Best time to visit

The best time to visit Hungary is during the late spring to early autumn months, from May to September. During this period, Hungary experiences mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the country's cultural attractions. May and June offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant foliage, making it an excellent time for hiking, cycling, and enjoying outdoor festivals. July and August are peak tourist months, with warmer temperatures and bustling activity, particularly in Budapest and popular tourist destinations like Lake Balaton. September brings milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it another ideal time to visit Hungary without the peak summer rush. Additionally, autumn offers beautiful foliage, wine harvest festivals, and cultural events, making it an attractive time to experience Hungary's changing seasons and culinary delights.

What to expect

Language: The official language of Hungary is Hungarian, a Finno-Ugric language that is unique within Europe.

Currency: The official currency of Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF).

Safety: Hungary is generally considered a safe country for travelers. Crime rates are relatively low, and violent crime is rare. However, as with any destination, tourists should exercise standard precautions to safeguard their belongings and be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and public transportation. Pickpocketing can occur in tourist hotspots, so it's essential to keep valuables secure. Additionally, visitors should be cautious when using taxis, ensuring that they only use licensed operators and agree on fares in advance.

Cuisine: Hungarian cuisine is hearty and flavorful, reflecting its Central European and Magyar heritage. Traditional Hungarian dishes often feature meat, potatoes, and paprika, a spice that is central to Hungarian cooking. Classic Hungarian dishes include goulash (a rich stew made with beef, vegetables, and paprika), paprikash (a creamy chicken or veal stew seasoned with paprika), and töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage rolls). Other popular Hungarian foods include lángos (deep-fried flatbread topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese), túrós csusza (noodles with cottage cheese and bacon), and Hortobágyi palacsinta (savory pancakes filled with meat and served with a paprika sauce). Hungarian cuisine also includes a variety of pastries and desserts, such as dobos torte (layered sponge cake with chocolate buttercream) and kürtőskalács (chimney cake). Additionally, Hungary is known for its wine production, particularly in regions like Tokaj and Eger, where world-renowned wines such as Tokaji aszú and Egri Bikavér are produced.