Travelling to Budapest or just planning to visit the capital of Hungary? I know how stressful the organising can be, with so many questions to answer. How can you pay? Where can you change money? What about ATMs? Let me help you a little with some tour guide advice.
How can I pay in Budapest?
Hungary is part of the European Union, but the official currency is the Hungarian Forint (Ft, HUF). No need to worry about money, you can pay by card or phone almost everywhere. American Express isn’t accepted everywhere, so better to have a Visa or Mastercard with you too. One euro is about 365 HUF and one US dollar is about 310 HUF (November 2026).
Good to know
In the city centre you might be able to pay with euro cash, but they change it at a horrible rate and give you the change in forints. While paying with cash, be careful with the zeros: 10 thousand or 1 thousand is a big difference.
Where can I change money?
Never change money at the airport exchange counters, the rates are really bad. In the city centre you will definitely get a better rate. Most exchange offices are open until around 8 PM.
Can I find ATMs?
Sure, there are many, but be careful which one you use! Many street ATMs charge a big transaction fee and convert at a really bad rate, so try to avoid the blue and yellow Euronet ATMs. Stick to bank ATMs like OTP, Erste, CIB or MBH.
Good to know
If an ATM or a card terminal asks whether to charge you in your own currency or in forints, always choose forints.
Is it safe to drink tap water?
Let me tell you the truth: in Budapest tap water is not just safe but healthy! I always recommend my guests to try it first, not because of the cleanness, but because your body might need time to get used to a different mineral composition. If you prefer bottled water, you can easily find it in stores. Hungary is really rich in fantastic mineral water. Szentkirályi, Kristályvíz and Natur Aqua are among the best of the countless Hungarian brands.
Good to know
Looking for still water? Don’t forget about the colours! Still water usually has a pink cap and sparkling has a blue one.
Can I smoke inside?
No, you cannot. Smoking is banned in all indoor public places, including clubs, pubs and restaurants, as well as on public transport, at public transport stops and in underpasses.
Good to know
In Hungary you can buy cigarettes only in tobacco shops (Nemzeti Dohánybolt in Hungarian), and only if you are over 18.
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