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Road Trips in Hungary

Hungary is a country located in Central Europe that offers a diverse and rich cultural experience, making it a perfect destination for a road trip. The country is home to a variety of natural landscapes, from rolling hills and lush forests to thermal lakes and hot springs, which are perfect for exploring by car. The scenic roads that run through Hungary allow you to take in the beauty of the country at your own pace and in your own style.

One of the highlights of a road trip in Hungary is the opportunity to visit its many thermal spas. The country is known for its abundance of hot springs, and many of its cities and towns are built around these natural sources of thermal water. You can soak in the warm waters of these spas, surrounded by beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens. The country's capital city, Budapest, is home to several world-renowned thermal baths, including the Gellért Baths and the Rudas Baths.

Another must-visit destination on a road trip in Hungary is the city of Pécs, located in the southern part of the country. This city is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, and is home to several Roman ruins and medieval structures. The city also boasts a vibrant arts scene, and is home to several museums and galleries.

Additionally, Hungary is a foodie's paradise, with a diverse range of local cuisine that is heavily influenced by its neighboring countries. On your road trip, you can sample traditional Hungarian dishes, such as goulash and chimney cake, or try some of the country's world-renowned wines.

In conclusion, Hungary is a country that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for a road trip. With its scenic roads, world-renowned thermal baths, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, Hungary is a destination that will not disappoint.

Expect on your itinerary

Value Value
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Comfort Comfort
Nature Nature
Security Security

Best months to drive

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Discover Road Trips in Hungary

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Hungary Road Trip
Europe - Hungary
1,405 km 56 km/h 8 days roadtrip
Neusiedler Lake Road Trip Neusiedler Lake Road Trip
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Europe - Austria
221 km 60 km/h 3 days roadtrip
Tokaj Wine Road Trip Tokaj Wine Road Trip
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Europe - Hungary
642 km 69 km/h 2 days scenic
Balaton Wines Road Trip Balaton Wines Road Trip
Balaton Wines Road Trip
Europe - Hungary
413 km 70 km/h 2 days scenic

Road Trip Highlights in Hungary

Many tourists coming to Hungary limit their exploration of the country to Budapest. Even though there's no doubt that the city is a true jewel among the European capitals, the country can boast so many other highlights that it would be a shame to miss them. One of the examples here can be Eger, which impresses with its monuments and numerous vineyards, or Miskolc, famous for interesting museums and old churches.

There are plenty of interesting places on the Hungarian map. In the northern part of the country, you will find Győr, with its stunning Baroque architecture, and Szentendre, characterised by extremely narrow streets and multiple cafés and restaurants. Only 40 minutes away, you'll find the equally interesting Visegrád that can boast a very rich archaeological site.

While travelling around Hungary, you'll come across exciting monuments at every corner. These are the testimony of the country's colourful past. If you want to go several hundred years back in time, you should definitely pay a visit at Pécs, Székesfehérvár, or Kecskemét, where you'll find various religious buildings, historic squares, monumental palaces, or even fragments of fortified city walls. Two other interesting places to visit are Szeged, enjoying the status of country's most sunny city, and Veszprém, located approximately 15 km from Lake Balaton.

Speaking of Lake Balaton... it is not the only popular place among the visiting tourists. Holidaymakers and local residents pay eager visits at a spa town, Hévíz, where you'll find a medicinal thermal lake. Interestingly, the temperature of the water in the lake reaches up to 36°C!

Suggested Road Trips in Hungary

Traffic rules in Hungary - general information

Drinking and driving is one of the most severely penalised traffic offences in Hungary. A breathalyser test shouldn't find even trace amounts of alcohol in your breath. You can talk on the phone only with the use a hands-free set. Otherwise, you'll have to face a penalty payment. Dipped headlights have to be on around the clock - but only outside the built-up areas. A motorist driving in a built-up area is obliged to use them only at night or in adverse weather conditions.

The necessary documents that you should carry in Hungary are: driver's licence, registration document, vehicle technical inspection certificate, liability insurance, and your ID or passport. The obligatory car equipment includes a first aid kit, a warning triangle, a reflective vest, and a towline. It's also worth carrying a fire extinguisher and a set of spare bulbs.

Speed limits on Hungarian roads

The speed limit for all vehicles driving in built-up areas is 50 km/h. In rural areas, the speed limit that has to be observed is, of course, higher - 90 km/h. On expressways and motorways, you can drive at a maximum speed of 110 km/h and 130 km/h respectively; thus, you've got a little greater leeway. Each motorist is obliged to reduce the speed when approaching pedestrian crossings - you mustn't drive faster than 30 km/h in cities and faster than 40 km/h in rural areas.

Toll roads in Hungary

Motorways and expressways in Hungary are all toll roads. However, you won't come across regular toll gates - the toll is paid with the use of special electronic vignettes that can be purchased at all petrol stations and customs checkpoints. Vignettes differ in validity period. There exist three options: weekly (valid for 10 days), monthly, and annual. After the payment, you'll receive a special coupon that you are required to show during a road check.

Road checks in Hungary

Routine road checks on Hungarian roads are rather infrequent, but it doesn't mean that you can break the traffic rules as you please. Even though police officers are very patient with foreigners, they tend to be relentless when it comes to some of the traffic offences. From May to October, you can expect increased sobriety control in the near vicinity of Lake Balaton. If you happen to experience such a routine check, you don't have to leave the car unless the police officers ask you to do it. How to recognise a Hungarian police car? Mostly by rendőrség written on the vehicle and by the white or silver and blue bodywork.

When taking a Road Trip in Hungary

Best Time for taking a Road Trip in Hungary

The best time for a road trip in Hungary depends on personal preference and the type of experience you're looking for. Here are a few options:

How expensive is a Road Trip in Hungary

The cost of a road trip in Hungary can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. Here is a rough estimate of what you can expect to spend:

Accommodation: Budget hotels and hostels can cost between 10-30 EUR per night per person, while mid-range hotels can cost 40-70 EUR per night per person. If you opt for more luxurious accommodations, expect to pay upwards of 100-150 EUR per night per person.

Food: Hungary has a wide range of culinary options, and the cost of food can vary depending on where and what you eat. Street food and local eateries are the most affordable options, with meals starting at 5-10 EUR per person. Mid-range restaurants can cost 20-30 EUR per meal per person, while higher-end restaurants can cost 50-70 EUR per meal per person.

Transportation: Renting a car can cost between 25-50 EUR per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental period. Gasoline costs about 1.5 EUR per liter. Taxis and public transportation are more affordable options, with fares ranging from 1-2 EUR per ride.

Activities: Hungary offers a range of activities, including visiting historical sites, thermal baths, and wine tasting. Admission fees to museums and attractions can range from 5-15 EUR per person. Tours and activities can cost 20-50 EUR per person, depending on the type and duration of the activity.

Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around 30-50 EUR per day per person, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend 60-100 EUR per day per person. For a week-long trip, this translates to a total cost of 210-700 EUR per person, while a month-long trip can cost 900-3000 EUR per person. These estimates do not include airfare or travel insurance.

Remember that these are rough estimates, and your actual expenses will depend on your travel style, itinerary, and individual preferences. Additionally, it's always a good idea to plan ahead and book accommodations and activities in advance to save money and ensure availability.

Guidebooks and Road Maps for Road Trip in Hungary

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that you may find helpful for a road trip in Hungary:

When choosing a guidebook or map, look for updated editions to ensure that the information is current. Additionally, be aware that road conditions in Hungary can change rapidly, so it's always a good idea to ask locals for the most up-to-date information on road conditions and safety.

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