Hungary
Visited
At a glance
- Region
- Central Europe
- Capital
- Budapest
- Population
- 9.6 million (2024)
- Area
- 93,028 km²
- Languages
- Hungarian
- Currency
- Hungarian forint (HUF)
- Drives on the
- right
- Calling code
- +36
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Before you go
Overview
Hungary is a landlocked country located in Central Europe. The country is known to have one of the key thermal spring cultures amongst others in Europe.
The country recorded a population of 9.773 million in 2019 and covers an area of 93,030 km2.
The capital and largest city is Budapest. It is ranked as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Other major cities are Debrecen, Szeged, Miskolc, Pecs and Gyor.
Buda Castle On The Banks Of The Danube River.
History
Hungary became an equal partner in the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1867. The Soviet Union took over power after their settlement between 1947 and 1949.
The Hungarian revolt led to the independence of Hungary in 1956.
It joined NATO in 1999.
Food & culture
Hungarian culture is based on its history and heritage with the influences of Roma people.
The main crops are cereals, sugar beets, potatoes, sunflower and grapes. The common dishes in the country include goulash, chicken paprikash, jokai bean soup, porkolt and paprikas.
Wildlife
The common wildlife animals include wild boars, brown bears, foxes and rabbits.
Festivals & events
The most popular festivals are New Year’s Day, the National Day, Szentendre Spring Festival, Budapest Spring Festival and the Easter weekend.
Things to see
There is the Buda medieval Castle, which is a historic castle and the palace of the Hungarian kings in Budapest.
Also, there is the Budapest History Museum that showcases the history and life of Budapest since the Roman era to the present day in magnificent palatial rooms.
People also visit the Fisherman’s Bastion, a monument in Budapest at the Buda castle where tourists visit to see its unique panorama.
Other good places to visit are the St. Stephens Basilica, Heroes’ Square and the Matthias Church.
Interesting facts
Hungarian is the official language of Hungary. It is the most broadly spoken Uralic language in the whole world.
The official language is Hungarian.
The predominant religion is Catholicism.
Cities & towns I’ve visited
Neighbours
My Bucket List goals in Hungary
None on the list yet. Got a suggestion? Email Dan.