Nestled in the packed heartland of Europe, Hungary is often overlooked by nations further west, yet this former world power still has a lot going for it. Split by the glorious Danube, it’s varied and forgiving terrain provides ample opportunities for fishing, horse riding, botany, bird-watching, cycling and a host of other outdoor pursuits; meanwhile, thermal spas, art nouveau architecture, rich musical heritage and fine cuisine are just some of the delights for the cultural tourist.
Budapest in particular captures the imagination, with is eclectic legacy of baroque, neoclassical and postmodern styles, green parks overflowing with welcome, Turkish-era baths and pleasure boats drifting leisurely along the great river. Get sweeping views of the iconic Danube Bend from medieval Visegrad or explore the Gothic town of Sopron, reminiscent of a latter-day Prague and also a convenient gateway to the sumptuous Lővér Hills.
Once the larger half of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Hungary endured forty years of communist rule before embracing democracy in 1989. Modernisation and liberalisation followed, but not at the expense of the country’s long heritage, of which the populace is rightly proud. Today, nearly a third of FDI flowing into central Europe goes to Hungary; it has been a member of the EU since 2004 though has yet to join the euro due to debt restriction. Business is conducted with formality and caution, but once you are accepted you become one of the fraternity.
Getting there
International flights go to Budapest. A high-speed hydrofoil connects Vienna and Budapest via the Danube. Extensive bus and train networks connect with most of Europe.
Getting around
There is no domestic flight network, but trains are fast and efficient and have excellent coverage. In more remote areas, such as Transdanubia, bus travel is relatively hassle-free. Main roads are good but rural roads are often in very poor condition.
Local information
Language: Hungarian
Time: UTC+1
Climate: Warm continental. Hot summers, cold winters, moderate rainfall throughout year. Temperature: Max 28°C (July), Min -4°C (January). Rainfall: Max 70mm (June), Min 30mm (September)
Currency: Forint (HUF)
Business etiquette: Greet by shaking hands, though older Hungarian men may bow to a woman. Make appointments two weeks in advance, in writing. Initial meetings are feelers only; Hungarians want to know if you are trustworthy. Business is conducted slowly and involves a lot of eating, drinking and entertaining.
Tipping: Nothing for poor service; 10 percent for standard service; 15-20 percent for excellent service.
Duty free: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco; 1l spirits; 1l of wine; 2l of still wine; Gifts up to Ft27,000; 1kg each of coffee, tea, cocoa and other spices (excluding paprika and paprika mixtures).
Safety: Some clubs and bars do not list prices and disputes can lead escalate.
Laws: Zero tolerance for drink driving. Even minor drug offences are dealt with severely. Always carry your passport.
Healthcare: Vaccination for tetanus required. Excellent medical facilities available, European citizens get free healthcare with an EHIC card. Non-EU may be charged and should have health insurance.
Socket type: Type C
