Prepare Your Stay
PREPARE YOUR STAY
CHECK OUT THE MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATIONS ABOUT HUNGARY BEFORE YOUR JOURNEY
-Currency: HUF - Hungarian Forint (HUF)
-Languages: Hungarian
-Time Zone: GMT +1 hour(s)
PASSPORT AND VISA
Hungary, as a Schengen member, grants visa-free entry to EU citizens and tourists from the USA, Australia, and Canada for stays of up to three months. However, for visa applications handled by guests or their agencies through the respective embassies, the hotel provides assistance by offering a reservation confirmation letter to support travelers in their application process.
For assistance, please contact our Reservations Team at welcome@queenscourt.hu
CUSTOM REGULATIONS
Hungary applies EU (European Union) legislation and restrictions.
AIRPORT - TIMING FOR DEPARTURE
For a smooth travel experience, the hotel advises guests to arrive at Liszt Ferenc International Airport Budapest (BUD) at least two hours before their scheduled departure time. This allows ample time for security checks and boarding procedures, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
For further information, please contact our reception team at welcome@queenscourt.hu
SAFETY TIPS
Budapest continues to maintain its reputation as one of the safest cities worldwide. Nonetheless, it is important to remain cautious and take necessary precautions in situations where petty crime and scams may occur. Prior to heading out, we highly recommend consulting our knowledgeable Concierge Team, who possess valuable insights and can provide informed guidance to ensure your safety.
In crowded areas, tourist spots, and public transportation, it is crucial to be aware of pickpockets and bag snatchers. When it comes to taxis in Budapest, they can be identified by their yellow color and display various logos, alongside a Licensed Budapest Taxi Sign on the side. The rates for taxis are uniformly regulated, and drivers are expected to provide a receipt upon completing the journey.
Changing currency on the street should be avoided. Only banks and authorized money changers affiliated with banks are permitted to handle currency exchange. We strongly advise consulting our Concierge Team regarding your plans and keeping their contact number handy in case you require assistance while exploring the city.
PREPARE YOUR STAY
LOCATION
Located in the heart of Central Europe, Hungary lies within the beautiful Carpathian Basin. It spans a considerable distance, measuring 268 kilometers from north to south and 526 kilometers from east to west. Hungary shares borders with several countries, including Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia. The capital city of Hungary, Budapest, is a vibrant metropolis with a population of approximately 2 million residents. Situated on both banks of the majestic Danube River, Budapest offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture.
CLIMATE
Hungary experiences a continental climate characterized by notable temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Summers, which typically commence in late May, exhibit a Mediterranean influence, with temperatures occasionally exceeding 35°C (95°F). The peak of summer occurs in July and August, known for their high temperatures. Winters, on the other hand, are cold and snowy, with daytime temperatures in January averaging below 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn in Hungary are generally enjoyable, although rainfall is common during these seasons.
ELECTRICITY
Electricity: 230 volts – standard continental-type plugs. Adapters are available at the Front Desk, please ask the concierge upon your arrival.
CALLS TO HUNGARY
From abroad, first dial the international prefix of the country you are calling from (+); second, the country code to Hungary (36); third, the city code (1 for Budapest); and then the local number. When calling a mobile phone, after 36, dial the mobile network code (20, 30 or 70).
USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS
-Emergency - 112 (English, German and other foreign languages)
-Tourist Police - (0-24): (+36 1) 438 8080
-Airport Ferihegy - general (flight information) number: (+36 1) 296 7155
-Information about local and international trains: MÁVDIREKT (+36 1) 371 9449
For assistance, please contact our reception team on +36 1 882-3000 or by email: welcome@queenscourt.hu
CURRENCY
The official currency is the Hungarian forint (Ft, HUF). You will find some shops, hotels and restaurants displaying prices in both HUF/Ft and euros and many are likely to accept payment in euros, but if you pay in EUR, you will not always get a favourable exchange rate. You can change the major currencies to forint at the money exchange bureau.
CREDIT CARDS
American Express, MasterCard, Maestro and Visa are accepted at hotels, restaurants, larger shops and department stores. Visa Electron is also accepted at many shops and department stores.
PREPARE YOUR STAY
NATIONAL AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
-15 March,
-1 May,
-20 August,
-23 October (national),
-New Year's Day,
-Easter Sunday and Monday,
-Whit Sunday and Whit Monday,
-All Saints' Day,
-Christmas Day,
-Boxing Day (religious).
LANGUAGE
-Official language: Hungarian
-Foreign languages spoken in the city: English, German.
-Hungarian has a reputation for being one of the most difficult language in the world.
CUISINE/LOCAL FOOD
Hungarian cuisine extends far beyond the realm of paprika, offering a diverse culinary experience. Hungarians have a hearty appetite, and their cuisine is renowned for its richness and spiciness, often featuring ample amounts of meat and fewer fresh vegetables. A traditional Hungarian meal typically consists of three courses. The first course is generally a flavorful soup, followed by a meat dish accompanied by potatoes or rice for the second course. Finally, a delightful dessert completes the meal.
Don't miss the opportunity to savor the renowned Hungarian Goulash soup, a symbol of the country's culinary heritage. Another must-try is the „pörkölt”, a slow-cooked meat stew known for its incredible flavors. Hungarian wines, both red and white, are highly regarded and offer exceptional quality. Additionally, be sure to sample Unicum, a distinctive herbal bitter, and „pálinka”, a robust fruit spirit that is a true embodiment of Hungarian craftsmanship.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Budapest boasts a comprehensive public transport network, consisting of a well-developed metro, tram, trolleybus, and bus system. The public transport system is designed to efficiently serve the needs of residents and visitors alike. Children under the age of 6 and individuals over 65 can enjoy free transportation. For others, tickets can be easily purchased from vending machines conveniently located at metro stations or distributed throughout the city. It's important to remember to validate your ticket upon boarding to ensure a smooth and valid journey.
