To see Hungary once is to be enthralled for life. If you’re visiting for the first time, you can’t miss Budapest, unarguably one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Bisected by a wide stretch of the Danube River, Budapest is known for its grand architecture and eclectic culture. If you have more time, venture further into Hungary for a taste of the country’s rich heritage. With Uniworld, you may find yourself sampling wines in Etyek, shopping in the Szentendre artisans’ village, or witnessing a Puszta horse show in Lajosmizse.
Hungary, and Budapest in particular, is home to a stunning collection of Neo-Renaissance buildings. Many of these are among the country’s top sites to see, such as the grand Andrassy Avenue and one of the most iconic buildings in Europe, the Hungarian Parliament Building. There are many other famous sites to discover around Budapest, from the Castle District to the thermal baths. It’s enough to keep anyone returning to the city time and time again, with something new to see with each visit.
The land that makes up modern-day Hungary was historically traversed by a wide variety of nomadic groups, and the country’s cuisine reflects that. The fare is hearty, dominated by meat and dairy products—perfect for cold winters. Bright-red paprika, ranging from sweet to spicy, is liberally used in many of Hungary’s most popular dishes. When visiting Budapest, make sure to explore one of the city’s many famous market halls, where you’ll find sausages, fried lángos bread with various toppings, and a multitude of other beloved local treats.
Though largely unrecognized in the international market, Hungarian wines used to be celebrated in Europe for their quality. The Sun King of France, Louis XIV, even dubbed Hungarian wine the “Wine of Kings, King of Wines.” The industry was nearly obliterated in the 19th and 20th centuries due to phylloxera blight and Communist Era policies. A modern-day resurgence is bringing them back though. Today the most famous Hungarian wines are sweet Tokaj wines and rich red Bikavér, which translates to “Bull’s Blood.”
Age-old traditions continue to thrive in Hungary, including several styles of local folk music and dance. The country also has a strong love for classical music. Famous composers from Béla Bartók to Franz Liszt made their homes here, and the latter founded the renowned Franz Liszt Academy of Music, which continues to train talented musicians to this day.
When to go: Visit between spring and fall for the most seasonable weather. You may also wish to go in the first few weeks of December for one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe.
How to pack: We suggest comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear both onshore and onboard. Depending on your travel season, the weather can range from cool to quite hot. Check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Layering clothing items is always your best bet, allowing you to adjust to most temperatures. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket (preferably hooded) in case of rain, though we will also have umbrellas onboard. You may participate in a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during your time ashore, so please bring comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support. Sturdy sandals are another good option.
Avg. Temp. 63º F / 17º C
Avg. Temp. 79º F / 26º C
Avg. Temp. 61º F / 16º C
Avg. Temp. 39º F / 4º C
Forint (HUF, Ft)
Central European Time (CET)
Central European Summer Time (CEST)
Hungarian
European 230V
Plug types C and F
“My love for Hungary is like the Danube River—deep, flowing, and never-ending. Sharing my personal experiences with our guests is my favorite element of my role as host and Hotel Manager aboard our ships.”
“We will reveal the secrets and beauty of Hungarian cuisine and will make you fall in love with it.”
“Exploring Hungary on a river cruise is an extraordinary journey where every corner reveals a new chapter in this country's rich history and culture. As your Cruise Manager, I'm your gateway to experiencing the magic of Hungary and forging unforgettable memories together.”