How to reach Budapest
Arriving in Budapest from Ireland is easy and convenient. Direct flights from Dublin to Budapest typically take around 2.5 hours. Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport is located about 16 km southeast of the city centre, and there are several hassle-free ways to get into town:
Public Transport: The 100E airport bus runs directly to Deák Ferenc Square in the heart of the city. The journey takes around 35 minutes and costs about €3 (HUF 2,200). Tickets can be purchased from machines or via the BudapestGO app.
Taxi: Taxis take approximately 25–30 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay between €25 and €30. Use the official Főtaxi stand at the airport for a fixed fare.
Airport Shuttle: A number of private shuttle services are available for door-to-door transfers, ideal if you're travelling in a group or with a lot of luggage. Prices vary depending on your destination and group size.
Best time to visit Budapest
Budapest is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on the type of trip you’re after:
Spring (March to May) is ideal for sightseeing. Temperatures range from 10°C to 22°C, the city is full of blooming gardens, and it’s not yet overwhelmed by tourists.
Summer (June to August) is the peak season, with long sunny days and lively festivals. Temperatures sit between 20°C and 30°C – perfect for enjoying riverside bars and Danube cruises, though it can get crowded.
Autumn (September to November) offers mild temperatures (15°C to 25°C), colourful parks and a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s a brilliant time to visit if you want fewer queues and lower prices.
Winter (December to February) turns the city into a festive haven with Christmas markets, mulled wine and thermal baths surrounded by snow. It’s chilly, with averages between 0°C and 5°C, but wonderfully atmospheric.
Practical information
Spoken languages: Hungarian is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants and attractions.
Local habits and customs: In restaurants, tipping is expected – 10% is standard. It’s customary to hand the tip directly to the server or to indicate you’ll add it to the card payment before they process it. In Hungary, saying "thank you" when handing over cash can be taken to mean "keep the change", so be mindful of that.
Currency: The Hungarian Forint (HUF) is the local currency. While credit and debit cards are accepted in most places, it’s useful to carry some cash for smaller shops or market stalls. ATMs are widely available throughout the city.
Health and safety: Budapest is generally safe, though like most cities, pickpocketing can occur in busy areas, especially on public transport or in crowded tourist spots. Keep valuables secure, especially when visiting the baths or large markets.
Getting around: The public transport system is excellent. The metro has four lines, trams and buses are reliable, and you can use the BudapestGO app to plan routes and buy tickets. A single ticket costs around €1.20, but a 24-hour travel pass is good value if you're planning to explore widely.
Electricity and plugs: Hungary uses standard European 230V electricity with two-pin plugs (Type C and F). Travellers from Ireland will need an adaptor.
Time zone: Budapest operates on Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Irish time. Daylight Saving Time is observed from late March to late October.
Travel documents: Irish citizens don’t need a visa to travel to Hungary. A valid passport is required, but you can stay as long as you like as Hungary is part of the EU.
With all this in mind, your Budapest holiday is set to be a mix of beauty, culture, and relaxation. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, there’s always something new to discover in Hungary’s charming capital.
