Budapest Travel Guide

Budapest Travel Information

Electricity

Electrical current is 230 volts, 50 Hz. European-style two-pin plugs are standard.

Language

Hungarian (Magyar) is the official language, but German is widely spoken, especially in the areas close to the Austrian border. English is spoken in tourist areas and most hotels.

Tipping

Taxi drivers and waiters expect a tip of 10 to 15% in Hungary. Waiters should be handed the cash, rather than have it left on the table. Most people in the service industry expect to be tipped about 10 to 15%.

Safety Information

Most visits to Hungary are trouble-free, but normal precautions against petty crime should be taken. Pick pocketing and bag snatching are common in Budapest, especially on crowded public transport and other places frequented by tourists. Some bars, clubs and restaurants in Budapest charge outrageous prices by means of scams that target foreigners in particular. Be cautious of invitations off the street to dine in certain establishments or of recommendations by taxi drivers who are often in on the scam. All political demonstrations should be avoided, as they have led to violence in the past.

Local Customs

All travellers to Hungary must carry official identification at all times; photocopies are not acceptable.

Business

A handshake is the standard form of greeting when doing business in Hungary and in mixed company it is usually women who initiate. Conservative suits and ties are standard business dress and business people should be addressed by their title and surname. Business cards are often exchanged; Hungarians usually list their surnames first. It is useful to have a local representative when doing business in Hungary who can set up meetings and act as an interpreter. It is important to invest time on building relationships; socialising is a key element of this and face-to-face meetings are vital. Punctuality is vital to all occasions, and cancelling a meeting at the last minute may be detrimental to a business relatio