Safety and security

Terrorism

Although the threat from terrorism in Hungary is low, there is still a global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by tourists and expatriates.

Hungary is maintaining a medium-level (class 3) terror alert in place in the country, although no direct threats of terrorism have been reported. You should always be aware of your surroundings, and follow any instructions from the police (Rendörség) or security services.

Crime

Most of Hungary has a moderate rate of crime. However, you should be aware that in and around Budapest in busy tourist spots there is a much higher risk of pickpocketing and muggings. Budapest's famous ruin bars are particularly popular with tourists. The months of May – September are especially busy with interrailing and other travellers. There have been reports of petty crime and intimidation from some bar staff. We advise you to be vigilant and stick with a group where possible.

We recommend the following basic precautions:

• Keep your passport in a secure and safe place while travelling. Leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home
• Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in busy areas.
• Be vigilant about petty crime: many of the cases we encounter involve stolen passports or wallets.
• Always use a registered taxi provider. All taxis in Budapest are yellow and the cars will have a company logo/sticker on the door. Where possible call a taxi rather than hailing one on the street. Confirm the destination with the driver and be careful when paying as Hungarian notes come in a range of denominations.
• Don't carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place.

Reporting crime

If you're a victim of a crime while in Hungary, report it to the local police immediately. The number for emergency services is 112. Ask a Hungarian to assist you if you are having language difficulties with the operator. At the police station, you can request an interpreter to make a police report in English. And you can contact us at the Irish Embassy in Budapest if you need help.

Driving

If you’re planning to drive in Hungary, be aware it’s compulsory to carry your passport, international driving license and third party insurance with you when driving.

Vehicle hire

If you’re hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If you’re allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or even illegal.

Illegal drugs

Illegal drug use (no matter what the drug) carries stiff penalties, including fines and long prison terms.

Additional information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

Holders of a valid Irish passport are granted visa-free travel to Hungary on condition that their visit does not exceed the period of 90 days. For a stay exceeding that period, a residence permit is required.

Entry Requirements for Pets

The requirements are listed on the below sites:
www.pettravel.com

Health

Irish citizens don’t require vaccinations when travelling to Hungary. However, you should seek medical advice about inoculations to prevent tick-related medical problems (such as tick-borne encephalitis), particularly if you expect to be visiting lakes or wooded areas.

English Speaking Professionals

You may need to contact an English speaking lawyer or doctor during your time in Hungary. For your convenience the Embassy has drawn up a list of English speaking professionals, which you may find useful. Inclusion on these lists should not be taken as a recommendation by the Embassy.

24 hour medical services
In Buda: II dstr. Ganz str. 13.
Tel: 202-1370
XII. dstr. Diósárok u. 1-3.
Tel: 06-30-2000-100

In Pest: V. Dstr. Semmelweis u.14.
Tel: 00-36-1-311- 6816

After hours pediatric care
In Buda: Henger u. 1.
Tel: 00-36-1-212- 5979

In Pest: Gyöngyössi u. 29.
Tel: 00-36-1-320- 8403
Bethesda u.3.
Tel: 00-36-1-384-5150

24 hour pharmacies:
In Buda:
XII. Dstr. Alkotás út 1/b.
Tel: 00-36-1-355-4691

In Pest:
V.dstr. Teréz krt. 41.
Tel: 00-36-1-311-4439

Dental Services:www.budapest-tourist-guide.com