What Currency Is Used in Hungary?

What currency is used in Hungary?

The currency in Hungary is the Hungarian forint, abbreviated HUF and shown as Ft, and it is not the euro, despite Hungary being a member of the European Union, as the country retains its own currency. Visitors often assume otherwise, so it is worth knowing you will deal in forints. Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in Budapest and larger towns, though some cash is useful for markets and small vendors. Avoid paying in euros where offered, since the rate is usually unfavorable. Withdraw forints from ATMs, choosing to be charged in the local currency, and use a card without foreign transaction fees to reduce costs.

Do you tip in Hungary?

Tipping in Hungary is customary, with around 10 percent being standard for good service in restaurants. Increasingly in Budapest, restaurants add a service charge to the bill, so check whether one has already been included before adding a tip, to avoid tipping twice. When no service charge is added, leaving about 10 percent is expected for good service; you can hand it to the server or state the total including the tip when paying, rather than leaving it on the table. For cafes, bars, and taxis, rounding up is normal. Tipping in cash is common and appreciated. So plan to tip around 10 percent in restaurants, mindful of any service charge already on the bill.

What power plugs are used in Hungary?

Hungary uses type C and type F electrical plugs, the round-pin styles standard across continental Europe, with type F including earth clips, and the supply is 230 volts at 50 hertz. Travelers from countries with different sockets, such as the United States or United Kingdom, will need a plug adapter to fit Hungarian outlets. Because Hungary runs on 230 volts, also confirm your devices are dual voltage, marked around 100 to 240 volts on the charger, as most modern electronics are, or bring a voltage converter for any single-voltage device so it is not damaged when you plug it in.

Can you drink the tap water in Hungary?

The tap water in Hungary is safe to drink and well monitored, meeting quality standards throughout the country, including in Budapest. You can drink it from the tap, refill a reusable bottle, and use it for brushing teeth and cooking without worry. Bottled water is widely available but unnecessary for safety, so it is a matter of taste preference. Hungary is also famous for its thermal and mineral waters, but ordinary tap water is perfectly fine for drinking. In restaurants you may be offered bottled water, though you can drink the tap water safely. Choosing Hungarian tap water is a safe, budget-friendly, and eco-conscious option during your trip.