The BISB Guide to Moving to Budapest

Q: Is Budapest a good place to live?

Yes, Budapest is a great place for families to live.The cost of living in Budapest is comparatively low – particularly in terms of rent, groceries, and utilities – when compared to other western European cities. The capital delivers a high standard of living, thanks to the plethora of cultural attractions on offer, its rich history, and vibrant urban lifestyle.There are lots of activities for children, too, and the surrounding countryside offers endless opportunities to explore. What’s more, Budapest’s central European location makes it a great base from which to discover the region.

MOVING TO BUDAPEST

Welcome to Nord Anglia’s moving to Budapest guide. Designed for families looking to relocate to the cosmopolitan Hungarian capital, our detailed guide offers practical advice about the city. It also contains useful information about expat life in Budapest, covering everything from finding a place to live to activities for children.

YOUR GUIDE TO EXPAT LIFE IN BUDAPEST

Straddling the banks of the shimmering Danube River, Budapest is one of the most picturesque places to live in central Europe.

The city is home to stunning architecture, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and thermal spas. It’s a place where old-world charm meets modern-day comfort, and where families from around the world enjoy fantastic lifestyles.

Relocating to Budapest, you’ll discover a city that’s famed for its hospitality towards foreign residents. You’ll also join a thriving community of expat families, benefit from a very affordable cost of living, and enjoy lots of exciting things to do with your children.

BEFORE YOU MOVE TO BUDAPEST

We know there’s a lot to think about when planning a relocation with your family. So, below, we’ve listed some advice to consider before you move to Budapest.

Hungary's visa requirements

There are a range of visa options available to families moving to Budapest. Which you apply for will depend on your nationality, length of stay, and work situation.

Hungary's visa requirements

Who needs a visa to move to Budapest?

Non-EEA and non-EU citizens need a visa and Hungarian residence permit to move to Budapest.

If you’re moving to Budapest from an EU or EEA country (or a country that Hungary has a visa waiver agreement with, like the UK), however, you won’t need a visa to enter or stay in the country for up to 90 days. You will need to register your address with the local authorities if you plan to be in Hungary for longer, though.

Work Visas

If you’re moving to Budapest for work, you’ll need to obtain a Work Visa. This must be approved before you enter the country. Your employer will often arrange this for you.

Hungary offers a work residence permit to foreign nationals moving to Budapest. You’ll need to provide proof of future employment, a contract, have a registered address in Hungary, proof of travel insurance, and proof of salary.

Other visa options

Hungary offers a host of other visa options, too, including a Digital Nomad Visa (White Card), a Golden Visa for investors, and a Study Visa for students.

Finding a place to live

From family-friendly residential areas close to the city centre to upscale neighbourhoods in the Buda Hills, Budapest’s diverse districts offer a multitude of housing options.

Finding a place to live

The city offers a multitude of accommodation options for families moving to Budapest, whether your priority is green spaces, city-centre grandeur, or proximity to work and/or school.

You’ll also need to consider whether you want to live in an apartment or house, and which side of the Danube River – Buda or Pest – best suits your needs.

A guide to popular districts

Budapest is divided into 23 districts. Buda, the area west of the Danube, contains six districts; Pest, on the east bank, has 16 districts. There is also a district on Csepel Island in the middle of the river. The Buda side is generally more popular with families.

Buda

Located in the Buda Hills, District 2 (Rózsadomb) is a quiet, upscale neighbourhood with lots of parks and green spaces. District 2 is known for its peaceful, laid-back vibe and excellent housing options. It's also close to our school in the city, BISB.

District 11 (Újbuda) is an affluent residential area southwest of the city centre. Újbuda straddles Gellért Hill and provides one of the most spectacular panoramic views of Budapest. It also borders District 1, which is home to many of the city’s landmarks and historic buildings.

Also known as the ‘town of wine and champagne’, District 22 (Budafok-Tétény) is home to several of Hungary’s major wine producers. The district provides spectacular city views and offers numerous restaurants and shopping centres, including the Campona Mall. There are also plenty of public transport options.

Pest

District 13 (Angyalföld) is a leafy residential area on the banks of the Danube. The district offers tranquillity and proximity to St Stephen’s Park, whilst also being well-connected to the city centre and business district.

District 5 (Belváros-Lipótváros) is in the heart of the city, along the Pest riverside. Offering historic architecture, wide boulevards, and grandiose apartments, the district is home to landmarks including the Hungarian Parliament and St Stephen’s Basilica.

Types of accommodation in Budapest

Apartments are generally the most popular type of accommodation for expats living in Budapest, especially those choosing to live on the bustling Pest side of the Danube. These vary considerably in price, depending on size, location, and condition.

Houses are far more common in Budapest’s laid-back suburban areas, particularly on the Buda side of the river. These are inevitably pricier than most apartments, but they offer a lot more space and occasionally even a garden. Houses are normally close to schools, parks, and playgrounds.

Healthcare and insurance

Budapest’s healthcare system offers a mix of public and private options, which are delivered by well-trained medical professionals in modern hospitals.

Healthcare and insurance

Private healthcare

Private healthcare in Hungary is a popular choice for expat families seeking shorter wait times, multilingual staff, and enhanced comfort and personalised care.

Private clinics offer dental care, paediatrics, physiotherapy, orthopaedic surgery, and elective procedures, with private health insurance generally covering all expenses. These facilities are well-equipped, have the latest technology, and are staffed by skilled professionals.

Health insurance

To access private healthcare when you move to Budapest, you’ll need to take out health insurance.

Hungary’s insurance options are comprehensive and generally much cheaper than those offered in the US and UK. Annual premiums can range from €300 to €1,200, depending on the coverage.

Public healthcare

Expats living in Budapest who hold a valid residence permit also have the option of using public healthcare. Many international families, however, opt to go private.

The cost of living in Budapest

The cost of living in Budapest is significantly lower than many other European capitals, offering your family an excellent quality of life in the city.

The cost of living in Budapest

One of the most important things to consider when relocating abroad is the cost of living.

Although prices have risen in recent years, Budapest still enjoys one of the lowest costs of living of any European capital. It’s far cheaper to live here than in London, Paris, or Barcelona, for example. It is, however, pricier than nearby capitals like Bucharest or Belgrade.

Hungary is part of the EU but outside of the Eurozone. This means its currency is the Forint (1 Euro = approximately 350 Forint). Consequently, the Pound, US Dollar and Euro generally enjoy strong conversion rates.

The two biggest expenses, rent and groceries, are comparatively low. Eating out, even at higher-end restaurants, is relatively inexpensive. And a public transport pass is a steal compared to neighbouring Vienna.

LIVING IN BUDAPEST

What's it like to live in Budapest? Our guide to the Hungarian capital covers transport, things to do with your children, and more, ensuring you have all the information you need to make the city your home.

Getting around

The variety (and reliability) of public transport in Budapest – from trams and buses to the iconic Metro 1 Line – make it easy to navigate the city’s districts.

Getting around

Relocating to Budapest, you’ll discover one of the most walkable capitals in Europe. The city also has an exceptional transport network. This consists of buses, trolleybuses, trams, a metro, and taxis.

Budapest has four metro lines spanning most of the city. All lines meet at Deák Tér station in central Pest.

The city also has more than 25 tram lines. While these are a slower way to get around Budapest, they do offer a more scenic and quieter trip.

Trolleybus routes operate in northeast and central Pest. They look much like normal buses but are powered by electrical lines.

Budapest’s suburban railway lines (HÉV), meanwhile, connect central Budapest with several of the city’s suburbs.

You can plan your route using the city’s official journey planner.

Taxis

Several taxi companies operate in the city, offering families living in Budapest a fast and affordable way of getting around.

Budapest has strict laws for ride-sharing apps. App-based transport services such as Főtaxi and Bolt do operate in the city, however. As these services follow Hungarian regulations, fares are similar to those charged by traditional taxis.

Driving

The traffic in Budapest is heavy and parking can be a problem. It’s not always easy to find your way around the city, either, and it may take some time to become oriented with the road system. With extensive public transport options, many families find they don’t need to own a car while living in Budapest.

If you do decide to drive, you will eventually need to secure a Hungarian licence. EU citizens can drive in Budapest with their national driver’s licence. Non-EU nationals can drive in Budapest for a year with an international and national driver’s licence, after which they must apply for a Hungarian equivalent.

Cycling

Cycling is becoming more popular in Budapest, both as a form of recreation and a means of getting around. There are many scenic routes and beautiful hilly areas, mostly in Buda, which can be explored by bike, including a cycle-friendly route along the Danube River.

Pest is mostly flat, which makes urban cycling an easy and convenient way of getting from place to place. Budapest also has a successful bike-share system.

Walking

Budapest is a largely flat and pedestrianised city that is ideal for exploring on foot. Many of its most famous attractions are close to one another, and walking is a great way to experience the city.

Things to do with children

Budapest is a flourishing city, which offers plenty to see and do as a family. Activities range from river cruises and UNESCO World Heritage sites to modern museums, zoos, and plenty of parks.

Things to do with children

Budapest teems with opportunities to socialise, spend time outdoors, and experience local culture. From iconic thermal baths to historic streets laden with shops and cafés, Budapest is a vibrant, creative city with so much going on.

The city is home to world-class shopping, excellent entertainment options, and family-friendly venues, too. Living in Budapest, you can dine in a Michelin star restaurant and take a casual stroll along the Danube. You can visit the animals of Budapest Zoo, explore Vajdahunyad Castle, and discover one of the city’s many child-friendly museums, like the CsoPa Science Center. You can even take a Danube cruise in a floating bus!

Exploring further afield

Budapest’s central location in Europe makes it an excellent base for exploring the region. Once you’ve settled into your new hometown, you can plan trips to Hungary’s historic towns and medieval castles, and discover the country’s picturesque countryside.

Popular day trips include Lake Balaton, Hungary’s largest lake and a summer destination for swimming, wine tasting, and relaxing, and Visegrád, a medieval town with a castle and lots of outdoor activities. Vienna, in Austria, is just a couple of hours away, too.

Culture and language

Living in Budapest, you’ll discover a city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a unique language and culture. This makes the Hungarian capital a fascinating place to live, work, and go to school.

Culture and language

Hungary has a rich and diverse culture, which is shaped by Roman, Ottoman, and Hungarian influences.

Budapest is known for its distinctive cuisine, vibrant music, lively festivals, and stunning architecture. Family plays a central role in Hungarian society, and strong social connections are highly valued.

Hungarians are also known for their hospitality and friendliness, and the overall pace of life is generally relaxed, ensuring a good work-life balance.

The Hungarian language

For expats, one of the biggest challenges of moving to Budapest is the Hungarian language.

While Hungarian may be the mother tongue of about 13 million people, it can be a hard language for non-native speakers to both understand and learn. A Finno-Ugric language, Hungarian is not only very complex, but it is also different to most other European languages.

Luckily, English is commonly spoken in Budapest, both by locals (particularly younger generations) and the growing number of expats in the city.

Of course, learning some basic Hungarian phrases can significantly improve daily interactions. Taking Hungarian lessons is also a great way to integrate into the community and connect with people, including other expats.

Climate and weather

Located in the heart of Europe, Budapest’s continental climate means you’ll enjoy warm summers, magical winters, and discover the beauty of changeable spring and autumn seasons.

Climate and weather

Living in Budapest, you’ll experience four distinct seasons: cold winters, hot summers, and unpredictable but beautiful springs and autumns.

In spring, the city’s parks bloom and open-air cafés and terraces are filled with locals and expats. But don’t let the sunshine fool you: March can still be chilly, and April is famously unpredictable – sunny mornings can quickly turn into rainy afternoons.

Budapest summers are vibrant, buzzing, and hot. It’s festival season, the Danube is full of life, and the city comes alive with outdoor events. Heatwaves are not uncommon, with temperatures soaring above 30°C (86°F).

Autumn is characterised by light clouds and mixed temperatures. September often feels like a mellow extension of summer, while October paints the city in warm, golden colours. By November, the air is cooler, but Budapest’s cozy charm remains.

Winter is cold and sometimes snowy, but it’s also magical, especially during the holiday season. Think Christmas markets, mulled wine, thermal spas with steam rising into the frosty air.

You can keep track of the weather forecast at HungaroMet.

DISCOVER THE BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL BUDAPEST

The British International School Budapest (BISB) is the leading international school in Hungary. We’re a happy, vibrant, and motivated global learning community, which warmly welcomes children from around the world.

At BISB, we deliver an all-encompassing education that combines universally respected British and international curricula, world-class teaching, and exciting creative, sporting, and community service experiences. This holistic approach inspires our students to get outstanding results, which – year-on-year – open doors to top universities around the world.

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A SCHOOL THAT ASPIRES TO EXCELLENCE

The British International School Budapest is committed to excellence in education, from the warm welcome we provide to the exceptional learning experiences we offer.

Curriculum

BISB’s British and international curricula – which include the prestigious IB Diploma – deliver exceptional experiences that ignite our students’ love of learning and produce outstanding results.

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Teachers

Our world-leading international teachers challenge, engage, and inspire our students to achieve more than they ever imagined possible – both in and beyond the classroom.

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Trips and activities

Life-changing residential trips, more than 100 co-curricular activities, and exclusive collaborations with MIT and The Juilliard School offer a world of extraordinary opportunities.

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Facilities

Our state-of-the-art sports, creative, and STEAM facilities – backdropped by rolling hills and stunning views – will enhance your child’s learning experience, ensuring they love coming to school every day.

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The school day

Every day at BISB is packed with exciting learning experiences, which are carefully structured around a set timetable, term, and holiday dates.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is Budapest a good place to live?

Yes, Budapest is a great place for families to live.

The cost of living in Budapest is comparatively low – particularly in terms of rent, groceries, and utilities – when compared to other western European cities. The capital delivers a high standard of living, thanks to the plethora of cultural attractions on offer, its rich history, and vibrant urban lifestyle.

There are lots of activities for children, too, and the surrounding countryside offers endless opportunities to explore. What’s more, Budapest’s central European location makes it a great base from which to discover the region.

Is it easy to meet other families living in Budapest?

Yes, it is! Meeting fellow expats and their children is easy, thanks to a myriad of social opportunities designed for overseas residents. Joining social media groups, attending family meetups, and encouraging your children to pursue their hobbies are just some of the ways you can forge new connections here.

There’s also a real sense of community in the city. It’s often these connections that lead to insider tips about living in Budapest, from where to find the best street food to great parks off the beaten track.

Do I need to learn Hungarian before I move to Budapest?

Budapest is a cosmopolitan city, and many locals and expats speak English.

When you arrive, however, taking Hungarian lessons is a great way to integrate into the community and connect with people. The city’s language centres are social hubs, where expats and locals meet and exchange cultural insights. Engaging in the language enriches everyday encounters, too, from navigating the markets to understanding the city’s history.

Is Budapest a safe city for families with children?

Yes, Budapest is a very safe city for families. Violent crime is rare, and the overall safety index is high. The city also benefits from a highly visible police presence, particularly in central areas.

What is the local currency?

The currency in Budapest is the Hungarian Forint, written as ‘FT’ or ‘HUF’. Some international shops or real estate agents may, however, show you prices in Euros.