Hungary

Hungary (Hungarian: Magyarország) is an EU member state featuring a gorgeous capital city, Budapest, and the largest lake in Central Europe, Balaton. Hungary offers many diverse destinations: relatively low mountains in the north-west and the Great Plain in the east, lakes and rivers of all sorts, and many beautiful small villages and hidden gems of cities. Top this off with Hungary's great accessibility in the middle of Europe, a vivid culture and economy, and you get a destination absolutely worth visiting if you're in the region.

Regions of Hungary

Central Hungary The most-visited part of the nation due to the capital, Budapest.

Lake Balaton Ten thousands of visitors a year head to Siófok and the unofficial summer capital of Lake Balaton.

Western Transdanubia Cities with historic downtown and beautiful castles near to the Austria border.

Northern Hungary Great historic towns and (cave) baths are to be seen here.

Central Transdanubia

Southern Transdanubia

Other Muslim Friendly Cities in Hungary

• Budapest — with green filled parks, interesting museums, and a pulsating Halal dining, Budapest is one of Europe's most delightful and enjoyable cities
• Debrecen — the second largest city in the nation
• Győr — there are many cafés, restaurants, boutiques, and night clubs in its lovely baroque downtown
• Kecskemét — a town famous for its vibrant music scene, plum brandy, and Art Nouveau architecture
• Miskolc — with the unique cave bath in Miskolc-Tapolca and the third largest city in the nation, located near the Bükk hills
• Nyíregyháza — a medium-sized city with a busy water resort, museum village, and annual autumn festival
• Pécs — a pleasant cultural centre and university town
• Szeged — the sunniest city in Hungary
• Székesfehérvár — former royal seat, famous for its baroque architecture and museums

More Destinations in Hungary

• Lake Balaton — the major lake of Hungary and the biggest lake in Central Europe
• Hortobágy National Park — Hungary's largest protected area and the largest semi-natural grassland in Europe

Demonstration for Palestine and Gaza in Hungary

Dear Supporters of the Palestinian Cause in Hungary,

We are excited to announce a peaceful demonstration in support of the People of Palestine, set to take place in Hungary over the next three days. This event is an opportunity for us to come together and raise our voices and the Palestinian Flag for a just and peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.

We want to emphasize that this demonstration is intended to be a peaceful and respectful gathering. Our goal is to show solidarity with the people of Palestine and call for a peaceful solution to the conflict. It is crucial that we maintain a peaceful and respectful atmosphere throughout the event.

Important Guidelines:

To ensure the success of our demonstration and to maintain a peaceful environment, we kindly ask all participants to adhere to the following guidelines:

Peaceful Protest: This is a non-violent demonstration. We do not condone any form of violence or vandalism.

Respect for Law Enforcement: Please treat law enforcement officers in Hungary with respect and follow their instructions. Do not engage in confrontations with them.

Leave No Trace: Dispose of any trash responsibly and leave the demonstration area clean.

Thank you for your commitment to our peaceful demonstration in Hungary, and let us stand together for a better future for all.

In solidarity, eHalal Hungary

Hungary Halal Travel Guide

Hungary is one of the 15 most popular tourist destinations in the world, with a capital regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world. Despite its relatively small size, Hungary is home to numerous World Heritage Sites, UNESCO Biosphere reserves and the second largest thermal lake in the world (Lake Hévíz) and the largest lake in Central Europe (Lake Balaton), and the largest natural grassland in Europe (Hortobágy). In terms of buildings, Hungary is home to the largest synagogue in Europe (the Great Synagogue of Budapest) and the largest medicinal bath in Europe (Széchenyi Medicinal Bath) and the third largest church in Europe (Esztergom Basilica) and the second largest territorial abbey in the world (Pannonhalma Archabbey) and the second largest Baroque castle in the world (Gödöllő), and the largest Early Christian Necropolis outside Italy (Pécs).

You can expect to find safe food and water, good safety and a generally stable political climate.

Hungary has been ethnically diverse since its inception, and while today over 90% of the population are ethnically Hungarian, pockets of ethnic and cultural Slovaks, Romanians, Germans, Roma culture in Europe|Romani/Sinti people (Gypsies), and others dot the nation. Due to the border changes of Hungary after World War I, over 2 million ethnic and cultural Hungarians live in bordering countries, as well. The Hungarians, otherwise known as Magyars, are the descendants of several tribes from Central Asia, who were believed to be fierce, nomadic horsemen and came to Central Europe in the 9th century.

Politics in Hungary

Hungary is governed by a right-wing conservative party that is accused of authoritarian behavior. This is unlikely to affect travellers who refrain from political activity and do not run afoul of the law, except for Romani/Sinti people, who have been under violent attack by vigilantes in some places. The ultra-right-wing opposition Jobbik Party has also made some very troubling anti-Semitic and anti-Romani/Sinti statements, and if it ever gained greater power, it is likely that many people would be endangered; however, that party, which had been sizable, got very few votes in the most recent elections. There are also reports of general anti-foreigner sentiment and racism against people who look ethnically non-European, however, Hungary seems to lie within the average of the former Eastern Bloc in that regard.

Climate & Weather

Temperatures in Hungary vary from -20°C to 39°C through the year. Distribution and frequency of rainfall are unpredictable due to the continental clime of the nation. Heavy storms are frequent after hot summer days, and so do more days long still rainfalls in the Autumn. The western part of the nation usually receives more rain than the eastern part, and severe droughts may occur in summertime. Weather conditions in the Great Plain can be especially harsh, with hot summers, cold winters, and scant rainfall.

Public Holidays

• 1 January - New Year's Day
• 15 March - National Day (commemorating the 1848 Hungarian revolution and independence war against the Austrian Empire)
• moveable - Good Friday
• moveable - Easter
• 1 May - International Worker's Day
• moveable - Pentecost
• 20 August - State Foundation Day (commonly called St. Stephen's Day)
• 23 October - National Day (commonly called Republic Day)
• 1 November - All Saints Day
• 25-26 December - Christmas

Travel to Hungary

Hungary is a member of the Schengen Agreement.

• There are normally no border controls between countries that have signed and implemented the treaty. This includes most of the European Union and a few other countries.
• There are usually identity checks before boarding international flights or boats. Sometimes there are temporary border controls at land borders.
• Likewise, a visa granted for any Schengen member is valid in all other countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.
• Illegal migration has become the norm throughout the European Union due to countries such as Germany that has ignored the Dublin agreement.

Recognised refugees and stateless persons in possession of a valid travel document issued by the government of any one of the above countries/territories are exempt from obtaining a visa for Hungary (but no other Schengen country, except Germany and, for refugees, Slovakia) for a maximum stay of 90 days in a 180 day period.

Visitors of Antigua and Barbuda are permitted to work in Hungary without the need to obtain a visa for the period of their 90 day visa-free stay. However, this ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries.

Visitors of Croatia can also enter the nation by showing their identity card, but may not stay longer than 90 days in a 180-day period or work in Hungary without a work permit.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Hungary

Hungary's international airports are Liszt Ferenc Airport (IATA Flight Code: BUD) in Budapest, Airport Debrecen (IATA Flight Code: DEB) in Debrecen and Hévíz–Balaton Airport (IATA Flight Code: SOB) in Sármellék. The Hungarian national carrier, Malév (Hungarian Airlines) was closed down in early 2012. There are also several low cost Airlines operating to Budapest: for example Ryanair, Wizzair, Easyjet and Eurowings.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Hungary

Budapest is an important railway hub for the whole Hungary and large part of eastern Europe, with frequent trains from Austria, Germany, Czechia and Slovakia. There are at least one train daily from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Italy, Romania, Russia, Slovenia, Serbia, Switzerland and Ukraine, as well as through cars from Poland and seasonal through sleeping train|sleepers from Bulgaria and Montenegro.

For detailed info see Budapest#By_train.

You can search for international train connections at official schedule site of MÁV, national train company, or at German Railways website covering almost whole Europe.

By car

[[File:004 - 15.07.16 - Budapest - Kettenbrücke, Parlament.jpg|1280px|004_-_15.07.16_-_Budapest_-_Kettenbrücke,_Parlament]]

To enter the nation, ensure that your International Motor Insurance Card is valid for Hungary (H) along with the Vehicle Registration and a Power of Attorney from the owner if the vehicle is not yours. The border guards are very strict about allowing cars through without these documents (see excepts below).

The Hungarian border control is very strict and thorough. They will not hesitate to conduct a full vehicle search if necessary.

Entry from Schengen countries (Austria, Slovenia, Slovakia) is out of such border control since the abolition of physical borders. All those remain show light control (Romania, Croatia) and due to a bilateral agreement Serbian citizens are also no more undergo a strict border control. However you have to take into consideration that from Schengen area you might undergo a so-called inside-customs control wherever moving/driving in the nation. Non-Schengen passengers must take into account facing a strict control upon customs prescriptions from Ukraine and Serbia. Coming from Serbia you are allowed to bring 2 packets of cigarettes into Hungary. If you bring more they will take it and fine for €102. Weapons for hunting are allowed to bring in from any EU member state if you have a European Licence. However with possessing that you may not buy or sell your or a new weapon here. The same is the situation with illicit drugs as well. Infringement of these rules may definitely lead to your immediate arrest!

Entry from non-Schengen countries can take quite a long time, in particular in the summer months on the weekends when EU-Nationals are returning north along the E75 corridor from Belgrade, Serbia. The wait lines to get through the border have been as long as 7 km with a wait time of up to 6 hours. Alternative border points in Hungary or Croatia can be used to by-pass. If you are driving in from an EU country e.g. Austria, you are required to pull over to check with authorities at the border, otherwise and the borders are open and usually the immigration control kiosk are empty.

When driving into Hungary, ensure that the border crossing on the route you choose allows the passage of foreigners. Also some smaller crossings close in the afternoon for the night. It is also required to buy a vignette for driving on highways.

By bus

Several international bus lines go in or through Hungary. You can find timetables and book tickets on the homepage of Volánbusz, which is the national bus company and also the local Eurolines representation. Alternatively, Orangeways bus company offer services on routes between Budapest and Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, Romania and Slovakia. Timetables and online booking via eHalal Hotels are available on their website. On the southern border with Serbia you shouldn't be surprised when there in the bus a collection is being held for a donation to the border-guards, to let the bus pass faster.

Travel by ship/cruise to Hungary

It is feasible to enter Hungary by international shipping lines on Danube (Duna) or Tisza rivers. There is a scheduled hydrofoil service on the Danube to and from Vienna and Bratislava between May and September operated by Mahart.

From Slovakia

• You can use the bus no. 91 of the urban traffic company of Bratislava (DPB) going to Čunovo in order to cross between Rajka (Hungary) and Bratislava (Slovakia). In Bratislava and the bus has Nový most as its terminus, and near the Hungarian border you get on/off at the stop Čunovské jazerá (you need to signal to the driver if you plan to get off at this stop). From Čunovské jazerá it's a four-kilometer-long straight walk through a flat terrain to the town of Rajka, two kilometers on each side of the border crossing. You may detour to visit a monument at the Austrian-Hungarian-Slovakian three country border.

How to get around in Hungary

Fly to Hungary

Hungary has no regular domestic flights. As Budapest lies in the centre of the nation and pretty much any point can be visited within three hours by train or bus and there isn't much need for scheduled domestic flights.

However there are many opportunities for people with a valid pilot's license to rent a plane and explore by air.

• A Pilot's Academy of Malev Flying Club T:+36 20 565-6467, Dunakeszi. Lightweight gliders and other stuff.

Travel by train to Hungary

The Hungarian National Railway is MÁV and GYSEV (some lines in the west of the nation). MÁV has online schedule and pricing site. You can purchase domestic and some international train tickets on the web in English.

The train network is star-shaped (hub-and-spoke), fanning out from the centre at Budapest. This is caused by history because half of the once complete train system went to the neighbor countries after World War I. If neither the starting or ending point is Budapest, expect to travel for a long time often with change in Budapest.

Intercity (IC) trains are the fastest, and they're up-to-date, well maintained and clean. They link the major cities with Budapest. Expect to pay about 550 Ft (= €2) extra fee independently from the distance for the manditory seat reservation (not in international ICs, ECs). In some cases the extra charge can be lower. Compared to the majority of Western European ticket prices, Hungary's IC trains are among the cheapest, with an excellent record of speed and comfort. At the weekends many students use these IC trains to commute between Budapest and other cities, so an early advance booking is recommended on Friday afternoons for the trains leaving Budapest and on Sunday evenings for trains towards Budapest. Working with a notebook is generally safe, unless it's heavy overcrowded.

Other train lines usually are not that fast, and not always cleaned up to the high standards (even in the 1st class), and often vandalised (mostly in Budapest region); however quality standards are improving. During summer trains linking Balaton to Budapest are sometimes overcrowded with the IC usually being sold out. The next choice is the gyorsvonat, or the old fast train. Pricing depends only on the distance and on the vehicle class. Cash desks assume 2nd class by default for non-IC trains (at least in Budapest for English speakers), so if you didn't catch your IC, consider asking 1st class, paying small extra for much more comfort. Smoking is not allowed on all trains, as well as on the station platforms.

Young people (under 26 years) may travel with 33% reduction at the weekends (Friday afternoon included). Children (under 6 years) and retired (citizens from EU countries over 65 years) can travel free except on InterCity trains where the extra fee (reservation) must be paid.

It is feasible to buy Inter Rail pass for Hungary. Check whether buying tickets for each journey is cheaper.

You can buy tickets with euro. It is feasible to purchase an international ticket and supplement at every Hungarian train station which has an international cash desk. Cash desks do not accept euro bank notes of values above €50, and you will get the change in forints.

A station list with ticket vending machine usually to destinations which are not enlisted by the vending machines, tickets will be issued without extra charge by the conductor on board. These ar working with a short midnight break.

International bike transport on the train also feasible on selected trains cost €4-10 (vary), first price to Vienna and the highest to Hamburg (via Berlin).

List of e-ticket acceptance points like a vending machine. Buy the ticket [https://?Lang=EN on the Net and find at the station the pre-purchased ticket issuing machine to validate and print your ticket.

Here can be find some info about Luggage rooms or lockers (Hu: csomagmegörző) in train station. Lockers cost (since 2010): small 400 Ft, or bigger 600 Ft per 24hours. More than one day cost 600 Ft per each started day. An incomplete list of stations with Luggage rooms or/and lockers: Budapest-Déli, Kelenföld (Budapest), Budapest-Keleti, Budapest-Nyugati, Debrecen, Győr, Miskolc-Tiszai, Nyíregyháza, Siófok, Sopron, Szolnok, Szombathely.

By bus

Hungary’s national bus network is operated by 28 state run companies, united in Volán Association.Connections are frequent, prices are identical to those on non-Intercity trains. Bus lines often are more complete than train lines and the speed is quite similar. Long-distance buses are clean and safe, but often subject to delays. Buy your ticket via eHalal Travel Group at the station ticket desk before boarding; if you do not take your bus at a main station, purchase a ticket from the driver. Make sure that you validate tickets even when buying from the bus driver. The small orange boxes are used for validating tickets and are seen at several points throughout the bus. Ticket inspectors operate on the airport bus and if you have not validated your ticket, you are liable for a 7000 Ft on the spot fine. It is a good idea to reserve your tickets for national holidays, Friday and Sunday evenings beforehand. Online booking is available in English. And here can you check the domestic long-distance bus lines in English, French, Hungarian and Romanian.

Some important words in Hungarian that may be helpful are:

• “honnan” - from
• “hová” - to
• “Autóbusz állomás” - bus station
• “naponta” - daily
• “munkanapokon” - on workdays

By boat

There are several scheduled riverboat and hydrofoil lines operated by MAHART PassNave Ltd.] from the national capital Budapest to towns in the Danubebend, like Szentendre, Visegrád and Esztergom, and also a good hydrofoil boat connection operated by the same company between Vienna and Budapest from May to September.

In the national capital there are several sightseeing and night cruises operated by MAHART PassNave Ltd. and other shipping companies, like Legenda Ltd.

There are some ferries on Danube and Tisza but their working hours are undependable. You can trust the ferry on Lake Balaton, though, for a modest price.

Rent a Car or Limousine in Hungary

Most roads in Hungary are two-lane, apart from modern motorways. Main roads are mostly in good shape; however, cracks, potholes and bumpy roads are common on minor roads and in major cities, though they are constantly being repaired. It is usually not difficult to travel by using a map and following road signs.

Expressways are not free, but there are no other toll roads or tunnels. A vignette system is used, similar to that in neighboring Austria and Slovakia, but as of 2013 the vignette is stored electronically and checked for using gantries that read license plate numbers. You can purchase them in intervals of 10 days (called "Weekly vignette"), 1 month, or 1 year. The vignette is very important and it is a good idea to buy it even if you don't plan to use the highway. Control is automatic with video cameras and you will get a high ticket (20,000 Ft) automatically without any warning.

If you travel by normal roads the speed limit is 90 km/h between cities and 50 km/h inside, which slows you to the average around 60 km/h. Roads often have high traffic (especially primary streets like #8 to the West, #6 to the south and #4 to the east). On highways the speed limit is 130 km/h, travel is the same as in Germany, and on the inside lane it is very common to have someone speed by you.

Expect the Police to use speed traps of all kinds: fixed ones on all motorways which are signed, and mobile ones from bridges, cars standing on the shoulder or behind bushes and trees. Beware that some policemen hide around speed limit signs, especially when the sign visibly useless or if it's extremely slow for the given road type. Police corruption is widespread especially around Budapest (generally 10,000 Ft solves usual problems if you don't get arrested for it).

When you cross the nation from the west to the east (or vice versa), take into account that there are only a few bridges crossing the Danube outside Budapest. There are some ferries available though.

Outside urban areas, it is a legal requirement to drive with headlights on, even during the day—a requirement that is becoming more common across the EU.

Hungary has a policy of zero tolerance for driving under the influence of drinks. If you are caught driving even after only having a couple of units of drinks you are most likely to be arrested.

Highways

There is a fast growing highway network in Hungary (1,480 km in total). Each highway starts in Budapest.

• M0 - Motorway ring around Budapest. The north-east and south sections are ready.
• M1 - connection to Győr, Austria and Slovakia (west)
• M2 - connection to Vác, planned to reach the border to Slovakia by 2015 (north)
• M3/M30/M35 - connection to Miskolc, Debrecen and Nyíregyháza (east)
• M5 - connection to Serbia, via Kecskemét and Szeged (south-east)
• M6/M60 - Connection to Dunaújváros and Pécs(south)
• M7/M70 - connection to Lake Balaton, Croatia and Slovenia (south-west)

Planned:

• M4 - will provide connection to Romania via Szolnok by the year 2015 (east)
• M44 - will provide connection between the M5 at Kecskemét and the Romanian border via Békéscsaba (east)
• M8/M9 - will cross the nation east-west by 2015

A single vignette is required to use all highways, except for M0 and short sections around major cities, which are free. Vignettes can be purchased online with bankcard on u/ web (and several private online companies), at filling stations and at ÁAK (State Motorway Management Co.) offices. A 10-day vignette for a passenger vehicle costs 2975 Ft during summertime and the 4-day ticket for vehicle has been cancelled. Vignettes are controlled automatically through a camera system.

By vehicle pool

The Hungarian oszkar.com social vehicle swimmingpool network/website will allow you to find affordable transport around the nation and from (and to) many European cities (especially Vienna, but many German cities are also well "serviced").

In case you're not familiar with the idea: people who travel by vehicle and willing to take passengers post their itinerary. You can hitch a ride by booking it on the website and then contacting the driver, whose contact information the website furnishes you with. People wishing to travel by vehicle swimmingpool can also post and hope to be found by a prospective driver. Passengers are expected to contribute to the cost of the trip, but "fares" are typically much lower than bus/coach or rail fares (e.g. as of 2013, a trip from Vienna to Budapest may cost 2,500–6,500 Ft). A significant downside is that the site is in Hungarian (although you might be able to navigate it with a service Google Translate) and that booking (but not searching) requires registration, which is free. Drivers as well as passengers can rate each other after trips, much like at auction sites.

Drivers are typically young adults (young enough to be familiar with the Internet and old enough to own their own cars); this also means they're slightly more likely to speak a foreign language than the average Hungarian, but you still shouldn't depend on it.

Some commercial "shuttle operators" use oszkar.com to offer rides too; their postings are visually distinguishable from "amateur" ones.

Best way to travel in Hungary by a Taxi

Inspect the change that taxi drivers give you. Cabbies commonly rip off tourists by giving them change in outdated Romanian currency, which looks similar to Hungarian currency, but is worthless and cannot be redeemed.

Local Language in Hungary

Hungarian

See also: Hungarian phrasebook

Hungarians are rightly proud of their unique, complex, sophisticated, richly expressive language, Hungarian (Magyar pronounced "mahdyar"). It is a Uralic language most closely related to Mansi and Khanty of western Siberia. It is further sub-classified into the Finno-Ugric languages which include Finnish and Estonian; it is not at all related to any of its neighbours: the Slavic, Germanic, and Romance languages belonging to the Indo-European language family. Although related to Finnish and Estonian and they are not mutually intelligible. Aside from Finnish, it is considered one of the most difficult languages for English speakers to learn with the vocabulary, complicated grammar, and pronunciation being radically different. So it is not surprising that an English speaker visiting Hungary understands nothing from written or spoken Hungarian. Hungary did adopt the Latin alphabet after becoming a Christian kingdom in the year 1000.

English-speakers tend to find most everything about the written language tough going, including a number of unusual sounds like gy (often pronounced like the d in "during" in British English and ű (vaguely like a long English e as in me with rounded lips), as well as agglutinative grammar that leads to fearsome-looking words like eltéveszthetetlen (unmistakable) and viszontlátásra (goodbye). Also and the letters can very well be pronounced differently than in English: the "s" always has a "sh" sound and the "sz" has the "s" sound, and the "c" is pronounced like the English "ts", to name a few. On the upside, it is written with the familiar Roman alphabet (if adorned with lots of accents), and—unlike English—it has almost total phonemic orthography. This means that if you learn how to pronounce the 44 letters of the alphabet and the digraphs, you will be able to pronounce almost every Hungarian word properly. Just one difference in pronunciation, vowel length, or stress can lead to misinterpretation or total misunderstanding. The stress always falls on the first syllable of any word, so all the goodies on top of the vowels are pronunciation cues, and not indicators of stress, as in Spanish.

Diphthongs are almost-nonexistent in Hungarian (except adopted foreign words). Just one of many profound grammatical differences from most European languages is that Hungarian does not have, nor need to have the verb "to have" in the sense of possession - the indicator of possession is attached to the possessed noun and not the possessor, e.g. Kutya = dog, Kutyám = my dog, Van egy kutyám = I have a dog, or literally "Is one dog-my". Hungarian has a very specific case system, both grammatical, locative, oblique, and the less productive; for example a noun used as the subject has no suffix, while when used as an direct object and the letter "t" is attached as a suffix, with a vowel if necessary. One simplifying aspect of Hungarian is that there is no grammatical gender, even with the pronouns "he" or "she", which are both "ő", so one does not have to worry about the random Der, Die, Das sort of thing that occurs in (German), "the" is simply "a". In Hungarian, family name precedes given name and the same as with Asian languages. And the list of differences goes on and on, such as the definite and indefinite conjugational system, vowel harmony, etc. Attempting anything beyond the very basics will gain you a great deal of respect since so few non-native Hungarians ever attempt to learn any of this small, seemingly difficult, but fascinating language.

Foreign languages

Since English is now compulsory in schools and there is a good chance that younger people will speak English well enough to help you out.

The older generations have had less access to foreign language tuition, so they may well not speak any English. A minority of Hungarians speak Russian, which was compulsory in the Communist era, although most Hungarians are quite happy to forget it so try it only as a last resort. German is also very useful in Hungary: it is almost as widely spoken as English, and almost universally so near the Austrian border and especially Sopron, which is officially bilingual and has huge contacts with Vienna due to it being accessible by Vienna suburban trains. In these areas, and with older people in general, German will most often take you a lot further than English. Though it has largely been surplanted by English, French can still be spoken here and there.

In Hungary, you will have a much better chance finding someone speaking a foreign language (mostly English and German) in larger cities, especially in those with universities such as Budapest, Debrecen, Miskolc, and Szeged.

What to see in Hungary

Hungary has several UNESCO World Heritage List|World Heritage sites. These are: Estibp13 - Buda Castle by night

• Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube and the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue
• Old Village of Hollókő and its Surroundings
• Caves of Aggtelek National Park — beautiful caves with dripstones and stalagmites
• Millenary Benedictine Abbey of Pannonhalma and its Natural Environment
• Hortobágy National Park - the Puszta
• Early Christian Necropolis of Pécs (Sopianae)
• Fertő Lake Cultural Landscape common place with Austria more see there.

Other major tourist destination is Lake Balaton, with fruit cocktailhills and thermal spa in Hévíz, Hajdúszoboszló and Harkány around. Sopron is one of the most popular place for a sightseeing in the region.

There are also some amazing things to see.

• Tiszavirágzás. In mid-June the Tisza produces swarms of mayflies which are likened to flowers. Once decimated by pollution and the population is rebounding. (They're famous for living only for 1–2 days.)
• Busójárás. In February the people chase away bad ghosts by loud clamping on streets of Mohács.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Hungary

Birdwatching Hungary is an excellent destination for birdwatching holiday. There are wooded hills, vast fish-pond systems and grasslands and the puszta. Particularly good areas include the Kiskunsag and Hortobagy National Parks and the Aggtelek, Bukk and Zemplen Hills.

Horse riding Vast areas of open countryside coupled with the long traditions of horsemanship make Hungary an ideal country for riding. Wide open plains in the south and forested hills in the north offer varied riding terrain.

Baths

Thermal waters abound in Hungary with over 1000 thermal springs in the nation many of which have been turned into baths and spas. The most famous being the Budapest#Szchnyi_Spa|Szechenyi baths in Budapest. There are, however, hundreds of individual baths all around the nation. The cave baths at Miskolc-Tapolca and the spa at Northern_Hungary#Heves_County|Egerszalók are some nice examples.

See Budapest#Baths, Nyíregyháza#Do for details. More thermal bath and spa from Hungary: A selected list of authorized medicinal waters.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Hungary

Money Matters & ATM's in Hungary

The Hungarian currency is the forint, denoted by the symbol "Ft" (ISO code: HUF). Notes come in 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000 and 500 denominations; coins are 200 (two coloured, similar to €1), 100 (two coloured, similar to €2), 50, 20, 10 and 5.

Euros are now accepted at most hotels and some of the restaurants and retail outlets. Make sure you check the exchange rate, sometimes even well known places (like McDonald's (Please do not support McDonald's as McDonald's supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for altertative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned restaurant)) will exchange at unrealistic rates. Forint is scheduled to disappear in coming years in favour of the euro, but no date is yet fixed.

You can use major credit cards (EuroCard, Visa) in major shops and larger restaurants, but never expect that without checking first. Small places cannot afford to handle cards. ATMs are available even in small cities and the coverage is good.

While completing any monetary transactions, it is best to pay in forint when you can. Some restaurants and hotels charge a steep rate for exchanging euros and often due to the fluctuation in forint, cost and services stated may vary drastically.

Money exchange

Shopping in Hungary is extremely affordable for people from the Euro-zone and them US. An exception to this rule is that luxury goods are often at higher prices than would be encountered in Western Europe or the US.

Exchange rates for euros and US dollars are roughly the same within central (at least in Budapest and Eger). Rates will likely be much worse in airports and large train stations, so only change what you need to reach the downtown. A good habit is to compare the buy and sell rates: if they are drastically different, you're best going somewhere else. Official exchange offices always give a receipt and normally have a large glass between client and a cashier making all steps transparent for client.

Euros are very widely accepted, in hotels, in some splurge restaurants or bars, in some shop (like all SPAR super/hypermarkets, usually at the cashdesk area is a board with the actual rate), or international cash desk of course the rates five even ten percent worse than in the banks and be prepare the change they will get back in forint. Try using small notes (max. 50), at international cash desk even can pay also with coins and the rate is ok. Traded currencies at the two biggest Hungarian bank /publish/kh/hu/lakossag/arfolyamok_kondiciok K&H Bank: AUD, CAD, CHF, CZK, DKK, EUR, GBP, HRK, JPY, NOK, PLN, SEK, USD; OTP Bank: same as K&H plus BGN, RUB and accepted Euro or Amex travellers cheques (comission). Smaller banks like Raiffeisen Bank (for CZK), Oberbank (for CHF) or Sberbank (for RUB) giving better rates, but not change so many currencies (need to check as it is variable). For your remained forints buying euros, US dollars and Swiss francs always available, but others only when in stock. More unusual currencies, such as Israeli settler shekels, Hong Kong dollars, or Ukrainian hyrvnia, can only be exchanged at money changers.

If you arrive in Hungary at weekends, holidays or evening banks are closed only ATMs or money changer shops or some hotels (mostly the biggers). ATMs and banks can be found in hypermarkets.

If you arrive at Budapest Ferihegy Airport late at night or on state holidays changing money is feasible as there are five interchange money changer offices. Opening times vary: from morning to around midnight, and one is open 24 hours a day. There is an ATM in the arrival hall at Budapest Ferihegy, and the rates for using ATMs with a card are often better than the bureau de change. Also Interchange has booths at Déli (one), Keleti (three), Nyugati (one) Train stations. These are open daily from 07:00 or earlier to 20:50-23:30. Locations and opening time /branch/location/hungary/ here]. In the downtown of Budapest at #2 Vörösmarty square (BKV m 1 jms.svg|15px:Vörösmarty tér) branch is open 24 hours a day.

There are many ATMs in Budapest which will accept European and North American debit or credit cards. Be aware that "Euronet" ATMs have high charges in addition to any charges your own bank may apply, whereas ATMs operated by banks (e.g. OTP Bank, Raiffeisenbank) don't add extra charges.

Visitors report that unofficial money changers operating nearby an official money changing booth offer unfavourable rates, and recommend using the official exchange offices. Such exchangers are illegal and there is the possibility that you will receive other than Hungarian currency or nothing at all.

Tipping

Tips (borravaló) are given in Hungary for some services: in restaurants, in bars, to taxi drivers, to hairstylists, and often to people that fix things around the house, like plumbers and electricians.

Although not legally required, social norms encourage that tips are given. 10% is usually enough. Check your receipt before you pay, because some Halal restaurants charge a 10% service fee (szervizdíj), in this case tipping is not expected.

Hungarian foods

Sweets Chocolates with fruit Brandy, Szamos Marzipan dessert, Praline with Truffle, szaloncukor, literally: "parlour candy", is a popular sweet at Christmas.

• Herbal Teas
• Truffle Products - Honeys, Jams
• Spices: Paprika and Hungarian Saffron
• Gundel set of cheese: aged in Gundel soft drinks or with walnut pieces or seasonings. Most easily found in 350 g sets of three kinds in duty-free of Ferihegy Airport in Budapest (at least in Terminal 2), but is likely available in Gundel 1894 Food & Wine Cellar (see Pest#Eat). Keep in mind that shelf life for this Cheese is only 2 months.

Others

Ceramic house, palinka flasks in Gyenesdiás, 2016 Hungary - Porcelain palinka bottles

• Black pottery - part of the Transdanubian folk art
• Porcelain - look for high quality handmade Herend and Zsolnay products, usually sell them in set, simple candle holders are much cheaper and also popular
• Herend majolica at more affordable prices than the classic Herend.
• Hungarian Cuisine book (English, (German), French, (Spanish), Italian)
• 'matyó' patterned wooden spoons, ceramic of Sárospatak spoon holder
• Embroideries such as patterned of Kalocsa or Matyó.
• Blueprinted textiles mostly linen or cotton materials
• Diamonds in handmade white Gold, platinum inlaid jewellery, try your luck at Szentendre the Europe’s largest diamond & jewellery centre
• Handicrafts and decorative arts works decorated with traditional, Hungarian folk motifs (letter-paper envelope sets, greeting cards, handkerchiefs, napkins, tablecloths, pillows, towels)
• The Rubik's cube originated in Hungary and was invented in 1974 by Erno Rubik and is one example of its longstanding gaming tradition.

Halal Restaurants in Hungary

To be updated

Cuisine

Hungarians are quite proud of their cuisine (Magyar konyha), and most of the time not without a reason. Food are usually spicy, but not hot by general standards, and it's tasty rather than healthy: many dishes are prepared with lard or deep-fried. The national spice is paprika, made from ground sweet bell peppers and which actually has some flavor when fresh. The national dish is goulash but Hungarians call the thick paprika-laden stew known as goulash elsewhere by the term pörkölt and reserve the term gulyás for a lighter paprika-flavored soup.

Less well known in the rest of the world are csirke paprikás, Chicken stew in paprika Sauces, and halászlé, paprika fish soup often made from carp.

Goose is also quite popular in Hungary. While tourists gorge on goose liver (libamáj), still affordable by GCC standards, probably the most common dish is sült libacomb, roast goose leg. Stuffed (töltött) vegetables of all kinds are also popular, and Hungarian pancakes (palacsinta), both savoury and sweet, are a treat. Common Snacks include kolbász, a Hungarianized version of the Polish kielbasa Sausages,and lángos, deep-fried dough with a variety of toppings (mostly sour cream, Cheese and/or garlic).

Another favourite is Lángos, which is deep fried bread served served with various fillings. Most common is plain, with salt, garlic (fokhagyma) and soured cream (tejföl). If you do come across a Langos stand and there are usually a large number of options from Pizzas langos, or eggs with mayonnaise or Nutella and bananas.

Vegetarian food

Vegetarians and Vegans will have about as much ease eating out as in any other western country. Budapest is not a problem, as there is a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, but in an ordinary Hungarian restaurant the non- Meat mains on the menu are pretty much limited to rántott sajt (fried cheese) and gombafejek rántva (fried mushrooms).

Coffee

Cafe culture is widespread in Hungary, although it may never recover the romance of its turn-of-the-century intellectual heyday. Unless asked, it's a good idea to specify what kind of coffee you prefer. The word kávé means the strong, espresso-like Coffee, although American-style Coffee, known as hosszú kávé in Hungarian, usually translated as "long coffee", is also available at most places.

Tea

Tea houses are becoming popular in cities, especially among the young. There is a growing number of tea houses, mainly in Budapest and some bigger cities where people can buy several types of loose tea. The best teas are herbal and fruit varieties. In restaurants and cafes, lemon juice is frequently served in a small bottle. However, in traditional restaurants or cafes good teas are hard to find as coffee are preferred.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Hungary

Hungary - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Hungary, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Hungary. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Hungary and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Hungary. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Hungary. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inHungary: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Hungary.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Hungary: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Hungary, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Hungary.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Hungary, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Hungary, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Hungary and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Hungary, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Hungary, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Hungary without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Hungary is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Hungary.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Hungary is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Hungary, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Hungary Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Hungary

eHalal Group Hungary is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Hungary. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Hungary.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Hungary ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Hungary. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Hungary, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Hungary are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Hungary

Hostels

Prices vary greatly. For the cheapest room in a youth hostel in Budapest expect to pay between €6 and €10, but the normal rate in a hostel is €20-22 per person.

Farmhouses

Village Tourism is popular and very well developed in Hungary, and can be a remarkable experience. Start your research with 1Hungary , National Federation of Rural and Agrotourism Centre of Rural Tourism . Near Budapest it is also feasible to find rural houses to rent, for instance the Wild Grape Guesthouse , what makes a good combination to explore the capital and a National Park while staying at the same lodging.

Muslim Friendly Camping Places in Hungary

There are campgrounds available. See the city guides, including the Budapest guide.

Study in Hungary

Hungarian universities are open to all foreign students. Many European exchange students come through the EU's Erasmus program. There are quite a lot students from Asia and the Middle East as well, particularly because despite the high standard of education, fees are still considerably lower than in the more developed Western European countries. Those interested should visit Study in Hungary or University of Debrecen websites. Map of Hungarian universities and colleges].

How to work legally in Hungary

It could be difficult for an individual to seek legal employment in Hungary because of the complexity, cost and time involved. Most foreign workers in Hungary have received their visas and other necessary documents through the company they are employed by. It is hoped, however, that since the joining of Hungary to the EU a reduction will follow in the amount of red tape involved.

Muslims visitors of Antigua and Barbuda are permitted to work in Hungary without the need to obtain a visa for the period of their 90 day visa-free stay. However, this ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries.

Many students, usually on a gap year, work as second language teachers at one of Budapest's many language schools. A qualification is required (ESL/TEFL/TESOL) and experience is preferred.

One option is to teach through the Central European Teaching Program. For a placement fee they will take care of paperwork and set you up in a school in Hungary teaching English on a local salary. Contracts are for one semester or a whole school year. Qualified ESL/EFL teachers can find employment in Hungary at private language schools which offer better rates of pay and without having to pay a placement fee.

See also Budapest#Work|Work section in Budapest eHalal Travel Guide.

Stay safe as a Muslim in Hungary

Hungary in general is a very safe country. However, petty crime in particular remains a concern, just like in any other country.

Watch your bags and pockets on public transport. There is a danger of pickpockets. Passports, cash and credit cards are common targets of thieves. Keep items that you do not store in your hotel safe or residence in a safe place, but be aware that pockets, purses and backpacks are especially vulnerable, even if closed. There are also reported cases of people who got their baggage stolen while sleeping on the train.

Generally, Hungary is rather quiet during the night compared to other European countries, and crime to tourists is limited to pickpocketing, and cheating on prices and bills and taxi fares.

Everyone is required to carry their passport and ID card. Not doing so lead to trouble with the police. The police generally accept a colour copy of your passport.

The police force is professional and well trained, but most hardly speak any English.

See the Budapest travel guide for more specific and valuable information about common street scams and tourist traps in Hungary.

Driving conditions

The majority of Hungarians drive dangerously and had 739 deaths on the roads in 2019. This is largely due to careless driving habits. Many drivers do not observe the speed limits and you should be extra careful on two-way roads where local drivers pass each other frequently and allow for less space than you may be used to.

Car seats are required for infants. Children under age 12 may not sit in the front seat. Seat belts are mandatory for everyone in the car. You may not turn right on a red light. The police issues tickets for traffic violations and issue on the spot fines. In training the laws are widely ignored.

Also, Hungarian laws have zero tolerance to drink and drive, and the penalty is a severe fine. It means no beverage is allowed to be consumed if driving, no blood alcohol of any level is acceptable. Failure to pay fines may result in your passport getting confiscated, or even a jail term until or unless you pay the fine.

More importantly and the police stops vehicles regularly for document checks. You shouldn't worry when you are stopped because by law, everyone needs to have their identification papers checked.

Hungary has some of the harshest penalties for those involved in a vehicle accident. Involvement in a vehicle accident results in a fine, and maybe a prison sentence from 1 year to 5 years (depending on the aggravating circumstances).

Medical Issues in Hungary

Food and water is generally safe, even in remote villages. It is safe to drink tap water anywhere, even in remote areas, however, due to the cleaning process the taste of the water can be really unpleasant. Best idea is to try before changing to the bottled water. Bottled waters has a large selection, both the fizzy (blue bottle cap) and still (red/pink bottle cap) water and it is affordable (starts from less than 100 Ft for 1.5 litre). The only notable exception of the drinking water are trains where the tap water is not drinkable and other places where tap water is labeled as such.

It is widely available and good training to have with you a bottle during hot summer.

Private health care providers are high quality, but limited in scope once outside Budapest. Dentistry is cheaper here than in Western Europe (8000–10,000 Ft for an appointment and x-ray), and physiotherapy also (3000 Ft for a half-hour treatment), but check the price with the provider before you confirm the appointment. Outside Budapest you will likely have to speak basic Hungarian to communicate your needs as few doctors will have any English or German skills.

Public health care is free for qualifying (insured) people, and is of adequate quality in urban areas.

The country has joined the EU, so basic coverage is present for EU Muslims, but check before entering the nation how far are you insured and what you have to pay for. Do not expect at this time that the local doctor will know the EU rules, prepare to provide info.

The European Health Insurance Card is required from EU Muslims applying for free treatment under this regulation.

Pharmacies are everywhere, you may expect high prices, but good pharmaceutical coverage. Sadly the situation clearly has worsened a lot since early 2023, as many pharmacies can not maintain an adequate reserve of medicines. Another problem might be communicating with the pharmacist as most of them speak only Hungarian. Quite unexpectedly some rusty Latin might come handy. Due to reduced trade between Hungary and andania (as of Dec 2006), some of familiar medications are unavailable—so be prepared to find a substitute in advance.

Telecommunications in Hungary

• Broadband Internet access is now widespread in Hungary. It's quite usual to find free Internet access (wifi) in Shopping centers; in Budapest, most cafes and pubs. You'll have wifi access even in small towns. Look for the "wifi" signs, you may have to ask for the access password, however, if you consume, it will be freely given.

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