Budapest, previously drenched in the terrors of communism, has now turned into a digital nomad hotspot. Hungary’s past may be dark but there is no doubt that the country is ever so lit now. Its bustling energy and vibrant environment attract digital nomads from all over the world to come and settle there.
If this city has captured your attention too then make sure to go over this article and see what it’s like to live in Budapest as a digital nomad.
Where is Budapest located?
Budapest is the capital of Hungary, strategically situated at the center of the Carpathian Basin. Budapest is a combination of 3 cities; Buda, Pest, and Obuda located on the banks of the Danube River.
Fact: Did you know that Budapest is the 9th largest city in the European Union?
Why Choose Budapest as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
Let’s delve into Budapest’s pros and cons! If you are not certain whether it’s the right place for you then take a look below and evaluate if it’s suitable.
| Pros | Cons |
| Fast wifi | Not that lgbtq+ friendly |
| Safe | Expensive |
| Spacious | Locals aren’t that friendly |
| Safe roads | Tobacco is too common |
| Basic English is spoken widely | Cold winters |
| High standard of living |
No place is perfect and Budapest certainly has its fair share of problems. Apart from that, make sure to note that Budapest is a democratic city and people have freedom of speech. It is a safe place for women and it happens to be family friendly. The healthcare and education system is also well-developed which means nomads can settle here for a long time, even with their families.
How to Get to Budapest?
Budapest is located in the heart of central Europe. Hence, there are multiple ways to get there. Here are some of the common ones.
By air
The most common way of getting to Budapest is via air travel. You can get direct flights or connecting flights to arrive at the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. This airport caters to international flights. However, there are no direct flights from the U.S. to Budapest as of now so you’ll need to land in London first. Although, Canadians, Austrians, and Europeans can easily enter Budapest directly.
By train
Budapest is connected with other European capital cities such as Vienna and Bratislava. You can enter the city via train and get to one of the three international railway stations. The trains depart every 3 hours.
By bus
If you are traveling on a budget, you can always travel by bus. Not only is it a cheap form of transport but it’s convenient as well. This is a good option if you are traveling from a nearby European city.
Transportation and How to Get Around Budapest?
Once you have arrived in the city, here’s how you can get around.
Taxis
Ubers are not functional in Budapest but taxis are easily and widely available. While they may charge higher in the city center, airports, and stations, it is a great way of getting around. Some of the well-regarded providers have their own apps that can make traveling more convenient. Other than that, make sure to seek yellow taxis (companies such as Bolt and CityTax) as the freelancers tend to be fraudulent.
Metro
The public transportation also includes the metro. It is an affordable and accessible option as the city has three main metro lines; M1 yellow, M2 red, and M3 blue.
Rent a vehicle
You can also opt for a long-term solution and rent a vehicle on arrival. Bikes and motorcycles will cost less while cars will be more convenient. There are a ton of reputable services such as MOL Bubi and Donkey Bike.
Buses
Budapest has a good and reliable bus network. You can travel via bus and save a lot of money! We recommend you buy tickets beforehand as on-spot tickets cost more.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Budapest?
Finding accommodation in Budapest is arguably an easy task! There are a lot of good neighborhoods and residence options for digital nomads. Take a look below at some popular neighborhoods and see which one fits your preferences.
Belváros-Lipótváros
Belváros-Lipótváros, also referred to as District V, is the downtown area of Budapest. This neighborhood houses numerous tourist attractions including St.Stephen’s Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament Building.
This is a vibrant, lively, and bustling place that is always filled with chaos and activities. You can expect to find everything from markets to festive events in this region. Belváros-Lipótváros is a good option for people who wish to engage with the locals and enjoy the main social scene. The rich local culture and scope of activities will keep you entertained.
Várkerület
Várkerület is the historical part of the city that houses famous landmarks such as Castle Hill, Buda Castle Palace, Taban, and Gellert Hill. This neighborhood is also known as the District I or Castle District.
This is the perfect place for people who wish to connect with Budapest’s remarkable history and enjoy a bustling atmosphere. Other than that, the dazzling waterfront and cultural events surely serve as an attraction for many people.
However, make sure to note that this place is often crowded with tourists during the daytime and the rents tend to be higher as well.
Újlipót
Budapest is a kind of place that has something to offer to everyone. If you are someone who prefers a contemporary and modern lifestyle along with the historical scene, then Újlipót is the perfect place for you.
This neighborhood has a chill community and a range of modern-style houses. While the houses are minimalistic and trendy, the buildings around the area represent 19th-century architecture. This beautiful contrast along with the suburban atmosphere makes this neighborhood highly desirable.
Other than that, there are a bunch of cafes, galleries, and shops nearby that give you access to facilities within a short distance.
Once you choose a neighborhood, the next step is to search for the right residence. Since landlords usually require you to sign a 6-month contract, try looking for an affordable Airbnb. You can also stay at hostels or seek coliving options.
Look for listings at the following Facebook groups.
- Flats for rent, Budapest Apartments
- Flats for Erasmus in Budapest
- Budapest flats and apartments for rent
Internet Connectivity in Budapest
Internet connection is one of the main concerns of any digital nomad. Remote workers would be glad to know that Budapest offers fast and reliable internet. In fact, Hungary’s internet speed is ranked in the top 10 countries of the world. You will find a decent wifi speed at most of the cafes, restaurants, libraries, and public places in Budapest.
You can also get local SIM cards upon arrival and buy budget-friendly data packages. DIGIMobil, Vodafone, and Yettel are the most commonly used and available in the country. You can easily get these at the airport or convenience stores.
E sim
As a remote worker, the urge to make everything digital is quite paramount. You can simply avoid the trouble of a physical sim card and opt for an E sim. Make sure to compare these packages before choosing your provider.
Holafly
| Data allowance | Validity | Price |
| Unlimited | 5 days | 19$ (17.50€) |
| Unlimited | 7 days | 27$ (24.87€) |
| Unlimited | 10 days | 34$ (31.32€) |
| Unlimited | 15 days | 47$ (43.30€) |
| Unlimited | 20 days | 57$ (52.51€) |
| Unlimited | 30 days | 69$ (63.57€) |
Airalo
| Data allowance | Validity | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | 4.50$ (4.15€) |
| 2 GB | 15 days | 7.50$ (6.91€) |
| 3 GB | 30 days | 9.50$ (8.75€) |
| 5GB | 30 days | 13.50$ (12.44€) |
| 10 GB | 30 days | 22.00$ (20.27€) |
4 Best Places to Work in Budapest
As a remote worker, you must be concerned about the working situation. Well, the good news is that there are a lot of cafes and coworking spaces that allow you to work dedicatedly for a long time.
Fabrik
Fabrik is one of the best cafes, highly suitable for working. Not only do they have the best pastries in all of Budapest but the environment is also exemplary. They have comfortable workshop rooms that promote productivity and the wifi connection is also good. You can order juices and coffees from their menu during a hectic workday.
Madal cafe
Madal cafe is also one of the best options for working. They are especially famous for their coffee art but their spiritual atmosphere is also popular among digital nomads. Madal Cafe is a zen space that influences creativity and innovation.
Impact hub Budapest
If you prefer a more professional environment than a cafe then consider going to one of Budapest’s co-working spaces. Impact Hub is a reputable option that is well-known for a reason. Their stunning architecture and minimal workspace give you an opportunity to delve into work and have a productive day. You can have a free 4-hour trial before making any decisions.
Furthermore, you’ll find their range of memberships to be accommodating!
Kaptar
Kaptar is one of the best coworking spaces in Budapest. Everything about their architecture inspires innovation and encourages remote workers to take that extra step. The place is airy, well-lit, and has high-speed internet. Kaptar is also a good place for networking and socializing with like-minded individuals.
Cost of Living in Budapest
When it comes to the cost of living in Budapest, the answer is not that simple. While some people may regard Budapest as a relatively expensive digital nomad destination, we believe that the prices are nothing compared to the high standard of living found here. Here is a rough breakdown of general prices.
| Nomad’s cost of living | $2589/month (€2385) |
| Cost of living for a family | $2708/month (€2494) |
| Hotel | $1576/month (1452€) |
| Studio in the city center (1br rent) | $568/month (€523) |
| Airbnb | $2283/month (€2103) |
| Dinner | $10 (€9.21) |
| Beer | $1.83 (€1.69) |
| Average taxi ride | $4.20/trip (€3.87) |
| Coca-cola | $1.32 (€1.22) |
| Coffee | $2.06 (€1.90) |
| Coworking desk | $202/month (€186) |
Budapest is one of the most dynamic cities in Europe that offers an affordable cost of living and a high quality of life. However, the costs are mere estimations. A basic digital nomad lifestyle will allow you to enjoy a low cost of living while higher spending patterns will cost more.
The estimations may vary based on currency fluctuations.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Budapest
Budapest has turned into a trendy city over the recent years, most popular for its “ruin pubs” culture. It has a huge nightlife scene that is guaranteed to keep you entertained. Other than that, the Jewish community, namely the Jewish quarter has become an area of intrigue for several tourists and travelers. You can expect to find contemporary restaurants, cute coffee shops, and trendy bars. Furthermore, the mesmerizing combination of new and old architecture is something that astonishes everyone.
Budapest is also a great place for nature lovers. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and dense forests, the city offers you a chance to explore wildlife and connect with nature. There are also a bunch of outdoor activities that you can participate in.
As for the food, Budapest is known for specialties such as Goulash. The city is not so famous for its food but it’s average nonetheless. The local cuisine is a concoction of Turkish, Balkan, and Hungarian recipes that are rich in flavor and highly traditional. Moreover, Budapest has mouth-watering street food and a variety of tasty spices. There is also an abundance of cafes and restaurants in the city.
Best Time to Visit Budapest
The best time to visit Budapest is during the shoulder seasons (fall and spring) when the weather is pleasant and tourist inflow is low. This is the best way to avoid big crowds and explore popular destinations.
Budapest has a continental climate which means that the city experiences colder winters, longer-lasting snow, and shorter growing seasons. The summers are warm and sunny which makes it the peak tourist season. This time is perfect for exploring the city and engaging in outdoor activities.
However, If you are a digital nomad who travels on a budget then this might not be the best time for you. The accommodation, transport, and general prices tend to be higher because of tourist inflow. Additionally, there is also inflation in winter during Christmas time so that won’t be a good time either
12 Best Things to Do in Budapest
Here are the 12 best things to do during your time in this beautiful city!
1. Visit the Hungarian Parliament building
When in Hungary, make sure to visit the historical masterpiece that is the Hungarian parliament building. This remarkable landmark is said to be the highest building in all of Budapest with a height of 96 meters above sea level. Although, it is a government building, the beautiful architecture and the marvelous interior are a sight to behold. You can even get guided tours to explore it properly.
2. Get a thermal bath
It is almost mandatory to get a thermal bath during your time in Budapest. If you are tired of exploring the city or working all day then make sure to participate in this activity. The geometric action beneath the city has aided the invention of various thermal baths but the most famous one is Szechenyi Thermal Bath. This is the largest bath in Budapest with 18 pools, saunas, steam rooms, and even beer spas. If these wellness facilities aren’t enough to intrigue you, the outdoor thermal bars will certainly capture your attention.
3. Visit St.Stephen’s Basilica
Another must-visit location is St.Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest. This iconic landmark is located near the parliament building and has the same height as the former. This similarity is symbolic of the equality between state and religion. The dome offers stunning views of the city to those willing to climb it. Other than that, the marvelous interior is worth seeing as well.
4. Go to the Budapest International Wine Festival
This festival is a great social occasion that allows you to interact with fellow nomads, engage with the locals, and socialize with a diverse range of people. Whether or not you are a fan of wine tasting, Budapest International Wine Festival is sure to entertain you. You get to enjoy Budapest’s best wine while extending your social circle.
5. Hike the Janos hill
If you want to be surrounded by nature then go right ahead and climb the Janos hill! Once you get there via the 291 bus, you can either take a chairlift or walk up to the top. We recommend hiking as it’ll give you a chance to breathe in the refreshing air and enjoy the surrounding nature. The panoramic views of the city from the top will be worth the climb!
6. Sziget music festival
The Sziget music festival is undoubtedly one of the most famous social events. This international festival takes place over an entire week and invites people from all over the world, especially from the nearby European cities. You can expect a bustling atmosphere, a lively crowd, and a week full of joy. The Sziget music festival is truly an unforgettable experience.
7. Shoes on the Danube Bank
Shoes on the Danube Bank is a memorial dedicated to a horrific time in Hungarian history. Created by film director, Can Togay, this memorial is a tribute to those civilians who were asked to take off their shoes before being shot into the river. This is a must-visit place and an important part of Hungary’s history.
8. Visit the pinball museum
Since Hungary is the foundation of several games, this is one of the most popular museums in the country. When you are in Budapest, make sure to visit the pinball museum and see the creative displays. The museum houses around 140 vintage arcade games and pinball machines. Visitors can play on the rows of machines for free once they pay the initial entry fee.
9. Visit the farmer’s market
The farmer’s market is the best place to go on a lazy Sunday. A visit here amounts to a relaxing experience and you get to enjoy delicious brunch. Before you go there, we just have one tip for you; prepare to be amazed by the tasty baked goods and scrumptious pastries!
You can also buy fresh local produce for later.
10. The chain bridge
The chain bridge is one of the most historical buildings in Budapest that holds great significance. This place is the thing that brought two cities i.e. Buda and Pest together to create one city. Visit the chain bridge and learn about Budapest’s rich history during your time here
11. Visit the Buda castle
Buda Castle is a historical landmark situated at the top of the castle hill. The architecture is spell-binding, to say the least so make sure to visit it during your time here. You can even get guided tours to explore the palace properly.
12. Eat with
Lastly, one of the best things to do in Budapest is take advantage of “eat with”. This is easily the best way to blend in with the locals and make Budapest your home. People post dinner listings and anyone is free to attend.
EatWith gives you the opportunity to dine with locals for a small fee and enjoy traditional home-cooked meals.
Is Budapest safe?
Yes, Budapest is one of the safest cities in Hungary. Since safety is one of the main concerns for every digital nomad (especially solo travelers), you’d be happy to learn that the crime rate is extremely low in this city.
Budapest is safe for women and you can even walk alone at night. Most areas are lit and crowded after sundown which means you are free to travel comfortably.
Criminal activities are rare but petty crimes such as scamming and pocket-picking are not unheard of. Tourist crime is even rarer but minor thefts are common in crowded places. As a foreigner in a new country, you are recommended to stay vigilant at all times. You should try to avoid isolated and shady areas to prevent catastrophes. Other than that, make sure to report any crime or danger of crime to relevant authorities.
Visa Requirements in Budapest
Hungary doesn’t have a digital nomad visa as of now but there are alternate options.
Since Hungary is a part of the European Union and Schengen agreement, those in possession of an EU passport are allowed to enter and leave Budapest without any restrictions. Such people are also free to settle here for an unlimited amount of time.
As for non-EU citizens, they’ll be required to apply for a tourist visa prior to their arrival. People holding another Schengen area visa are authorized to enter Budapest as well.
Remember that a tourist visa only remains valid for 90 days. If you plan on staying for a longer time then consider applying for a residence permit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Budapest is a great place to live if you are willing to look past some of its flaws. As a city that is still recovering from communism ruins, it’s developing at an astonishing rate. While the people are not as welcoming as preferred, you’ll find it easy to make friends with like-minded people and conduct business professionally.
Other than that, the city has a lot to offer to those who are willing to take a leap of faith and travel here. If you have decided to make Budapest your next destination, we wish you the best of luck on your journey.
We hope this article helped you but if you have any further queries, feel free to contact us!
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