Cheap Holidays to Hungary

If its a fairytale city break you're after, Hungary holidays will deliver by the bucket load. Mix in spellbinding landscapes and a UNESCO protected capital city, and you have an unbeatable recipe. Jaw-dropping Budapest offers a bounty of architectural delights, romantic river cruises and beautiful Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion and the Basilica of St Stephen. Explore the cobbled streets before taking a dip in thermal baths or hitting the city's famous ruin pubs housed in reimagined derelict city buildings. Hungary boasts a mixture of unmissable natural attractions including picturesque lakes, verdant forests and snow-capped mountain ranges (located north-east of Budapest). Whether its Christmas markets, spellbinding views or lively music festivals you're looking for, holidays in Hungary have something for the culture vulture, the adventurer and the city break lover.

Places to Go and Things to Do

Cruise the Danube

To soak up the city sights take a cruise along the Danube. As you float down Europe's second-longest river you can enjoy panoramic views of hilly Buda and Pest, cruise past the grand Parliament and see the picturesque Margaret Island and the Rakoczi Bridge. When dusk falls, cruises are even romantic. Enjoy a glass of wine, listen to traditional music and see the city's pretty lights from the river.

Bask in Budapest's Famous Baths

Budapest’s famous thermal waters allow you the luxury of swimming outdoors, even if it's snowing outside! There are dozens of locations to choose from such as Rudas, which offers panoramic views of the Danube from its rooftop pool and Szechenyi, the go-to venue for late-night pool parties. Settle in the saunas at Lukacs Baths or head to the historic 16th century Kiraly Bath, constructed by the Ottoman Empire’s Pasha of Buda, where you can experience a traditional Turkish bath. Enjoy the mineral-rich spring waters, steam rooms and spas at each of these unique venues.

Kids will Love the Children's Railway!

If you're travelling with family there's plenty for youngsters, and the young at heart, to see and do. The Children’s Railway (Gyermekvasút) is a fun way to explore the Buda hills and is operated by children (under adult supervision, of course!). Its route takes you along the city's scenic Normafa area, Janos Hill and to the Vadaspark zoo. Or make a splash and go surfing in Aquaworld and zoom down the slides and flumes. Monkey around at the city zoo or pack a picnic lunch and head to Anna-rét, which has fire pits for barbecues and a children’s playground.

Party in Ruin Pubs

Ruin pubs are all the rage in Budapest – these drinking haunts have sprung up in disused buildings and are now some of the coolest places to party in the city. Their mismatched furniture and artistic interiors have a cool, hipster appeal and are great for a lively night. Find them in the city's ruins in the Jewish quarter of District VII, in Gozsdu Udvar and Madách Square. Swap the sophisticated cocktail bars for ramshackled buildings with intriguing interiors full of contemporary art and international crowds. Szimpla Kert is one of the original ruin bars and hosts many local bands along with a farmers markets and flea markets. Durer Kert and Instant are also worth a visit. In the summer, try out the retro garden bars and rooftop restaurants.

Essential Information

Getting Around

Transport links in Hungary are well developed, with plenty of options available for visitors who want to explore this beautiful country. There’s an efficient bus network, as well as trolley buses in cities including Budapest. There are ferry systems in both Budapest and Lake Balaton, and high-speed rail services are a good option for travelling longer distances. Taxis are common but it’s recommended to book rather than hail.

Travelling by bus or car

Buses are a popular mode of transport in Hungary – both in its capital and other cities. They are very cheap and efficient and can help you to explore easily without a car.

Car hire is available but you must be at least 21 and you must have had your licence for at least a year. All the major franchises operate here as well as local companies. It is not necessary to hire a care when in Budapest as the city is set up well for tourists and transfers to and from the airport are plentiful and suit all budgets. Drive on the right-hand side.

Passports and Visas

If you’re a British citizen, a visa isn’t required to holiday in Hungary. Your valid passport will need to be in date for the duration of your stay. For more information and advice, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/hungary/entry-requirements or the Foreign Office at www.fco.gov.uk/en/

Health and Safety

Pick up a free EHIC before you fly, and make sure you’re properly protected with travel insurance. For more info, see www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/hungary/health

Vaccinations

There are currently no specific jabs required for travel in Hungary. Double check the latest vaccination guidelines with your GP, though. Routine jabs should be up to date.

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