{"id":20549,"date":"2019-10-28T10:58:25","date_gmt":"2019-10-28T10:58:25","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/blog.headout.com\/?p=20549"},"modified":"2023-03-31T14:04:50","modified_gmt":"2023-03-31T10:04:50","slug":"budapest-travel-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.headout.com\/blog\/budapest-travel-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"16 Budapest travel tips & hacks | First-timers in Budapest"},"content":{"rendered":"

An architectural treasure trove, Budapest<\/a> flaunts a wonderful harmony of natural and man-made elements. With epic tales of its history woven into its everyday life, Budapest\u2019s thriving culture draws a diverse crowd. The city’s transitioning blend of Western and Eastern Europe makes it like no other European city. With its healing hot springs, umpteen ruin bars and breathtaking Art Noveau architecture, Budapest is a much-needed respite for those keen on a cultural chaos. Our Budapest Travel Tips will help you find order in this chaos and make the most of your visit.<\/p>\n

\"\u2764\" Budapest Essentials<\/span> <\/a> \"\u26c5\"Best Time To Visit<\/span> <\/a> \"\u2728\" Tips & Hacks<\/span> <\/a> \"?\"Eating in Budapest<\/span> <\/a> \"?\"Transport in Budapest<\/span> <\/a> \"?\"Save Money in Budapest<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Budapest Essentials<\/h2>\n

Starting with the essentials, here’s what you must know before getting to Budapest. Make sure you brush up a little Hungarian!<\/p>\n

\"?\"<\/p>\n

LanguageHungarian<\/span><\/p>\n

\"?\"<\/p>\n

Time zoneGMT+2<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\u260e\"<\/p>\n

Country Code+36<\/span><\/p>\n

\"?\"<\/p>\n

Socket Type C & F<\/span><\/p>\n

\"?\"<\/p>\n

CurrencyHungarian Forints(HUF)<\/span><\/p>\n

Best Time To Visit Budapest<\/h2>\n

Blessed with a pleasant climate throughout the year, it is hard to zero in on one the best time of the year to visit Budapest. However, with affordable rates and little to no crowd, it is spring that makes an ideal season for those looking for a relaxing getaway. Summer witnesses an upsurge of crowd, however, the Budapest Summer Festival, which takes place between June to August, is definitely something you shouldn\u2019t miss out on. Fall in Budapest also is a great time to visit, considering the drop in temperature. However, if you don\u2019t mind the a snowy vacation, December to February is also a great time to enjoy its quaint Christmas markets and events that take place around the festive season.<\/p>\n

Read more about the best time to visit Budapest<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Budapest<\/a>Jan \"Budapest<\/a>Feb \"Budapest<\/a>Mar \"Budapest<\/a>Apr \"Budapest<\/a>May \"Budapest<\/a>Jun [tcb-script src=”..\/broadway-page\/jquery.js”][\/tcb-script] [tcb-script]$(document).ready(function(){$(‘.icon[data-bg]’).each(function(i, e){$(e).css(‘color’, $(e).data(‘color’));$(e).css(‘background’, $(e).data(‘bg’));})})[\/tcb-script] \"Budapest<\/a>Jul \"Budapest<\/a>Aug \"Budapest<\/a>Sep \"Budapest<\/a>Oct \"Budapest<\/a>Nov \"Budapest<\/a>Dec [tcb-script src=”..\/broadway-page\/jquery.js”][\/tcb-script] [tcb-script]$(document).ready(function(){$(‘.icon[data-bg]’).each(function(i, e){$(e).css(‘color’, $(e).data(‘color’));$(e).css(‘background’, $(e).data(‘bg’));})})[\/tcb-script]<\/p>\n

Budapest Travel Tips 101 – A First Timer’s Holy Grail<\/h2>\n

Below are the tips and hacks you’re here for. Read on and thank us later!<\/p>\n

#1 Sample Local Wines<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

Home to some of the most well-known brands of wine, there’s no leaving Budapest without trying some of its piquant alcohol. While there are several opportunities to try wine (in restaurants and pubs), look out for historic cellars or wine tasting tours that take place in the city on a frequent basis. Pair the tasting with a romantic cruise to make the most of your evening in the city!<\/p>\n

#2 Don\u2019t Clink Beer Glasses!<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

A funny, yet interesting tradition the locals in Budapest follows comes from 1848 when the Hungary revolution was overthrown by the Habsburg. To celebrate their victory in Vienna, Austrians everywhere clicked beer to show their joy for the same. Though 167 years have passed, Hungarians have not forgotten and have vowed to never clink beer glasses! While it may not land you into trouble, it would be an advisable option to avoid the regular \u2018cheers\u2019!<\/p>\n

#3 Dine at Butcher Stores<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

Butcher\u2019s stores in Budapest are not just for buying your weekly meat ration; they are a dining experience in itself. From sausages to pork knuckle, duck and blood sausage served with saeurkraut, chips and, of course, mustard – it’s a gastronomical delight in here. While it is a stand-only dining affair, you cannot miss out on this experience in the city. Checkout Belv\u00e1rosi Diszn\u00f3toros for one of the most famous in-butcher dining experiences in Budapest.<\/p>\n

#4 Forget The Euros<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

Although Hungary is a member of the European Union, the country hasn\u2019t adopted the Euro as its official currency. Though the Euro is widely accepted through the country, be prepared to receive change in the form of Forints if you choose to exchange your currency locally. Restaurants in Budapest also don\u2019t prefer a card, so make sure you hit the ATM before heading for a meal. It is advisable to go through a legal money exchange instead of opting for easily available options within the city.<\/p>\n

\"RomeBudapest Card<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Exploring Budapest on a Budget<\/h2>\n

<\/a>The Budapest Card, in short, is a traveler’s fantasy come true. The Budapest Card is the most seamless and straightforward way to see and discover everything that Budapest has to offer. This pass is essentially a bundle of services and savings for residents of Budapest.<\/a><\/p>\n

#5 Explore The Coffee House Culture<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

Hungarians love to start their day with a strong brew! Caf\u00e9s, or k\u00e1v\u00e9h\u00e1z, have been around in Budapest since the early 16th century after the Turks brought in coffee cultivation as an occupation. In fact, you may also stumble upon some coffee houses that has a deep history to it! Although many of these coffee houses have been restored to match their former glory, the old-world charm is still alive within its four walls!<\/p>\n

#6 Insist on Using the Meter in a Taxi<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

Taxi drivers in Budapest are known for overcharging tourists. Hence, insist on asking for a meter. While taxis are a convenient way to travel in any city, it is also one of the most expensive modes of transport. Consider buying the Budapest Card<\/a> which allows unlimited public transport if you’re planning to use the public transit system as your primary mode of transport .<\/p>\n

#7 Visit Ruin Pubs of Budapest<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

Owing to its historic background, Budapest houses a number of ruin bars. What were once merely considered crumbling, abandoned buildings have today been transformed into swanky bars and pubs that are a favorite of many. Ruin bars began as an experiment by Szimpla but have slowly taken over the city as many recycled spaces have begun popping up after the initial success. Make sure you include one of the many ruin bars in the city on your itinerary for a unique experience during your stay.<\/p>\n

#8 Watch Out for Signs of History Along the Way<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

Budapest has signs of history scattered around the city. What was once almost demolished due to the ill effects of World War II, today houses several memorials across the city for the lives that were lost. One of the most notable exhibits include the 60 pairs of shoes at the Danube, which were designed by sculptor Gyula Pauer. The memorial is dedicated to the Jews who lost their lives in the Danube by the Cross Arrow Military.<\/p>\n

#9 Sign up for a Guided City Tour<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

Opt for a cultural walk from Buda to Pest with local guided tours<\/a> that take you through the history of the city. Available in English and Spanish, these tours take place twice a day and have skilled guides on board who could brief you on some of their exciting stories about the city. With tours on the history, pub culture and Jewish legacy, there\u2019s something for everyone in these walking tours.<\/p>\n

\"RomeExploring Budapest<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Guided Tours, Walking Tours, Segway Tours and More<\/h2>\n

<\/a>While it is generally acknowledged that seeing a city on foot is the best way to appreciate it, time and financial restrictions frequently compel us to pay for and participate in costly and exhausting group excursions. Choosing the correct tour for your journey may help you create a memorable experience.<\/a><\/p>\n

#10 Tipping is Norm in Budapest<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

Although not mandatory, tipping in Budapest is considered courteous and is followed by locals as well. It is considered polite to tip in hotels and concierge services. A 10% to 15% tip can be applied to restaurant bills as well unless service tax is already added. While tips can also be added to spas and bathhouses in Budapest, the locals also tip the taxi drivers.<\/p>\n

#11 Tram over Taxi, any day!<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

While taxis are considered to be convenient, taking the tram in Budapest is perhaps a more viable option. With 40 lines running between 4:30 am to 11 pm, the tram is an ideal way to tour the city on a budget. Connecting almost every important attraction in the city, you can buy a day\u2019s pass or choose to opt for a Budapest card to use the tram freely during your stay.<\/p>\n

#12 Come Hungry<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

Hungarian food is delicious and anyone who tells you otherwise does not have the taste for a hearty fare. With stews and meat as well as potatoes and dumplings, the food is light on the stomach but lingers on your taste buds long after. Potatoes are pretty much the only thing “vegetarian”, but the meat fest otherwise is a sensory treat.<\/p>\n

#13 Stroll the Length of Andrassy \u00dat<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

The grand tree-lined boulevard of Andrassy \u00dat is a UNESCO Heritage Site that connects the Opera House and City Park, and is best explored on foot. It runs by the city\u2019s most expensive real-estate, so have a great time craning your neck and spotting the best houses in town. By the end of it, you’ll surely be pining for a piece of land here!<\/p>\n

#14 Catch a Show at The State Opera<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

Unlike most other European cities, entertainment in Budapest is cheap! You can catch a show at the State Opera for as little as 500 HUF ($1.80), and if you come during rehearsal performances, you can find seats starting from 200 HUF ($0.72)!<\/p>\n

#15 Why not a Beer & Pizza Cruise?<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

With the River Danube running majestically right through the middle of the city, cruises in Budapest are a much sought after affair. While there different cruises to suit all budgets, our top favourites are the Beer & Pizza Cruise<\/a> and the Operetta & Folklore Cruise. Check out the other top selling Danube cruises in Budapest and grab your tickets right away!<\/p>\n

#16 Hop on the Second Oldest Metro in the World<\/h2>\n

\"Budapest<\/p>\n

The Budapest Metro<\/a> is the oldest electrified underground railways system in Europe and the second oldest electrically operated system in the world. It was opened in 1896 and runs till date – on time, every day. While traveling through this metro, you’re traveling with years of history etched in the walls of these trains. Cherish the journey and enjoy the cheap and easy accessibility throughout the city.<\/p>\n

\"budapestBudapest Travel Guide<\/a><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

What To Do | Budget Tips | Day Trips and More<\/h2>\n

<\/a>To make your Budapest dreams come true in the most beautiful manner, here\u2019s your all encompassing Budapest Guide that will talk about everything from the country\u2019s currency, festivals you ought to attend and tipping culture.<\/a><\/p>\n

Tips For Saving Money On Transportation In Budapest<\/h2>\n