary and it has lots of bars and clubs. Budapest is known for its nightlife and party hostels and it is also a popular place for stag dos. So, yes, if you are looking for a fun night out, no worries, sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll are alive and well in Budapest!

Apart from the usual bars, Budapest is also famous for its ruin bars. Ruin bars are quirky, colorful bars with unique design and furniture, such as furniture stuck to the ceiling or bathtubs for chairs. For the best ruin bars, check out Szimpla Kert and Instant.

During the summer, there are also many festivals in Hungary, such as the Sziget Festival, Ozora Festival, The Valley of Arts, Balaton Sound and VOLT Festival.

Siófok is also a great place for parties during the summer in Hungary. Siófok is located by Lake Balaton, so it’s a mix of chilling by the lake during the day and partying at night.

Hungary is a safe country, and it is also at night, especially if you are in tourist areas. However, you should remain cautious and take usual precautions.

If you go out in Budapest, it is safe to go home at night. If your hotel is within walking distance, it is safe to walk back but stay in well-lit areas. It is also safe to take taxis at night – taxi drivers might try to overcharge foreigners, but other than that it is totally safe.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Hungary

Hungary is a safe country but it is always good to be on the safe side and get insurance for international travel. 

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How to Get Into Hungary

When travelling to Hungary, you have the options to travel by flight, train, bus or car.

Most visitors arrive at the Budapest Airport (Liszt Ferenc International Airport) which is Hungary’s main international airport. 

From the Budapest Airport, it takes around 30-40 minutes to get to the city center by bus or taxi. The bus at the airport is the 100E which goes straight to the city center, and costs HUF 2,200 (USD 6) one-way.

Hungary is also well connected by trains and buses, which are affordable options. Flixbus is one of the cheapest international bus companies in Europe and they operate buses to Hungary from many countries, including Austria, Czechia, Slovakia, and Croatia.

You can also find ridesharing options on Blablacar, which tends to be pretty affordable too.

Entry Requirements for Hungary

Citizens from many countries do not require a visa to enter Hungary if they stay for less than 90 days. The visa-free countries include EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia and some additional countries. You can check your visa-free eligibility here.

If your country is not eligible for a visa-free stay, you need to apply for a Schengen visa. To get the visa, make sure to contact the Hungarian Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

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How to Get Around Hungary

Getting around Hungary is pretty easy! Hungary is not so big and it has a good network of trains and buses connecting places across the country.

Once you get to any city in Hungary, the city center is generally walkable and most famous attractions are close to each other.

Public Transport in Budapest

Budapest is the most popular place for travelers in Hungary and it has a good network of public transport. The main modes of transport include the metro, buses, trams, trolley buses and HÉV trains.

The city center of Budapest can be explored on foot but taking public transport is a good way to get around the city faster.

The public transport in Budapest is safe and affordable. You can also get a Budapest Card that is valid for all public transport, entry to thermal baths, museums, free walking tours, River Danube cruises and more! 

Traveling by Trains in Hungary

Hungary is well-connected by trains, so if you want to explore Hungary, traveling by train is a good option. 

The train tickets are affordable, for example, a train ticket from Budapest to Lake Balaton costs around HUF 2,000-3,100 (USD 5-10) one-way.

To buy a train ticket, you can buy it online on the website of MÁV (Hungarian train company) or at the train stations.

Traveling by Buses in Hungary

For traveling long distances in Hungary, the best to take the trains. However, in addition to trains, Hungary also has buses connecting places across Hungary.

The bus company operating in Hungary is Volánbusz and the prices are more or less the same as if you were taking the train. However, the trains are faster, so they are better for travel. 

In case you are travelling to a place that cannot be reached by train, then the buses are a good alternative.

Onwards Travel from Hungary

When leaving Hungary (whether to continue backpacking or to go back home), you have the options to take a flight, train or bus.

If you are staying within Europe, WizzAir and Ryanair offer affordable flight options. 

For trains, Budapest is well-connected with other countries in Europe. You can also get a Eurail Pass that lets you travel around Europe by train. If you are traveling onwards to countries that are close to Hungary, such Austria or Czechia, you can even take buses, such as Flixbus, that have very affordable prices.

Hungarian Culture

Hungary is mostly known for its thermal baths, the goulash soup and Budapest being a great place for hostels, nightlife, parties. If you are visiting Hungary, there is so much more to explore! 

To get to know more about Hungarian culture, you should check out the architecture, go to a Hungarian folk dance and music show, visit museums, or watch a play at the Hungarian State Opera.

In general, Hungarian people can sometimes seem pessimistic, especially the older generation, but we like to joke! But if you are going to joke, please just don’t joke about ‘Hungary’ sounding like ‘being hungry’ – you can joke about it, but Hungarians have heard it so many times that it won’t come off funny!

Another interesting (and random) fact is that Hungary used to be good at football, well, way back in the 1950s. If you are a football fan, you may have heard about Ferenc Puskás, he was a big deal not just in Hungary but also in international football.

Useful Travel Phrases for Hungary

The official language in Hungary is the Hungarian language and before traveling to Hungary, you might wonder if people speak English in Hungary.

Generally, the younger generation speaks good English, especially in big cities and in touristy places. The older population doesn’t speak good English or any English at all, so if you have to ask for information or direction, it is best to ask someone who is younger, up to ages 40-45.

Although you can get by speaking English in major cities in Hungary (e.g. Budapest), knowing some of the local language can always go a long way. 

Here are some useful phrases to know while traveling in Hungary:

What to Eat in Hungary

Hungarian food is famous for the Goulash soup and the use of paprika, but there is more to it than that! Trying the local cuisine is a must in any place you visit, and Hungary should be no exception!

Some of the best Hungarian dishes include:

• Goulash soup
• Lángos (deep fried dough with sour cream, cheese and garlic)
• Pörkölt (beef stew)
• Stuffed cabbage
• Hortobágyi palacsinta (crepe filled with meat)
• Chimney cake (dessert)
• Cherry soup

You can also join a food tour in Budapest where you get to try the best Hungarian dishes and drinks, as well as learn about the history of Hungarian cuisine.

Hungary also has very tasty salami and sausages. For salami, the best one to try is ‘Pick Salami’, and as for sausages (called ‘kolbász’ in Hungarian), the ‘Gyulai kolbász’ is pretty good.

For Hungarian drinks, the best ones to try are pálinka (fruit brandy), Unicum (slightly bitter aperitif), Egri Bikavér (red wine) and Tokaji Aszú (white wine).

Hungary also has really nice chocolate and sweet snacks, and the best ones are the Stühmer chocolate and Túró Rudi (dessert made from chocolate and curd).

A Brief History of Hungary

Did you know that Hungarians originally came from the Ural region, which is located in today’s Russia? Yes! According to historical sources, Hungarians (or ‘Magyars’) used to stay in the Ural region and over the centuries, they migrated to Central Europe by 895.

The Kingdom of Hungary was founded in the year 1000 by King Stephen I, and Hungary was a monarchy until 1918.

Throughout its history, Hungary faced occupation by other powers, such as by the Ottoman Empire, the Habsburg Empire, Germany and the Soviet Union.

The Ottoman occupation lasted for over 150 years (between 1541-1699), and you can still find Turkish influence in Budapest, such as the Turkish baths, like Rudas Bath and Veli Bej Bath.

The Habsburg Empire also played an important role in the history of Hungary. Hungary was under the rule of the Habsburg Empire, and later it became the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

The Austro-Hungarian Empire dissolved in 1918, after losing in WWI. Having lost in WWI, it had a significant impact on Hungary. Hungary had to sign the Treaty of Trianon, in which Hungary lost over two-thirds of its territory. Today, there are still large Hungarian communities in countries neighboring Hungary, such as Ukraine and Romania.

During WWII, Hungary was occupied by Germany in 1944. Then, after the end of WWII and the defeat of Germany, the Soviet Union occupied countries in Central and Eastern Europe, including Hungary. The Soviet occupation in Hungary lasted from 1945 to 1990.

After the end of the Soviet occupation, Hungary transitioned to a democratic system and the first free elections were held in May 1990. 

In 2004, Hungary became part of the European Union which was a milestone in Hungarian history for economic growth and stability.

FAQs: Backpacking in Hungary

A few questions people usually ask me about travel in Hungary…

Final Advice Before Visiting Hungary

In conclusion, Hungary is a great place for backpacking, especially Budapest! Most travelers only visit Budapest, so you’ll find lots of backpackers and hostels in Hungary’s capital.

To really get to know Hungarian culture, the best is to visit places outside of Budapest as well. So, if you have time, some of the best places to visit outside of Budapest are Lake Balaton, Eger, Szentendre, and Hortobágy.

Prices have increased in Hungary in recent years; however, compared to Western Europe, it remains affordable. The minimum you should budget is USD 70 per day in Hungary, but if you can find free accommodation on Couchsurfing, you could make it in around USD 40-50 per day.

If you need to ask for directions or information, it is better to ask young people, as older people don’t speak good English in Hungary.

Overall, Hungary is a safe country and you can feel safe while backpacking the country. However, you should take usual precautions like you would in any other country.

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