Thinking about visiting Budapest and asking if it’s safe to go out in the evenings? Being safe is very important when you travel to a new area. We’ll answer the popular question: Is it safe for people to be in Budapest at night? We can begin by looking into it!
Checking What Affects Safety in Budapest
Just like in any big city, there are some safety matters in Budapest. Still, in general, tourists find Budapest to be a safe city. Most tourists enjoy nightlife in Barcelona worry-free because crimes against visitors are quite rare.
There are a lot of police officers in the main tourist spots in Budapest and severe crimes rarely happen. When put next to cities like Paris or Rome, Budapest is much safer for tourists. People from there usually go out of their way to help you if you look lost or confused.
- Stick to Areas that are Well-Lit and Are Used by Many
Be sure to go to crowded and well-lit spots when out at night in Budapest. Váci utca, Andrássy Avenue and the Danube Promenade are usually lively and secure parts of the city. The police regularly patrol these areas which have a variety of restaurants, bars and activities.
There are also areas such as Gozsdu Udvar and the Jewish Quarter (in District VII) that are busy all night with many lively nightlife spots. Because these neighborhoods are so popular with both residents and visitors, they are generally safer during the night. Street entertainers, food sellers and groups of tourists sometimes stay out late to take in the lively scene.
- Look After Your Personal Property
Because so many people visit Budapest, petty theft may take place. Constantly be aware of what you own and where it is. Always keep your things with you and pay attention to possible pickpockets in popular spots. Carrying your valuables in a safe bag or money belt is another step to protect them.
That’s very true for places that are crowded with tourists, for example at public transit stations, markets and popular squares. While you are dining or drinking, putting your bag on your lap or under the table is safer than leaving it on the back of a chair. Avoid carrying large sums of cash or showy electronics, since this may make someone want to take them from you.
3. Have Safe and Fast Transportation
Take only approved, safe methods if you want to travel around Budapest after dark. Most people consider riding buses, trams and the metro in the city to be safe. Using a taxi is another safe and preferred way, always use a company with a license and learn the fare before jumping in.
Buses and trams for night transport in Budapest are available regularly and stations are usually brightly lit and supervised. If you don’t feel sure or comfortable, use Bolt or Uber (if available, as shown by their symbol) or Főtaxi as typical providers. They let you avoid the risk of dealing with improper licenses from unlicensed taxi drivers.
4. Be Conscious of What Is Going On Around You
Although Budapest is generally a safe city, you should always be aware of what is going on around you. Stay away from arguments, especially when there are lots of people around and rely on your intuition. If you feel it is making you uncomfortable or unsafe, leave and get help from the police if required.
Pick your route to your hotel early and make sure not to use unfamiliar or dim streets when it is night. When you feel confused, go into a nearby place like a hotel, restaurant or shop to ask about your next step instead of wandering aimlessly. Feeling alert is much more useful for your security than feeling anxious.
Some Other Ways to Stay Safe While Going Out at Night in Budapest
Follow these more tips to stay safe and enjoy your time in Budapest at night:
- Tell someone your plans and where you are going before you leave at night. Informing someone such as a companion, a family member or hotel personnel, gives you an extra measure of protection.
- Dress and act similar to the local residents, so people may not notice you are an outsider. Being too loud or flamboyant in your dress can call too much attention to yourself.
- Do not overdo alcohol, as it might increase your risk and lower your awareness. Even though there is a lot to do in Budapest at night, being aware of your drinking stops you from losing control or taking unnecessary risks.
- Emergency numbers to keep with you include the police (dial 112) and information about your country’s embassy or consulate. Also, note down where your hotel is and carry a photocopy of your ID, so you have them both separately.
- You may wish to subscribe to a managed group tour or arrange a local guide for stronger safety and more knowledge of the area. Plenty of companies organize nighttime tours, ruin pub crawls and river cruises so you can see the city with expert supervision.
If you’re traveling by yourself, you can use this option to meet new people while having safety in a group.
Final Thoughts
Budapest has lots of exciting things to do at night and you can join in safely by being careful. Suggestions include going to crowded areas, watching your valuable things, using dependable transport and keep an eye around you. Using these suggestions, exploring Budapest at night will help you create nights you’ll remember for a long time.
No matter if you prefer romantic river strolls or daring bar hops, Budapest provides plenty of activities after sundown. Choose wisely and arrange some details ahead of time and you can relax and enjoy your whole trip.
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