Is Hungary Safe for Travelers? My Complete 2025 Safety Guide Based on 6 Visits - Xplrverse

The Truth About Safety in Hungary (From Someone Who’s Been There)

The first time I stepped off the train at Budapest’s Keleti station back in 2019, I clutched my backpack tightly against my chest. I’d read all those warnings about pickpockets and scams, and frankly, I was nervous. Fast forward to my sixth visit this spring, and I was confidently navigating the metro at midnight, chatting with locals at ruin bars, and venturing to off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods that tourists rarely see.

Hungary’s reputation for safety often gets mixed reviews online, which is why I wanted to share my honest, firsthand experiences. Having spent over 7 months total exploring not just Budapest but smaller cities like Debrecen, Szeged, and the Lake Balaton region, I’ve gained perspective on what safety really means in this Central European gem.

Whether you’re planning a quick city break to Budapest or a longer exploration of Hungary’s thermal baths, wine regions, and rich cultural heritage, this guide will help you navigate safety concerns with confidence in 2025.

General Safety Situation in Hungary (2025 Update)

Hungary ranks as one of the safer countries in Europe, with a crime index lower than many Western European destinations. According to the Global Peace Index, Hungary consistently places in the top 25 safest countries globally.

The most recent crime statistics show Hungary has a violent crime rate of just 1.6 per 100,000 residents – significantly lower than the European average of 3.5. Most of the safety issues travelers face are petty crimes like pickpocketing or tourist scams rather than violent incidents.

My personal experience aligns with these statistics. In my six visits, I’ve never experienced any crime worse than a taxi driver trying to overcharge me. Even walking alone at night in Budapest, I’ve felt considerably safer than in many major American or Western European cities.

“Nincs probléma” (“No problem” in Hungarian) became my mantra after an incident where I accidentally left my phone on a café table while using the restroom. When I panicked and returned, not only was it still there, but the waiter had moved it behind the counter for safekeeping.

Current Political Situation (2025)

It’s worth noting that Hungary’s political climate has evolved in recent years. The country continues to be politically stable with no civil unrest that would impact travelers. However, you might occasionally encounter peaceful demonstrations in Budapest, particularly around Kossuth Square near the Parliament Building.

These demonstrations are generally peaceful and actually interesting to observe from a cultural perspective. I accidentally stumbled upon an anti-government protest in my third visit and found it to be completely non-threatening, with families and elderly people participating.

Safe Areas vs. Areas to Exercise Caution

Safer Areas in Budapest

District V (Belváros-Lipótváros) – The central tourist area with Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and luxury shopping
District I (Várnegyed) – The historic Castle District, extremely well-patrolled and safe
District VI (Terézváros) – Home to Andrássy Avenue and many upscale restaurants
District II – Upscale residential area with beautiful hills and excellent restaurants
District XI (Újbuda) – University area with youthful energy and generally good safety

Areas to Exercise More Caution

District VIII (Józsefváros) – Particularly the outer parts beyond the Great Boulevard. The area near the National Museum is fine, but parts deeper into the district can be rougher. That said, gentrification is changing this rapidly in 2025.
District VII (Erzsébetváros) – Generally safe but be cautious late at night around party streets like Kazinczy utca, especially on weekends when intoxicated tourists can cause issues.
Keleti and Nyugati Train Stations – Like many European transit hubs, these areas attract pickpockets and sometimes scammers.

I made the mistake of booking accommodation in outer District VIII during my first visit without researching the area. While nothing happened, I definitely felt less comfortable walking back at night. Now I recommend first-time visitors stay in Districts V, VI, or I for the best combination of safety and convenience.

Safe Cities Outside Budapest

Some of Hungary’s safest and most rewarding destinations beyond the capital include:

Szentendre – Charming artists’ town just north of Budapest
Eger – Historic town famous for its castle and wine
Pécs – University city with Mediterranean vibes and Roman ruins
Balatonfüred – Upscale resort town on Lake Balaton
Sopron – Picturesque border town with well-preserved medieval center

Debrecen, Hungary’s second-largest city, deserves special mention. I spent two weeks there in 2023 and found it exceptionally safe, even when walking through the central park late at night. The student population creates a lively but generally respectful atmosphere.

Transportation Safety in Hungary

Public Transportation

Hungary’s public transportation system is not only efficient but also very safe. Budapest’s network of metros, trams, and buses operates from around 4:30am until 11:30pm, with night buses filling the gap overnight.

Transport Mode	Safety Level	Tips
Metro	Very Safe	Recently modernized with security cameras and staff
Trams	Very Safe	Watch for pickpockets on crowded routes like #2, #4, and #6
Buses	Safe	Less common for tourists but equally secure
Night Buses	Generally Safe	More rowdy on weekends; sit near the driver if alone

I’ve used all forms of public transportation in Budapest at various hours and have never felt threatened. The worst I’ve experienced was a group of loud, intoxicated football fans on a night bus, but they weren’t aggressive toward anyone.

Taxis and Ridesharing

Taxi scams were once common in Hungary, but the situation has improved dramatically by 2025. Always use:

Főtaxi – The official airport taxi company with fixed rates
Bolt – The most popular ridesharing app (similar to Uber)
City Taxi or Taxi 4 – Reputable local companies

One mistake I made on my first visit was jumping into an unmarked taxi outside Keleti station. The driver tried charging me 8,000 HUF (about €20) for what should have been a 3,000 HUF ride. When I mentioned calling the police (“rendőrség” in Hungarian), he quickly adjusted to the correct price. Now I exclusively use Bolt or pre-arrange taxis through my accommodation.

Driving in Hungary

Roads in Hungary are generally good, especially the major highways connecting cities. However, be aware of:

Mandatory vignettes (highway toll stickers) – purchase immediately when renting a car
Strict blood alcohol limit of 0.0% – zero tolerance for drinking and driving
Speed cameras becoming increasingly common in 2025
Rural roads that may lack lighting or proper maintenance

My worst driving experience was accidentally entering a bus lane in Budapest (they’re often poorly marked for tourists) and receiving a 30,000 HUF (€75) fine. If you’re staying in Budapest, I don’t recommend driving at all – the public transportation is excellent and parking is a nightmare.

Common Scams in Hungary and How to Avoid Them

While serious crime is rare, Hungary does have its share of tourist-targeted scams. Here are the most common ones I’ve encountered or heard about in 2025:

The “Friendly Locals” Scam

A well-dressed person approaches you, usually speaking excellent English, claiming to be a local who wants to show you a great “authentic” bar or restaurant. If you go, you’ll find yourself with an enormous bill for mediocre drinks.

How to avoid it: Politely decline unsolicited help from strangers who approach you, especially near tourist attractions. Research your own venues on trusted sites like Offbeat Budapest.

Money Exchange Scams

Some exchange offices, particularly those without clear rate displays, will offer terrible rates or charge hidden commissions.

How to avoid it: Use bank ATMs for the best rates (I recommend OTP Bank or K&H Bank ATMs), and if you must use an exchange office, always go to those clearly displaying their buy/sell rates with no commission.

I learned this lesson the hard way at a small exchange booth near Váci utca that gave me approximately 15% less than the actual exchange rate. When I questioned it, they pointed to fine print listing their commission.

Flirtatious Strangers Inviting You for Drinks

Particularly targeting male travelers, this scam involves attractive women inviting you to a bar where you’ll receive an exorbitant bill, sometimes with intimidating “security” present.

How to avoid it: Be skeptical of overly friendly strangers, especially if they’re eager to take you to a specific venue they recommend. Stick to places you’ve researched.

Fake Police Officers

This is rare but involves people posing as police asking to check your wallet for “counterfeit money.”

How to avoid it: Real Hungarian police always work in pairs and have numbered badges. You can ask to verify their identity by calling 112 or request to continue the interaction at the nearest police station.

Insider Tip: Learn the phrase “Beszél angolul?” (Do you speak English?) and “Kérem, segítsen!” (Please help me!). I’ve found Hungarians extremely helpful when approached respectfully in emergencies.

Health and Medical Safety

Hungary’s healthcare system is generally good, especially in Budapest and larger cities. As of 2025, the country has continued to improve its medical facilities, with several hospitals in Budapest offering excellent care.

Key Health Information

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) holders can access necessary public healthcare
Travel insurance is still strongly recommended for comprehensive coverage
Private clinics with English-speaking staff are readily available in Budapest
Pharmacies (“Gyógyszertár”) are well-stocked and pharmacists often speak English

During my third visit, I developed a severe sinus infection and visited FirstMed, a private clinic in Budapest. The treatment was excellent, with English-speaking doctors, and cost about €80 without insurance – much less than I would have paid in the US.

Water Safety

Tap water is completely safe to drink throughout Hungary. In fact, Budapest’s water quality is excellent, coming from naturally filtered sources along the Danube. This is an easy way to save money and reduce plastic waste – I always travel with a reusable water bottle.

Thermal Baths

Hungary’s famous thermal baths are generally well-maintained and safe, but follow these precautions:

Observe posted temperature recommendations, especially if you have heart conditions
Shower before entering pools (this is often enforced)
Keep valuables in lockers, not unattended on chairs
Be cautious of slippery surfaces around pools

At Széchenyi Baths, I once foolishly left my phone in a shoe while swimming. Thankfully another visitor turned it in to staff, but I wouldn’t count on this happening again. Always use the lockers!

Legal Considerations for Travelers

Important Laws to Know

Some Hungarian laws that differ from other countries include:

ID Requirement – You must carry ID (passport for foreigners) at all times
Zero Tolerance for Driving and Alcohol – Any detectable amount is illegal
Public Intoxication – While drinking in public is generally allowed, visible intoxication can result in fines
Photography Restrictions – Some government buildings and military sites prohibit photos

Marijuana and Drugs

Despite the relaxed atmosphere in some bars and clubs, Hungary has strict anti-drug laws. Possession of even small amounts can result in arrest. As of 2025, there has been no significant movement toward legalization of marijuana, unlike in some other European countries.

Dealing with Police

Hungarian police (“rendőrség”) are generally professional and not threatening to tourists. If stopped:

Remain calm and polite
Show your ID when requested
Ask for an interpreter if needed
Contact your embassy if arrested

The most common reason tourists interact with police is for minor infractions like transit fare evasion, which typically results in on-the-spot fines of around 8,000 HUF (€20).

Safety for Solo Travelers

Hungary is an excellent destination for solo travelers, with good infrastructure, relatively easy navigation, and helpful locals. As someone who’s traveled solo in Hungary multiple times, I’ve found it to be one of the more welcoming countries in Europe.

Tips for Solo Safety

Stay in sociable accommodation like hostels or community-minded guesthouses to meet fellow travelers
Use group tours for activities like wine tasting or day trips to make friends
Let someone know your itinerary, even if it’s just messaging a friend back home
Trust your instincts – if a situation feels uncomfortable, leave
Consider joining Budapest-based Facebook groups like “Budapest Expats” to connect with locals and other travelers

One of my best experiences was joining a free walking tour on my first day in a new Hungarian city. Not only did I learn about the destination, but I met other travelers to explore with later.

Safety for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Hungary presents a complex situation for LGBTQ+ travelers in 2025. While Budapest has a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene with several bars, clubs, and an annual Pride festival, the conservative government has passed legislation that has been criticized as anti-LGBTQ+.

In practice, most tourists won’t encounter problems, especially in Budapest. My gay friends who’ve visited Hungary report feeling completely safe in tourist areas, though they are sometimes more discreet with public affection than they would be in places like Barcelona or Amsterdam.

LGBTQ+ Safety Tips

Budapest is significantly more LGBTQ+ friendly than rural areas
The annual Budapest Pride (usually in June/July) is well-attended and generally safe
LGBTQ+ venues like Alterego Club and Why Not Bar are welcoming spaces
Exercise discretion with public displays of affection outside central Budapest

During my visit in 2023, I attended Budapest Pride and was impressed by both the joyful atmosphere and the significant police presence ensuring safety. The event felt secure despite some small counter-protests kept at a distance by authorities.

Safety for Women Travelers

As a woman who has traveled alone extensively in Hungary, I’ve found it to be one of the safer European countries. Street harassment is less common than in many Southern European countries, and I’ve rarely felt uncomfortable, even when using public transportation late at night.

Specific Advice for Women

The standard precautions apply – watch your drinks in bars and clubs
Budapest’s well-lit main streets feel safe even late at night
Harassment is relatively uncommon but can occur in nightlife districts
Hungarian thermal baths often have women-only days or sections for those who prefer them
Accommodation with 24-hour reception provides an extra layer of security

During my solo stays, I’ve felt comfortable walking alone at night in central areas of Budapest, Debrecen, and around Lake Balaton. The biggest issue I’ve encountered was occasional unwanted attention in some of the party-focused ruin bars, but staff were quick to intervene when I reported a problem.

Safety for Families

Hungary is exceptionally family-friendly, with amenities and attractions that cater well to children. The country’s strong emphasis on family means kids are generally welcomed everywhere, from restaurants to cultural sites.

Family Safety Considerations

Pediatric care is good quality if needed, particularly at private clinics in Budapest
Many thermal baths have dedicated children’s areas with lower temperatures
Playgrounds are abundant and well-maintained, especially in city parks
Children under 6 travel free on public transportation; ages 6-14 at reduced fares
Most restaurants provide high chairs and children’s menus

I’ve traveled with my sister and her 5-year-old daughter in Hungary, and we were consistently impressed by how accommodating everyone was. At one restaurant in Eger, the staff entertained her with coloring books while we enjoyed our meal – something I’ve rarely experienced elsewhere in Europe.

Money and Valuables Safety

Currency and Payment Information

Hungary uses the Forint (HUF), not the Euro, which sometimes confuses first-time visitors. As of 2025, approximate exchange rates are:

€1 = ~400 HUF
$1 = ~360 HUF
£1 = ~470 HUF

Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but smaller villages and some traditional markets may be cash-only. I recommend always carrying some cash, especially when venturing outside major cities.

ATM and Money Tips

Use bank-affiliated ATMs (OTP, K&H, Erste) rather than independent ones
Always choose to be charged in local currency (HUF) when given the option
Notify your bank of travel plans to prevent cards being blocked
Carry a backup card stored separately from your primary one

I once made the expensive mistake of using a Euronet ATM in a tourist area that charged nearly 8% in hidden fees. Bank ATMs typically charge much less or nothing at all beyond your home bank’s foreign transaction fee.

Insider Money-Saving Tips

Use the Budapest Card – If you’ll visit multiple museums and use public transportation frequently, this can save significant money and includes free entry to many attractions
Eat lunch at “étkezde” cafeterias – These local lunch spots offer full meals for 1500-2500 HUF (€4-6), far cheaper than tourist restaurants
Shop at local markets – The Great Market Hall is beautiful but expensive; try neighborhood markets like Lehel or Fény utca for authentic products at lower prices
Take advantage of free thermal beaches – While the famous baths charge entry, in summer you can swim for free at Római Part in Budapest
Use the BKK public transportation app – It offers better rates than buying individual tickets and helps navigate the system

My biggest money-saving discovery was “napi menü” (daily menu) deals offered at lunch on weekdays. Even upscale restaurants offer these fixed-price specials (typically 2000-3500 HUF) that include multiple courses – the same meal would cost twice as much in the evening!

Emergency Information

It’s always good to be prepared for emergencies, even though they’re unlikely. Here’s the essential information for Hungary:

Emergency Service	Number	Notes
General Emergency	112	Operators usually speak English
Police	107	Local police number
Ambulance	104	Medical emergencies
Fire Department	105	Fire emergencies
Tourist Police (Budapest)	+36-1-438-8080	Specialized unit for tourists

Embassy Information

Before traveling, save the contact information for your country’s embassy in Hungary. Most embassies are located in Budapest’s diplomatic district in Buda.

U.S. Embassy: +36-1-475-4400
British Embassy: +36-1-266-2888
Australian Embassy: +36-1-392-7050
Canadian Embassy: +36-1-392-3360

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Hungary Safety Action Plan

After six visits and countless conversations with both travelers and locals, I’m confident in saying that Hungary is one of Europe’s safer destinations. The country offers an incredible blend of history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty without many of the safety concerns that plague other popular destinations.

That said, smart travelers take precautions anywhere they go. Here’s your 5-step action plan for staying safe while enjoying everything Hungary has to offer:

Your 5-Step Safety Action Plan

Prepare Before You Go
- Register with your country’s travel advisory service
- Save emergency contacts and embassy information
- Learn a few basic Hungarian phrases
- Make copies of important documents
Choose Accommodation Wisely
- For first-time visitors, stay in Districts I, V, or VI in Budapest
- Read recent reviews focusing on safety and location
- Consider places with 24-hour reception
Protect Your Valuables
- Use anti-theft bags or money belts in crowded areas
- Leave valuable jewelry at home
- Split your money between different locations
- Use hotel safes when available
Stay Aware But Not Paranoid
- Trust your instincts about people and situations
- Be especially vigilant in tourist hotspots and on public transportation
- Maintain the same level of awareness you would in any unfamiliar city
Embrace Local Support
- Don’t hesitate to ask hotel staff for safety advice about specific areas
- Use official tourist information centers for guidance
- Connect with local-led walking tours to get authentic safety information

My final piece of advice comes from a mistake I made during my second trip. I was so paranoid about safety that I missed out on spontaneous experiences and connections with locals. By my third visit, I’d learned to balance caution with openness, and that’s when I truly fell in love with Hungary.

The country rewards travelers who come prepared but remain open to its unique charms and genuine hospitality. So pack your common sense along with your camera, and get ready to discover why Hungary keeps drawing travelers back year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Hungary

Is Budapest safe at night?

Budapest is generally safe at night, especially in central areas like District V, VI, and I. Main streets are well-lit and often busy until late. Use standard precautions like staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding poorly lit, empty streets. The public transportation runs until around 11:30pm and night buses are generally safe, though they can be rowdy on weekends.

Is pickpocketing common in Hungary?

Pickpocketing exists in tourist areas but is less prevalent than in many other European destinations. The highest risk areas are crowded places like the #2 tram, major metro stations, Christmas markets, and popular attractions. Using anti-theft bags, keeping your phone secured, and being extra vigilant in crowds will minimize your risk significantly.

Do I need travel insurance for Hungary?

Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended even though Hungary is relatively safe. While European Union citizens can use their EHIC card for basic health services, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, theft, and trip cancellation provides important protection. Healthcare for non-EU visitors without insurance can be expensive, particularly for serious conditions requiring hospitalization.

Is Hungary safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?

Hungary has a mixed environment for LGBTQ+ travelers. Budapest has a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene and is generally tolerant, especially in tourist and nightlife areas. However, public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention outside urban centers. The government has passed some anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in recent years, but this primarily affects residents rather than tourists. Exercise the same discretion you would in moderately conservative destinations.

Are there unsafe neighborhoods in Budapest I should avoid?

Parts of District VIII (beyond the Grand Boulevard) and District IX have historically had higher crime rates, though gentrification has improved many areas. The immediate vicinity around Keleti and Nyugati train stations can attract petty criminals targeting tourists. After dark, it’s best to avoid poorly lit parks and underpasses. However, the vast majority of Budapest is safe for visitors who exercise basic caution.

Is the tap water safe to drink in Hungary?

Yes, tap water is completely safe to drink throughout Hungary and is of excellent quality, particularly in Budapest where it comes from natural filtration systems along the Danube. This is an easy way to save money and reduce plastic waste during your trip. The only exception might be very old buildings with outdated plumbing, but even there the water is generally safe, just potentially less pleasant tasting.

How safe is Hungary compared to other European countries?

Hungary ranks as one of the safer countries in Europe, with crime rates lower than many Western European destinations. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. The most common safety concerns are petty theft and tourist scams, which are less prevalent than in major tourism hubs like Barcelona or Paris. Hungary’s safety level is comparable to countries like Austria or Germany.

Is it safe to use credit cards in Hungary?

Using credit cards in Hungary is generally safe, especially at established businesses. Card skimming is rare compared to many other countries. However, it’s still wise to keep your card in sight during transactions when possible and check your statements regularly. Always choose to pay in local currency (HUF) when given the option to avoid poor exchange rates through Dynamic Currency Conversion.