Expat Community > Hungary

peddington
Joined 2013
Posts: 382

Friendliest city? A matter of opinion!

10 years ago

Budapest is the 10th friendliest city according to some travel guide! Well I suppose that is a matter of opinion. Another site on the internet doesn't even mention Budapest so I suppose any argument can be supported if you look in the right place. While Budapest "old" Buda side is very picturesque and it is rich with history, the Pest side not so much especially if you move away from the central area (near the Danube). Graffiti, trash and homeless is pretty much everywhere. Due to "human rights" which is another topic altogether, homeless is not required to move from door ways or metro steps. Hungarian food is great just find a place to park while you eat. You pay fro parking just about everywhere near the center of the city and by golly don't park illegally because your car will be "booted" and 15,000 forint and three hours later you may get the use of your car back. Public transportation is the way to go but ticket prices for one ride on the bus or metro is nearly about $1.40. This of course directed toward foreigners and those coming up from the country as most living in the capital city buy "passes". Incidentally the fine is advertised as 16,000 forint. Note of caution. You must validate a ticket on the bus and metro and sometimes these machines jam and don't work. Also some print a 2 mm line on the ticket you may not be able to see without glasses. Other's machines punch holes in the ticket so don't get the tickets mixed up. Incidentally if you rent a car and hit the Hungarian "autobahn" be careful. There are more radar traps then cops in Hungary. If you a foreigner they won't find you but your rental company will charge you no doubt. Thinking about fighting a ticket? Forget it! There is no such thing because in Hungary it is an "administrative fine" not directed toward the driver just toward the car which if the fine is not paid can be de-registered by the state. So have fun but remember you can be stopped by the police anytime there is no "cause" that has to be given. But fear not because that seldom happens as the police has a relatively small budget and have no money for gas. Therefore stationary radars and radar gates are used that are less expensive. Have fun while sightseeing but keep a wary eye on pick pockets. Is it as bad as Italy or France (in some places). NO but you should still keep your wallet or pocketbook close to you. The forint is low right now so your dollar, pound or euro will go far. Come visit and enjoy!

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Living in Hungary Guide

Guide to Living in Hungary covering expat life, local culture, finding a home, diversity and more.

Hungary Forum
Join our Hungary forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Hungary.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Hungary.

Best Places to Live in Hungary

If you're thinking about living in Hungary, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Hungary in 2023.

Healthcare in Hungary

If you're moving to Hungary or an expat living in Hungary, understanding the Hungarian healthcare system in important. This article offers an overview of the national healthcare system, private hospitals and healthcare, private health insurance for expats in Hungary, clinics with English-speaking doctors and the quality and cost of medical care in Hungary.

Cost of Living in Hungary

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Hungary.

Moving to Hungary Guide

Expats share 8 things they which they had known before they made the big move to Hungary - from what to bring to finding a good bank, healthcare to deciding where to live.

Real Estate in Hungary

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Hungary.

Pros & Cons of Living in Hungary

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Hungary.

Retiring in Hungary

Advice for people retiring in Hungary.

10 Tips for Living in Hungary

If you've recently arrived in Hungary, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Hungary.

Additional Information:

Visit our Hungary Index for a Full List

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Contribute
Help others in Hungary by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Hungary.

Login

Or, Send Login Link

Expat Community > Hungary

Friendliest city? A matter of opinion!

Login