HUNGARY
Thermal baths, a rich history, and a vibrant café culture make Hungary one of Europe’s most fascinating yet underrated destinations.
From the lively streets of Budapest to the baroque charm of Győr, and from the shores of Lake Balaton to the vineyards of Tokaj, this Central European gem blends old-world elegance with a modern, youthful energy. Join us as we explore Hungary through first-hand experiences, local tips, and stories that reveal both the highlights and hidden corners worth discovering.
Why Visit Hungary?
Hungary is more than just Budapest. Yes, the capital dazzles with its thermal baths, ruin pubs, and Danube views, but beyond it lies a country full of contrasts. You’ll find charming towns like Győr (my birthplace!) and Sopron (one of my favourite cities!), relaxing lakeside escapes at Balaton, and world-class wines in Tokaj and Eger.
It’s also affordable compared to Western Europe, making it easy to enjoy good food, wine, and cultural experiences without stretching your budget. Whether you’re here for architecture, history, food, or just to slow down and soak up the atmosphere, Hungary offers a surprising variety of experiences in a compact area.
Best Places to Visit in Hungary
Planning Your Trip to Hungary
Our journey starts with the places we know best: Győr, Budapest, and the heart of Western Hungary. From exploring cosy cafés and hidden cultural gems to soaking in thermal baths and discovering historic towns, these guides will help you see a side of Hungary beyond the usual tourist trail.
Ready to explore Hungary? Start with our Hungary Travel Guide for essential tips and insights, then follow our 1–2 Week Hungary Itinerary for a step-by-step route covering the country’s top highlights.
Best Time to Visit Hungary
Hungary has four distinct seasons, each offering a different travel experience.
- Spring & Autumn (Mar-May, Sep–Oct): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, perfect for city breaks and wine regions
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot and lively. Great for Lake Balaton, festivals, and Budapest’s outdoor cafés. Just note: it’s also peak tourist season
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold but festive. Christmas markets, thermal baths, and cosy cafés make it a magical time, especially in Budapest. Highly recommend visiting the Christmas markets to soak in that magical festive atmosphere
Tip: April to early June or mid-September strikes the best balance of good weather, affordable prices, and fewer tourists.
Travel Insurance for Hungary
Exploring Hungary is usually safe and welcoming, but unexpected things can still happen on the road. Which is why travel insurance is always worth having. From soaking in Budapest’s thermal baths and hiking in the hills of Northern Hungary to cycling around Lake Balaton or joining adventure activities, good coverage gives you peace of mind.
We recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance, a flexible and affordable plan designed specifically for travellers. It covers you not only in Hungary but across Europe too, making it perfect if you’re combining Budapest with other destinations.
What’s included:
- Medical emergencies & hospital stays: from doctor visits to emergency evacuation
- Trip delays & lost baggage: so travel disruptions don’t ruin your trip
- Adventure activities & natural disasters: including hiking, cycling, and more
- Scooter & motorbike accidents: covered if you rent a scooter or bike, a common way to get around towns and lakeside areas
At around $56.28 per 28 days, the policy renews automatically until you cancel, and you can manage everything online or via the app.
Don’t let the unexpected cut your trip short. Travel with confidence knowing you’re protected, so you can focus on enjoying Hungary’s castles, vineyards, lakes, and lively capital.
