UK
Thermal Baths & Timeless Beauty
From grand castles and healing thermal waters to vibrant festivals and hearty cuisine, Hungary is a Central European gem. It’s a favourite among UK travellers for its affordability, elegance, and rich cultural heritage.
Air Travel
Direct flights from London to Budapest take around 2.5 hours. Other cities like Debrecen and Pécs are accessible via domestic flights or train connections.
Airlines
British Airways, Wizz Air, Ryanair, and easyJet offer frequent service. Domestic routes are covered by Wizz Air and regional carriers.
Hungary
Thermal Baths & Timeless Beauty
Landmark
Travel Season
- March–May: Mild spring weather and blooming parks
- June–August: Warm and lively, ideal for lake holidays
- September–October: Wine harvest and cultural festivals
- November–February: Cold but festive, great for thermal baths
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)
- Cards widely accepted; cash useful in smaller towns
- ATMs are plentiful; exchange rates better outside airports
- Tipping is customary (10% in restaurants)
Connectivity
- Free Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, and public spaces
- Local SIM cards (Vodafone, Telekom, Yettel) available at airports
- High-speed internet is widely available
Getting Around
- MÁV trains connect cities and towns affordably
- Budapest has excellent metro, tram, and bus networks
- Car hire ideal for countryside and wine regions
- Walking and cycling are great in historic centres
Time Zone
- Central European Time (CET) – GMT+1
Etiquette & Culture
- Greet with a handshake and eye contact
- Tipping is expected in restaurants and taxis
- Respect quiet hours and public decorum
- English is widely spoken in tourist areas
Top Destinations
- Budapest: Thermal baths, nightlife, and architecture
- Eger: Castles and wine cellars
- Pécs: Roman ruins and Mediterranean flair
- Lake Balaton: Beaches, sailing, and summer festivals
- Debrecen: Culture and thermal spas
- Hortobágy National Park: Hungarian plains and wildlife
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Goulash, Lángos (fried dough), Chicken Paprikash, Dobos Torte
- Hungarian wines and pálinka (fruit brandy) are local favourites
- Tap water is safe to drink
- Street food and market halls offer tasty local fare
personal_bag What to Pack
- Layered clothing for seasonal changes
- Swimwear for thermal baths
- Power adapter (Type C/F plugs)
- Comfortable shoes for cobbled streets
Best Time to Visit
- May–June: Pleasant weather and fewer crowds
- September–October: Wine season and cultural events
- December: Christmas markets and spa escapes
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- Hungary is very safe; petty theft can occur in busy areas
- Emergency number: 112 (police, ambulance, fire)
- Travel insurance recommended
- No special vaccinations required beyond routine UK jabs