Car rental in Budapest

Driving around Budapest with a rental car

Full of fascinating historical highlights, Budapest is sometimes referred to as the “Paris of the East”. The capital of Hungary is also in Summer and Fall 2020 one of the most interesting metropolises of Eastern Europe in terms of its cultural heritage. The months September, October and November are perfect for a city trip with your personal rental car in Hungary. 

Budapest: Paris of the East

The area has been inhabited since the Stone Age, but today’s Budapest has its origins in the amalgamation of three towns—Pest, Buda, and Óbuda. Since the second half of the 19th century, the city has been the administrative, cultural, and economic center of the country.

The city of Budapest holds many attractions which can be easily discovered with a rental car. With Driveboo, you can compare different car rental offers and book your rental car directly online.

Where is it best to rent a car in Budapest?

Due to its size, Budapest offers a wide variety of car hire companies. However, if travellers are planning on arriving by plane, they can rent a car from one of the plethora of car rental companies located at the airport.

The nearest airport to the city centre is Budapest Airport (BUD), which can be found 22.4 km away. With multiple car rental companies at this airport, you can start your journey around the region right after touchdown!

Driver’s licence and insurance of a rental car in Budapest

Hungary accepts driver’s licences which were issued in the EU. However, remember that you always have to carry it with you. Without a photocard licence, you will be required to have an international driving licence. Third party cover is mandatory while driving around the country, and you should carry your insurance certificate with you at all times.

General traffic rules when driving a rental car in Budapest

• The minimum driving age is 18. However, when hiring a car, you will be required to be at least between 21-23 years old. Additional charges are applied if drivers are younger.
• You should always drive with dipped headlights outside of urban areas.
• Drivers are required to give way to public transportation vehicles.
• Spare headlamp bulbs are mandatory.
• You are forbidden to use your horn unless there is an emergency.
• Drivers must not use mobile phones while driving. Texting is forbidden as well. However, you can use hands free kits.

Are there any toll roads in Hungary?

Yes, there are numerous toll roads in Hungary. In order to use them, you must buy a vignette. You also have the option of purchasing an annual pass. The toll has to be paid on the following roads:

• M1
• M3
• M5
• M6
• M7
• M30
• M35

What are the speed limits for cars in Hungary?

What is the permissible level of alcohol content in Hungary?

The permissible level of alcohol content in a driver’s blood is 0.00%.

Emergency phone numbers in Hungary

For all types of emergency, you should call 112.

Highlights of Budapest that you can explore with a rental car

Budapest is full of interesting tourist attractions. Therefore, if you want to explore them thoroughly, you need to spend at least a few days in the city. All types of tourists should leave Hungary’s capital satisfied as the city offers a huge variety of highlights ranging from stunning vistas and interesting museums to lively bars and restaurants.

Buda Castle at night

The best place to start your journey around Budapest is the Buda Castle and Castle Hill. This whole area is a treasure trove of interesting sites to explore. The Buda Castle was erected in the 18th century and boasts around 200 rooms. On Castle Hill, you will also find such highlights as the Hungarian National Gallery and Budapest History Museum. When you’ve seen all you want, you can take the Castle Funicular Railway down to the city.

Parliament Building at night

Another notable highlight on the banks of the Danube is the Parliament Buildings. It is the world’s largest complex of this type and a great example of neo-Gothic architecture. Nearby, you will find the Museum of Ethnography.

St. Stephen's Basilica of Budapest

St. Stephen's Basilica of Budapest is another popular spot among holidaymakers. It is a showcase of impeccable architectural details—both when it comes to its interior and exterior. Inside, you will have a unique opportunity to admire the five-part Venetian mosaic representing allegories of the mass.

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

Those who are into outdoor activities should definitely take a walk along the Danube Promenade. The river is 640 metres wide, and along its bank you will find an interesting memorial site, namely Shoes on the Danube Bank. It features 60 pair of steel sculpted shoes which are supposed to commemorate the genocide that took place here at the hands of Nazi soldiers.

Gellert Hill

The scenic Gellért Hill is yet another attraction that is worth visiting. The area offers a beautiful view of the city. Nearby, you will also find such picturesque places as the Citadel, Jubilee Park, and the Great Market Hall.

Other interesting highlights of Budapest include:

• The Museum of Fine Arts
• The Ludwig Museum
• The Palace of Arts
• Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum
• The University Church
• City Woodland Park

Discovering the surroundings of Budapest with a rental car

After immersing yourself in the city’s history—as well as experiencing its cultural and entertainment venues—you should definitely consider exploring the wider region. This can be easily done with your rental car.

In the table below, you will find a list of some of the most popular and interesting places located within a short distance of Hungary’s capital. The distances to each destination—as well as the time it will take you to reach it—are included: