Europe

Hungary

Thermal baths, Danube views and paprika in everything.

Hungary is centred on Budapest, a grand city split by the Danube into hilly Buda and bustling Pest. The Parliament building, Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge frame the river, while thermal baths like Széchenyi and Gellért are part of daily life. Beyond the capital are the Danube Bend towns of Szentendre and Visegrád, Lake Balaton, and the wine regions of Eger and Tokaj.

Food is rich and warming, from goulash and chicken paprikash to fried lángos and sweet pastries, and wine is good value. Budapest has lively ruin bars in old courtyards and an easy metro and tram network. April to June and September are best; July and August can be very hot, and December brings Christmas markets while the rest of winter is cold.

Best time to visit Hungary

May, June, September.

Places to visit in Hungary

• Budapest: Hungary's grand capital straddling the Danube, famous for thermal baths, ruin bars and riverside architecture.
• Lake Balaton: Central Europe's largest lake, a summer escape of resorts, vineyards and volcanic hills.
• Eger: A baroque town known for its castle, an Ottoman minaret and Bull's Blood red wine.

Essentials

• Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)
• Language: Hungarian; English common in Budapest
• Plugs: Type C / F, 230 V
• Driving: Right side
• Time zone: UTC+1
• Tipping: 10–15%; check if service is already on the bill
• Getting around: Trains and buses radiate from Budapest; the city has trams and a metro
• Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking

Plan a trip to Hungary