Everything You Need To Know For Hungary
Geographical Position And Climate Of Hungary
Hungary is a landlocked country situated in Central Europe, bordered by Austria to the west, Slovakia to the north, Ukraine and Romania to the east, Serbia to the south, Croatia, and Slovenia to the southwest.
The climate of Hungary can be classified as Continental-European. Summers are generally hot and dry, while winters can be cold with the possibility of snow, particularly in the more elevated regions. Spring and autumn are usually mild, but they can be unpredictable with a varied amount of rainfall and fluctuating temperatures.
Brief History Of Hungary
Hungary’s history is rich and complex, marked by various significant events that have shaped its current identity. The area now known as Hungary was originally inhabited by the Celts until the Roman Empire conquered parts of its territory, which became the province of Pannonia.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, during the Migration Period, a series of tribes including the Huns, Ostrogoths, Lombards, and Avars settled in the region. In the late 9th century, the Magyars (Hungarians), led by Árpád, arrived from the Ural Mountains and established the Principality of Hungary.
The Kingdom of Hungary was founded in 1000 AD by King Stephen I, who converted the country to Christianity. For centuries, Hungary flourished as a powerful medieval kingdom. However, in 1241-1242, the Mongol invasion devastated the country.
In the early 16th century, following a defeat at the Battle of Mohács in 1526, Hungary was divided into three parts: the west and north came under Habsburg rule, the east became the independent Principality of Transylvania, and the central part was occupied by the Ottoman Empire.
After nearly 150 years of Ottoman occupation, the Habsburgs gradually reconquered Hungary, and it became part of the Habsburg Monarchy, later the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Following World War I and the Treaty of Trianon in 1920, Hungary lost two-thirds of its territory and a significant portion of its population to neighboring countries.
World War II saw Hungary allied with the Axis powers, and it suffered considerable damage and loss of life. Post-war, Hungary became a satellite state of the Soviet Union, leading to a communist government being installed.
The Hungarian Revolution of 1956 was a spontaneous nationwide revolt against the government and its Soviet-imposed policies, but it was brutally suppressed by Soviet forces.
In 1989, Hungary transitioned from a communist state to a democratic republic, and in 2004, it joined the European Union. Today, Hungary is a parliamentary republic with Budapest as its capital and largest city, known for its cultural heritage and contributions to art, music, literature, sports, science, and technology.
Religion Of Hungary
More than half of Hungary’s population is Roman Catholic. There are other minority groups such as Jews and Muslims. A fairly solid percentage of Hungarians are atheists.
Language Of Hungary
Hungarian is the country’s official language.
Hungary is a popular tourist destination known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. Budapest, the capital city, often referred to as the “Paris of the East,” is famous for its historic sites such as the Buda Castle, Parliament Building, and the Chain Bridge that spans the Danube River. The city’s thermal baths, like Széchenyi and Gellért, are also major attractions due to Hungary’s abundance of thermal springs.
Beyond Budapest, visitors can explore the Great Plains, including the Hortobágy National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to traditional Hungarian pastoral life. Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest freshwater lake, is another favorite spot, offering beaches, water sports, and the picturesque Tihany Peninsula.
Places You Must Visit In Hungary
Before You Visit Hungary
Travel to Hungary
By Air:
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (formerly known as Budapest Ferihegy International Airport) is Hungary’s largest airport, located about 16 kilometers southeast of Budapest city center.
By Train:
Hungary has an extensive railway network with Budapest being the central hub. International train services connect Budapest with neighboring countries such as Austria, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Germany, Switzerland, Serbia, Romania, and Croatia.
By Road:
Driving to Hungary is a common option for travelers coming from neighboring countries. The country has a network of highways and roads that connect it to Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia. Eurolines and FlixBus are among the long-distance bus companies that operate international routes to and from Hungary.
By River:
The Danube River, which flows through Budapest, is a popular route for river cruises. Many cruise companies offer trips along the Danube, connecting major cities like Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest.
Visas for Hungary
Schengen Visa:
- Non-EU/EEA citizens who are required to have a visa to enter the Schengen Area will need to obtain a Schengen visa to visit Hungary for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits).
- The Schengen visa allows travel across all Schengen countries without the need for additional visas.
- Applicants must apply for the visa at the Hungarian consulate or embassy in their home country or the consulate of the Schengen country that is their main destination.
Visa Exemptions:
- Citizens of EU/EEA countries do not require a visa to enter Hungary and can stay and work freely.
- Many non-EU countries are exempt from visa requirements for short stays, including the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and Brazil, among others. Residents of these countries can enter Hungary without a visa for short visits.
Long Stay Visas and Residence Permits:
- For stays longer than 90 days, such as for work, study, or long-term residency, non-EU/EEA citizens must apply for a national visa (D-visa) or residence permit specific to their circumstances.
Best time to visit Hungary
The best time to visit Hungary largely depends on your preferences for weather and the type of activities you are interested in. Here’s a seasonal guide to help you decide:
Spring (March to May):
- Spring is a lovely time to visit as the weather starts to warm up and the countryside is lush and green.
- This season is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities without the summer crowds.
- Budapest holds its Spring Festival with lots of cultural events, concerts, and art exhibitions.
Summer (June to August):
- Summer is peak tourist season, offering the warmest weather, which is great for swimming in Lake Balaton or enjoying outdoor cafes in Budapest.
- There are numerous festivals, including the popular Sziget Festival in Budapest.
Autumn (September to November):
- Fall brings cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a comfortable time for exploring cities and the countryside.
- The autumn colors are beautiful, particularly around the hilly regions and national parks.
- Wine harvests take place in September, so it’s an excellent time for wine enthusiasts to visit.
Winter (December to February):
- Winter can be cold and snowy, but it offers a different kind of charm with Christmas markets and festive decorations, especially in Budapest.
- Thermal baths are particularly enjoyable during the colder months.
- It’s also a good season for those interested in winter sports or who prefer a quieter travel experience.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Hungary is during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
Important Information
Capital – Budapest
Territory – 93,030 km2
Currency – Forint
Time zone – UTC+1 (CET) / UTC+2 (CEST)
Population – 9,597,085
Demonym – Hungarian