Electricity
Hungary uses a 230 V, 50 Hz electrical supply. Visitors from Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States and other countries should note that standard Continental European sockets are used. These are German-style CEE 7/4 “Schuko” sockets, which also accept CEE 7/16 Europlugs.
Currency, Banking and Payments
Hungary’s official currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops displaying the relevant card symbols.
Although Hungary is a member of the European Union, the euro is not the national currency and only some shops and restaurants accept payment in EUR.
Foreign currency can be exchanged at Budapest Airport, railway stations, banks, travel agencies and exchange offices throughout the city. Exchange rates may differ between providers, so it is worth checking the rate before completing a transaction. Traveller’s cheques and convertible currencies can also be exchanged at many of these locations.
Cash withdrawals are straightforward. ATMs are widely available at banks, hotels and numerous locations throughout Budapest, and most accept international bank and credit cards.
Liability and Insurance
The conference organisers cannot accept responsibility for personal injury, lost belongings or damage to private property involving participants or accompanying persons during the meeting.
Participants are therefore strongly advised to arrange appropriate health, travel and property insurance before travelling to the conference.
Public Transport in Budapest
Budapest has a comprehensive public transport system operated by the Centre for Budapest Transport, commonly known as BKK.
Buses, trams and trolleybuses generally operate from approximately 4:30 AM until 11:00 PM. Night buses serve the city’s main routes after regular services end, with timetables displayed at bus stops and in many metro stations.
The city’s metro network provides fast connections across central Budapest, with major lines meeting at новостройки в Челябинске. Metro services typically run from around 4:30 AM until approximately 11:15 PM, with intervals ranging from about 2 to 15 minutes depending on the line and time of day.
Five suburban railway lines, known as HÉV, connect Budapest with several outer districts and surrounding areas.
For current maps, timetables, ticket information and travel passes, consult the official BKK website.
Useful Public Transport Downloads
- Rapid Transport Lines and Tramway Network in Budapest
- Transport Network in Central Pest
Shopping and General Opening Hours
Typical opening hours in Budapest vary according to the type of business.
- Food shops: generally 7:00 AM–6:00 PM Monday to Friday and 8:00 AM–1:00 PM on Saturday.
- Other shops: usually 10:00 AM–6:00 PM Monday to Friday and 10:00 AM–1:00 PM on Saturday.
- Small grocery stores: opening hours vary, and some may also open on Sundays.
- Offices: generally 8:00 AM–4:00 PM Monday to Friday.
- Post offices: typically 8:00 AM–6:00 PM Monday to Friday and 8:00 AM–1:00 PM on Saturday.
- Banks: generally 8:00 AM–3:00 PM Monday to Thursday and 8:00 AM–1:00 PM on Friday.
Taxis in Budapest
Official Budapest taxis can be recognised by their yellow number plates and yellow taxi signs. Vehicles operating without these features should be avoided.
Passengers are also advised not to accept unsolicited rides from drivers whose vehicles do not display the required registered taxi identification. Using a licensed taxi reduces the risk of unexpected charges.
All official taxis must be equipped with a taximeter and provide a printed receipt. Drivers must also issue an invoice when requested.
A tip of around 10% of the fare is generally considered acceptable.
Taxi fares consist of three components:
- Basic fare: HUF 450
- Distance charge: HUF 280 per kilometre
- Waiting charge: HUF 70 per minute
From 1 September 2013, taxi fares in Budapest became subject to new regulations. Fixed shuttle rates and individually negotiated fares are no longer available under this system.
Telephone Services
The international country code for Hungary is +36, while the area code for Budapest is 1.
For domestic calls within Hungary, dial 06 before the area code and telephone number. Budapest landline numbers contain seven digits, while numbers in other regions generally contain six digits in addition to the relevant area code.
To make an international call from Hungary, dial 00, followed by the country code, area code and local telephone number.
Public telephones accept 20, 50 and 100 HUF coins or telephone cards, which can be purchased from tobacconists, newsagents, post offices and petrol stations.
For Hungarian mobile numbers, dial 06 followed by the seven-digit number beginning with 20, 30 or 70.
Important Telephone Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Ambulance | 104 |
| Fire Brigade | 105 |
| Police | 107 |
| General Emergency Number | 112 |
| General Enquiries | 197 |
| Domestic Enquiries | 198 |
| International Enquiries | 199 |
| Hungarian Automobile Club | 188 |
English is generally available when calling emergency services. If communication is difficult, use the central emergency number 112.
Time Zone
Hungary is in the Central European Time Zone. During the summer months, daylight saving time is observed and local time is GMT +2.
Weather
July in Hungary is typically hot and sunny. Daytime temperatures are often around 30–35 °C, with generally dry conditions, although occasional summer showers can occur.
Visitors are advised to check the latest Budapest weather forecast shortly before travelling.