Hungary info

Basic information

Area: 93,000 sq. kilometres
Location: central Europe, in the Carpathian Basin.
Bordering countries: Slovak Republic, Ukraine, Austria, Romania, Yugoslavia, Croatia and Slovenia
Population: 10.4 million inhabitants
People: 90% Hungarian, 5% Gypsy, 2% German & 1% Slovak
Capital city: Budapest
Official language: Hungarian
Constitution: president - government: Parliamentary republic
Public administration: 19 counties, 23 towns with county status
Currency: 1 Forint (FT)
Country identification mark: HU
Religious affiliation: 68% Roman Catholic, 21% Reformed (Calvinist), 6% Evangelical (Lutheran), 5% Other
Time: Central European (GMT+1), summer time - Central European +1 (GMT+2)

Climate

temperate continental
summer season - July 23°C
winter season - January -1°C

Important numbers

112 Emergency centre
107 Police
104 Ambulance
105 Fire Brigade
3172966 Information about local transport
2967155 Information about arrivals and departures at the airport

National Holidays

Jan 1, Mar 15, Easter Monday, May 1, With Monday, Aug 20, Oct 23, Nov 1, Dec 25 and 26

Speed Limits

motorway: 130 km/h
highway: 110 km/h
other roads: 90 km/h (55 mph)
build-up areas: 50 km/h (30 mph)
seat belts: Compulsory

Documents required

To enter the country, motorists need the documents that are also required in their own countries - driving licence, traffic licence and the symbol indicating the country of origin.

Tools

Motorways use a so-called semi-open tolling system. Toll gates are installed on the main road and on certain interchange ramps. The driver pays a fixed tariff when passing these points independently of its trip origin and destination. The fee for the use of the motorways M1 and M3 is paid in the form of the so-called motorways stickers.

Traffic fines

The police may impose fines on the spot. Fines are to be paid in forints by cheque (no cash). Anyone who drinks and drives can expect an even stricter punishment. In conformity with international law, in the case of police or court proceedings, all persons have the right to make a statement in their native language. Foreign nationals may also request the help of their consulate and the presence of a lawyer.

More information about Hungary (in Individual Travel section).