Hungary is a Central European country.
The country is perfect for active or nature-loving individuals.
You’ll find watersports, hiking, and horseback riding.
You’ll also find world-famous food and wine.
Check out Hungary’s bathhouses to rest and relax.
Hungary is less dangerous than many countries worldwide, with a crime index of 34, and a safety rating of 66.
Corruption is a major concern.
Transparency International rated Hungary the country with the highest rate of corruption of any European Union nation.
The most common crimes in Hungary are property crimes, including vandalism, items stolen from vehicles, and people using or selling drugs.
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Most Dangerous Cities in Hungary
1. Miskolc
Miskolc is the fourth largest city in Hungary.
It’s well known for its heavy industry, which is typically more complex than light industry.
Tourists should visit the Otto Herman Museum, which is the largest in the city.
The Gothic Church of Avas is the oldest building in the town center and was built in the 13th century.
Miskolc is the most dangerous city on our list, with a crime index of 62, which is high, and a safety index of 37.
The overall level of crime is also high, at 65.
Property crime, drug-related crime, insults, the danger of being attacked, and concerns about being robbed or mugged are high.
Safety walking during the day is low, and safety walking alone at night is very low.
It’s best to avoid walking alone, particularly at night.
2. Budapest
Budapest is the capital of Hungary.
The Danube River runs through the city.
The Basilica of St. Stephen is considered the most sacred Catholic church in Hungary, which has neoclassical architecture.
The church houses the right hand of King St. Stephen, who was the church’s patron.
Memento Park is another popular attraction.
It features socialist leaders that are often disposed of in other areas.
Budapest has a crime index of 34 and a safety rating of 65.
The overall level of crime is 31, which is low.
Corruption and bribery are very high, at 71.
Property crime is the most common, with a rating of 44.
Drug-related crime and stealing items from cars are the next most common, but the rate of these crimes is still low.
3. Ujbuda
Újbuda has recently undergone urban renewal.
The city is still considered a nice residential neighborhood.
However, now you can find plenty of cafes, bars, and art galleries.
It’s quickly become a favorite tourist destination for middle-class travelers and college students.
Újbuda has a crime index of 34, and a safety index of 65, which is high.
The level of crime is relatively low, at 31.
Property crime is the most common, with a rating of 44.
Drug-related crime and having items stolen from vehicles are next, but the incidence is still low.
Safety walking during the day is very high, at 84.
Walking at night is still considered safe, with a rating of 61.
4. Lillafured
Lillafured is a quaint town in Northeast Hungary.
The city began as a tourist resort in 1890.
It’s in the foothills of the Bukk Mountains and features Lake Hamori.
The well-known Palace Hotel overlooks the lake, for stunning views.
You’ll also find many hiking trails and ancient caves.
One of the favorite pastimes in the area is the State Forest Railway.
The open-air train winds its way through the mountains.
Lillafured has a crime index of 31 and a safety index of 68.
The overall level of crime is low, at 24.
Property crime is the most common, at 44.
Items stolen from cars are the next concern, at 35.
Walking alone during the day is very safe, with a rating of 87.
Safety remains fairly high at night, at 67.
5. Gyor
Gyor is the largest city in northwest Hungary.
It’s located on the Danube River and is the halfway point between Budapest and Vienna.
One popular attraction in the area is the Zoo Gyor, which features tigers, reptiles, giraffes, and birds.
One of the odder and more amusing attractions is the boatman statue.
The statue is located in the center of town.
As the name suggests, it features a man in a boat.
It’s important to note that the man is not wearing clothing, however.
Gyor has a crime index of 30 and a safety index of 70.
The level of crime is low, at 27.
The most common crime is items being stolen from cars, which has a moderate risk.
All other crimes are listed as low or very low in likelihood.
6. Nyiregyhaza
Nyiregyhaza is well known for recreation and its health spa.
The Sosto Spa resort features natural healing waters, known as medicinal waters.
Guests can work with the resident rheumatologist, or simply relax in the pool.
Nyiregyhaza has a crime index of 31 and a safety index of 68.
The overall crime level is very low, at 25.
Burglary and items being stolen from cars are the most common, with a rate of 41.
Insults, including sexually suggestive insults, are next, at 37.
7. Pecs
Pecs is an ancient city in Southern Hungary, near the Croatian border.
Its most notable feature is the Early Christian Necropolis.
It features underground burial chambers, with beautiful memorial chapels above the necropolis.
Pecs has a crime index of just 27 and a safety index of 72.
The overall level of crime is very low, at 26.
Property crime and drug-related crime are the most common, with a rating of 34.
8. Debrecen
Debrecen is the capital of the Northern Great Plain Region.
The Reformed Church, which was built in the 19th century, is located in the main square.
It’s also known for the Museum of the Reformed College of Debrecen, which features exhibits about the rich history of the city, and the college.
Debrecen has a crime index of just 23 and a safety index of 76.
The level of crime is 16, which is very low.
Property crime is the most common, with a rating of 30.
9. Szeged
Szeged has the University of Szeged, which is considered the best University in Hungary.
It’s also known for the Neo-Baroque Szeged National Theatre, which opened in 1883.
The theater features opera, dance, and drama.
Szeged has a crime index of 20 and a safety index of 74.
The level of crime is low, at 27.
The most common crime in the city is being insulted, or being attacked due to ethnicity, religion, or gender, at 30.
10. Kecskemet
Kecskemet is well known for the Museum of Hungarian Native Arts.
It’s a unique museum, and features folk art from well-known artists.
Kecskemet has a crime index of 14 and a safety index of 86.
The level of crime is very low, at 10.
Concerns about home burglary are the biggest concern, with a rating of 21.
5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Hungary
1. Don’t Carry Lots of Cash or Valuables
Pickpocketing and items stolen from vehicles are common in Hungary.
Avoid carrying lots of cash, and leave valuables at home whenever possible.
Keep any cash and important documents on your person at all times.
2. Be Aware When Using Public Transportation
While Hungary is generally safe for tourists, they are often the target of pickpockets and purse snatching.
Use caution when riding public transportation, and at bus and train stations.
3. Validate Tickets
Hungary has a strict ticketing system for public transportation.
Validate your ticket as soon as you begin your journey, or before boarding a metro.
Keep your ticket until you reach your destination.
4. Visiting Bars and Restaurants
Restaurants and bars will often attempt to scam tourists.
Never order anything at an establishment that doesn’t have clear prices on its menu.
Check your bill carefully before paying.
Some restaurants will demand more money.
Avoid asking taxi drivers for recommendations.
They are often paid a fee to recommend establishments that engage in this practice.
Avoid leaving your drinks or food unattended, and never accept food or beverages from strangers.
There are incidents of drinks being spiked.
This typically occurs at bars and nightclubs.
5. Follow Local Laws
You must have your ID and passport at all times.
Local authorities can ask to see these documents.
Avoid showing them to anyone who isn’t official, however.
Illegal drugs, even in small amounts, can result in serious penalties.
Avoid bringing or using any illegal drugs while in Hungary.
They are also strict about driving violations.
Even petty violations can result in heavy fines or jail time.
Hungary Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Hungary Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hungary a good tourist destination?
Hungary is a safe country, particularly for tourists.
Severe weather is rare, residents are friendly, and you won’t run out of things to do.
Do you need a visa to visit Hungary?
U.S. citizens may go to Hungary for up to 3 months without a visa.
Can I use my U.S. drivers license in Hungary?
Yes. U.S. citizens may use their license for up to 1 year in Hungary.
You simply need a translation document.
In short, Hungary is a beautiful and diverse country, with plenty to offer for nature lovers and foodies alike.
However, it’s important to exercise caution and follow local laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.