Budapest: Things to Know Before Visiting the City

Before visiting Budapest, one must know it's no longer super cheap, the safety precautions, and the limited vegetarian options.

### What You Need to Know Before Visiting Budapest
* 💸 Budapest is no longer as cheap as it used to be, but still offers **good value for money** compared to Western Europe.
* 🚖 Be cautious of taxi scams and stick to **regulated cab companies with apps for ordering**.
* 😐 Hungarian people may seem reserved due to historical hardships, but **younger generations are more open and positive**.
* 🍽 Avoid overpriced tourist restaurants near landmarks; **explore further for better value dining options**.
* 💳 Cash is still needed for public toilets and some small stores, but most places in Budapest accept **card payments**.
* 🇭🇺 Learning a few Hungarian phrases can be appreciated, but **English is widely spoken in the city**.
* 🎫 Always validate single fare tickets for public transport; **daily or weekly passes do not require validation**.
* 📸 Some popular tourist spots may not live up to the hype on social media; Budapest has a mix of **well-maintained and less renovated areas**.

BUDAPEST: 15 Things you MUST KNOW before visiting! | Hungary Travel Guide

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Budapest is no longer as cheap as it used to be, with varying price ranges for different things, but it still offers a good time without breaking the bank.

The city is generally safe, but visitors should be mindful of their valuables and cautious of taxi scams.

The Hungarian people's demeanor may seem withdrawn due to historical hardships, but there is a growing positive energy, especially among the younger generation.

It's advisable to avoid restaurants and bars near the main landmarks for a more reasonable dining experience and to rely on card payments instead of cash.

Cards are widely accepted in Budapest, so you don't need to carry much cash.

When dining, check for a service charge on the bill, and if there isn't one, a 10 to 15% tip is recommended.

Vegetarian and vegan options are growing in Budapest, despite the predominance of meat in the local cuisine.

English is commonly spoken, but learning a few Hungarian phrases can be appreciated by the locals.

Using Google's translator app can also be helpful for communication.

In Budapest, "jó reggelt" is used to say good morning, "jó estét" for good evening, and "fenomenális" to express tasty food.

When using public transport, it's important to validate single fare tickets using QR codes or old punch machines.

The city has a lack of public toilets, often charging 200-250 Hungarian forints for entry, leading many to use cafes instead.

Some popular attractions in Budapest may not live up to the hype on social media, according to locals, such as the New York Cafe and the hop-on hop-off bus tour.

Renovation has greatly improved the city's streets, but the Communist era's impact is still visible.

The Seventh District is known as the party area, perfect for entertainment but not ideal for family accommodation.

Budapest has unique smoking regulations, including restrictions on smoking near building entrances and in public transport stops.

There is no historical evidence to support the urban legend that clinking beer glasses is rude in Hungary.

The tradition of palinka is important in Eastern Europe, but it's acceptable to refuse it if you don't want to drink.

Visitors to Hungary are encouraged to enjoy their stay and experience the local drinking customs at their own pace.