Budapest’s elegant boulevards and world-famous thermal baths welcome visitors from all over the globe. However, some aspects of navigating the city can trip up even seasoned travelers.
An otherwise wonderful trip could be marred if you land a fine for failing to validate your public transportation ticket correctly. Therefore, you’ll want to avoid being taken for a ride—literally—by an unscrupulous taxi driver. Unfortunately, there are also recurring scams involving friendly women at shady bars…
That said, the Hungarian capital is a safe place for visitors. You can easily avoid these scenarios with a little planning and by following our list of things to do—and things to avoid—when visiting Budapest.
1. Learn a Few Words in Hungarian Before Arriving
Knowing how to say “please” and “thank you” in Hungarian goes a long way with the locals. Before your trip, learn the basics of this unique language, such as “hello” and “cheers.” One crucial tip: make sure you get the accent right on the “é” in “egészségedre” (“egg-ees-sheeg-ed-re”), and avoid accidentally saying “egészsegedre” (“egg-ess-shegg-ed-re”). The first means “to your health,” while the other is rather inappropriate!
2. Pack for the Pool
Soaking in Budapest’s thermal baths is one of the city’s most cherished experiences. Therefore, make sure to pack your swimming essentials, including flip-flops or pool sandals and a beach towel. You can rent a towel if you prefer not to bulk out your bags, but be prepared to pay as much as 5000Ft (about US$14).
3. Wear a Swimming Cap in the Bathhouse Pools
You can enter the swimming pools at the thermal baths only if you’re wearing a swimming cap. This rule prevents stray hairs from clogging the pool drains. Many bathhouses sell swimming caps at the ticket office for up to 2000Ft. Note that this rule does not apply to the thermal baths; it only applies to the on-site swimming pools.
4. Bring an Umbrella
It’s advisable to bring an umbrella to Budapest, even in summer. The city can experience sudden heavy downpours, particularly during the warmer months.
5. Pack Comfortable Walking Shoes (But Not Sneakers)
Since Budapest is a highly walkable city, you will be on your feet all day. Pack shoes that you’ll be comfortable wearing for hours while exploring. However, keep in mind that sneakers may single you out as a tourist!
6. Plan Visits in Advance for Popular Museums
If you’re visiting Budapest during peak season (summer or around Christmas), or if you have your heart set on seeing a seasonal exhibition, skip the long lines by planning your visits in advance. Popular sites may impose caps on visitor numbers, so it pays to plan ahead to ensure you can visit what you want.
7. Use Forints, Not Euros
Though Hungary uses the forint as its currency, some hotels, restaurants, and shops will accept euros but will give change back in forints. Additionally, establishments can be hesitant to accept large bills (like 20,000Ft notes). Therefore, try to withdraw smaller bills from ATMs.
8. Avoid Euronet ATMs
You’ll see Euronet ATMs all around town, especially in bars; however, they charge exorbitant bank fees. The convenience is not worth the cost.
9. Download Taxi and Transport Apps
To navigate the city on the go, download the BKK app, issued by the city’s official public transport agency, or CityMapper. For taxis, consider using an app like Bolt since Uber is no longer available in Hungary.
10. Never Hail a Taxi
Flagging taxis on the street can be risky, as some rogue operators might take advantage of visitors. It’s safer to call a cab or use an app to order one.
11. Validate Your Public Transport Ticket
The ticketing system for Budapest’s public transport can be confusing for first-time riders. Remember: buy a ticket before boarding public transport, validate it upon entry, and keep it until you reach your destination. Most tram and metro stops have machines for purchasing tickets, and on buses, you can buy them from the driver.
12. Learn How to Board the Bus
Typically, you can board the bus in Budapest through any door without showing your ticket to the driver. However, for some buses that only open their front door for boarding, be prepared to show your ticket or pass when entering.
13. Tip at Restaurants
Some restaurants include a service charge on the bill, so it’s wise to ask if this is included when paying. If not, it’s customary to tip around 10%. Hungarians often round up the bill and tell the server how much they wish to pay, including tips. If you give a banknote larger than your bill and say “thank you,” your server might interpret that as an invitation to keep the change.
14. Don’t Clink Your Beer Glasses with Hungarians
Hungarians traditionally do not clink their beer glasses, a custom stemming from a historical protest. While some younger individuals may not adhere to this tradition, it’s best to follow their lead when in their company. This rule doesn’t apply to wines or local fruit brandy, where it’s considered rude not to look into the eyes of others while toasting.
15. Greet Staff When Entering a Shop
If you visit a smaller shop, it is polite to say “Jó napot” (“good day”).
16. Don’t Smile Too Much (Hungarians Typically Don’t)
Hungarians are generally less expressive with smiles, so smiling at strangers may be interpreted differently than in cultures that are more open. While there’s no harm in smiling, being overly cheerful may draw unwanted attention.
17. Take Precautions with Your Belongings
Pickpockets can be prevalent during rush hours and in busy tourist attractions. Keep your belongings secured in a money belt or a zippered bag; avoid keeping your wallet or phone in easily accessible pockets.
18. Watch Out for the Budapest Bar Scam
One of the main risks while visiting Budapest involves scams where male travelers are approached by attractive women inviting them to bars. Once inside, patrons may face inflated bills and threats of police involvement. Consequently, it’s best to avoid bars suggested by new acquaintances.
19. After Midnight, Take a Taxi Back to Your Accommodations
Budapest’s city center is safe after midnight, especially in District VII. However, if you’re staying in neighborhoods beyond the Grand Boulevard, it’s safest to take a taxi back to your accommodations during late hours.
20. Be Aware of Recent LGBTIQ+ Laws
Hungary has faced criticism for laws affecting LGBTIQ+ travelers, particularly those preventing trans people from legally changing their gender. Despite this, Budapest remains a relatively liberal area, with vibrant activism for LGBTIQ+ rights. As always, exercise caution and stay informed of local customs and laws.
21. Know How to Get Medical Help If Needed
For peace of mind, consider obtaining travel insurance before your visit. The Hungarian public health system may be underfunded, making it challenging to find English-speaking doctors. Some popular private clinics include First Med and Swiss Clinic. Pharmacies are widely available, with a few open 24/7.
