This landlocked country in central Europe has become a popular destination for medical tourism, primarily for dental procedures. Many Americans visit this country to seek an alternative to healthcare prices in the United States.

Their well-trained professionals often have the latest technology. Most of Hungary’s tourism and healthcare facilities are located in Budapest, the capital, ensuring you don’t have to travel outside the city to combine your procedures with Hungary’s rich culture and history.

If you are looking to seek medical treatment in Hungary for the first time, that process can come with many questions. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions people may have when deciding to get a medical procedure done in Hungary.

Most hospitals and clinics in Hungary are in Budapest, the capital. There are very few outside of this city. Budapest is your best bet if you want medical care in Hungary. However, there are many things you can experience while you are here, and we will discuss some of those things below.

The best time to visit Hungary is from March to May and September through November. It is not typically overcrowded with tourists during this time, and the temperatures can be mild. This is known as their shoulder season. The weather is pleasant but unpredictable during this time, and the days tend to be shorter.

Their Winter months are the shortest, coldest, and dreariest of the year. They are known to get constant snow and below-freezing temperatures during this time. This is their lowest visitor season, so if you want to avoid the crowds but don’t mind the cold, Winter can be an excellent time to get your medical procedure done.

June, July, and August are the hottest and most popular months. Temperatures are warm, and the days are long. Because of the heat that Hungary can get in the Summer, you are encouraged to pick an accommodation that includes A.C. if you want to go during this time.

Below is a chart with their monthly highs and lows in Fahrenheit.

Accommodation

When you get to Hungary, one of the most important things to know is where you will stay. You should factor in the days before and after your procedure for rest and recovery. Prices can also vary depending on when in the year you are going to Hungary and where you wish to stay.

Daily Spending

Even though you are there to get a medical procedure done, you should remember the other costs you may have yet to consider. This includes essential expenses and if you wish to go on any excursions. It is customary to tip in Hungary for guides and service providers. This expected rate is between 5% and 15%.

The Cost of Airfare

Airline ticket prices can vary depending on where you depart and the time of year. It is recommended to watch for flights and book ahead of time. Prices also vary depending on whether you fly economy, business, or first class. Economy flights will be cheaper than first-class flights.

Departure Location: If you depart from an international airport on the East Coast, your airline tickets will be significantly cheaper than if you were to fly out from an airport in the middle of the country or on the West Coast.

Travel Dates: Winter is the cheapest time to get a plane ticket to Hungary. This is because it is also the time when the fewest tourists visit. During the summer months, plane tickets will be the most expensive.

Sample Cost Breakdown and Budget

Below is a sample breakdown of how much you would need to budget for a 2 week-long stay in Budapest for dental implants. The chart examines the lowest and highest amounts depending on how much luxury you wish to experience. This chart conveys prices when departing from New York, New York, in the Fall. These costs will differ if you go from a different location or time. As mentioned above, tipping is customary for all services in Hungary, so you should plan to use at least a tip of 5% to 15%.

Additional Considerations

In addition to the essentials, you must consider other factors impacting your budget for your medical tourism trip to Hungary. Below are a couple of those considerations.

Length of Stay: How long you will stay in Hungary can influence how much you will need to budget for. A more extended stay will be more expensive than a shorter stay. When deciding how long you will stay, consider the timeline of your medical procedure and any recovery time if necessary.

Must-see Attractions or Experiences: Hungary has many things to see and do, from tours to castles, thermal baths, and operas. Depending on the attractions you hope to visit while you are here can influence your budget. Some places will be low to no cost, but others will have higher entrance prices. Researching which attractions you wish to visit and creating a list can give you a better idea of what to plan for.

Tips for Saving on Travel Costs

• Be prepared for the cold and snow, and visit in the Winter. The costs are cheaper, and the crowds will be smaller
• Rent a cheaper car or take public transportation, but be aware of your surroundings
• Eat local cuisine. These will be cheaper options than fine dining
• Visit lower-cost attractions. Many tourist locations in Hungary have cheaper entrance fees or don’t charge anything. While the lower-cost attractions may not be at the top of your list of things to visit, they can still be enjoyable

Your trip to Hungary is unique when compared to other people who may be traveling for vacation. Since you are visiting for a medical procedure, you can ask your doctor if they have any recommendations regarding hotels, attractions, and restaurants. They ultimately know the area well and may have partnerships that can get you a lower price.

In Hungary, dental procedures are the most common and well-known in the country regarding medical tourism. But there are a few other procedures that are common in Hungary at a lower cost than what you would find in the United States. They also have access to new methods and innovations that may not be accepted at home. Below are some of the most common procedures someone might go to Hungary for. Not all potential procedures you can have done are listed, but these are among the most popular.

Hungary is generally safe to visit, but you should know a few things that can ensure your safety.
As of July 2024, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is still ongoing. It would be best to plan not to travel to Ukraine while heavy fighting is still occurring. Hungary borders the areas of Ukraine where much of the invasion is happening, and it can be dangerous to enter. As far as Hungary-specific concerns, there are a few crimes you should be aware of while you are there.

• Theft: Petty crime and robberies are common in Hungary, especially in tourist and public transport areas. Robbers may try to persuade drivers to pull over to steal from vehicles. To keep yourself safe, pay attention to your belongings, use secure parking, be wary of direct offers of help from strangers, and don’t leave valuables in the car.
• Scams and Fraud: In some regions of Budapest, clubs and restaurants may overcharge. To prevent this, always check the price of food and drinks before ordering. However, be conscious that arguments regarding overcharging can lead to violence, security guards may force you to pay, and taxi drivers may get a commission for taking you to these places. Always be wary of any drivers or strangers who invite you to clubs.
• Drink Spiking: Another widespread crime that can occur in Hungary is drink spiking, which then leads to sexual assault. You can reduce your probability of encountering this by not accepting drinks from strangers, not leaving drinks alone, and sticking with people you trust in bars, festivals, and nightclubs.
• Cyber Security: Cyber-based threats like digital identity theft are a growing concern in Hungary. Your devices and personal data may be compromised if you connect to Wi-Fi, public computers, or Bluetooth. In Hungary, you should not comment on local or political events on social media, as travelers can be arrested for things said there.

Recently, there have been no terrorist attacks in Hungary, but that doesn’t mean they can’t happen. Typical buildings where these attacks have historically happened are airports, public transport, government buildings, places of worship, and public areas that attract large groups. To protect yourself in the event one might happen, always be aware of your surroundings, report suspicious behavior or unattended bags to the police, watch the media for updates, take official notifications seriously, and follow the guidance of local authorities.

Extremist groups in Hungary have staged protests that have turned violent in the past on national holidays. These dates include March 15th, the first Saturday in July, August 20th, and October 23rd. If you will be in the country during this time, avoid the protests, monitor the local media, and follow the advice of local authorities.

Some Important Local Laws

While visiting Hungary, you are subject to all their laws and penalties. If you are arrested, immediately have the authorities contact the Embassy of the United States of America in Hungary. They can’t get you out of jail or cover any legal expenses, but they can guide you through what needs to be done and inform your loved ones back home.

Laws in Hungary include:

• Possessing even small amounts of illegal substances, such as marijuana, can lead to prison sentences
• Smoking is banned on all public transport and transport stops, within 16.5 feet of entrances to education buildings, around playgrounds, and in any public indoor areas
• Minor driving offenses can result in hefty fines, while serious driving offenses can include prison
• The drinking age in Hungary is 18, and many areas outlaw buying alcohol after 11 pm. Stores and bars will I.D. you if they doubt that you are above 18
• There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence, even if all you had was a sip of beer

Local authorities can request to see your identification at any moment, so it is essential to always carry your passport. They will not accept a photocopy.

While same-sex relationships are legal in Hungary, and they have laws to prohibit sexual discrimination, it is not widely accepted. Harassment and violence against LGBTQIA+ travelers have occurred.

There are some districts in Budapest that you will want to avoid because they are less safe or tourist-friendly. Below are a few of them:

Make the Most of Your Trip: Understanding Cultural Heritage

While visiting Hungary to receive cost-saving, high-quality medical care, you can still embrace the country’s rich, history-filled culture. Budapest was once known as the “Paris of the East,” so there is no reason you can’t explore what it offers.

Family Is Important
Close-knit family relationships are highly valued in Hungary. Extended families live close together, and grandparents play a role in raising children. Families share housework and spend time together on the weekends. They also follow strict daily routines and share dinner together. When an elderly family member can no longer live independently, they move into the same household as their children and grandchildren.

Food Is an Integral Part of Culture
Hungarian cuisine is at the center of Hungarian culture. Dishes such as goulash, chicken paprikash, beef stew, stuffed cabbage, and chimney cake are always fresh and with locally sourced ingredients. Traditional dishes are rich and hearty, but modern versions are also available that are lighter but maintain their unique flavors.

Traditionally, breakfast is a light meal of cereal, bread, ham, vegetables, or eggs. Lunch is a larger hot two-course meal with a main course and soup or dessert. Dinner is a cold dish.

… And So Is Music and Dance
Hungarian culture has many roots in traditional Hungarian folk. This includes conventional Hungarian folk music, which is still used today. This music involves instruments such as the violin, double bass, and cimbalom, and it is accompanied by traditional, energetic Hungarian dances performed in traditional costumes. Music and dance are regularly performed at several festivals and events in Budapest.

Hungarians Practice Roman Catholicism, Protestant, or Traditional Folk Beliefs
Hungary’s primary religion is Roman Catholicism. Approximately 70% of the population identifies as belonging to this religion. Christmas and Easter are important holidays in the country. The cities have many cathedrals and synagogues that visitors enjoy visiting. Even locals who do not identify as Roman Catholics will still have baptisms, funerals, and weddings tied to the Church.

Hungarians also practice other religions, namely Protestantism, Judaism, and traditional folk beliefs. Those practicing traditional Hungarian beliefs often use amulets and talismans to ward off evil spirits.

Advice, Cultural Nuance, and Tips

Hungarian etiquette is essential in this culture; not following it can be considered rude. While some of these guidelines may not be disrespectful in the United States, they do in Hungary. While visiting, it is crucial to keep these in mind.

Some basic etiquette that applies to everyday encounters include:

• Never call someone by their first name before being invited to do so
• No whistling, humming, or singing in public
• Always cover your mouth when yawning

Since food is such a big part of their culture, they have many food etiquette guidelines. Some of these include:

• Never leave food on the plate. This is an indication that you are dissatisfied with the food
• Discussions during mealtime should be formal. Talking about things such as animals may be found offensive
• To indicate you have finished eating, place your knife and fork parallel across the plate
• Your host will refill an empty glass when they see it. If you do not want more to drink, leave your glass half-full
• If you season your food with salt or pepper, this can be seen as offensive. Hungarians take great pride in their meals

If you are drinking beer, you should not clink glasses. If you are drinking wine or pálinka, you should look the others in the eye, clink glasses, and say “Egészségedre.” This translates into “cheers”

In Budapest, many people can speak English, especially younger ones. But Hungarian is the official language. Learning Hungarian can be useful for your trip if you wish to talk to and understand many people. Be warned that Hungarian is considered one of the most challenging languages to learn as an English speaker because there are few similar words. Learning essential words and vocabulary can help make communication easier.

Also, Hungary does not accept the U.S. Dollar. They will only accept the Hungarian Forint. It would be best to exchange your currency for their official currency when you are in the country. Western Union is the most prevailing international money transfer company and has many establishments throughout Hungary.