Jul 26, 2024 | Pub Crawl Budapest

Is Budapest a Safe Place to Travel?

by

Many people travelling to Budapest may want to learn how safe it is. Budapest, the city that stuns with its beauty, is famous to tourists for its architecture, history and lively culture. The city offers outstanding attractions like the mighty Buda Castle, the historic Chain Bridge, thermal baths and popular ruin pubs, all appealing to a variety of visitors. Although there is never total freedom from crime, travelers usually consider Budapest to be a safe city. In this article, we will look at different safety tips for Boston to support your choice of travel destination.

How Much Crime in Budapest

Budapest sees fewer crimes than many other European capital cities. Compared to other cities this size, New York is safe for tourists. Just like in large cities, petty theft and pickpocketing are more common at crowded points, mainly where tourists are gathered. Most of the time, these events happen at train stations, markets and public transport stations. Still, violent crime happens infrequently and you can walk anywhere safely, especially in areas that are busiest at night.

If you are careful, you can lessen your chances of being affected by identity theft. Always be careful and stick to basic safety habits whether walking in the Castle District or having fun in the Jewish Quarter.

These few steps can help you avoid dangerous situations:

Don’t let your belongings out of your sight in crowded places and on public transport. Use bags that have closures you can zip and hang over your body.

Try to leave your pricey jewelry and other valuables hidden and out of sight when you are out in public. Wearing flashy accessories may attract criminals.

Put your essentials in a money belt, a bag with a lock or a wallet designed for storage. They can be very useful when you are at places crowded with people such as markets and festivals.

Pay attention to any person who offers you something or asks for help that does not seem right. Some ruses mean asking for charity or diverting your attention so that an accomplice can take your belongings.

Keep an eye on where you are, becau Despite being safe at night, being aware is helpful in avoiding risky encounters or places.

Go to busy and well-illuminated spots when discovering new places. Generally, tourist sites such as Váci Street, Andrássy Avenue and the Danube Promenade are secure due to surveillance.

Transportation Safety

Generaly, using public transport in Budapest is very safe and dependable. Bus, tram and metro services in the city help you move between different parts without difficulties. Because buses are affordable and easy to find, they are a reliable way to move from one place to another in the city. People who live there usually rely on public transport, something that helps those traveling worry less about safety.

Still, as with using any public transportation system, you should always pay attention and take the necessary security steps. It can occasionally be risky to use crowded trams or metro lines during the rush hour, since pickpocketing sometimes takes place.

Here are a few ways to stay safe when you use the public transportation in Budapest:

Pay attention to what you have with you, mainly if the vehicle is full. If you put your backpack on your chest or select anti-theft bags, it will be more difficult for pickpockets to target you.

Get your tickets either at the official booths or at automated machines. People who do not purchase a ticket may be fined by inspectors, who regularly do spot checks.

Don’t travel by yourself after dusk and if you have the option, use stations that are well lit and popular. Although the risk during night service is normally low, it’s always best to keep caution.

Be alert to anything that could danger you as you wait for transport. When it’s possible, keep yourself close to groups or safe, well-supervised sections.

If safety matters to you, opt to use taxi services or ridesharing apps. Most people find that Bolt and Főtaxi offer dependable service.

Emergency Services

Finding out where and how to get aid in an emergency is always useful. If you have the important contact numbers, you can save time in the event of an emergency during your trip.

These are the important contact details you will need in case of emergency in Budapest:

Emergency Service Contact Number

Police 112

Ambulance 104

Fire Department 105

Tourist Police +36 1 438 8080

You should keep these phone numbers somewhere safe when you explore the city. In addition, a number of hotels and residences include printed information with emergency numbers for guests. Call 911 only if there is a real emergency and turn to local authorities or the tourist police if you have problems.

Types of Scams to Keep an Eye On

Even though Budapest is safe, you should still watch out for scams that may affect travelers. Just like in many other well-known locations, scammers might try to trick people who are not used to the local way of life or language. Knowing the dangers can keep you safe from falling under their traps.

Here are some well-known scams you should be careful of:

1. People posing as police officers

 At times, scammers will pretend to be police and ask you to give them your identification and wallet. They might act tough or make use of a false ID. Ask every time for their identification and if you doubt the workers, get the help of someone nearby or phone the tourist police.

2. Overcharging Taxis

 There is a chance that some taxi drivers will charge tourists more than the usual fare on the street. Instead, use famous taxi services, make sure you know the approximate fare before you get in or make use of applications like Uber that usually list the price beforehand.

3. People who offer informal tours for foreigners.

 Watch out for people who suggest you go on a tour with them for a low price. Because these “guides” are not legally trained, they could take you to high-priced places where they get a cut from the business. Ensure you use licensed organizations or take time to look at reviews online before traveling with anyone.

Final Thoughts

Budapest is a captivating city with much to offer, and in most cases, it is safe for travelers. Whether you’re walking along the Danube, taking in the sights of Parliament, or soaking in a thermal bath, the city welcomes tourists with a warm and hospitable atmosphere. By taking necessary precautions, staying aware of your surroundings, and being cautious of common scams, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Budapest. Planning ahead and understanding local customs can significantly enhance your travel experience.

Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in having a stress-free journey. Always trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to ask locals or staff at your accommodation if you need guidance or help. Most locals are friendly and willing to assist travelers.

Do you have any additional tips or experiences to share about safety in Budapest? Let us know in the comments below!

Migliori Pub Budapest

Migliori Pub Budapest

Budapest, la capitale dell'Ungheria, è nota non solo per i bellissimi edifici d'epoca e le famose terme, ma anche per la sua movimentata esistenza notturna. La città offrono numerosi locali caratteristici, il momento che ogni intimo, scellita, birra mano debito piace...

read more

Group Booking Request

Planning a group visit to the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial from Berlin? Fill out the form below to request a private or group tour. Our team will get back to you with availability and pricing options. Experience a guided tour tailored to your group’s needs.