Scams

When traveling in several countries, it is practically impossible to validate who is and who is not a police officer. Many scams are built on the “police intimidation” factor, where false ID’s and uniforms are used. The most important detail that you should know is that police officers are NOT allowed to take over cash as a fine in Hungary!

Restaurants

Hungary offers a wide range of excellent culinary entertainment. Its traditions are far reaching into its history and place in Europe. Unfortunately, the reputation of this industry is also being damaged by few opportunists targeting visitors. Near some large hotels, you can be charged exorbitant prices in certain bars, clubs and restaurants. Common scams include adding a 20,000 HUF (€80,00) surcharge per drink to the final bill or charging up to 100,000 HUF (€300,00) for a meal. Individuals who have been unable to settle their bills have frequently been accompanied by the establishment’s security guards to a cash machine and made to withdraw funds under threats of violence.



You should avoid all establishments where menus do not properly display prices. Even when prices appear to be properly displayed.

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If you have any doubts about a bar, restaurant or club – do NOT go in.

Exchange money

Exchanging cash at the arrival location (airport, railway station) is usually more expensive in most countries. Railway stations are some of the MOST EXPENSIVE places to exchange money in the city center

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Hungary has a competitive money exchange industry. Know the official exchange rate of the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Rates are always displayed in front of the exchange offices.

NEVER exchange money on the street!

Beggars

Hungary takes less drastic measures than some of its western European counterparts to deal with beggar mafias, which operate in the downtown and tourist areas. Beggars many times are imported from eastern countries and dress as very old women or as one with a severe injury or disability. Hungary has an excellent social system, and such situations of neglect would never occur! We ask all visitors to cooperate in helping to solve this situation. When deciding to be generous with your money, be careful to whom you donate. If you have spare change or money to donate, donate to your favorite charity who will effectively disburse the money to the needy.