Introduction

Budapest is famous for its lovely setting, interesting history and lively culture. When heading to Budapest or considering a move there, you should learn about the rules and laws in force. With this guide, you will find out the main laws of Budapest which will help you have a good time while following the rules.

It’s important to understand the laws when you visit the Buda Castle, relax at thermal baths or enjoy nightlife on Pest. If you understand the rules for public behavior, getting along with the locals and transportation and tourism, you will have fewer problems.

Basic Laws

The city of Budapest has specific regulations everyone needs to know about. They cover the following laws:

Mindfulness of other people’s feelings:

 You should always treat the local population, their traditions and customs with respect. Make sure you do not do anything that someone might find disrespectful or rude. You should be careful in public, say polite things and follow the usual norms. A common rule is that making a lot of noise in a residential area late at night probably won’t be appreciated.

Public Behavior:

 You cannot act in a way that disturbs the public in any public spaces. Noise pollution, being drunk in public or acts that upset others are also not allowed. Being disruptive in places like squares, parks or train stations is not tolerated by Hungarian authorities.

Smoking Regulations:

 You are not allowed to smoke inside restaurants, bars or public transport. Smoke only in the spots that are set aside for it, either designated indoors or outdoors. Bringing different species to the area is illegal and punishable by fines if caught. Be sure to find any signs before you start smoking.

Drug Laws:

 Don’t even consider being involved with illegal drugs while in Budapest. Know the drug laws where you are and stay away from using any drugs illegally. Anyone caught with drugs in Hungary may face heavy fines, imprisonment or may be deported if they are foreigners.

Alcohol Consumption:

 Youths under the age of 18 are not allowed to buy alcohol in Budapest. Alcohol by law cannot be provided to minors and you cannot drive if you are under the influence. Regularly, authorities check drivers at roadside roadblocks and it is illegal to drink and drive in Hungary. It’s important to know that drinking any amount of alcohol can have legal consequences.

Transportation Laws

You should be aware of a few basic rules if you travel in Budapest by public transport.

Using Tickets on Public Transport.

 Buy a proper ticket whenever you use public transportation, for example, trams, buses or metro. Driving without a valid ticket can leave you with a fine. Inspectors always check and most of the time excuses do not work. You are able to get tickets through vending machines, kiosks or downloading the mobile app.

Seatbelts:

 All passengers must put on a seatbelt when riding in a car. Any child under 3 years needs to be buckled into the right type of child seat or restraint. Sometimes, police do random checks to ensure that all rules are followed on main roads and highways.

Driving:

 Before you drive in Budapest, remember to have a driver’s license and obey the city’s traffic laws, including the rules for parking and maximum speed. Look out for people walking and remember to indicate before changing lanes. Some countries require travelers to have an International Driving Permit alongside their normal driver’s license.

Many tourists are caught making parking mistakes because local signs confuse them. Before parking, confirm what the rules are and use the official service for meters or apps. Parking illegally can result in fines which are often immediately applied by the police.

Tourist Regulations

When you’re a tourist, you need to know about any rules that could affect you.

Visas:

 Find out whether you must obtain a Hungary visa before traveling and make sure to get it prior to your journey. How long you stay in Japan and your country’s nationality could dictate different rules for you. Since Hungary belongs to the Schengen Area, Schengen visa rules affect non-EU tourists. If you remain in the country after your visa has expired, you can be fined or barred from entering again.

Passport:

 Each time you are out exploring, have a copy of your passport on you and keep the original somewhere safe. Certain hotels and places may need guests to show identification, so having a copy is the best and safest idea.

Photography:

 You can take pictures as a tourist for personal enjoyment almost everywhere in Budapest. But watch out for signs saying you shouldn’t take pictures, especially in museums or places of culture. Because of tradition or for security, some religious establishments might prevent photography.

Local Customs:

 Find out how to greet someone, how much to tip and the most suitable clothing for religious and formal situations in Hungary. A regular way to greet in Hungary is with a handshake. You should tip about 10% in restaurants. Religious buildings usually ask for restrained clothing; no short or sleeveless clothing is allowed.

Emergency Numbers

It’s important to have the local emergency contact numbers in case something unexpected happens. Store these phone numbers in your phone or have them written down:

Emergency Service Contact Number

Police 107

Ambulance 104

Fire Brigade 105

If you need to connect to all emergency services, just dial 112 which is used across the EU.

Conclusion

Before you go to Budapest, study the city’s laws and regulations to have a good time. If you study the main rules, traffic laws, guidance for tourists and important contact numbers, you’ll be ready for your time in Budapest. By respecting the local ways, you’ll surely have a great time in this city.

Taking in the Danube River, Parliament or one of the thermal baths will be more enjoyable when you are sure you’re obeying the law. Take advantage of your visit to Budapest—and please stay in touch, respectful and protect yourself.