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Hungary Holidays

Heady times in Europe’s heartland

Hungary holidays can be intoxicating. Steam fills gorgeous bathhouses, cities burst with architectural gems, feet stamp to folk festivals and wine and brandy spill from tables bursting with food. The nation is the bridge between Central and Eastern Europe, where the Alps become foothills and vast plains stretch east, the great Danube meandering through it all. Budapest is Hungary’s magical capital, and one of Europe’s most fascinating cities.

Its dramatic history, from Roman legions and Magyar horsemen through the Ottomans and the Habsburgs, can be traced through ancient fortresses, baroque churches and shimmering art nouveau hotels. History feels thrillingly alive here – the former Royal Palace houses a museum and gallery, Turkish baths offer the chance to soak in the past, and ‘ruin pubs’ have re-purposed old buildings as beer halls, offering quirky decor, sunny terraces and club nights. Several appealing destinations are within day-trip distance of Budapest.

Szentendre displays a Serbian influence and sits on a dramatic bend in the Danube where it features intriguing museums and atmospheric side streets. The town of Eger’s beautiful centre boasts a castle and minarets, with good vineyards and hiking in the hills around. Holidays to Hungary can go further afield, too. Lake Balaton is a great outdoor destination – you can visit beaches, forests and resorts that mix elegance with some wild bars and clubs. The second city, Debrecen, is a good base for exploring the Great Plains and watching cowboy shows – acrobatic displays of horsemanship that, like so much in Hungary, will make your head spin.

Need to know

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Capital
Budapest
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Language
Hungarian
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Currency
Hungarian Forint
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Time zone
GMT +1
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Flight time
2hrs

* Average time from London Gatwick to Budapest

All regions in Hungary

Explore our map of Hungary

Your questions answered

The spring and autumn months are often considered Hungary’s finest seasons, as the weather is typically nice but there aren’t the large crowds that appear in summer. Temperatures in spring average between 19℃ to 22℃ during the day. The weather is typically dry, though do expect at least some rain. In autumn, temperatures average 14℃ to 27℃ while the weather, much like in spring, is mild with occasional rainfall.
As a landlocked nation, Hungary has no seashore destinations to visit, though that’s not to say there aren’t any beaches. Opened in 1919, Palatinus Beach is an open-air bath on Margit Island in Budapest’s nature conservation region. The area offers a family-friendly environment with swimming and beach pools alongside several other activities for visitors to enjoy. Romai Beach, on the banks of the Danube, is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The beach has several water sports available, including kayaking and canoeing, while a number of bars and restaurants can be found just a short walk away.
Popular for its spicy flavours, Hungarian cuisine is much-loved the world over. Perhaps Hungary's best-known food is the national dish of goulash, a meat and vegetable stew seasoned with plenty of paprika. Fisherman’s soup, known locally as Halaszle, is also a much-loved Hungarian dish and recognisable for its distinct red colouring. Those with a sweet tooth certainly won’t be disappointed either, as Hungarian food includes several tasty treats. Dobos torta, a chocolate cake with whipped cream, is one of the country's most loved desserts. It is named after its inventor, confectioner Jozsef C Dobos. Sweetbread, known as Kurtoskalacs, is also very popular and can be found in many of Hungary's bakeries.
Hungary is perhaps best known for its many thermal springs and countless spas, which draw in tourists from across the globe. The country is also famous for its cuisine and its regular use of paprika to create a distinct taste. Hungary has a strong music tradition and is the birthplace of such classical composers as Bela Bartok, Franz Liszt and Franz Lehar. There is also a rich tradition of folk music throughout the nation, and festivals, like Badacsony Wine Week and the Budapest Festival of Folk Arts, are held throughout the year.
Hungarians typically greet each other with a handshake and eye contact while introducing themselves by their surname, if meeting someone unfamiliar. However, Hungarians who know each other usually adopt a more friendly manner, with a firm handshake, a hug or sometimes with a kiss on the cheek. Hungarians will typically also use first names when greeting someone they know.
Hungary is considered a family-friendly holiday destination due to its countless fun activities for visitors of all ages. Lake Balaton, a popular spot for holidaying families, has several activities, including a water park and hiking trails. Budapest’s Aquaworld Resort offers plenty to keep young families happy with an entertainment centre and swimming pools. While only a short distance away, Tarzan Park boasts a huge outdoor adventure park and cafe. Most restaurants also welcome families, though don’t always expect a children's menu.