About Hungary

Climate

The climate of Hungary is continental, with cold, cloudy and humid winters (average temperature between 0 and −15 °C / 32 and 5 °F) and warm to hot summers (average temperature between 27 and 32 °C / 81 and 90 °F). Spring and autumn are mild, but there are frequent changes in temperature, especially in spring. The average annual temperature is 9.7 °C / 49.5 °F and the average yearly rainfall is approximately 600 mm / 24 in.

Currency and payment methods 

The currency of Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). The official daily exchange rates are always given by the Hungarian National Bank (Magyar Nemzeti Bank, MNB).​

Credit cards are accepted in an increasing number of places (American Express, MasterCard, EuroCard, Visa, etc.). It is a good idea to bring cash if possible, since the banks ask for a 5% commission to change travelers’ cheques. Unless Western Union Transfer is used, bank transfers can take 2-4 weeks to arrive. It is difficult to use personal cheques – the banks need at least 1 month (usually 6 weeks) to process one.

There are different exchange offices and banks in Debrecen where you can exchange your currency. ATMs are also available.

Useful phone numbers 

Call code of Hungary +36
Call code of Debrecen +52

Emergency numbers:

Emergency Care

Police: 107

Ambulance: 104

Fire department: 105

General emergency number: 112

Directory enquiries:

telephone numbers within the country: 198

telephone numbers abroad: 199

other: 197

Immigration Office +36 52 503 840

National Holidays

All banks, offices, stores and the University are closed on National Public Holidays.

For a comprehensive list of national public holidays celebrated in Hungary with dates and information on the origin and meaning of our holidays, click here.

Business hours

Most stores in Hungary are open from 10 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday, and from 10 am to 1 or 2 pm on Saturdays. Most stores are closed on Sundays, except for large malls and popular tourist destinations.
Grocery stores open early, at 6 or 7 am, and they are usually open until 6 or 7 pm. Non-stop stores are open 24/7. Fuel stations along freeways are also open 24/7.
Banks are open Monday to Friday, but on Fridays they close earlier than usual. Banks at malls have the longest opening hours.
Museums are usually closed on Mondays, just like a few restaurants.

Cost of living in 2024

Covid-19 info

The lifting of epidemiological entry restrictions means that, from Monday the 7th of March 2022, travelers can enter Hungary without the need for vaccination or immunity certificates, or any kind of test or quarantine obligation. Simultaneously, the lifting of the special rules of access for certain services and events means that vaccination certificates are no longer required for entry to indoor congresses or conferences, accommodation establishments, spas, sporting or cultural events, music and dance festivals, or outdoor events of any kind. The wearing of masks in public spaces is no longer mandatory (except for health and medical institutes - please make sure to have some masks in case needed), although some venues may still recommend their use.

For the detailed entry information please check the Consulal Services official website.