Hey there, fellow travelers! Today I’m in Budapest, Hungary. We love exploring new cities, and we know our fans do, too. There’s a lot to love about traveling, but we like to share a realistic picture with our fellow travelers. So, today we’re sharing the five things that travelers love, and the five things that travelers hate, about trips to Budapest.
Hate #1: Prices in Budapest
Most travelers expect Eastern European prices when they visit Budapest, but it’s relatively expensive compared to other Eastern European countries. It’s less expensive than central European cities like Vienna, but don’t expect a cheap vacation when you visit Budapest.
Read: Ten Inexpensive Cities of Europe to Visit
Hate #2: Language Barriers
Not knowing Hungarian can really be a challenge. Hungarian language is not similar to English, German or any of the Latin languages, so it can be difficult to even suss out a few words when you are looking at signs and menus. Even the alphabet is different!
Hate #3: Taxi Drivers in Budapest
The taxi drivers in Budapest are notorious for ripping off tourists. It’s even mentioned on the tourist brochures. It’s best to call a taxi ahead of time, or have your hotel send someone for you at the airport or train stations.
Hate #4: Intolerance in Budapest
Budapest can be a bit intolerant in terms of homosexuals and people of color. There’s a bit of a Neo-Nazi problem in Budapest. You won’t see it so much while Budapest sightseeing during the day, but if you are out at night, be aware of this and do some reading up on recent experiences in Budapest from these groups.
Hate #5: Service in Budapest
Even though tipping in customary in Budapest, the service is not great. In fact, it can be downright bad at some restaurants in Budapest. Set your expectations before you arrive; don’t expect good service in Budapest.
These “hates” of Budapest are things you will see in the most heavily touristy areas, and they aren’t necessarily representative of all Hungarians. Most of them are super friendly and helpful, especially if you try to speak a few Hungarian words.
Love #1: Baths of Budapest
Budapest is known for the bathhouses and thermal baths. These are a big highlight of any trip to Budapest, so make sure you include these in your trip to Budapest. Your hotel can recommend one and will even make spa appointments for you.
Love #2: Castle Hill
Some of the best things to do in Budapest are found on Castle Hill. Many Budapest museums are here, including the Budapest City Museum, the Matthias Church and amazing views of the Danube. It’s a nice place to just walk around, enjoying the view.
Love #3: Budapest Architecture
As you walk around Budapest, the architecture will amaze you. The Hungarian Parliament Building is the third largest in the world, and overlooks the Danube river. Anyone interested in architecture is going to love walking around Budapest.
Watch: Top Ten Sights in Budapest
Love #4: Walking Along the Danube
A quintessential experience of a trip to Budapest is just walking along the Danube River. It’s beautiful in daytime and at night, with great views of the Parliament and the Chain Bridge. You can also take a boat tour along the river for even better views. You can even take a day trip to Vienna or Bratislava on the Danube.
Love #5: Nightlife in Budapest
Budapest is a great destination for travelers who like to enjoy nightlife. Budapest has so many bars, coffee houses, theaters, operas, cinemas and nightclubs. No matter your age, or taste in activities, there will be something for you to do in the evening in Budapest.
With these five loves and hates, you will be better prepared for your trip to Budapest, and know what to expect when you arrive in Hungary. Have you been to Budapest? What did you love or hate? Tell us in the comments! For more travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos: