Thanks to its stunning architecture, rich history, modern amenities, and affordable cost of living, Budapest is becoming increasingly popular with digital nomads looking to experience life in Central Europe.
The Hungarian government has taken concrete steps to attract international remote workers to the country after the coronavirus pandemic, making Budapest an ideal destination for location-independent professionals.
In this guide, we take a look at what life is like as a digital nomad in the Hungarian capital.
Safety and security
The majority of the Hungarian population is vaccinated against COVID -19.
At the time of writing, it's safe to visit the country. In general, the crime rate in Budapest is low. Crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching do occur, especially in busy places such as markets, shopping malls, tourist areas, bars, public transportation, and train stations.
However, as long as you watch your belongings and don't walk through unsafe areas, you don't have to worry.
Visa requirements
The Hungarian government has recently introduced a residence permit for digital nomads, which is called the White Card.
It's a good option for international professionals who want to live in Hungary while working for a company outside the country. It's valid for one year but can be extended once for another year.
This is good news for non-EU citizens who, unlike EU citizens, aren't allowed to work or live in Hungary for long periods without a visa. Certain nationalities such as Americans, Canadians, and Australians are allowed to stay in Hungary visa-free for 90 days every 180 days.
Weather
Budapest, just like the rest of Hungary, has a continental climate. Summers are pleasantly warm, and humidity is low. In winter, it can get quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snow isn't uncommon. In the shoulder seasons, autumn and spring, the weather is very pleasant.
Language
For English speakers, Hungarian is perhaps one of the most difficult languages to learn. There are significant differences in pronunciation and grammar, and several dialects are spoken in the region.
However, many people in Budapest speak English, so getting around shouldn't be a problem. Currency The Hungarian Forint (HUF) is the official currency of Hungary. Many places accept Euro as well.
Transportation
The metro, trains, buses, and trams are reliable means of transportation and relatively inexpensive. A one-way ticket typically costs 350 HUF ($1).
Taxis are available everywhere, but be sure to use only officially marked ones. There have been cases where taxi drivers have overcharged so make sure the meter is on and calculating the correct fare. You can also use ride-hailing apps.
Budapest is a good city to explore on foot or by bike as many sights are located in the center. So you may not even need to use public transportation to visit most tourist sites.
General cost of living
Budapest is a relatively affordable city, especially considering the quality of life you get there. According to Nomad List, the average cost of living in the Hungarian capital is $1,558 per month.
Numbeo says the estimated monthly cost for a single person is €518.36, not including rent. You can find a breakdown of typical expenses here.
Healthcare
Hungary's healthcare is quite good, and the city is a destination for medical tourism in Europe. There are health insurance companies like Cigna Global and Aetna that offer deals for expats. They can also apply to you as a digital nomad. You can learn more about their services on their websites.
Accommodation
Many digital nomads in Budapest find their accommodation through Facebook groups and online rental platforms. On Flatio, you can choose from a large number of furnished apartments all over the city. For stays of less than six months, no deposit is required if you use Flatio.
Best districts
Budapest is divided into 23 districts. They stretch between Buda— a quieter residential area on the other side of the Danube—and Pest, the busier part of the city where there's usually plenty to do.
In general, these are some of the most popular places among expats and travelers:
- District 5 (The heart of Budapest and the tourist, political, financial, and commercial center of Hungary)
- District 6 (An arts hub where concerts, plays, and musicals are regularly performed at venues like the Hungarian State Opera House)
- District 7 (A diverse neighborhood with a rich Jewish history and a contemporary vibe)
Internet availability and speed
Wi-Fi is widely accessible in Budapest, and Hungary is often listed among the top 10 countries in terms of Internet speed. SIM cards aren't expensive, and you can buy them from major providers like Vodafone, Telekom, and Telenor.
Co-working spaces
There are many excellent co-working spaces in Budapest for professionals with different needs. Many co-working spaces host regular events where co-workers can network and socialize. These are some popular co-working spaces:
- KAPTÁR
- Impact Hub
- Mosaik
- Loffice
Activities and things to do
Budapest has a lot to offer digital nomads. Here are some places you should visit during your stay in the Hungarian capital:
- The Hungarian Parliament Building
- St. Stephen's Basilica
- Buda Castle
- Fisherman’s Bastion
- Ruin bars
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath
- The Shoes on the Danube Bank
- The Great Synagogue
- Széchenyi Chain Bridge
If you're a foodie and like bars with a unique atmosphere, don't forget to visit District 7 (Jewish Quarter), which is considered the epicenter of Budapest nightlife. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Hungarian, Italian, Spanish, or American food, you'll find it in this district.
Is life in Budapest for me?
Like any other city in the world, Budapest has its pros and cons. However, the positives far outweigh the negatives.
While it's true that the weather is cold in winter and learning Hungarian is no easy task, you should consider making this city your temporary home because it's beautiful, dynamic, and affordable. Soon after landing, you'll realize that you don't want to leave!
