Beautiful Budapest warmly welcomes guests from all over the world. This destination is particularly liked by residents of our country - it's not far to travel, the prices are affordable, and there's plenty to see. So, what should you know about the capital of Hungary to ensure your weekend in this city is perfect? Here is a collection of practical tips for your consideration.
Accommodation
As we noted earlier, the Hungarian capital is a very popular destination for tourists, so we strongly recommend booking a hotel in Budapest in advance. You can quickly and conveniently find accommodation for your trip and plan your journey using the InTravel.net website.
A budget-friendly option is a hostel. Budapest has a large number of them, both in the city center and on the outskirts. There are many interesting art hostels with unique designs, and hostels that offer both large communal rooms and private rooms for 2-3 people.
flickr / Hannu Makarainen
Transport
The most convenient way to get around Budapest is by public transport, which operates at a high level of efficiency. You can buy tickets from special machines located at stops. However, it's also possible to pay the driver directly, though this will cost you more.
If you have planned a busy sightseeing schedule, consider getting a one-day or three-day pass, which allows unlimited use of all types of public transport in the city. Be sure to validate your tickets, as there are inspections on public transport, and the fine for riding without a ticket is steep.
You can combine pleasure with convenience by renting a bike. There are plenty of bike rental services in the city, and Budapest has excellent bike paths. Taxis are also affordable here, but if you hail one on the street, be prepared to pay in euros or US dollars, not local forints.
Language
The Hungarian language is a topic of its own. It is unlike any other European language, including those of Hungary's nearest neighbors (Austria, Romania, Ukraine). Only a small percentage of the population speaks English, so we recommend carrying a phrasebook or jotting down some useful Hungarian phrases.
flickr / Viktor Kelemen
Sights to See
Undoubtedly, the top spot among Budapest's attractions goes to the famous Parliament Building, the main symbol of the city. The best panoramic view of the Hungarian capital is from Gellért Hill. The main attractions are concentrated in the historic center, so be prepared for long walks.
Another symbol of Budapest is its thermal baths. A tip from experienced travelers: avoid visiting the baths in the middle of the day, as they are usually crowded with tourists brought in by buses. It's better to go early in the morning or later in the evening. Some baths also operate at night and occasionally host parties. Certain thermal pools have special schedules (men's, women's, and mixed days). Keep these details in mind when planning your visit to the baths.
Weather
Winter in Budapest is quite mild, so don't fear harsh cold if you're heading to Hungary's capital for Christmas. In February, temperatures often rise above 10°C (50°F). Spring is the best period for walking and sightseeing in the city. Summer in Budapest can be quite hot, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F).
Food
In Budapest, you can always find a place to grab a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly bite. The city center has plenty of fast food spots and inexpensive cafes serving simple homemade dishes. If you're trying to save as much as possible, consider staying in apartments with kitchens so you can cook for yourself, buying groceries in supermarkets.
Nevertheless, be sure to try Hungarian goulash, made with plenty of meat and sweet paprika. This dish is another emblem not just of Budapest but of the entire country.
flickr / Dennis Tang
Other Tips
Fines can seriously spoil your trip, so remember to follow basic rules. Don't litter, don't ride public transport without a ticket, follow traffic rules, and cross streets at designated places and only on green lights.
Change money to local currency (forints) at small exchange offices rather than in banks. This way, you'll save significantly on exchange fees.
Be aware that you must be at least 21 years old to rent a car, and some highways leading to Budapest are toll roads.
When you arrive in the Hungarian capital, we recommend purchasing a special tourist card that offers discounts on many tourist sites (baths, museums, theaters, zoos, attractions, etc.).
