Urban Abroad

Urban Planning and Travel Blog

  • Start Here
    • About
  • Destinations
    • Europe
    • United Kingdom
    • USA/Canada
    • Latin America
  • Living Abroad
  • Sustainability
  • Resources
Home / Travel Blog

Is Budapest Safe?

Travel Blog Last Updated · Jan 12th, 2025

The Danube River in Budapest

Is Budapest safe for new travelers?

Budapest is the iconic Hungarian city with a buzzing tourist scene. If you didn’t already know, Budapest is the 9th largest city in the EU and the capital of Hungary, home of Goulash!

One side of the Danube river is called Buda, and the other is Pest. See what they did there? Its 19th-century Chain Bridge connects the hilly Buda district with the flat Pest side.

A funicular runs up Castle Hill to Buda’s Old Town, where the Budapest History Museum traces city life from Roman times all the way to now.

Trinity Square is home to 13th-century Matthias Church and the turrets of the Fishermen’s Bastion, which offer some of the most incredible views of the city.

Table of Contents

  • Is Budapest Safe?
    • How Safe is Budapest?
  • Budapest Crime Rate
  • Is Budapest Safe For Tourists?
    • Is Budapest safe to travel alone?
    • Is Budapest safe for female travellers?
  • Where to Stay in Budapest
    • Terézváros
    • Várkerület
    • Belváros
  • Budapest: Travel Safety Tips
    • Got travel insurance for Budapest?
  • Best Time to Visit Budapest
  • Is Budapest Safe FAQs
    • Is Budapest safe to walk at night?
    • Are taxis safe in Budapest?
    • Is Budapest safe for Asian tourists?
    • Is Budapest English friendly?
  • Is Budapest Safe? Final Words

Is Budapest Safe?

Some of the most popular places are covered in this 3 days in Budapest itinerary but what you want to know, however, is whether Budapest is really that safe to travel to.

The good news is that we are here to give you the scoop and send you on your way with some tips.

How Safe is Budapest?

Budapest is very safe! On the one hand, it’s just like any other major European city with petty crime problems and the highest chances of crime happening to visitors being pickpocketing.

However, it’s still seen by some visitors as a more dangerous place than the likes of Madrid or London which simply isn’t true!

This is mostly due to the fact that there is a lot of underground crime such as drugs and trafficking.

Tourists are safe while walking around in Szell Kalman Square
Tourists are safe while walking around in Szell Kalman Square

There are thousands of migrant workers living on the streets trying to get by. In our opinion, Budapest is a very safe city because of just how many tourists visit here.

It’s just like Rome and London, tourists make up a lot of the GDP, so they aren’t typically targeted.

According to Travel Safe Abroad:

The location score of 76 makes Budapest a safe city, especially for tourists. Minor crime acts are present, but very little standard precaution can make your stay safe. There are not violent criminal acts against tourists.

So, we can expect to be free of violent criminal acts as tourists which is good to know but what other facts and figures are worth knowing?

Budapest Crime Rate

  • The U.S. Department of State has assessed Budapest as being a LOW-threat location for crime.
  • The main concern for visitors to Budapest is being LGBT. We would suggest that if you are LGBT, for your safety, keep the PDA’s to a minimum.
  • Visiting tourists are commonly victims of purse snatching or pickpocketing in high-traffic and tourist areas, but violent crimes against tourists are infrequent.
  • Intentional homicide rate is more than half that of Ukraine, and almost a quarter of Russia’s.
  • The worst offender when it comes to types of crime is corruption.

Get a FREE travel insurance quote from SafetyWing to get the right (and timely) support when it comes to protecting yourself in Budapest.

Is Budapest Safe For Tourists?

Yes, definitely. Tourism is the backbone of the Budapest economy, so most people are welcoming of new visitors the city.

Despite the high number of tourists, Budapest is still a very safe city with lower levels of crime towards tourists than the likes of Barcelona or Milan.

People can safely ride trams and public transport as long as they are mindful of their belongs nad because violent crimes are uncommon against tourists
People can safely ride trams and public transport as long as they are mindful of their belongs nad because violent crimes are uncommon against tourists

However, there are a number of instances in which tourists require a certain level of awareness to avoid finding themselves in unpleasant situations.

As a tourist, you should avoid the XVIII district which is located in Pest.

Despite being a relatively peaceful and quiet place during the day, it has a reputation of being unsafe and minor crimes are common in and around this area.

Hate crimes towards foreigners based on their appearance are rare, but those with an appearance similar to the Roma people might encounter different levels of hostility since the situation between Hungarians and the Roma people is not exactly positive.

Is Budapest safe to travel alone?

Yes, it’s safe to travel alone in Budapest. Keep your valuables safe when hanging around the most crowded places like the main attractions and public transport.

Don’t carry large amounts of cash with you and leave documents in a safe deposit box at your hotel if provided. Bag snatching and pickpocketing are common crimes in Budapest and might affect tourists too.

Always be cautious of your surroundings when you’re in crowded places and keep an eye on your valuables at all times. Avoid walking around alone at night.

budapest taxi safety night

Is Budapest safe for female travellers?

Yes, Budapest is completely safe for female travelers and there’s no reason to be concerned about this aspect when moving around this city.

Only use taxis from reputable taxi companies. Be careful when you’re using public transport and visiting the main attractions as petty theft episodes like pickpocketing have been reported in the past.

Don’t accept a drink from strangers (that may have been spiked), and as a general rule, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar or restaurant

Where to Stay in Budapest

See some of the incredible spots to stay when visiting Budapest:

Terézváros

District VI, Terézváros, is a great place to stay in Budapest if you’re on a super tight budget. There is a number of clean hostels nearby too.

Terézváros is located on the pest-side of the Danube
Terézváros is located on the pest-side of the Danube

This small neighborhood is jam-packed with restaurants and cafes. You can also do a tour of the House of Terror to learn about the dark side of Hungary.

Várkerület

Matthias Church is located on the Buda side of Budapest just like Várkerület
Matthias Church is located on the Buda side of Budapest just like Várkerület

District I Várkerület, or the Castle District, is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Budapest.

Várkerület or known by many who travel to Budapest as the Castle District is the most visited and frequented by first-timers to the city.

Expect romantic views, cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and easy access to some of the other closeby neighborhoods.

Buda Castle Hill is one of the most prominent attractions which is also where you’ll find the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum.

Belváros

This iconic view of St. Stephen's Basilica is located in the same area as Belváros.
This iconic view of St. Stephen’s Basilica is located in the same area as Belváros.

Belváros is the best place to stay in Budapest if you are looking for a more upscale stay. Luxury hotels (we recommend Prestige Hotel) and swanky restaurants are exactly what locals who stay here are looking for.

Expect cultural attractions such as the Central Market Hall, Parliament Building, and the Chain Bridge.

Not only is it one of the largest neighborhoods in Budapest, but it also has access to all the metro lines so it makes a great base to transport yourself to other parts of the city.

Budapest: Travel Safety Tips

Although Budapest isn’t the most unsafe location in the world, it wouldn’t hurt to take some precautions before and during your stay to ensure that you stay safe no matter what.

A tourist about ride a train in Budapest
A tourist about ride a train in Budapest

Here are some tips to take with you:

  • Walking around flashing expensive items and gadgets will attract attention from unwanted petty criminals.
  • Always ask to see the menu and price list before ordering drinks or food and check your bill carefully before settling up. Some restaurants and bars have been known to charge extortionate amounts and take tourists to cashpoints to demand more money.
  • Remember to get your FREE travel insurance quote from SafetyWing to receive fully comprehensive support when it comes to unforeseen travel compilications.
  • The Avail Hostel is popular with solo travelers to the city in search of meeting with like minded travelers to other city
  • Be careful with a drink or drug-taking if you’re a fan of Budapest nightlife.
  • Keep your bag close to you at cafes/restaurants, never place your bag in a retrievable position open for passers-by to grab.
  • Don’t show wads of cash when paying for stuff – control how much cash you carry around and use a hotel safe. Wearing a money belt may attract attention.
  • Foreign visitors are often caught out by the ticket system in Budapest, and fined by ticket inspectors. Follow the passenger information notices, which are usually printed in English.
  • Know the typical distraction techniques – pickpockets often work in groups and sometimes pretend to be collecting money for a charity.
  • Learn a few Hungarian phrases – lots of people speak English but it just pays to have at least a few words to get by.
  • Avoid homeless communities around large train stations – plus groups of people that sit around drinking.

Got travel insurance for Budapest?

travel insurance

World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

Best Time to Visit Budapest

Bikes parked beside the Danube river at summer - they are a common mode of transport especially during summer
Bikes parked beside the Danube river at summer – they are a common mode of transport, especially during summer

Our trusted source with all things climate and travel is Travel US News.

Here’s what they say:

“The best times to visit Budapest are from March to May and September through November. These shoulder seasons are when the weather is idyllic and the city isn’t overcrowded with tourists.

However, the climate is always relatively mild, with temperatures rarely exceeding bearable levels.

July and August experience average highs in the upper 70s, while average lows in January rest in the mid-20s.

Tourists flood the city in summer, despite it being the hottest and wettest of time of year.”

See these key events during this period to enjoy during your visit:

  • Macaron Day (March)
  • Budapest Spring Festival (March-April)
  • Rosalia Festival (May)
  • Budapest Beer Week (May)

For some of the best city views, the Budapest hop-on hop-off bus will help to ensure you get to visit the best landmarks at your own pace.

Is Budapest Safe FAQs

Is Budapest safe to walk at night?

Yes, Budapest city centre is safe to walk at night but there are some districts which we recommend to avoid. Hős Street, Józsefváros, Lipótváros and the city’s underpasses are the most dangerous places to frequent at night. Be also aware of potential drug dealers and violent people hanging around the party neighbourhood, around the 6th and 7th districts.

Are taxis safe in Budapest?

Yes, taxis in Budapest are safe as long as you use licensed taxis. In fact, some taxi drivers are accomplices in taking tourists to bars and restaurants that extort considerable amount of money or ask to get a certain amount of cash from ATMs. Make sure to phone and use licensed taxis only.

Is Budapest safe for Asian tourists?

Yes, Budapest is safe for Asian tourists. Hungarian people are quite welcoming and there’s no reason to be worried about the safety aspect as Asian traveller. Whether you’re American or Asian, you won’t experience any sort of harassment or be judged for your race, religion or language.

Is Budapest English friendly?

Yes, it is! English is widely spoken all around the city. In the touristic areas and central areas of the city you won’t have any problem in talking in English with locals. Some locals speak fluently English too. But if you travel to the rest of Hungary, expect to meet a lot of people that won’t be able to properly communicate in English.

Is Budapest Safe? Final Words

Turns out, Budapest is quite a safe place if you take the necessary measures.

Planning ahead will make your trip stress-free, so make sure you have the best time by being prepared before making the journey.

Budapest has bar none, the best nightlife in the world, so if you’re visiting purely for getting your groove on, no need to fear.

So, having read this information, what are you waiting for? See this guide on things to do in Budapest and book your trip today!


This post contains affiliate links, meaning, if you click through and make a purchase or sign up for a program, we may earn a commission. This is at no additional cost to you.

Sharing is caring!

  • Facebook
  • Twitter

Filed Under: Travel Blog Tagged With: Europe

🔒 Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

🌍 Search sustainable adventures:

Powered by GetYourGuide
Thank you for reading our lifestyle blog about travel and sustainable urban living.

Recent Posts

  • Things to do in Cuenca, Ecuador
  • Best time to visit Cartagena
  • How many days in Lima?
  • Is Puerto Vallarta safe?

Topics

  • Living Abroad
  • Mexico Travel Blog
  • Sustainability
  • Travel Blog

Copyright© 2025 · Urban Abroad · Private Policy
Urban Abroad is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca, amazon.de. Other affiliate programs linking to other recommended products and services are also used. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
Cookie SettingsAccept All
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT