Car hire in Hungary at the best prices

When planning your Hungarian holiday, be sure to choose Auto Europe to arrange for your car hire in Hungary. Auto Europe has been in the business of car rental services for more than 50 years, and will guarantee you the lowest rates, the best selection, and the most helpful service, because to Auto Europe, nothing is more important than you - our client. Call today to speak to one of our representatives who will help you find the perfect vehicle for your holiday. If you prefer, arrange for your car rental in Hungary online using our easy three-step booking process. For your convenience, we offer multiple pick up locations for your car rental.

Make the most of your car rental

Hungary is a nation unto itself - although rapidly becoming a popular tourist destination, the heritage and history of this noble country remains relatively unspoiled, and its charm allures travellers of all ages. Drive your car hire in Hungary through the country's crown gem Budapest, and wind your way through ancient streets in search of the ornate and majestic architecture that makes the city the epicentre of Central European culture. When you are ready to explore Hungary's spectacular natural beauty, drive your car rental 75 miles southeast to Balatonfoldvar, where you can relax in the gorgeous spas, bask in historic hot springs, and enjoy the amenities of one of the largest lakes in Europe, Lake Balaton. A car hire from Auto Europe will make your Hungarian holiday an adventure to remember.

Road Rules and Petrol Stations

When travelling in your car rental, you will find Hungarian motorways and main routes well-maintained, however, some of the secondary roads are rather rough and covered with gravel. To make the most of your car rental in Hungary, be aware of the guiding principles of driving in this country. Below you will find a brief overview:

• Drive on the right hand side of the road in Hungary.
• In Hungary, all passengers must wear seat belts.
• Car seats are required for infants.
• Children under age 12 must sit in the rear of the car.
• You may not turn right on a red light.
• Yield to streetcars and buses - they have the right of way.
• Mobile phone use is allowed only with the use of a headset.
• Headlights use is compulsory even in daylight hours.
• Be aware that if you are stopped for a traffic violation, you must pay the fine on the spot in Hungarian currency.
• Generally, the speed limits are as follows: 31 mph in urban areas; 55 mph on the open road, and 74 mph on the motorways.
• Be aware that the police regularly stop vehicles for document checks - all passengers should carry identification papers.

Hungary has a zero tolerance law for drink-driving. That means no blood alcohol level is acceptable. So, if you are going to drink - do not drive. For more traffic regulations in Hungary, visit our driving information page.

Petrol

Petrol stations in Hungary stock unleaded and diesel fuel and are normally open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. Many of the stations on the motorways provide service 24 hours a day. Shell, BP, Aral and Ágip stations are among your choices in Hungary. If you stop at a petrol station with attended service, a tip should be given.

Tolls

In Hungary, the following highways require a toll sticker: M1, M3, M5 & M7. These stickers can be purchased at petrol stations and motorway stations and can be customized to fit the duration of your travel.

Age Requirements

You must be at least 21 years old and have had your license for one year to hire a car in Hungary. If you are younger than 25, you may be charged an extra fee depending on your vehicle supplier. You must possess an international driver's license to drive in Hungary.

Currency

The Hungarian currency is the Forint (Ft, HUF) with coins in denominations of 5Ft, 10Ft, 20Ft, 50Ft and 100Ft, and notes in denominations of 200Ft, 500Ft, 1000Ft, 2000Ft, 5000Ft, 10,000Ft, and 20,000Ft. While the Euro is now becoming more accepted in Hungary, be sure you check the exchange rate to avoid steep rates.
ATMs are readily available to travellers throughout Hungary and most accept major credit and cash cards.
You will find that major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express) are widely accepted in Hungary. While you will be able to use them at many restaurants, shops, hotels, car-rental firms, travel agencies, and petrol stations, they are not usually accepted at museums, supermarkets, or train and bus stations.

Time Difference

On the Central European Time Zone, Hungary is just one hour ahead of the UK. Hungary observes Daylight Savings Time.

Dictionary

It is said that the Hungarian language (Magyar) is one of the most challenging languages to learn. Fortunately for British travellers, English is spoken regularly in Hungary, especially among younger people. Below you will find some Hungarian words and phrases that can come in handy when travelling outside of urban areas.

Good morning - Jó reggelt
Good afternoon - Jó napot
Good evening - Jó estét
Good night - Jó éjszakát
Goodbye - Viszontlátásra
Please - Kérem
Thanks - Köszönöm
You're welcome - Szívesen
Excuse me - Elnézést
Sorry - Bocsánat
Yes - Igen
No - Nem
Entrance - Bejárat
Exit - Kijárat
Good - Jó
Bad - Rossz
Drinking water - Ivóvíz
Toilet/Washroom - WC/Mosdó
How much does it cost? - Mennyibe kerül?
Do you take credit cards? - Hitelkártyát elfogadnak?
Where is the toilet/washroom? - Hol van a WC/mosdó?
I don't speak Hungarian - Nem beszélek magyarul

Electricity

In Hungary, electrical outlets supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts. A "C" or "F" adapter is likely all you will need.

Visa and Embassy Information

As a member of the EU, Hungary does not require UK citizens to enter the country with a visa - a passport will suffice. The British Embassy in Hungary is located in Budapest.

British Embassy Budapest
Budapest
Füge utca 5-7
1022 Hungary
Email: info@britemb.hu
Telephone: +36 (1) 266 2888
Fax: +36 (1) 266 0907

Useful links

Hungary Tourist Information