Hungary Holiday Deals 2026 / 2027 from £1,399

ATOL and ABTA Protected

39 years of Experience

Low deposits from £99pp*

Price-match promise*

Overview

Experience the magic of Central Europe with ATOL-protected Hungary holidays, exclusively with Luxtripper. This is going to give you a dreamy holiday where you can take a stroll through fascinating architecture, majestic cities, and an exciting nightlife. You can immerse yourself in the history and culture of Hungary, from the thermal baths of Budapest to charming countryside villages, discovering rich culture and traditions along the way. Explore Hungary’s diverse countryside, where rolling hills, vineyards, and river valleys await your presence.

Enjoy a genuine taste of Hungarian culture on our tours, from traditional folk music and festivals to hearty local cuisine and world-renowned wines. Explore iconic destinations and culinary experiences of Hungary, designed to suit couples, families, or solo travellers. Summer is the most popular time to visit Hungary, with warm weather and vibrant street life creating the perfect holiday atmosphere. Whether you're planning ahead for next year or the one after, start planning your Hungary holiday in 2026 or 2027 and let Luxtripper craft a bespoke getaway you'll never forget.

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Essential Information

When to Visit

Peak season

May - September

Warm, sunny weather makes this the perfect time for exploring Budapest's outdoor cafes, thermal baths, and countryside festivals.

Off-season

November - March

Winters are cold and dark, but the festive Christmas markets and steaming thermal baths offer a magical atmospheric escape.

HI / Lo°C Rainfall Sunshine

Jan

3° / -3° 30-40 mm 2 Hour

Feb

5° / -2° 30-40 mm 3 Hour

Mar

11° / 2° 30-40 mm 5 Hour

Apr

17° / 7° 40-50 mm 7 Hour

May

22° / 12° 50-70 mm 8 Hour

Jun

26° / 15° 60-70 mm 9 Hour

Jul

28° / 17° 40-50 mm 10 Hour

Aug

28° / 17° 40-50 mm 9 Hour

Sep

23° / 12° 40-50 mm 7 Hour

Oct

16° / 7° 30-40 mm 5 Hour

Nov

9° / 3° 40-50 mm 2 Hour

Dec

4° / -1° 40-50 mm 2 Hour

Hungary Map

Expand

Flight Time from London

Average non-stop duration

2h 20m

Currency

HUF

Hungarian Forint

Time Zone

GMT +1

Europe/Budapest

Main Airport

Budapest Ferenc Liszt

BUD

Languages

Hungarian

Official

English

Spoken

Visa Requirement

For UK citizens up to 90 days

Not Required

Population

As of recent census

9.7 million

Famous For

Thermal Baths

Historic Architecture

Goulash Cuisine

Ruin Bars

Danube River Cruises

Tokaj Wine Region

Visa Information

People travelling on a full British citizen passport can visit Hungary and the wider Schengen Area without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This may cover tourism, visits to family or friends, business meetings, cultural or sporting events, and some short-term study or training. Time spent in other Schengen countries during the previous 180 days counts towards the same 90-day allowance. Before travelling, ensure your passport meets Schengen requirements and carry supporting documents such as proof of accommodation, return or onward travel and sufficient funds, as border officials may request these during entry checks.

Passport Validity

Your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before your arrival date and remain valid for at least three months after your planned departure from the Schengen Area.

Visa Exempt

Visa-Free Entry (Schengen Area)

Planning to explore Budapest’s historic districts, thermal baths and countryside landscapes? British citizens can visit Hungary without a visa for short holidays and leisure trips.

Stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen Area.
No tourist visa is required in advance for eligible British citizens.
Previous visits to other Schengen countries count towards the 90-day limit.
Border control may request proof of accommodation
onward travel
and sufficient funds.
Working in Hungary requires separate authorization
even for stays under 90 days.

Schengen Rule

Schengen Visa

Travellers who are not eligible for visa-free entry may need to apply for a Schengen Visa before visiting Hungary.

Apply via Hungary if it is your sole Schengen destination.
Verify visa dates entries and territorial validity as Schengen travel can be restricted.

Long-term stay

Long-Stay Visas & Residence

Planning to work, study or stay in Hungary for longer than 90 days? You will need the appropriate Hungarian visa or residence permission.

Long-stay visas or residence permits are required for employment
study
or relocation.
Requirements depend on the purpose and length of stay.
Check the relevant Hungarian immigration requirements before travelling.

Adventure

Adventure in Hungary takes visitors beyond the cities, with opportunities to hike, cycle, paddle and discover its varied landscapes.

Touring Szent István Cave in the Bükk Mountains

Hungary’s Bükk Mountains are home to some of the country’s most impressive cave systems, where visitors can explore underground passages, limestone formations and natural chambers. Guided tours at caves such as Szent István Cave near Lillafüred offer an unusual adventure beneath one of Hungary’s most scenic regions.

Hiking in Bükk National Park

Bükk National Park is a great choice for travellers who want to explore Hungary on foot, with forest trails, waterfalls and mountain viewpoints. The Szalajka Valley near Szilvásvárad is a popular starting point, known for its woodland paths and the Fátyol Waterfall.

Cycling Around Lake Balaton

Cycling around Lake Balaton is one of the best ways to experience Hungary’s countryside, passing vineyards, beaches and lakeside villages. The route around the lake allows visitors to stop at places such as Tihany Peninsula, Balatonfüred and the smaller towns along the shoreline.

Kayaking on the Danube Bend

The Danube Bend offers a quieter way to experience Hungary’s famous river landscapes, with kayaking routes passing forested banks, small villages and views towards landmarks such as Visegrád Castle. Conditions can vary, so use an experienced operator, wear a life jacket and check local weather and river guidance before setting out.

Horse Riding in Hortobágy

Hortobágy National Park offers the chance to experience Hungary’s traditional horse culture across its open grasslands. Visitors can join guided rides, see the famous csikós horsemen and explore the landscapes of the Hungarian puszta, a region closely linked with rural traditions. Book riding experiences with an established local operator and confirm what is included.

Stand-up Paddleboarding on Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton’s calm waters make it a popular destination for stand-up paddleboarding during summer. Areas around Tihany, Balatonfüred and Keszthely offer suitable spots for beginners, combining time on the water with views of the lake’s shoreline and surrounding hills.

History

Hungary’s historic landmarks offer insight into its royal beginnings, medieval battles, religious traditions and rural way of life.

Eger Castle, Eger

Eger Castle is best known for the 1552 siege when a small Hungarian garrison defended the fortress against a much larger Ottoman army. Visitors can explore the castle walls, underground passages, exhibitions and museums that reveal the city’s medieval history and military past.

Hollókő Old Village, Nógrád County

Hollókő offers a glimpse into traditional Hungarian village life, with its preserved whitewashed houses, narrow lanes and Palóc cultural traditions. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors can explore the old village, local craft workshops and historic buildings that showcase rural Hungary before modern development.

Esztergom Basilica & Castle Hill, Esztergom

Esztergom was one of Hungary’s earliest royal centres and remains closely linked with the country’s religious history. Visitors can explore Castle Hill, the grand Basilica and historic sites overlooking the Danube, discovering the city’s role as a medieval capital and the birthplace of Hungary’s Christian traditions.

Pannonhalma Archabbey, Pannonhalma

Founded in 996, Pannonhalma Archabbey has played an important role in Hungary’s religious, cultural and educational history for over a thousand years. Visitors can explore its historic library, basilica, monastery buildings and hilltop surroundings while learning about the Benedictine community that continues to live there today.

Sopron Old Town, Sopron

Sopron’s Old Town preserves centuries of Hungarian history through its medieval streets, baroque buildings and remnants of Roman settlement. Visitors can wander around the historic centre, climb the Fire Tower and discover a border city shaped by different cultures and periods of European history.

Ópusztaszer National Heritage Park, Csongrád-Csanád County

Ópusztaszer National Heritage Park explores Hungary’s early history, traditions and national identity through exhibitions, reconstructed buildings and cultural displays. Visitors can learn about the country’s origins, see the famous Feszty Panorama and experience traditional crafts and customs connected with Hungary’s past.

Culture

Discover Hungary’s cultural identity through traditional music, folk customs, thermal baths and long-standing social traditions.

Pálinka & Hungarian Drinking Traditions

Pálinka is a traditional Hungarian fruit brandy deeply connected with the country’s hospitality and social gatherings. Made from fruits such as plum, apricot and pear, this spirit is enjoyed across Hungary and can be experienced through local distilleries, tastings and countryside visits.

Thermal Bath Culture

Thermal bathing is an important part of Hungarian life, with a tradition shaped by Roman and Ottoman influences over centuries. Visitors can experience historic bathhouses across the country, from Budapest’s grand thermal complexes to smaller regional spas where locals gather to relax and socialise.

Hungarian Music & Classical Heritage

Hungary has a strong musical legacy shaped by composers such as Franz Liszt, Béla Bartók and Zoltán Kodály. Visitors can explore this heritage through classical concerts, opera performances and historic music venues in Budapest, where traditional influences continue alongside modern interpretations.

Events

Visitors can experience Hungary through its annual events, from music and racing to food festivals and national occasions.

Budapest Spring Festival

Budapest Spring Festival presents music, theatre, dance, exhibitions and other cultural programmes at venues across the city. It should not be described as taking place every April: after a hiatus, the 2026 festival ran from 2 to 17 May. Refer to it as a spring event and publish confirmed dates for the relevant year.

Sziget Festival

Held every August on Óbuda Island, Sziget Festival is one of Europe’s largest music and cultural events. Visitors can enjoy performances from international artists, alongside art installations, workshops and activities that transform the island into a week-long celebration of music and creativity.

Busójárás Carnival

Busójárás is a traditional carnival held in Mohács before Lent, known for its masked Busó figures, folk music and street processions. Visitors can experience one of Hungary’s most unique cultural events, where centuries-old customs, crafts and local traditions are celebrated throughout the town.

Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix

The Hungarian Grand Prix takes place at the Hungaroring near Budapest each summer, attracting Formula 1 fans from around the world. Visitors can watch high-speed racing, explore the event atmosphere and combine the experience with time exploring the Hungarian capital nearby.

Budapest Wine Festival

Held at Buda Castle each September, the Budapest Wine Festival celebrates Hungary’s long-standing wine traditions with tastings, local producers and cultural programmes. Visitors can sample wines from regions such as Tokaj, Villány and Eger while enjoying views across Budapest from the castle grounds.

St. Stephen’s Day Celebrations

Celebrated on 20 August, St. Stephen’s Day marks Hungary’s national holiday with concerts, cultural events and one of Europe’s largest fireworks displays in Budapest. Visitors can experience traditional celebrations, food stalls and programmes honouring Hungary’s first king and the country’s founding.

Hungarian Parliament Building, Budapest

The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of Budapest’s most recognisable landmarks, set along the eastern bank of the Danube. Visitors can admire its Gothic Revival architecture from the riverfront or join guided tours to explore the grand interiors, including the Dome Hall and Hungary’s Crown Jewels.

Fisherman’s Bastion, Budapest

Fisherman’s Bastion is one of Budapest’s most popular viewpoints, with fairytale-like towers overlooking the Danube, Parliament Building and the city below. Visitors can walk along its terraces, explore the Neo-Romanesque architecture and enjoy some of the best panoramic views of the Hungarian capital. Some upper areas may require a ticket.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Budapest

Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of Budapest’s most famous experiences, with grand yellow buildings surrounding indoor and outdoor pools filled with natural thermal waters. Visitors can relax in its mineral-rich pools, try traditional spa treatments and experience a bathing culture that has shaped the city for generations.

Lake Balaton

Lake Balaton is Hungary’s favourite summer destination, offering a mix of beaches, lakeside towns, vineyards and outdoor activities. Visitors can relax by the water, explore the Tihany Peninsula, enjoy local wines and discover charming villages along the shores of Central Europe’s largest lake.

St. Stephen’s Basilica, Budapest

St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of Budapest’s most impressive landmarks, known for its grand dome, ornate interiors and central location. Visitors can step inside to admire its artwork and religious treasures, then climb to the dome terrace for sweeping views across the Hungarian capital.

Szentendre, Pest County

Szentendre is a charming riverside town near Budapest, known for its colourful Baroque buildings, cobbled streets and thriving art scene. Visitors can wander through its historic lanes, explore small galleries, browse local craft shops and enjoy cafés overlooking the Danube.

Goulash (Gulyás)

Hungary’s most famous dish, this paprika-seasoned beef soup combines tender meat, vegetables and warming spices.

Chicken Paprikash (Paprikás Csirke)

A classic Hungarian comfort dish featuring chicken cooked in paprika sauce and served with traditional dumplings called nokedli.

Lángos

A popular street food made from fried dough, usually topped with sour cream, cheese or garlic.

Fisherman’s Soup (Halászlé)

A spicy river fish soup prepared with paprika, commonly enjoyed in regions along the Danube and Tisza rivers.

Stuffed Cabbage (Töltött Káposzta)

A traditional dish of cabbage leaves filled with seasoned meat and rice, often served during celebrations.

Dobos Torte (Dobostorta)

A famous Hungarian dessert made with layered sponge cake, chocolate buttercream and a caramel topping.

Kürtőskalács (Chimney Cake)

A sweet spiral pastry baked over a cylinder and coated with sugar, cinnamon, nuts or other toppings.

Jókai Bean Soup (Jókai Bableves)

A hearty bean soup made with smoked meat, vegetables and spices, named after Hungarian writer Mór Jókai.

Pörkölt

A slow-cooked meat stew flavoured with paprika, onions and spices, often served with dumplings or potatoes.

Somlói Galuska

A popular Hungarian dessert combining sponge cake, chocolate sauce, walnuts, whipped cream and rum flavours.

Hungary is a landlocked country in Central Europe bordered by seven countries: Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia.
Budapest was formed in 1873 through the unification of Buda, Óbuda and Pest.
Hungarian belongs to the Uralic language family rather than the Indo-European language family.
Approximately 1,500 mineral springs are utilised across Hungary.
Lake Balaton is Central Europe’s largest lake and a major summer destination.
Budapest is often called the “City of Spas” because of its thermal springs and historic baths.
The Rubik’s Cube was created by Hungarian architecture professor Ernő Rubik in 1974.
Hungary has a centuries-old winemaking tradition, with the Tokaj region particularly renowned for Tokaji Aszú sweet wine.
The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of Europe’s largest legislative buildings and a prominent symbol of Budapest.
Hortobágy National Park forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage property recognised for its cultural landscape and centuries-old pastoral traditions.

Use Budapest’s public transport network to explore the city easily, including metro, trams and buses.
Carry Hungarian forint for smaller purchases, as Hungary uses its own currency despite being in the EU.
Book popular thermal baths in advance during peak travel periods to avoid long queues.
Visit Budapest’s ruin bars in the evening to experience the city’s unique nightlife scene.
Travel beyond Budapest to explore Hungary’s wine regions, historic towns and countryside landscapes.
Purchase attraction tickets online where possible, especially for major sites during summer and festive periods.
Use Budapest’s river cruises after sunset for views of illuminated landmarks along the Danube.
Try local markets such as the Great Market Hall for Hungarian food, souvenirs and regional products.
Consider a Budapest Card if planning multiple attractions, as it can include transport and sightseeing benefits.
Check seasonal opening times for thermal baths, museums and outdoor attractions before planning your itinerary.

What to Pack

An essential guide on what to bring for your journey to Hungary.

Clothing

Pack layers for changing temperatures in spring and autumn.
Carry a warm coat and thermal clothing for winter visits.
Bring lightweight tops and breathable clothing for summer.
Pack smart-casual outfits for restaurants, cafés and evening plans.
Carry a light jacket for cooler evenings throughout the year.

Footwear

Comfortable walking shoes are essential for city sightseeing.
Bring waterproof shoes for rainy days and winter conditions.
Pack dressier footwear for evening dining and cultural venues.
Carry shoes with good grip for cobbled streets and uneven paths.

Sun and Heat Essentials

Pack a compact umbrella for sudden showers.
Carry sunglasses and sunscreen during summer months.
Bring gloves, scarves and hats for colder winter days.
Pack a reusable water bottle for warm-weather sightseeing.
Carry a small day bag for daily essentials.

Electronics

Bring a European Type C or Type F plug adapter.
Carry a portable charger for long sightseeing days.
Download offline maps before exploring Budapest and nearby towns.
Pack a camera for Hungary’s historic streets and scenic landscapes.
Carry noise-cancelling headphones for flights and train journeys.

Emergency numbers

Police 107 · 112

Fire Department 105 · 112

Ambulance 104 · 112

Is it Safe to Travel to Hungary?

Most visits to Hungary are trouble-free, but travellers should take normal precautions. Petty crime, including bag-snatching and pickpocketing, occurs in Budapest and other cities, particularly on busy public transport, at stations, in markets and around major tourist sites. Official advice also highlights inflated bills, bank-card fraud and drink spiking..

Key Safety Considerations

Watch belongings in crowded areas: Tourist hotspots, public transport and busy markets can attract pickpockets, especially in central Budapest.
Use licensed taxis: Choose official taxi services or ride-hailing apps to avoid inflated fares and unreliable operators.
Be cautious in nightlife areas: Check prices before ordering and avoid accepting drinks from strangers in busy bars.
Take care around thermal baths: Follow posted safety guidance, especially if you have health concerns or are unfamiliar with hot-water facilities.
Stay aware during winter travel: Snow, icy pavements and reduced daylight can affect walking conditions between December and February.
Avoid demonstrations: Political rallies can occur in Budapest and elsewhere. Move away from large crowds and monitor local information.

Local Laws & Culture

Respect thermal bath etiquette: Hungarian thermal baths have a long cultural tradition, so follow local rules such as showering before entering pools.
Use Hungarian forint for payments: Hungary uses the forint (HUF), and smaller shops or local businesses may not always accept euros.
Follow smoking restrictions: Smoking is banned in enclosed public spaces, including restaurants, bars and public transport areas.
Carry identification documents: Visitors should carry a form of ID or a copy of passport details when exploring Hungary.
Follow dining customs: Tipping around 10–15% is common in restaurants when a service charge is not already included.
Respect historic and cultural sites: Treat monuments, memorials and heritage locations with care, as many hold deep national significance.