10 Mistakes to avoid if you travel to Budapest

Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Its majestic Parliament, its famous thermal baths and its vibrant nightlife have made it a very popular tourist destination in Europe. However, as with any tourist destination, there are common mistakes that travellers often make that can sour your trip. To make your trip go smoothly, here are the 10 mistakes to avoid if you travel to Budapest.

The 10 mistakes at a glance

1. Changing money at the airport or in tourist areas.
2. Not validating your public transport ticket.
3. Using unlicensed taxis.
4. Paying for the funicular without knowing the alternatives.
5. Skipping the thermal baths out of misinformation.
6. Sticking only to the most famous landmarks.
7. Not trying the traditional Hungarian food.
8. Not packing clothes suited to the season.
9. Underestimating distances.
10. Not booking the most popular attractions ahead.

1. Changing money at the airport or in tourist areas

One of the most common mistakes tourists make when arriving in Budapest is to exchange money at the airport or at tourist sites without first comparing exchange rates. The Hungarian forint (HUF) is the local currency, and many currency exchange offices in high-traffic areas have high commissions or an unfavorable exchange rate.

How to avoid it?

• Avoid changing large amounts of money at the airport; use only what is necessary for transportation or public restrooms.
• Look for exchange offices in the city center, where rates are usually lower.
• If you have a bank card without commissions for withdrawing money abroad, it is better to withdraw money directly from ATMs of recognised banks.

ℹ️ By the way, you know that for us the best card for travel is Revolut.

2. Failure to validate the public transport ticket

Public transportation in Budapest is efficient and inexpensive, but ticket inspectors are strict. A common mistake of tourists is to think that just buying a ticket is enough. You must validate it before boarding the metro, tram or bus. Otherwise, you could face a fine of 12,000 HUF (about €30) if you pay on the spot, rising to 25,000 HUF after the third day and up to 50,000 HUF if you don't pay within 30 days.

How to avoid it?

• If you buy individual tickets, use the validation machines before entering the subway or when boarding a bus or streetcar.
• Consider buying a multi-day transport pass, which does not require validation each time you use it. The Budapest tourist card is also a good option as it includes free transportation.

3. Using unlicensed cabs

Cabs in Budapest have a bad reputation among tourists, as many drivers try to charge inflated fares, especially if they see that you don’t speak Hungarian. Some even use rigged meters.

How to avoid it?

• Use apps like Bolt, which work similarly to Uber and offer fair prices.
• If you take a cab on the street, make sure it has the official Főtaxi logo and that the taximeter is turned on.

4. Going up the Buda Castle funicular without knowing other options.

The funicular to Buda Castle is a popular attraction, but it is expensive and there are often long lines to use it. Many tourists pay without knowing that there are cheaper and more scenic alternatives to climb Buda Castle.

🆓 There is a Buda Castle Free Tour you may be interested in

How to avoid it?

• If you want to save money, walk up the stairs or trails, enjoying the views, it’s about 10 minutes and believe me if I’ve climbed them you can too jijiji.
• Another option is to take bus 16, which drops you off at the top for the regular price of a public transportation ticket.

5. Not taking advantage of thermal baths due to lack of knowledge

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, but many tourists avoid visiting them due to misinformation. Some believe that the color of the water means that it is dirty, or simply do not carry what is necessary for the visit.

How to avoid it?

• Understand that the color of the water is due to minerals, not dirt. They are natural thermal waters with beneficial properties.
• Bring your own bathing suit, towel and flip-flops, as rentals inside the restrooms can be expensive.
• If you are looking for a quieter experience, avoid peak hours, especially on weekends.

💦 The most famous spa in Budapest is the Széchenyi Spa.

6. Thinking that Budapest is only the Parliament and the Chain Bridge.

Many tourists visit only the most iconic sights of the city, such as the Parliament, the Fisherman’s Bastion and the Chain Bridge, without exploring other fascinating areas of Budapest.

How to avoid it?

• Spend time exploring neighbourhoods such as the VII District (Jewish quarter), famous for its ruined bars and vibrant nightlife.
• Visit Margaret Island, an oasis of tranquility in the middle of the Danube, ideal for a relaxing walk.
• Explore the Central Market, where you can try authentic Hungarian dishes.
• Read all the information and tips about Budapest on this blog :P

📖 I recommend you to read: 10 Things you can’t miss in Budapest

7. Not tasting the typical food

Going to Budapest and not trying the local gastronomy is a crime. Many tourists end up eating in tourist restaurants with international food and miss the wonders of Hungarian cuisine.

How to avoid it?

• Try traditional dishes such as goulash, lángos (fried bread with sour cream and cheese) and kürtőskalács (chimney cake).
• Look for local restaurants in less touristy areas that offer a more authentic experience.

🇭🇺 Here is a list of my favourite restaurants in Budapest

8. Not wearing seasonally appropriate clothing

The climate in Budapest varies greatly depending on the time of year. In winter, temperatures can drop to -5°C, while in summer they can exceed 30°C. Many tourists do not wear appropriate clothing and end up getting extremely hot or cold.

Have I ever told you that the first time I visited Budapest I was faced with a lovely temperature of -15°C? There was no palinka to warm me up, jijiji.

How to avoid it?

• If you travel in winter, take thermal clothing, hat, gloves and a good coat.
• In summer, wear light clothing, sunscreen and carry water, as the heat during the summer months can be unbearable.

9. Underestimating distances

If you look at a map of Budapest, it will seem like everything is close by, but many places are farther away than they appear. Too much walking can be exhausting, especially in summer with the heat.

How to avoid it?

• Use public transportation for long distances and leave walking for more central areas.
• Plan your itinerary well so as not to waste time and energy.

10. Not reserving in advance for the most tourist attractions

Some Budapest attractions can fill up quickly, especially in high season. Many tourists arrive without reservations and miss out on unique experiences.

How to avoid it?

• Pre-book tickets for the Széchenyi baths, the Parliament and the Danube cruises.
• If you plan to take a free tour, sign up early to secure your place.

Budapest is an amazing city and, for us, very special. Daddy is from there and we feel like we are in our second home. In order for you to enjoy this wonderful city, plan your trip well, get informed and make the most of all that this European jewel has to offer.