Essential Tips For Visiting Budapest For The First Time

The ongoing annual conference and general assembly of the City Destinations Alliance (CityDNA) has once again put Budapest under the spotlight in the global tourism landscape. This 3-day event from 9th to 11th April 2025 has chosen “Beyond Boundaries” as a theme.

Further, 250 tourism professionals from various countries have taken part in this event to decide the future of tourism. They are planning to make the future of tourism more inclusive and sustainable.

Also, they want tourism to serve communities and not just tourists. The Budapest Brand, in collaboration with the Hungarian Tourism Agency and Visit Hungary, has organized this event to optimize the growth potential of Budapest as a travel destination.

“We are extremely proud that this prestigious professional event is organised by the Budapest Brand team this year. It is a great opportunity for us to show what Budapest—what our city—is capable of when it comes to tourism.”
Csaba Faix, Outgoing CEO, Budapest Brand

Having said that, the iconic landmarks of Budapest, such as the historic Buda Castle and the lively Danube River, have always attracted travelers from across the world.

Further, thanks to secured connectivity ensured by burner phones and other amenities, the city has been offering the most convenient experience for its travelers.

So, it is no wonder that Budapest has experienced a significant 18% rise in footfall and an 8.7% increase in tourism nights in January 2025 in comparison with January 2024.

Do you also want to visit Budapest, home to 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites? In this Dream and Travel Guide, we will discuss some important tips to make your experience seamless.

Essential Tips For Visiting Budapest: Approved By Local Tourism Experts

Here, we will start discussing tips for visiting Budapest, including the best time to visit the city. The shoulder seasons are always great for visiting Budapest because of pleasant weather conditions and smaller crowds of tourists.

So, plan your trip between March to May and September to November.

Nevertheless, irrespective of your time of visit to Budapest, you need to be careful about some other things.

Here we go!

1. Get A Budapest Card For Local Transportation and Getting Around

Budapest’s public transportation system is affordable and accessible. The metro, buses, and trams are all connected, and tickets are valid across multiple modes of transport.

Hungary, especially the capital city of Budapest, is committed to creating a people-focused tourism landscape. The sound public system of the country is going to play a crucial role in achieving that.

You must get a Budapest Card during your trip as it offers the following benefits.

Unlimited use of public transport
Discounts for museums and tourist attractions

Furthermore, if you want a more customized travel experience, you can take taxis or book cabs

through ridesharing apps like Bolt.

Also, you can book e-scooters and rental bikes for traveling a short distance fast.

Moreover, a walk along the Danube River or a river cruise will offer you the most immersive experience.

2. Be Particular About Travel Documents And Essentials: Tips For Visiting Budapest

Before traveling to Budapest, ensure all your travel documents are in order. You need a valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity.

You may also need a visa based on the country you are from. Further, you must get a travel insurance policy and carry all the documents to cover all the expenses caused by unexpected incidents and medical emergencies during travel.

Now, Hungary has already launched a new Visa-free entry policy for 87 new countries to facilitate a significant tourism boost. These new countries include the UK, UAE and Japan, among other nations.

So, check the country-specific visa requirements while traveling to Budapest and apply well in advance.

Another essential is understanding the local currency. Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF). So it’s wise to exchange some money before arriving or plan to withdraw cash upon arrival.

While credit cards are widely accepted, small businesses and public transport may prefer cash.

3. Pack Your Clothing And Accessories Mindfully: Tips For Visiting Budapest

Packing for Budapest requires consideration of the city’s variable weather. Summers can be hot and sunny, so lightweight, breathable clothing is essential.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city’s cobbled streets, especially when visiting landmarks like Buda Castle or the Danube Promenade.

On the other hand, winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing, so packing a warm coat, gloves, and scarves is necessary if visiting during the colder months.

Accessories such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are important in the summer, especially when spending time outdoors by the river or in the city’s many parks.

Additionally, Budapest’s cobblestone streets can be tough on footwear, so having sturdy shoes will make navigating the city easier.

Moreover, are you familiar with the recent travel aesthetic trend? This mood boarding trend is very popular among Gen Z travelers and it is taking TikTok and other social media platforms by storm.

Budapest, offering the best fusion of history and modernity, is an ideal destination to add wind beneath the wings of your imagination.

So, keep your outfits aesthetic so that you never miss a chance of capturing a beautiful frame.

4. Stay Connected For A Smooth Travel Experience

Do you want to avoid expensive roaming charges during your trip to Budapest? You can use a burner phone.

This disposable and prepaid phone will allow you to use local networks at the best price. You can even purchase a local SIM card from Vodafone or T-Mobile.

Now, Budapest, the land of stunning architecture, is also one of the topmost cities for digital nomads. Euronews has named it one of the best destinations in the world for digital nomads due to affordability and advanced co-working facilities.

So, you will easily get free Wi-Fi facilities in many restaurants, cafes, and public areas of Budapest. However, you must be careful while using these public networks as there are risks of data leakage.

Also, carry a power adapter so that you can recharge your device on the go. Hungarian outlets are types C, E, and F.