Budapest Tourism

Situated at the banks of River Danube, Budapest is a charmingly unique, vibrant city and the capital of Hungary. The traces of settlement on the territory of Budapest account to the Celtic tribes. During the first Century AD, the territory was fortified and went under significant development that turned the territory into a civil settlement. The Roman Ruins in the city have been dated back to the second and the third century AD and have shed light on to the culture and the lifestyle of that time. During the medieval times, the city was under the rule of King Matthias. The vividly remembered renaissance ruler and his love for the arts and the sciences transformed Hungary into a notable power. The city has been witness to a long violent past and was almost on the verge of destruction by the Mongols in 1241, Turks in 1541 and the Soviet troops in 1945. Today, Budapest is the cultural, political and economic capital of Hungary and boasts royal palaces, Ottoman-era spas, wooded hills, fine museums and galleries, fantastic art nouveau buildings, new design hotels, fabulous food markets, outdoor coffee houses, picturesque scenery, fashion houses, a lively performing arts scene, entertainment opportunities, colourful markets, extravagant festivals, a vibrant culture and a rich past. The plethora of sights, attractions and opportunities make Budapest worthy of its claim as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Due to its beautiful scenery and architecture, Budapest is often recognised as “Paris of The East.” The unique, youthful atmosphere, outstanding classical music scene, pulsating night life along with the historic and natural attractions, add to the magic of Budapest.

Essential travel information and Budapest tips for your visit

  • Budapest Time Zone -  Central European Time Zone (UTC+01:00)
  • Currency – Currency in Budapest is Hungarian Forints
  • Electricity – Budapest uses 230 V, 50 Hz alternating current as the power. Plugs and sockets have ungrounded 2 pin connections (Type C) and have grounded / earthed 2 pin connections (Type F).
  • Languages - The official language in Hungary is Hungarian. Most Hungarians speak only German. There are some English speakers as well.
  • Internet – 3G, 4G and Wi-Fi connections are available in almost every hotel in the city. There are numerous Cafes providing free Wi-Fi to the tourists.
  • Security – Police: 107, Ambulance: 104
  • English-language hot-line specifically set up for tourists: 438 8080
  • Tipping – If the service fee is not included, it is customary to tip 10%-15% of the total bill. Tipping in Hungary's restaurants and bars is quite unusual and can be the source of some misunderstanding. You shouldn't leave the tip on the table. Instead, you are expected to tell your waiter how much you are paying in total or how much change you would like back.
  • Pickpockets are most active on public transport vehicles metro, in crowded shops, shopping centres, food markets, and popular touristy places. Make sure to keep your money, documents, mobile phone safe and secure.
  • Public restrooms can be a bit grungy, often with no soap or only bar soap, a shared cloth towel for hand drying, and no toilet paper.  It is recommended that tourists carry hand sanitizer and extra tissues in their bags to overcome this.
  • Passports and travel documents should be kept in a safe place
  • Do not take marijuana, drugs in Budapest.
  • Do not board Budapest public transport vehicles without a ticket.
  • Hungarians almost always shake hands on meeting. Remember to shake hands with everyone as you introduce yourself.

Budapest Trip Planner

Plan your customized day by day trip plan for Budapest. Choose from various experinces categories as adventure, romantic and family and kids friendly for your trip using using Budapest trip planner.

The best tours and activities in the city, guided by experts to give you a local insight to the best of Budapest