Hungary holidays

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

For Hungary, pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and historic sites. Bring layers for variable weather, with lighter clothing for summer and warmer items for cooler months. Include sunscreen and sunglasses for sunny days, and an umbrella or light rain jacket as showers can occur year-round.

When visiting Hungary, greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Remove shoes when entering someone's home and bring a small gift if invited. In thermal baths, follow posted rules and maintain quiet conversation to respect others.

Traditional Hungarian cuisine is widely available throughout the country. In Budapest, we recommend trying local dishes at the Great Market Hall or at restaurants in the Castle District. For an authentic experience, visit a csárda (traditional Hungarian inn) in the countryside. Popular dishes to try include goulash, chicken paprikash, and lángos.

Tipping is appreciated in Hungary, though not always expected. In restaurants, it's common to leave a 10-15% tip if you're satisfied with the service. For taxis and other services, rounding up the bill or adding a small amount is generally welcomed.

Hungary's nightlife centres around Budapest with ruin bars set in historic buildings, thermal bath parties and live music venues. Head to Szimpla Kert, a famous ruin bar, or visit A38 Ship, a floating concert hall. The city also offers rooftop bars and traditional folk music venues.

In Budapest, you'll discover a range of shopping experiences. We recommend exploring the Great Market Hall for local products and souvenirs. For high-end brands, Andrássy Avenue offers elegant boutiques. Many shopping centres like WestEnd City Center provide a mix of international and local shops.

While Hungary is landlocked, you'll find lovely beach experiences at Lake Balaton, often called the 'Hungarian Sea'. Popular spots include Siófok, known for its lively atmosphere, and Balatonfüred, offering a more relaxed setting. Many resorts along the lake provide excellent facilities for an enjoyable beach day.

When visiting Hungary, you'll need a European-style two-pin plug adapter. Most sockets use the Type C or Type F plugs, which are common throughout continental Europe. We recommend bringing at least one adapter for your devices.