Hungary

Use Normal Level of Caution

The Republic of Hungary is in central Europe, landlocked by Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia. The population of Hungary is approximately 9.9 million people.

Hungary's government is a parliamentary democracy. A president is chief of state, and a prime minister is head of government.

Hungary's transition from a centrally planned economy to a market economy and democracy has not been easy, although foreign investment in the country has grown. Hungary is a member of the European Union and is working toward status as a “developed” country.

Travellers to Hungary will enjoy Budapest, which is said to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world where the Danube River splits the city into two parts. Hungary has many UNESCO World Heritage sites and is also known for thermal springs and spas.

Currency	HUF: Forint
Language	Hungarian
Capital	Budapest
Recent Alerts	2
Latest Alert	July 24, 2021 - Hungarian Air Traffic Controllers on Partial Strike 27 July to 2 August

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Hungary. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Hepatitis A There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Hungary through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Hungary.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis There is a risk of this infection in some areas of the country below 1,400 meters, especially around Lake Balaton, Zala, Somogy, and Bas counties in the west and Nógrád county in the north, and along the Danube River. Tick-borne encephalitis occurs in early and late summer in Hungary.
Rabies The risk of rabies in this country is low since the virus is found only in wild animals. Those travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with wild animals may be at risk.
West Nile Fever West Nile Fever may occur in Hungary.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Hungary.

Hepatitis A Vaccine There is a significant risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country. Therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country. Therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine Travellers who plan to visit this country during the summer months and hike or camp in rural or forested areas that provide a habitat for the ticks that carry the virus should consider obtaining this vaccine. This vaccine is only available in Europe.
Rabies Vaccine Those travellers whose employment or activities bring them into direct contact with wild animals may want to consider vaccination.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Hungary.

None required.

Safety and Security in Hungary

Emergency Numbers

112

06-1-438-8080 Tourist Police - see note below

The Hungarian National Tourist Office operates a 24-hour helpline (telephone 06-1-438-8080) to assist tourists who are victims of crime. Operators can speak English.

Personal Safety

Hungary is generally a safe country. Petty crime, such as pick-pocketing and bag snatching is common, particularly in tourist areas, on public transportation, in shopping areas and markets, and other public areas. Be alert to your surroundings and personal security. Keep valuables secured and out of sight, and keep backpacks and bags in sight. Do not carry large amounts of cash. Avoid walking alone at night.

Travellers should be cautious of people staging roadside emergencies to persuade drivers to pull over. Highway robberies and car thefts do occur.

Restaurants and clubs sometimes do not list prices. Ask for a menu with clearly listed prices. Some restaurants will engage in scams involving extra surcharges on final bills for drinks or meals. Tourists who are unable to pay these bills may be accompanied by a security guard to a cash machine, threatened, and forced to withdraw funds. Do not ask taxi drivers to recommend restaurants or bars as they may be accomplices.

Roads are generally safe and well maintained. Exercise caution on rural roads which may be narrow and unlit at night. Only use officially marked taxis, avoid hailing a taxi on the street.

Flooding occurs annually in the northeast regions of Hungary causing infrastructure damage. Monitor local weather updates closely.

Although same-sex sexual activity is legal in Hungary, LGBTI travellers may experience some social discrimination due to the conservative nature of the country. Avoid public displays of affection.

Political Unrest

Travellers are advised to avoid large public gatherings and demonstrations as these events can unexpectedly escalate and violence can occur.

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Sitata uses advanced software algorithms to monitor the world for disease outbreaks and safety hazards. Each travel alert published by Sitata is reviewed by staff to ensure it meets the concerns of a traveller.

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Updated: July 24, 2021