Hungary
Region
🌍 Europe
Population
👥 9
Currency
💱 Hungarian forint
Languages
🗣️ Hungarian
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Welcome to Hungary, a landlocked gem in the heart of Europe, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. From the majestic Danube River flowing through the capital city of Budapest, a UNESCO World Heritage site boasting grand architecture and thermal baths, to the rolling vineyards of the Tokaj region and the vast plains of the Puszta, Hungary offers a diverse and captivating travel experience. Indulge in hearty cuisine, discover charming villages, and soak in the warmth of Hungarian hospitality.
Official NameSource: REST Countries
Hungary
Continent
Europe
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Hungarian
Independence
Hungary's modern independence was established in 1918.
Top-Level Domain
.hu
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+36
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC+01:00
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
Budapest
ISO Alpha-2
HU
ISO Alpha-3
HUN
UN Code
348
Geographic Coordinates
47,20
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
93,028#110 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
9,488,428#96 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
105.11
Highest Point (m)
1,014 meters (Kékes).
Lowest Point (m)
78 meters.
Land Use
Approximately 50% of Hungary is agricultural land.
Irrigated Land
About 2,070 square kilometers are irrigated.
Coastline Length
This landlocked country has no coastline.
Climate
Hungary has a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters.
Natural Resources
Hungary possesses bauxite, coal, and natural gas.
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
Austria, Croatia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine
Major Rivers
The Danube and Tisza rivers are major waterways.
Major Lakes
Lake Balaton is the largest lake in Central Europe.
Government Type
Parliamentary republic
Administrative Divisions
Hungary is divided into 19 counties and the capital city, Budapest.
Legal System
Based on civil law.
Chief of State
President Katalin Novák.
Head of Government
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
Cabinet
The Cabinet is appointed by the Prime Minister.
Elections
Elections for the National Assembly are held every four years.
Judicial Branch
The judicial branch includes the Curia (Supreme Court) and other courts.
Legislative Branch
Unicameral National Assembly (Országgyűlés).
Major Political Parties
Fidesz and KDNP are the main ruling parties.
CurrencySource: REST Countries
Hungarian forint
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
246.49#55 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
474.17#56 of 201
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
25,907.47#64 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
2.65
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
22.97
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
60.06
Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
4.41#54 of 191
Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
4,936,333
Unemployment Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Unemployment, total (% of total labor force) (modeled ILO estimate) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
4.52#111 of 185
Public Debt (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Central government debt, total (% of GDP) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
81.99
Budget
The Hungarian budget is subject to annual revisions.
Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
179.03#36 of 192
Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
167.98#37 of 192
Foreign Reserves
Information on foreign reserves is available from the Hungarian National Bank.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange rates can be found at major banks and online currency converters.
GDP by Sector
Services 65%, Industry 28%, Agriculture 7% (estimates).
Major Industries
Electronics, machinery, automotive, pharmaceuticals, food processing, tourism.
Major Export Partners
Germany, Romania, Italy, Austria, Slovakia.
Major Import Partners
Germany, Austria, China, Poland, Italy.
Society
Literacy Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Literacy rate, adult total (% of people ages 15 and above) (1980)Checked September 29, 2026
98.86#32 of 169
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
8.2
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
13.4
Net Migration Rate
Approximately -1 per 1,000 population (2022).
Median Age
Approximately 43 years (2022).
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
70.69#88 of 214
Urbanization Rate
Approximately 0.1% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.).
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
76.7#85 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
Less than 0.1% (2021).
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
6.37
Ethnic Groups
Hungarian 84%, Roma 3%, German 1.3%, other/unspecified 11.7% (2011 est.).
Religions
Roman Catholic 37.2%, Calvinist 11.6%, Lutheran 2.2%, other 1.9%, unaffiliated 18.2%, unspecified 28.9% (2011 est.).
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
Hungarian
Education
Education System
The Hungarian education system is divided into primary, secondary, and higher education. Primary school is compulsory. Secondary schools include gymnasiums, vocational schools, and technical schools. Higher education includes universities and colleges.
School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2018)Checked September 29, 2026
15.1
Government Education Spending
Approximately 5% of GDP.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
Eötvös Loránd University, University of Szeged, University of Debrecen, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Semmelweis University.
Culture
Cultural Overview
Hungarian culture is rich and diverse, influenced by its history and location in Central Europe. Traditional music, dance, and folk art are still vital. Hungary has a strong tradition of literature and art.
National HolidaysSource: Nager.Date
- Újév (2026-01-01)
- Nemzeti ünnep (2026-03-15)
- Nagypéntek (2026-04-03)
- Húsvétvasárnap (2026-04-05)
- Húsvéthétfő (2026-04-06)
- A munka ünnepe (2026-05-01)
- Pünkösdvasárnap (2026-05-24)
- Pünkösdhétfő (2026-05-25)
- Az államalapítás ünnepe (2026-08-20)
- Nemzeti ünnep (2026-10-23)
- Mindenszentek (2026-11-01)
- Karácsony (2026-12-25)
Popular Music
Popular music genres include pop, rock, electronic music, and folk-inspired music. Hungarian artists often blend traditional elements with contemporary sounds.
Traditional Food
Goulash (gulyás), Chicken Paprikash (csirke paprikás), stuffed cabbage (töltött káposzta), lángos (fried dough), and chimney cake (kürtőskalács).
Sports
Football (soccer), water polo, handball, swimming, and fencing are very popular. Hungary has a strong Olympic tradition.
Major Festivals
Sziget Festival, Budapest Spring Festival, Budapest Wine Festival, and various folk and cultural festivals.
Famous People
Franz Liszt (composer), Harry Houdini (magician), Béla Bartók (composer), Zsa Zsa Gabor (actress), Ernő Rubik (inventor of the Rubik's Cube).
Cultural Heritage Sites
Numerous castles, churches, and historic districts.
UNESCO Sites
Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue; Hortobágy National Park; Caves of Aggtelek and Slovak Karst; Early Christian Necropolis of Pécs; Fertö/Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape.
Annual Tourist Visits
Millions of tourist visits annually.
Tourism Overview
Tourism is a significant sector, with a focus on Budapest, thermal spas, and historical sites.
Top Tourist Attractions
Budapest (Parliament, thermal baths), Lake Balaton, Eger Castle, Szentendre, Hortobágy National Park.
Famous Cities
Budapest, Debrecen, Szeged, Miskolc, Pécs.
National Parks
10 national parks.
Protected Areas
Significant protected areas, including national parks and nature reserves.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hungary depends on your interests. For city exploration, especially Budapest, spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making walking tours and sightseeing enjoyable. Summer (June to August) is ideal for enjoying Hungary's many lakes and thermal baths, though it can be warm and busy. If you're interested in festivals, the summer months are particularly vibrant with numerous music and cultural events. For hiking in areas like the Mátra Mountains, spring and autumn provide cooler, more comfortable conditions. Winter (December to February) can be magical with Christmas markets and a chance to experience the cozy atmosphere of thermal spas, but outdoor activities are limited.
Tourist Visa Info
Schengen visa required for many nationalities; visa-free entry for EU citizens.
Visa Requirements Overview
Hungary is a member of the Schengen Area, which simplifies travel for many visitors. Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and most EU member states, can enter Hungary for tourism purposes without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, visa requirements vary significantly based on your nationality. Travelers from certain countries will need to apply for a Schengen visa in advance. It is crucial to check the specific visa regulations for your country of origin well before your planned travel dates. Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay and that you have sufficient funds for your trip.
Travel Advisory
Generally safe, but petty crime may occur. Check for specific travel advisories.
Healthcare
Healthcare Quality
Hungary's healthcare quality index is available from various sources, such as the World Health Organization.
Medical Cost
Medical costs vary depending on the service and location.
Number of Hospitals
Hungary has numerous hospitals; the exact number fluctuates.
Universal Healthcare
Hungary has a universal healthcare system funded primarily through a social health insurance scheme.
Medical Services Overview
Hungary offers a mix of public and private healthcare services.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency medical services are available throughout Hungary via ambulance and other resources; dial 112.
Emergency & Safety
Emergency Number (Police)
112 (general emergency).
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
112 (general emergency).
Emergency Number (Fire)
112 (general emergency).
Crime Rate
Moderate crime rate.
Safety Index
High safety index.
Military Expenditure
Around 1.7% of GDP.
Emergency Services Overview
Integrated emergency services with a single number (112) for police, ambulance, and fire services.
Safety Overview
Hungary is generally a safe country for tourists. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded tourist areas like Budapest's public transport and popular attractions, so it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or trying to lure you into unfamiliar establishments, as these can sometimes be a precursor to scams. While most interactions are genuine, it's always best to use your judgment. Taxis should ideally be booked through reputable companies or hotel concierges rather than hailed on the street to avoid potential overcharging. Generally, exercising common sense and vigilance will ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Military Branches
Hungarian Defence Forces (HDF).
Infrastructure
Electricity Access
Universal electricity access.
Water Access
Universal access to improved water sources.
Sanitation Access
Universal access to improved sanitation facilities.
Railways
Operated by MÁV (Hungarian State Railways), connecting major cities and providing international links.
Roadways
Well-developed road network, including motorways (M-roads).
Transportation System
Well-developed, including road, rail, and public transport in cities. Budapest has an extensive public transportation network.
AirportsSource: OurAirports
Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport (BUD), Debrecen International Airport (DEB), Pécs-Pogány International Airport (PEV), Hévíz–Balaton Airport (SOB)
Ports
Major port on the Danube River (Budapest) and several smaller ports.
Public Transit
Extensive public transport in cities, including buses, trams, metro in Budapest, and suburban trains.
Technology & Communication
Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
93.78#39 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
Over 100%.
Tech Startups
Growing tech startup ecosystem, particularly in Budapest.
Innovation Index
Moderate to high innovation index.
ICT Development Index
Relatively high ICT Development Index.
TV Broadcast Stations
Multiple national and regional TV stations.
Radio Broadcast Stations
Numerous radio stations, including national, regional, and local.
Plug Type & Voltage
Type C/F, 230V, 50Hz
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
4.46#62 of 202
Air Quality Index
Moderate air quality; PM2.5 levels exceed WHO guidelines.
Water Pollution Level
Water pollution is a concern, particularly in some rivers and lakes.
Renewable Energy Usage
Increasing use of renewable energy sources, especially solar and wind.
Environmental Issues
Air pollution, water pollution, and deforestation are primary concerns.
Natural Hazards
Occasional flooding; risk of droughts.
Waste Management
Developing waste management infrastructure; recycling rates are improving.
Environmental Agreements
Party to major international environmental agreements.
UN MembershipSource: REST Countries
Yes
Diplomatic Missions
Has diplomatic missions worldwide.
International OrganizationsSource: REST Countries
NATO, EU, OECD, Schengen Area
Major Treaties
Party to various international treaties and agreements.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens can travel visa-free to numerous countries.