Hungary
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Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Hungarian landscapes, architecture and culture, which offer a rich diversity and unparalleled beauty. From the magnificent thermal baths and historic buildings in Budapest to the picturesque vineyards and lakes in the Balaton region, Hungary offers a wealth of photo opportunities to delight any photography enthusiast.

Budapest

Capital city

9.599.744

Population

Hungarian

Language

93.026 km²

Surface area

From goulash to Baumstriezel. Hungary enchants in many ways

Photo spots in Hungary

Welcome to the land of thermal baths and the Danube – Hungary, where photo spots invite you on a journey through the many facets of culture, history and breathtaking landscapes. From the magnificent thermal baths and historic buildings in Budapest to the vibrant city life in Debrecen and the picturesque vineyards and lakes in the Balaton region – the nature and architecture in Hungary reflect a fascinating diversity that inspires every photographer.

Explore the historic castles and palaces in Eger, the charming villages in the Puszta and the idyllic river landscapes along the Danube. Hungary is a country full of contrasts, characterized by its rich history and cultural diversity, which enchants its visitors with every photo spot. From the small hidden gems to the vibrant cities, Hungary offers an almost endless range of photo opportunities just waiting to be discovered. Get ready to be captured by the beauty of this country and start your photo journey through Hungary.

Good to know

Here you will find important information for your visit to Hungary or for your trip through this fascinating country in the heart of Europe. We’ll give you everything you need to get the most out of your stay in Hungary. Let’s go on a journey of discovery together and experience the best photo spots with Fotogoals.

Regions

Hungary is divided into 19 counties and the capital Budapest: from Pest via Győr-Moson-Sopron and Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén to Hajdú-Bihar and Zala. These regions each offer their own unique sights and cultural highlights. From the magnificent thermal baths in Budapest to the picturesque vineyards in the Balaton region - Hungary offers a rich variety to explore.

Currency

The official currency in Hungary is the Hungarian forint (HUF), which is accepted as a means of payment throughout the country. The country’s largest banks include OTP Bank, K&H Bank, Erste Bank and Raiffeisen Bank. ATMs can be found in banks as well as in many public places such as shopping centers, train stations and airports, making access to cash convenient and easy.

Mobile radio

Hungary has the country code +36 and the leading mobile providers are Magyar Telekom, Vodafone and Yettel (Telenor). Other providers use one of the networks of the major providers. The mobile network is generally well developed and offers extensive network coverage, even in rural areas. In general, 4G LTE is readily available. 5G is largely available in urban areas.

Grocery

In Hungary, most supermarkets and discount stores are open from Monday to Saturday from around 7 or 8 am until 8 or 10 pm. Some are also open on Sundays, with certain restrictions. The most popular retailers include Tesco, Spar, Aldi and Lidl. They offer a wide selection of food and other products at affordable prices.

Transportation

There are a variety of transportation options in Hungary. Magyar Államvasutak (MÁV) offers an extensive train network for national and international travel. Cities have public transportation such as subways, streetcars and buses. Flixbus and Volánbusz offer inexpensive long-distance bus connections. In addition, there are ride-sharing services such as Bolt, Uber, traditional cabs and car rentals for flexible transportation options.

Restaurant

Hungary has a diverse restaurant scene that offers something for every taste and budget. In addition to traditional restaurants serving Hungarian cuisine, you will also find a large number of international chains and snack stands offering a wide range of dishes, from goulash to sweet desserts. Prices for main meals average between 3,000 and 6,000 HUF. It is customary to tip about 10%.

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Hungary - FAQ: Travel

Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Hungary

If you want to visit Hungary, the best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and the activities you are planning. Summer (June to August) offers warm weather and is ideal for outdoor activities and visits to the lakes. Autumn (September to November) offers mild weather and colorful autumn landscapes, which is perfect for sightseeing and wine tasting. Winter (December to February) is ideal for visiting Christmas markets and cultural events. In spring (March to May), nature awakens and the cities blossom, which is perfect for walks and sightseeing tours. When planning your trip, consider your personal preferences and interests to find the best time to visit Hungary.

If you wish to enter Hungary, the need for a visa depends on your nationality, the purpose of your stay and the intended duration. Nationals of many countries do not require a visa for short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business purposes. However, a visa may be required for longer stays or other purposes. It is important to check the current entry requirements and apply for a visa in good time if necessary.

If you are planning a vacation trip to Hungary, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is the main airport where most international flights land. This airport is the largest and busiest in the country and offers a wide range of connections. The airport is well connected to the public transportation network. If you have a specific destination in mind in Hungary, it may make sense to choose the nearest regional airport, such as Debrecen (DEB). Find out about the various options in advance and choose the airport that best suits your travel plans.

If you are traveling to Hungary, no special vaccinations are usually required. However, it is recommended that you keep your standard vaccinations up to date according to your home country's vaccination calendar. If you are traveling from countries with yellow fever infection areas, you may need to provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination. It is advisable to find out about current health and entry regulations before you travel and to seek medical advice if necessary.

Yes, many people in Hungary speak English, especially in urban areas, tourist centers and among the younger generation. English is a widely spoken foreign language and is often learned as a second language at school. In hotels, restaurants, stores and tourist attractions, it is common for staff to speak English or at least have a basic knowledge of English in order to communicate with international visitors. If you don't speak Hungarian, you can usually communicate in English to find your way around and get help.

Hungary - FAQ: Daily life

Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about daily life in Hungary

In Hungary, the voltage is 230 volts and the frequency is 50 hertz. The sockets correspond to the European type C and type F. If you come from a country that uses other plug types, you may need an adapter to connect your electronic devices. These adapters are available in most electronics stores, airports and hotels. It is recommended that you check whether you need an adapter before your trip to ensure that your electronic devices can be used without any problems.

Can you drink the tap water in Hungary? Yes, the tap water in Hungary is generally safe to drink, especially in urban areas such as Budapest and other larger cities. The water is regularly tested and meets European drinking water standards.

However, in rural areas or in older buildings, the water quality may vary. In such cases, it is advisable to ask the locals or accommodation providers.

If you are unsure, you can also use bottled water, which is widely and easily available in Hungary.

Payment by card, especially by credit card, is widespread in Hungary. In larger stores, restaurants and bars in cities or tourist regions, payment by credit card is generally accepted. However, some smaller stores or rural areas may only accept cash. It is therefore advisable to find out in advance whether payment with your credit card is possible. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, while American Express can sometimes cause problems. All cards are usually accepted in supermarkets, as are Apple Pay and Google Pay. It is always a good idea to have both cash and a credit card with you to be prepared for all eventualities.

In Hungary, you can buy alcohol in supermarkets, discount stores, gas stations and kiosks. You can get a standard selection of alcoholic drinks almost everywhere, while a larger selection is usually only available in specialty drinks markets or in large supermarkets. The sale of alcohol is generally not limited in time, but it is advisable to find out about local regulations. The minimum age for the purchase of alcohol is 18 years.

aIn Hungary, you can buy cigarettes and tobacco in special tobacco stores, the so-called "Nemzeti Dohánybolt". These stores are usually easy to find and offer a wide selection of tobacco products. It is important to note that the sale of tobacco products is regulated and the minimum age for buying tobacco is 18. A pack of cigarettes costs around 4-5 euros on average.

In Hungary, you can buy drugstore and hygiene products in supermarkets such as Tesco and Spar as well as in specialized drugstores such as dm and Rossmann. These stores offer a wide range of products, including body care, cosmetics, household cleaners and baby care. Drugstore items are also available in pharmacies, which are widespread in most towns and communities.

Right-hand traffic prevails in Hungary. The speed limits vary depending on the type of road: in urban areas the limit is usually 50 km/h, on rural roads 90 km/h and on freeways 130 km/h. Seat belts must be worn by all vehicle occupants. The blood alcohol limit is 0.00%. The use of cell phones without hands-free equipment while driving is prohibited. It is important to obey traffic signs and traffic lights and to give priority to pedestrians at crosswalks.

When visiting Hungary, there are a few important things to bear in mind to ensure a smooth and pleasant stay:

  • Dress: Hungary has a relaxed dress code, but it is advisable to dress appropriately in urban areas and for formal occasions. Conservative clothing should be worn in religious sites.
  • Traffic: Right-hand traffic prevails in Hungary. It is important to follow the traffic rules and drive carefully. Pedestrians have priority at crosswalks.
  • Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in public buildings, restaurants, bars and many public places. There are designated smoking areas which should be used.
  • Alcohol: The consumption of alcohol is permitted in Hungary from the age of 18. However, it is forbidden to drink alcohol in public, except in designated areas such as licensed bars and restaurants.
  • Emergency number: The emergency number in Hungary is 112. This number can be used for the police, fire department and ambulance.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory in Hungary, but is appreciated in restaurants and for good service. Usually about 10% of the invoice amount is given.

Hungary - FAQ: Photo

Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about photography in Hungary

There are some important rules and regulations regarding photography in Hungary:

  • Respect privacy: Do not photograph people without their express permission, especially in private or sensitive situations.
  • Military and government buildings: Photography of military facilities and government buildings is often restricted or prohibited.
  • Religious sites: Special care should be taken when taking photographs in churches and other religious sites. Find out in advance whether photography is permitted.
  • Commercial photography: Permission is required for commercial photography. Find out about the necessary permits in advance.