Hungary
Money in Hungary: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use forints (HUF) for everyday purchases; in Budapest and major towns cards are accepted everywhere, but keep cash for markets, small bakeries and rural spots. Tip about 10 % if no service charge is listed.
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Key facts
- Currency
- Hungarian forint (HUF, Ft)
- ATMscheck
- Widely available in cities, limited in remote areas
- Card acceptance
- Visa/Mastercard accepted in most shops, restaurants and hotels
- Typical tip
- ≈10 % of bill if no service charge; round up for small amounts
Currency and payment methods
The Hungarian forint (HUF, Ft) is the legal tender. ATMs dispense cash in forints; most dispense in 5 000‑ and 10 000‑Ft notes. In Budapest, card terminals are common, and contactless payments work in most establishments.
In smaller towns and rural markets, cash is preferred. Keep a few hundred forints for street food, public toilets, and small bakeries where cards may not be accepted.
- ATMs: 24 h in city centres, malls and train stations.
- Cards: Visa and Mastercard widely accepted; American Express less common.
- Cash: Useful for markets, bus tickets, and rural shops.
Tipping guidelines
Restaurants often add a 10 % service charge; check the bill before adding a tip. If no charge is listed, round up the total or leave about 10 % in cash.
For cafés, taxis and hotel staff, a small rounding up (e.g., 200‑500 Ft) is customary.
| Service | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| Restaurant (no service charge) | ≈10 % of bill |
| Café or bar | Round up to nearest 100 Ft |
| Taxi | Round up or add 5‑10 % |
| Hotel porter | 200‑500 Ft per bag |
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Hungary?
Hungary uses the Hungarian forint (HUF, Ft).
Should I use cash or a card in Hungary?
Use cards in cities and larger establishments; keep cash for markets, small bakeries, public toilets and rural areas.
How much should I tip in Hungary?
If the bill has no service charge, tip about 10 % or round up; for cafés, taxis and hotel staff, a small rounding up is customary.
Are ATMs easy to find outside Budapest?
ATMs are common in towns and at train stations, but scarce in remote villages. Withdraw enough cash before leaving a city.
Can I pay with euros in Hungary?
Some tourist shops and hotels in Budapest accept euros, but at poor exchange rates. Always pay in forints for the best deal.
Is it safe to use ATMs in Hungary?
Yes, but use machines attached to a bank branch or inside a mall. Avoid standalone ATMs on quiet streets at night.
What is the typical exchange rate in 2026?
Check the rate before you land; HUF 10,000 is roughly €25 in 2026. Rates change often — use a currency converter app.
Check live
Prices, schedules, rules and availability change. Open these to confirm today's details before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialHungarian Tourism Agency
Ask about Hungary
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