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A Guide to Hungary


The latest travel Information on Hungary, includes ideas on Things to See and Do, Local Events, Embassy Contacts and much more, all from a first-time visitors point of view.

Overview of Hungary

The pride locals have for their nation is immense, but it doesn't spring solely from the stalwart strength of their nation. Hungary is also home to historic urban centres and evocative landscapes, not to mention quality wines, rejuvenating thermal springs, and a thriving arts and music scene. Budapest, the capital, is a fantastic city split in two by the Danube. Buda is older, hillier, and more graceful, while Pest is the commercial centre dotted by gorgeous art nouveau buildings. Budapest contains the country's best bars and clubs, and has been a long time haven for writers, artists and musicians. Other centres, such as Eger, Pécs, Szentendre and Sopron, to name but a few, are vibrant cities with rich histories and stunning architecture.


Top Things To See in Hungary

Budapest is a brilliant place to visit, with fascinating architecture, museums and galleries to explore. Follow the Danube Bend to the historic towns of Szentendre, Visegrád and Esztergom. Szentendre boasts a large artist's colony and a plethora of church spires, the ruins of a 15th-century palace and castle reside at Visegrád, and Esztergom is home to Hungary's largest basilica. Discover the country's remote northeast, home to tiny medieval churches and one of the country's most beautiful cathedrals, the Greek Catholic Cathedral of Máriapócs, where the iconic Black Madonna resides. Head to Eger, one of the country's oldest and most colourful cities, which boasts around 200 historical monuments, including its 14-sided Minaret.


Top Things To Do in Hungary

Wine tasting is very popular in Hungary and there are plenty of vineyards for you to go and try it. Horse riding on the Great Plain is another brilliant activity and you can choose to take lessons, or if you are more experienced, go on an excursion. Relax in Budapest's thermal springs and medicinal baths. Visit Király Medicinal Baths, which date from the Middle Ages, the historic Rudas Medicinal Baths or the splendid outdoor pools of Széchenyi Baths. Sunbathe on the popular sandy beaches (strands), or take a dip in the famously shallow waters of Lake Balaton. Take a boat trip and explore the many towns that border the lake shore. Visit the caves at the Aggtelek National Park, part of the Gömör Torna Karst area of cave systems which extends into the Slovak Republic. Watch the birds circle, prance and play in the Hortobágy National Park. Around 350 species have been spotted here, including storks, warblers, eagles and herons. A guide is required for visits to some parts of the park, and motor vehicles are not permitted.


Hungary Climate

There are four seasons, with a very warm summer from June to August. Spring and autumn are mild, while winters are very cold. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year with snowfalls in winter.


Public Holidays in Hungary

2010: 1 Jan New Year's Day. 15 Mar Anniversary of 1848 uprising against Austrian rule. 2 Apr Easter Monday. 1 May Labour Day. 24 May Whit Monday. 20 Aug National Day (Feast of St Stephen). 23 Oct Republic Day (Anniversary of 1956). 1 Nov All Saints' Day. 24 Dec Christmas Eve. 25 Dec Christmas Day. 26 Dec Boxing Day.


Hungary Health

You will need an up to date Tetanus vaccination. It is important to have travel insurance when going abroad. If you have a valid European Health Insurance Card then you may be entitled to free or reduced cost treatment.

Further Health Information

We strongly advise you to check health requirements for the country you are traveling to with your GP, practice nurse or travel health clinic as health requirements and vaccinations can change at short notice. See Staying safe and healthy on the FCO website for more information.


Hungary Duty Free

From Hungary to the UK you can bring - 200 cigarettes; or 50 cigars; or 250 gms of tobacco, 4 litres of still table wine, 1 litre of spirits or strong liqueurs over 22% volume; or 2 litres of fortified wine, sparkling wine or other liqueurs, 16 litres Beer, 60cc/ml of perfume and other goods including souvenirs up to the value of Ł300


Hungary Currency

The currency is the Hunngarian Forint.


Hungary Passport & Visa Requirements

If you are British, Australian, Canadian or American then you will need a passport. Passports must be valid for the duration of your visit.


Hungary Embassy/Consulate

Embassy of the Republic of Hungary in the UK 35 Eaton Place, London SW1X 8BY, UK Tel: (020) 7235 5218. Website: www.mfa.gov.hu/emb/london Opening hours: Mon-Fri 0930-1200 (visa section).


Hungary Travel Advice

Overall, travelling to Hungary is easy and the stay is pleasant. However, for up to date information, you should check www.fco.gov.uk

Visit the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Website for the latest Hungary information and travel advice For the latest travel advice on Hungary please visit the Foreign & Commonwealth Travel website at http://fco.gov.uk/travel.



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We've tried to make the information on this site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. Verify critical information (like passport, visa, health, customs and transport requirements) with relevant authorities before you travel. Travel Guide © 2010 Flightline Essex Ltd. All Rights Reserved. E&OE.