Hungary Travel Risk

Exercise normal precaution in Hungary.

Hungary is generally a safe destination for travelers.

Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing, especially in tourist areas and major train stations in Budapest. This includes passport theft on the trains between Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava.

• Review our travel guidance for Hungary to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Hungary

Terrorist attacks in Hungary cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

Political demonstrations can be held in Budapest and across Hungary. Rallies often take place on important national holidays, such as 15 March (anniversary of 1848 Revolution) and 23 October (anniversary of 1956 anti-Soviet Uprising). Peaceful demonstrations have sometimes turned violent. Move away from large crowds and monitor local media to help you avoid organised demonstrations.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Tourists can be targets for petty crime. Bag-snatching and pickpocketing are common, especially in Budapest and other cities.

Street crime is more likely:

• on busy public transport
• in train stations
• at markets
• in places with high numbers of tourists

When travelling by train keep a close watch on your baggage, especially as the train pulls into a station.

Leave your car or motorbike in a secure location if possible to reduce the risk of it being stolen. Theft from parked vehicles is common, so always put bags out of sight and do not store valuable items in your car.

Scams when paying bills

Some bars, clubs and restaurants might charge high amounts for food and drink. Tourists have been taken to cashpoints with demands for the money to pay the bill. Always ask to see the menu and price list before ordering food and check your bill carefully before paying. Be wary of establishments where menus do not properly display prices. Report any incidents to the police.

Some taxi drivers are part of these frauds. They may receive a commission to recommend certain bars, clubs and restaurants to passengers. If a taxi driver offers to take you to a bar or club, or you are approached on the street with an invitation, be cautious. Use taxis from a reputable local company.

Bank card fraud

Use official ATMs or banks. Do not change money on the street.

Fraudsters can steal your card details without you noticing. Use ATMs inside banks if possible, and check ATMs on the street for signs of tampering. Keep cards in sight when paying in shops and restaurants. Read more about how to avoid bank card fraud.

Drink spiking

There have been reports of drinks being spiked, particularly in Budapest’s bars. If your drink is spiked it can make you vulnerable – for example to assault or robbery. Buy your own drinks and keep sight of them.

Risk level

Hungary - Take normal security precautions

Take normal security precautions in Hungary.

Crime

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs. Thieves target tourists.

Theft occurs, particularly in crowded public areas such as:

• buses, trains, bus and train stations, and airports
• shopping centres
• public markets

During your trip:

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• don’t show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery
• don’t carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily

Car thefts and highway robberies may occur. Tactics are used by thieves to persuade drivers to pull over, allowing them to steal items from the distracted driver’s car.

• Be cautious when stopping at gas stations and highway parking areas, especially after dark
• Be wary of individuals experiencing roadside emergencies (for example, a smoking engine, a flat tire, etc.)

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. There is a potential for other violent incidents.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

匈牙利风险等级为蓝色（低风险）