8 Things I Wish I Had Known Before Traveling to Hungary

Hidden treasure in Central Europe, Hungary has a lot of adventures for visitors. From its magnificent capital Budapest to its hot baths and rich past, there is plenty to see.

With the travel and ease of Wizz Air, you can easily organise your trip here. These eight points should help you be aware before starting your Hungarian journey:

1. The Best Time to Visit is Spring or Early Autumn

Thanks to its central European position and surrounding mountains, Hungary’s temperature is gentler than one would anticipate. Although winters are brief and quite snowless, summers may be rather hot.

I wish I had realised that visiting is best done either late spring or early fall. The weather in these seasons is ideal for discovering the many sites across the nation without having to deal with intolerable heat.

2. Learn a Few Hungarian Phrases

The language barrier caught me off guard among other things. Belonging to the Finno-Ugric language family and lacking much in common with the languages of surrounding nations, Hungarian is famously difficult. English is less widespread than you might think even though it is spoken in several tourist locations. Before my trip, I wish I had spent some time picking a few basic words.

3. Don’t Rely Solely on Your Bank Card

Hungary keeps its own currency, the Hungarian Forint (HUF), although being a member of the EU. I wish I always carried some cash with me. Although many locations welcome bank cards, this is not true everywhere, particularly in marketplaces or smaller towns.

For optimum rates, exchange your money at banks or official exchange offices; avoid changing money at hotels or airports where prices are usually less advantageous.

4. Budapest is Magical, But Don’t Overlook Other Cities

Like many guests, I was enthralled by Budapest’s splendour. Must-see sites include the magnificent Parliament building, the old Buda Castle, and the little Fisherman’s Bastion. I wish I had, nevertheless, more time to explore beyond the capital. Unique experiences not to be missed come from cities like Eger with its old castle, Sopron with its mediaeval appeal, or Pécs with its rich Roman past.

5. Embrace the Thermal Bath Culture

Hungary’s thermal baths are well-known and for good reason. Given the nation’s more than 500 hot springs, Hungarian culture revolves around them. I wish I had realised how much the local way of life depends on these baths. From the subterranean baths of Miskolc-Tapolca to the great Széchenyi Baths in Budapest, everyone provides a different experience. Be not shy; join the residents in this leisurely custom.

6. Plan a Trip to Lake Balaton

Hungary is landlocked, however, it possesses what residents lovingly refer to as the “Hungarian Sea,” Lake Balaton. Being the biggest lake in Central Europe, I wish I had included it in my travel plans. Along its banks, the lake provides lovely beaches, water activities, and little settlements. Families looking for shallow seas would find the southern coast excellent; individuals interested in sailing and wine tasting would find the northern beach ideal.

7. Prepare Your Taste Buds for Rich, Flavorful Cuisine

Though it’s not for the weak of taste or stomach, Hungarian food was a pleasant surprise. Rich in meat dishes, particularly hog, Hungarian cuisine is robust and delicious and liberally seasoned with paprika. I wish I had paced myself while sampling regional cuisine. Not miss classic Hungarian cuisine like lángos (fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese), pörkölt (a beef stew), and goulash—actually a soup. And the Dobos torte is absolutely a must-try for dessert.

8. Explore Hungary’s Wine Regions

I had no knowledge that some of the first vineyards in Europe called Hungary home. Beginning in the fifth century, the Tokaj wine region—a UNESCO World Heritage site—has been producing wine. I wish I had visited this old region to taste the renowned Tokaji Aszú, a sweet dessert wine long preferred by the nobility. Try some of the local wines while you’re there even if you can’t make it to Tokaj.

Conclusion

Hungary, then, presents a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors. There is something for everyone from its robust food and old vineyards to its magnificent architecture and therapeutic thermal springs. These ideas will help you to be more ready to really engage yourself in everything this wonderful nation has to offer. Hungary will leave you with lifelong memories and a want to return whether you’re lounging by Lake Balaton or visiting the busy streets of Budapest.