Travel information
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Travelling to Hungary
For visitors from the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan and many other countries, a visa is not needed to enter Hungary – a valid passport is sufficient. Visitors from other countries should consult the Hungarian Consular Services information page to inquire about any special entry requirements.
Hungary is in the Central European Time Zone (CET) and observes daylight saving time in Summer (GMT +1, in Summer GMT +2).
Air travel
Both major airlines as well as budget airlines fly to Budapest Ferihegy Airport (Airport code BUD) which is located some 16 km (10 miles) southeast of Budapest. Direct connections are available to and from most major European cities as well as New York JFK and Moscow SVO. See the airport homepage for further information on destinations and direct flights. There are two main terminals: Malév Hungarian Airlines and their partners fly to and from Terminal 2A, while most other international airlines use Terminal 2B, which is next door and within easy walking distance. Budget airlines fly to and from Terminal 1, about 5km to the west.
Regular trains, operated by Hungarian State Railways run between Terminal 1 and Budapest’s Western Railway Station (journey time – under 30 minutes) and there is a bus link between the station and Terminal 2. Shared Minibus-Taxis (Airport Shuttles) are available at the airport and will take guests to hotels in the city. Zona Taxi, for example, offer a regulated airport-hotel transfer service from outside the terminal for 5000 HUF (approx. 18 Euro, 25 US$, ₤ 16.50) each way. You can book return transfer directly from the hotel reception.
» Budapest Airport’s travel homepage.
» International and European flight connections: www.skyscanner.net.
Rail travel
Rail connections are available between various European cities and Budapest. General information is available in English and German on the Hungarian State Railways homepage along with a timetable search. Most Western Europe connections arrive and depart from Keleti station (Eastern train station).
Extensive European rail information is also available in several languages from the Deutsche Bahn homepage (in English) including detailed timetable information.
River travel
During the summer months, a hydrofoil service operates daily between Budapest and Vienna (5½ to 6½ hours, 282km) on the River Danube, stopping at Bratislava. For further information, see www.mahartpassnave.hu.
Staying on / Visiting Budapest
Budapest is a fascinating city with a rich history and long spa tradition and there is no shortage of reasons for staying on for a few days longer. Colloquially known as the “Paris of the East”, the city boasts a multitude of cultural attractions including museums, magnificent architecture, concerts and festivals to suit all tastes and, of course, culinary delights.
Attendees who stay on longer to visit the city may wish to purchase a “Budapest Card”. A 48 hour card costs 6300 Forint (approx. 24 Euro, 32 US$, ₤ 21), a 72 hour card 7500 Forint (approx. 28 Euro, 38 US$, ₤ 25) and covers free public transport in the city, discounted entry to museums, many of the thermal baths as well as selected restaurants and shops.
» Public transport in Budapest
» Budapest Card information page
Currency / Exchange Rate
The Hungarian currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). The exchange rate has fluctuated somewhat since the finance crisis and at the time of writing 1 Euro is worth around 265 Forint, 1 Dollar around 195 Forint and 1 GBP around 295 Forint. Bureau de Changes can be found everywhere in the city and are open every day. Check www.oanda.com for the current exchange rate.
Weather and Attire
The weather in June in Budapest is warm, averaging around 19°C (mean min = 15°C, mean max = 26°C). Formal attire is required only for the evening social gathering. If you are attending a workshop, please bring loose clothing. See the individual workshop descriptions for any specific requirements. If you plan to visit the thermal spas in city, a bathing cap may be required.
