Planning a road trip in Hungary? 2025 motorway vignettes go on sale soon!
Starting 1 December, Hungarian motorway vignettes for 2025 will be available for purchase, with prices increasing again next year. The annual vignette for passenger cars will cost HUF 59,210 (EUR 144), and penalty fees will also rise, starting at HUF 26,640 (EUR 65) and climbing to HUF 91,780 (EUR 224) if unpaid within 60 days.
In 2023, over 1 million penalties were issued for vehicles using toll roads without a valid vignette, and 1.5 million cases involved foreign drivers referred to international collection agencies, Turizmus Online reports based on MTI.
A survey by autópályamatrica.hu revealed that many complaints stem from late penalty notifications, often months after the violation occurred, leaving drivers unable to prove they had purchased a vignette. Others unknowingly violated rules, thinking their vignette was still valid or making mistakes they were unaware of until multiple infractions had accumulated.
Interestingly, 70% of drivers are unaware they can retroactively resolve penalties by purchasing an annual vignette, though this requires submitting a request to the toll authority, NÚSZ. Tourists planning to drive in Hungary are encouraged to carefully manage their vignettes to avoid hefty fines.
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Austria closes off road with a concrete barrier to stop Hungarian commuters
In Austria’s eastern province of Burgenland, a municipal decision to block a cross-border road with a concrete barrier has sparked controversy. The closure, near Kelénpatak (Klingenbach) and Cinfalva (Siegendorf), aims to curb rising traffic linked to Hungarian commuters but has drawn criticism for disrupting local transit. The move highlights tensions in border communities adapting to increasing cross-border movement.
Tension at the border
As we have reported HERE, tensions have been escalating at the Austrian-Hungarian border, particularly affecting commuters from Hungary who travel to the village of Schattendorf. After prolonged road construction, access for Hungarian residents has been severely restricted, forcing them to take a detour of 30 kilometres instead of the usual 2 kilometres to reach their destinations. The Mayor of Schattendorf, Thomas Hoffmann, has not fulfilled his promise to allow “neighbourhood traffic,” and many residents from the nearby village of Ágfalva are struggling to obtain the necessary permits to cross. Despite being willing to pay for access, they face bureaucratic hurdles, including the installation of concrete barriers.
Austria’s drastic act to stop Hungarian commuters
As Telex reports, Austria has implemented another border road closure to address growing traffic from Hungary, particularly commuters travelling from the Sopron region to Austria for work. Following the earlier closure of the Ágfalva–Somfalva crossing, the Klingenbach council decided to block an exit ramp with a concrete barrier, a measure supported by the provincial government. Installed recently, the closure has already intensified morning congestion near the Sopron border, reflecting the increasing challenges posed by rising commuter numbers.
Legal basis?
Following the closure of the Somfalva (Schattendorf) border, many Hungarian commuters rerouted through Klingenbach, prompting Austria’s latest move to block the road. While the inconvenience to residents is understandable, Hungarian commuters fear that more villages in the neighbouring country might follow suit, further complicating their daily journeys. Lawyer Dr Máté Ruzicska, who has previously challenged Austria’s “temporary” border controls since 2015, argues that such actions set concerning legal precedents. These controls, which commuters claim cost time and money, highlight ongoing tensions over cross-border traffic management.
Legal case
A legal challenge against the border controls was dismissed, with the court ruling them “not wholly unlawful”. Similarly, a case against the municipality of Somfalva over local border restrictions ended with the same outcome, though an administrative appeal remains pending. Lawyers argue that Austria’s actions violate EU law. Still, effective advocacy for commuters requires greater political will, both locally and at the European level—something currently lacking or not visible in public discourse. Hungary, they suggest, could play a stronger role in holding Austria accountable within the EU framework.
Read also:
- Austrian village makes it impossible for Hungarian commuters to pass the border
- The new Iron Curtain: Huge outrage at the Hungarian–Austrian border
Featured image: illustration, depositphotos.com
River Diva debuts in Budapest: An elegant addition to Danube culinary adventures – PHOTOS
A unique event boat has recently entered the capital’s bustling business and event scene. The River Diva is docked close to the A38 and awaits bookings, ready for custom arrangements. Its astonishing design, size and cuisine make it stand out on the Danube.
River Diva’s debut
The River Diva made its grand debut this year, living up to its name with elegance and flair both inside and out. Exuding sophistication and playfulness in every detail, from its sleek design to its exceptional catering, the vessel is a versatile venue. Featuring custom-designed furniture, it seamlessly adapts to events of all sizes, offering an intimate setting for dinners of 50 to 100 guests while accommodating up to 600 people with ease.
Thoughtful interior
The owners commissioned a local team, este’r partners design studio, to design the interior, and they have hidden several exciting details related to the Danube in the space. Guests are invited to uncover these delightful details while enjoying a fresh perspective on the river’s gentle flow. Expansive glass panels further elevate the experience, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the urban landscape beyond.
A gastronomic journey
Like the interior design, the gastronomic concept has remained true to the name of River Diva: the kitchen is run by Pál Tóth, who has proven his skills in the past at Kővirág in Köveskál, and who also earned a Michelin recommendation for the Alabárdos restaurant in Szeged. One of the young chef’s main goals is to break down preconceptions about events and catering and to show a new, high-quality approach in this field.
Fit for all seasons
This one-of-a-kind boat, with its striking checkered patterned roof terrace spanning nearly 500 square metres, has become a standout feature along the downtown Danube, visible from Budapest’s bridges and high vantage points. This versatile outdoor space hosts lively BBQs in the summer and transforms into a cosy winter retreat with roasted chestnuts, chimney cakes, and hot drinks. While already hosting vibrant events, the boat is adding final touches, including a speakeasy bar. From 2025, the owners plan to make the vessel a culinary destination with their own exclusive dinner parties, promising even more unforgettable experiences.
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Massive search underway for missing 16-year-old Ukrainian girl – Check out her photo
A 16-year-old Ukrainian girl has disappeared in Budapest. Aljona Mihajljo left her home in District II on 23 November 2024 and is now in an unknown location.
The Budapest Police Headquarters District II Police Department is conducting a procedure under the wanted number 01020-157/1669/2024 in the case of Aljona Mihajljo, who is in an unknown location. The 16-year-old girl left her home in District II on 23 November 2024 and has since then been at an unknown location, police.hu reports.
This is what she was wearing when she disappeared
Aljona Mihajljo is 168 centimetres tall, of slim build, with light brown hair down to her shoulders. At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing blue jeans, black high-heeled sneakers, a white long-sleeved T-shirt, a black short, split leather, fleece jacket and a black leather handbag. The girl, a Ukrainian national, speaks Hungarian well.
Police are asking anyone with information on the girl’s whereabouts to come forward. The girl, a Ukrainian citizen, speaks Hungarian well.
Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the missing girl is asked to call the 24-hour hotline 06-80-555-111 or the emergency number 112.
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Budapest’s parking crisis: Growing consensus that the city is no longer drivable
The increasing number of cars in Budapest has turned parking into a growing crisis, with limited public space and rising demand causing widespread frustration. To address the issue, city leaders are introducing higher fees and new restrictions, signalling a shift towards discouraging car use in favour of public transport, cycling, and walking. Yet, these measures may not be enough to tackle the deeper challenges posed by the city’s unsustainable parking and traffic systems.
The number of vehicles participating in Budapest’s traffic is steadily rising, while the public space available for parking remains static. In response, the city and various districts are raising parking fees, acknowledging that the days of easy downtown driving and parking are numbered.
According to Index, parking on public streets is seen as a major issue, taking up space that could be repurposed for more efficient uses. This concept, also highlighted in mayoral candidate Dávid Vitézy’s campaign, has inspired district leaders across party lines to rethink parking policies. Currently, 13 of Budapest’s 23 districts (Districts 1–3 and 5–14) operate paid parking systems, with outer districts yet to implement fees. The most expensive zones—such as Víziváros, Újlipótváros, Terézváros, and Józsefváros—charge up to HUF 600 (EUR 1.5) per hour, with a three-hour parking limit.
Proposed fee hikes and weekend charges
Mayor Gergely Karácsony has proposed further increases to parking fees and the introduction of weekend charges in premium zones. He also aims to end free parking for green-plate vehicles, arguing that this privilege disproportionately benefits wealthier car owners at the expense of others. The plan includes incentives for using public transport, such as discounts and subscription benefits.
District-level solutions
Several districts have already implemented changes to address the imbalance between available parking spaces and demand. Terézváros, for instance, introduced resident-only parking zones and expanded paid parking areas to reduce the influx of non-resident cars. They have also promoted alternative transport with subsidies for bicycle purchases and free annual passes for students.
However, district leaders acknowledge that parking supply cannot keep up with the growing number of cars—up by 150,000 in the past five years. Civil organisations are advocating for more drastic measures, including doubling parking fees for non-residents and gradually raising costs for locals.
Pressure from the suburbs
Adding to the problem is increasing traffic from the suburbs, driven by high property prices in Budapest. Many commuters park on the outskirts and continue their journey using public transport. In response, districts like Józsefváros have significantly raised parking permit fees for residents, setting a precedent that other districts plan to follow from 2025.
A call for systemic change
The root of Budapest’s parking crisis lies in the overwhelming volume of cars, which existing measures can only partially address. The Budapest Mobility Plan outlines ambitious goals, aiming to reduce car use from 35% of trips to 20% by 2030, while increasing public transport, cycling, and walking. Achieving this vision will require a fundamental shift in how the city approaches mobility, prioritising sustainable and efficient transport over car dependency.
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PHOTOS: Iconic sculpture group returns to the astonishing Buda Castle
The “Hungária” sculpture group once crowned the grand entrance of the Royal Palace of Buda’s north wing. This masterpiece was tragically damaged during World War II and then lost during the communist era. Now, as part of the historic renewal of Buda Castle, plans are underway to restore the north wing to its former glory, with the reconstructed sculpture group set to reclaim its place above the iconic gateway.
The National Hauszmann Programme
Buda Castle stands as a symbol of Hungary’s rich cultural heritage, reflecting over 750 years of history marked by cycles of creation and destruction. Today, the National Hauszmann Programme aims to revitalise this iconic site, blending respect for tradition with modern restoration efforts. Between 2019 and 2021, the programme focuses on restoring public spaces, parks, and gardens, while reconstructing key historical structures like the Guardhouse and Riding Hall. More than a tourist attraction, the initiative aspires to return Buda Castle to the Hungarian people, creating a space in the heart of Budapest where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
About the iconic sculpture group
The National Hauszmann Programme shared delightful news on the return of an iconic sculpture group to the Buda Castle. When the Royal Palace of Buda underwent expansion, architect Alajos Hauszmann designed a grand main entrance for the north wing’s Szent György Square façade, inspired by Roman triumphal arches. Crowning the stunning Art Nouveau wrought iron gate by Gyula Jungfer is the “Hungária” sculpture group, created by sculptor Gyula Jankovits. This masterpiece celebrates the glory of Hungarian industry and trade, which were instrumental in the palace’s construction. Installed in 1899, the sculpture group was carved from four stone blocks sourced from the Salskút quarry and placed atop the attic of the north wing’s main entrance.
Source: Arcanum
The centrepiece of the composition is an allegorical figure of Hungária, depicted as a woman in traditional Hungarian attire with the Holy Crown on her head. She holds a laurel wreath, symbolising glory and victory, in one hand, and a small Hungarian flag in the other, acting as a protective shield. To her right, a male figure represents Hungarian industry, equipped with a chisel and hammer, while to her left sits an allegorical female figure symbolising trade, holding a messenger’s staff, the ancient emblem of commerce. This sculpture group not only enhances the architectural grandeur of the palace but also embodies Hungary’s cultural pride and historical achievements.
Source: Fortepan
A sorrowful past
During World War II, the north wing of the Royal Palace of Buda and its gateway suffered damage, with parts of the “Hungária” sculpture group broken off, though much of it initially survived. However, in the post-war communist era, the sculpture group was removed, destroyed, and lost for ideological reasons. The north wing was also stripped of its historicist features, rebuilt in a simplified style, and significantly altered, including the removal of the original main entrance on Szent György Square. As part of the ongoing historic renewal of Buda Castle, the north wing will be reconstructed based on Alajos Hauszmann’s original designs, with the restored “Hungária” sculpture group reclaiming its prominent position above the northern gateway.
Photo: Facebook / Nemzeti Hauszmann Program
Source: Fortepan
Photo: Facebook / Nemzeti Hauszmann Program
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Minister Szijjártó: Hungary ‘number one’ destination for Chinese investment in Europe
Hungary is now the “number one” destination for Chinese investment in Europe, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto said after a meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, in Beijing on Tuesday.
In a statement issued by his ministry, Szijjarto said further developing bilateral cooperation was important to both the governments of China and Hungary. He added that Hungary had profited much from that cooperation, noting that the country was the destination for 44pc of all Chinese investments in Europe last year.
He said Chinese companies are investing more than HUF 4,000bn (EUR 9.97bn) in Hungary. Those projects will create tens of thousands of jobs and ensure a base for economic growth in the coming years.
He said talks had started on boosting the number of weekly direct flights between China and Hungary from 21 at present. He added that the number of guest nights spent by Chinese tourists in Hungary was now over the pre-pandemic peak.
He said another Confucius Institute, the sixth in Hungary, would open at the University of Győr.
He said a work group for agricultural cooperation had held its first meeting to discuss a regionalisation agreement that could prevent a complete halt of exports of poultry or pork if only limited areas of the country were affected by outbreaks of avian influenza or African swine fever.
He mentioned the upgrade of the Budapest-Belgrade rail line in partnership with Serbia and China and said Europe’s biggest border crossing would be built in Röszke, on the border with Serbia. He added that a trilateral cooperation would also be the best way to build a crude pipeline between Hungary and Serbia.
He warned that the European Union’s punitive tariffs on Chinese EVs were a threat to Europe’s economy and competitiveness and said European-Chinese cooperation should be improved through negotiations.
Addressing the war in Ukraine, Szijjártó said the sides agreed that an escalation had to be avoided.
As we wrote today, Szijjártó addressed the second China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing. Details are HERE.
Read also: Chinese CATL to begin production next year in Hungary!
Authorities warn about a new form of crime emerging at Budapest Airport
Budapest Airport is constantly working on improving security. With cutting-edge measures like body cameras for ground handlers and a near-total surveillance network, the airport is addressing rising crime trends, from theft in duty-free shops to smuggling, while ensuring a safer travel experience.
Thefts at Budapest Airport
As Infostart reports, Budapest Airport, serving 15-16 million passengers annually and managing around 200,000 tonnes of cargo, requires a robust security and cleaning presence to ensure smooth operations. According to Police Lieutenant Colonel Balázs Bráda, Deputy Director of Criminal Investigation at the Airport Police Directorate (RRI), the team handles 500-600 criminal cases each year, primarily theft and property crimes. While baggage theft was previously a major concern, theft from duty-free shops in transit areas is now on the rise. Recent initiatives, including the introduction of body cameras, aim to address these challenges and high-profile incidents such as the mysterious case of stolen gold bars. Balázs Bráda added:
There are now travelling criminals: they buy the cheapest airline tickets and visit up to two or three airports in a day to “loot” duty-free shops.
Combating crime with cameras
Budapest Airport has established itself as a leader in airport security through innovative measures and advanced surveillance systems. With 90-95% of its premises monitored by 1,000-1,500 cameras, the airport boasts a near-perfect detection rate. Common theft targets, such as perfumes and sunglasses, often result in damages of up to HUF 1.5 million (EUR 3,646). To tackle baggage theft, Budapest Airport implemented a pioneering initiative requiring ground handlers to wear body cameras, a first among international airports. This system, operational since February, has significantly enhanced security. In 2024, only eight luggage search cases were reported, with surveillance clearing five incidents and identifying suspects in the remaining three.
Other forms of crime
Beyond theft, the airport faces offences linked to illegal migration, such as document forgery and human smuggling, though Budapest Airport’s skilled passport control has deterred such attempts. Other common issues include hooliganism, often involving intoxicated tourists, and drug-related crimes ranging from festival-goers inadvertently carrying substances to deliberate smuggling. Additionally, unauthorised attempts to breach security zones have been effectively thwarted by vigilant armed guards.
The story of the missing gold bars
Budapest Airport recently highlighted a significant success in solving a high-profile theft case involving missing cash and gold bars reported by a Chinese passenger. Initially met with scepticism, X-rays confirmed the valuables had been in the luggage. Through extensive data collection and investigation, the stolen gold bars were recovered, and the perpetrators were identified. The theft occurred in the aircraft’s luggage compartment before the implementation of body cameras.
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One of the world’s most beautiful libraries is in Budapest, and it’s turning 120 – PHOTOS
The Central Library of the Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library is housed in the astonishing 19th-century neo-baroque Wenckheim Palace. Do we need more than that to feel awesome while sitting, reading, drinking a coffee or having a chat with a friend in a library? Here are some photos of the astonishing Ervin Szabó Library (Fővárosi Szabó Ervin Könyvtár), abbreviated as “fszek” or “fészek” (meaning nest in English).
Ervin Szabó Library: one of the most beautiful libraries in Budapest
The library is to celebrate the 120th anniversary of its foundation this year, Lelépő wrote. The portal collected ten interesting facts about the library for the birthday.
Work to create a new library for Budapest started in 1903 when the municipal council accepted its charter and foundation documents. Its gates opened in 1904 with 33 thousand volumes. The namesake, Ervin Szabó, is one of the leading figures of Hungarian sociology and was one of the institution’s first fellow associates. He supervised the library’s transition into a “public library” and made it a centre of sociology in the Kingdom of Hungary. Szabó died in 1918 of Spanish flu. He was only 41.
Dragon Children’s Library inaugurated
In 1927, Budapest bought the Wenckheim Palace, erected in 1889 in neo-baroque style in Budapest’s Palace District. The library moved there in 1931. In WWII, the Central Library was bombed. Thankfully, only two branch libraries were destroyed.
After the losses in the world war and following the Soviet occupation of the country, the work continued, creating 16 branches and even two “tram libraries” in the capital. Now, it hosts Hungary’s greatest collection in the science of sociology.
The number of visitors grew gradually, so between 1998 and 2001, the building was renewed to serve increased demand.
One of the specialities of the library is the Dragon Children’s Library. Check out some photos below:
Some more photos of the magnificent library:
Read also:
- Discover the most beautiful libraries of Hungary – PHOTOS and details HERE
- The 5 most beautiful libraries in Budapest
Have you ever heard the story or seen the statue of Prince Buda and Princess Pest? – PHOTOS
According to the legend, Prince Buda wanted to embrace Princess Pest, but could not due to the River Danube. A splendid statue depicts the tale near the Garden of Philosophers and Nelson Mandela Park, close to the symbolic Gellért Hill Citadel. Here’s the story and some photos of the statue of Prince Buda and Princess Pest.
Was Buda a prince plotting against Attila, the ruler of the Huns?
Budapest has several hidden wonders we can discover only if we spend months or even years living in the magical Hungarian capital. One of the breathtaking places you should check out if visiting or living in Budapest is the Statue of Prince Buda and Princess Pest.
This piece of art was erected in 1982 and is the work of Márta Lesenyei, a Hungarian sculptor and artist of the Zsennye Art Residency. She works with wood, stone and bronze, and her statue overseeing Buda and Pest from a hilltop of the Gellért Hill was made of the latter.
If you have never heard the story of Prince Buda and Princess Pest before, you should not be ashamed. That is because such a legend does not exist. According to the made-up legend, Buda was the traitor brother of Attila, the King of the Huns. Allegedly, he plotted against his brother while he was away at war, but when Attila returned, he killed him in a duel. Based on the legend, Buda was named after him.
Of course, that is just a tale. Nobody ever named a settlement after a traitor, even if he (or she) was his (or her) sibling. Moreover, nobody could ever prove the existence of Buda. Only Attila existed, regarded as a heroic leader by the Turkic and the Hungarian peoples and serving as a metaphysical foundation for the Turkic-Hungarian cooperation.
The statue of Prince Buda and Princess Pest offers a breathtaking panorama of the city
Nonetheless, the statue of Prince Buda and Princess Pest is still astonishing. It is located near the Garden of Philosophers and close to the Gellért Hill Citadel, overlooking Budapest, so visitors can easily spot almost all the popular sightseeing places of the city from the hilltop lookout. Click HERE for the Google Maps position.
According to National Geographic, its official Hungarian name is Kilátókő-szobor (the Statue of the Lookout Rock). The statue’s creator is Márta Lesenyei (94), but the stone composition was made by another artist, György Vadász. It was made of stone and bronze, and it is 150 cm tall. The canyon between the two stones of Buda and Pest symbolises the Danube. The prince and the princess would like to embrace, symbolising the need for the unification of Buda, Óbuda and Pest, which were separate settlements until the end of the 19th century.
Budapest was not always a unified city: it was created from the aforementioned three settlements in 1873. Óbuda evolved on the former Roman town of Aquincum, and probably the name Buda also derived from the Slavic translation (“voda”) of the Latin “aqua” word meaning water. That is fairly understandable since Budapest has always been a city of fountains, baths, and pools. Aquincum was already famous for its baths in the Roman Empire.
Budapest celebrated its 151st birthday on 17 November. The city celebrated in many ways, e.g. with a party tram.
Here are some photos of the beautiful artistic composition:
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American teacher faces expulsion from Hungary after a 10-year career in Budapest
An American teacher with a decade-long career at a secondary school in Budapest has been expelled by Hungary’s National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (OIF) due to a procedural error in renewing his residence permit. Despite his longstanding contribution to the local community and education system, the teacher was forced to leave Hungary and the EU immediately, highlighting the rigidity of Hungary’s strict immigration laws.
American teacher expelled from the country
As reported by Telex, an American teacher working at a secondary school in Budapest has been expelled by National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (OIF), despite having lived in the country for a decade. According to a letter from the school principal to parents and students, the American teacher resides in a local apartment and has been a longstanding educator in Budapest. The expulsion stemmed from a procedural error during the renewal of his residence permit. The head teacher explained that documentation was submitted in an incorrect sequence, leading to the application’s automatic rejection.
What will happen now?
The American teacher was required to leave Hungary and the EU immediately, with the option to apply for the ban to be lifted before reapplying for a residence permit. The duration of this process is uncertain, but the school estimates the teacher’s absence will last between three weeks and two months. In the meantime, the school is working to secure professional substitutes to manage the unfortunate situation. The head teacher criticised the procedure, calling it “totally pointless and incomprehensible.” The head teacher writes the following in an open letter:
The fact that the teacher has been teaching in Hungary for 10 years, that he has a public service of great importance to the Hungarian state and society in a field of shortage, that he is a graduate teacher with no criminal record, a decent background and a decent living, is obviously not a factor. We will do our utmost, we will do everything we can to ensure that the teacher can get back to work as soon as possible because his work and his precense are of the utmost importance to our community and our students.
Strict immigration laws
The head teacher declined to comment as the matter is ongoing, and the American teacher has not responded to Telex’s inquiries. However, the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (OIF) provided a general statement, emphasising that Hungary enforces some of the strictest immigration rules among EU Member States. They noted that applications are automatically rejected if they fail to meet legal requirements, with no room for discretion.
OIF explained that foreign nationals losing their residency rights must leave Hungary immediately, as mandated by national and EU laws. They highlighted that the expulsion period is determined case-by-case, factoring in individual circumstances. While the expelled individual can seek remedies or reapply for residency under specific legal conditions, these steps must align with existing legislation.
Read also:
- Record number of Hungarian students flee the country for higher education abroad
- Hungary’s push for Erasmus, Horizon access: Minister accuses Brussels of blocking youth and researchers
Featured image: illustration, depositphotos.com
The big showdown: Is life better in Romania than Hungary?
From taxes and salaries to cost of living and family benefits, an insightful comparison between Romania and Hungary reveals slight contrasts in quality of life. While it is an ambitious commitment to demonstrate which of the two countries offers a better life, a video showcased some interesting points.
Romania vs Hungary
Recently, Pénzcentrum has made a comparison of life quality in Romania and Hungary, based on an informative YouTube video. The video delved into a detailed comparison of the quality of life between Hungary and Romania, examining over ten objective indicators. Building on insights from a previous analysis comparing Hungary and Slovakia, the creator aimed to determine “where life is better” using measurable factors. While acknowledging that emotional factors like family ties or national identity often influence personal choices, the video concentrated on economic and social metrics to provide an objective evaluation of living conditions in Romania and its neighbour.
Taxation and salaries
Taxation and salaries in Romania show a notable contrast when compared to Hungary. In Romania, the deductions from gross salaries range between 40-45%, which is significantly higher than Hungary’s 33.5%. However, for minimum wage earners, Romania’s deductions drop to 35.7%, which highlights the burden of taxation on higher salaries. When it comes to minimum wage, Romania holds the advantage with both gross and net figures leading in comparison to Hungary. Conversely, Hungary surpasses its neighbour in terms of average earnings, particularly net salaries, due to the higher deductions imposed in Romania.
Unemployment
Unemployment rates reveal a slight disparity as well, with Hungary reporting 4.5% and its neighbour at 5.4% as of January this year. This indicates a marginally healthier job market in Hungary.
VAT
The Value Added Tax (VAT) landscape further distinguishes these two nations. Hungary imposes a VAT rate of 27%, which is considerably higher than Romania’s 19%. Nonetheless, both countries offer reduced VAT rates on certain products; for instance, Hungary applies lower rates on items like milk (18%), medicines (5%), and newspapers (0%), while its neighbour offers reduced rates for food (9%) and books (5%).
Cost of living
In terms of the cost of living, Romania generally presents a lower overall cost compared to Hungary. Renting is also more affordable there, although the difference is less pronounced than the overall cost of living.
Family allowances
Family allowances differ significantly between the two countries. Hungary provides various benefits for families with children up to three years old, including CSED, GYED, and GYES. In contrast, Romanian support extends only up to two years but offers a more substantial allowance at 85% of the salary. While family allowances are higher across the border, Hungary provides more tax relief options for families, particularly those with multiple children and young mothers.
Retirement and life expectancy
Regarding pensions and retirement ages, both countries set the retirement age at 65 for men, while women in Romania can retire earlier at 62, with additional reductions possible for each child raised. The average old-age pension – according to the video – stands at approximately HUF 233,500 (EUR 570) net in Hungary compared to around RON 3,014 (EUR 606). Meanwhile, life expectancy rates are closely aligned between the two nations, with Hungary at 76.9 years and its neighbour slightly lower at 76.6 years as of 2023.
Air quality
Air quality assessments by the European Environment Agency rank Budapest at 242nd out of 372 cities for pollution levels, which is relatively better than Bucharest’s position at 314th, indicating poorer air quality.
Public safety
Finally, public safety statistics suggest that Hungary fares slightly better than Romania; data from the World Population Review indicates scores of 1.5 for Hungary and 1.6 for its neighbour in 2023, reflecting a somewhat safer environment in Hungary.
Read also:
- Will it be more favourable to be a pensioner in Romania than in Hungary? Here’s what the expert says
- PHOTOS: Amazing Roman Catholic parish house inaugurated in Transylvania
Featured image: depositphotos.com
Disturbing VIDEO emerged of the murdered American woman’s last hours: she walked hand in hand with her alleged killer
The whole country was shaken to hear that a 31-year-old American nurse, Mackenzie Michalski, was brutally murdered in Budapest in early November. Police arrested an Irish man, her murderer, who claims they had a consensual BDSM encounter during which the woman died. Yesterday, a disturbing video emerged of their arrival at the man’s apartment.
The Irish guy talks about a consensual BDSM encounter
Ms Michalski went missing on the night of 5 November after putting her friend on a plane back to the USA at Budapest Airport. After consuming large amounts of alcohol in multiple Budapest pubs with a 37-year-old Irish guy beginning his marketing job in Budapest, they went to the man’s downtown apartment.
That is the point when two versions of the story begin to unfold. The Irish guy’s version states that the American woman asked him to tie her up and cause her pain. According to the Irish man, at some point during their “consensual BDSM sex”, she fell unconscious and suffocated due to oxygen deprivation.
According to the family, it was a deliberate murder
The woman’s American boyfriend (allegedly, they broke up before her travel to Hungary), and her family and friends do not believe the Irish guy’s version. The family shared a post on the mother’s Facebook profile highlighting that what happened was a “deliberate and violent murder”.
“One important point needs to be clarified. Based on all available evidence reviewed during consultation with the Hungarian Police, our daughter’s death was in no way accidental despite claims to the contrary. It was a deliberate and violent murder. After our encouraging interactions with the Hungarian Police and other authorities, we remain hopeful that Kenzie’s killer will be held responsible for his crimes to the fullest extent of the law.”
Ms Michalski walked hand in hand with her alleged murderer
The Hungarian police continue to investigate the femicide. After the death of the American woman, the Irish man tried to get rid of the body. He rented a car and placed the corpse in the marshes near Szigliget, close to Lake Balaton. His lawyer, the defender of celebrity-like defendants, György Magyar, says he panicked. That is the reason for his suspicious reaction.
RTL Klub obtained the last hours of the duo in the Budapest downtown apartment recorded by CCTV cameras. The footage makes one thing clear. Neither the man nor the woman were drugged, and both seemed to be aware of what they were doing. They walked hand in hand on the street, and it seems Ms Michalski entered the elevator voluntarily.
The Irish guy’s lawyer says the autopsy will clarify the situation in favour of his client. According to the family, Ms Michalski’s body is already in the USA.
Here is the video:
Read also:
- “It was a deliberate and violent murder” – Parents of murdered American woman share update
- Crime statistics: The most dangerous places in Hungary
Dozens of Budapest technological university BME researchers on the Stanford list
The recently published Stanford list, which lines up the top 2 percent of researchers in the world of science, includes 57 names related to BME. The ranking, based on indicators of citations to publications according to the Scopus database, is published annually by the staff of Stanford University and the Elsevier publishing company, known for its scientific journals.
The list is compiled by examining 20 scientific fields and using six indicators: total citations, the Hirsch index, the Schreiber index modified with co-authorship, the number of citations received for articles with a single author, one or first author, and one or first or last author, bme.hu wrote.
The latest list, which takes into account articles published since 1960, includes 51 active researchers from BME, and also includes six deceased colleagues (István Kollár, Dénes Petz, Ernő Pungor, Vladimír Székely, József Varga and Alfréd Zawadowski), whose citations still place them among the world’s leading figures.
The full list of BME researchers:
Sándor Ádány, Szilárd Aradi, Katalin Bagi, László György Balázs, Attila Bonyár, Levente Buttyán, Gergely Czél, Tibor Czigány, Szabolcs Duleba, Domokos Esztergár-Kiss, Ádám Gali, Norbert Geier, László Gyöngyösi, Róbert Ervin Gyurcsányi, Giuseppe Habib, István Hargittai, Magdolna Hargittai, Gábor Harsányi, György Horvai, Ildikó Horváth, Sándor Imre, Tamás Insperger, Mihály Kállay, György Keglevich, Gyula Szabolcs Kéri, Rita Kiss, István Kollár, Péter László Kollár, István László Lagzi, György Marosi, János Martin Mayer, Gábor Lajos Molnár, László Monostori, Péter Nagy, Kristóf Nagy Zsombor, László Nyulászi, Imre Norbert Orbulov, Dénes Petz, Tamás Pritz, Béla Pukánszky, Ernő Pungor, Vilmos Simon, Gábor Stépán, József Szejtli, András Szekrényes, Vladimír Székely, József Szilágyi, Tamás Tábi, János Tapolcai, László Toka, Ákos Török, József András Tóth, József Varga, Pál Varga, Balázs Vásárhelyi, Attila Gergely Zaránd, Alfréd Zawadowski.
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PHOTOS: Beloved Hungarian hotel in the picturesque Danube Bend reopens in five months
A tragic fire destroyed the fourth floor and the roof of the Silvanus Hotel, a beloved Hungarian hotel located on a hilltop in the scenic Visegrád, this March. Restoration work began almost immediately, and the hotel owners plan to reopen the place next April. Here are some photos of the renovation process, assuring all that the new hotel will be even more stunning than its predecessor.
Beloved Hungarian Hotel Silvanus reopens in April
According to index.hu, Hotel Silvanus in Visegrád will reopen on 1 April, but guests can book rooms in November. Operational manager Róbert Pintér said the hotel’s rebuilding was progressing well. Dismantling the roof and the fourth floor damaged in the fire started only one week after the incident.
Those who booked a room before can write to in**@ho***********.hu and discuss how they can spend their holiday in the scenic hotel.
In a Facebook post, Hotel Silvanus wrote that they would join this year’s Black Friday with a “first-minute” promotion. They will offer rooms with half board service for only HUF 25,000/night/guest (EUR 60) instead of EUR 82.6. The voucher can be used between 1 April and 31 May and only between Sunday and Thursday. A weekend stay costs some extra. Read more about the offer HERE.
A bejegyzés megtekintése az Instagramon
Hotel Silvanus is close to King Mathias’s Renaissance Visegrád palace, but you can embark on a hiking tour to the nearby woods and mountains. The charming town of Visegrád is also close and the entire place gives you a unique opportunity to glance upon the picturesque Danube Bend, one of Hungary’s most popular holiday places.
Guests’ popular choice
The hotel opened in 1971 and has been a popular meeting place for nature and culture-loving guests ever since. The March fire destroyed the fourth floor and the hotel roof but, thankfully, claimed no casualties.
Following its renovation, Hotel Silvanus promises to restore its reputation as a premier spot for relaxation and recreation in the scenic Visegrád region. The hotel features a variety of amenities, including wellness facilities and family-friendly activities, ensuring that it remains a top choice for visitors seeking a memorable experience amidst Hungary’s natural beauty.
The top floor and the roof are reconstructed by the experienced BMP Plc., which seeks sustainable, modern solutions while preserving the hotel’s charm and eco-friendly reputation.
Interestingly, Hotel Silvanus was Hungary’s first “green hotel” and was awarded Hotel of the Year in 2018. The hotel is eager to welcome domestic and international guests again.
Read also:
- Stunning VIDEO captures the revival of Gellért Hotel in Budapest – read more and check out the video HERE
- UrbFace: Budapest’s elegant and iconic “skyscraper” hotel will be dismantled, rebuilt – VISUALS, PHOTOS and details in THIS article
Attention, users! BudapestGO app renews in November, new features available
BudapestGO, the popular application by BKK Centre for Budapest Transport, will be enhanced with new features from November. The mobility manager is continuously assessing customer feedback and developing the application according to users’ needs. The latest features, which will be added to the app in the coming days, include a dark mode, new in-app messages and easier access to stop-based timetables. BKK’s award-winning app has already been downloaded by more than 6 million people.
BudapestGO is renewing
Several new features are coming to BudapestGO users’ smartphones in the coming days. BKK continuously assesses customer satisfaction with the app and adapts the improvements to their needs. This November, the company will update the app with several new features that will make using the app even easier and more user-friendly, bkk.hu wrote.
Dark mode and stop-based timetables are coming soon
Among the new features, one of the most striking is the introduction of dark mode, which will allow for a more comfortable use of the app, based on the settings of users’ smartphones. In practice, this means that if someone switches to dark mode after 22:00 at night, for example, the BudapestGO app will adapt to this and switch to dark mode. Of course, the dark mode can also be set manually within the app, which customers can do under “More” / Display mode”.
It will also be easier to access the timetables for each stop, as the improvements will allow you to tap on the “Timetable” icon in the search bar to see the list and timetable of the departures from that stop, and to choose which timetable to show. In addition, clicking on the stop icon in the map view will also display a timetable icon showing the departure times of the lines from that stop.
New in-app messages
Also new as a result of the improvements is the renewal of in-app messages in several menu sections, which will make communication between the company and its customers smoother in the future. BKK will thus be able to inform public transport users about important service changes, for example, or the latest information and news related to travel, ticketing and the application itself.
To keep up to date with the latest developments in BudapestGO, it is worth selecting automatic updates in your phone’s settings menu, so that the most recent information will always be available in the future.
Over 100 million planned journeys in total
BudapestGO continues to enjoy uninterrupted popularity, growing month by month with an average of 1.4 million active monthly users in the Hungarian capital and its metropolitan area, with 2.7 million registered users and more than 6 million downloads. Between 4 and 4.5 million journeys per month and more than 100 million journeys since its launch have been planned in BudapestGO.
Read also:
- Regime change in parking in Budapest: Parking ticket machines may be removed in 2026 – read more HERE
- “It was a deliberate and violent murder” – Parents of murdered American woman in Budapest share update
Spontaneous euroisation continues in Hungary, expert says EUR 1 will cost HUF 500 soon
The Orbán cabinet regularly voices that they would not like to introduce the euro in Hungary until the country’s economy does not meet multiple conditions. However, the significant drops in the Hungarian national currency’s exchange rate resulted in spontaneous euroisation in multiple areas of life in Hungary, including property and car purchases. It seems the trend will continue.
Forint is underperforming
Multiple surveys show that Hungarians stick to their national currency more than other European nations. For example, in Romania, people regularly calculate in foreign currencies when they buy property or high-value goods like apartment renovation or cars. In Hungary, such ads would have been strange a couple of years ago when the forint was stronger. Now, they are no longer odd.
The forint was introduced after Hungary’s pengő experienced the highest inflation in world history following the devastation caused by the Soviet and German armies fighting a deadly battle in Hungary between September 1944 and April 1945. Hungarians liked forint, and the new national currency proved to be a trustworthy means of wealth creation for decades. That changed after the robust inflation and forint weakening that started in H2 2022.
We wrote yesterday that the forint is underperforming compared to other regional currencies. Moreover, it reached historic lows against the American dollar, the Swiss franc, the pound sterling, and even the Polish zloty. Currently, we have to pay more than HUF 411 for one euro. The historical high was almost 424 in November 2022 when the Hungarian National Bank (MNB) intervened and raised the base rate sky-high to protect the forint. Now, they are not expected to do so. Moreover, MNB governor György Matolcsy’s mandate will end next March, so he will probably not carry out fundamental changes in the MNB’s FX policies.
Hungarian forint struggling against a powerful US dollar
Meanwhile, the forint’s weakening is unstoppable. Last June, it was at 362/EUR. Then, a new depreciation trend started, which does not seem to end, primarily due to Trump’s victory in the United States, strengthening the dollar and weakening all emerging currencies, including the forint. Furthermore, Hungarian media regularly reports that the Orbán cabinet is not interested in a powerful national currency because a weak forint helps their export-increasing plans.
As a result, it is not surprising that spontaneous euroisation started in Hungary in the past few years. Péter Virovácz, a senior analyst of ING, told Cash Tag that sooner or later, we would exceed the HUF 500/EUR 1 currency exchange level. Therefore, the question is when the Hungarians will spontaneously introduce the euro.
Spontaneous euroisation in multiple sectors of the economy
Mr Virovácz said that in the case of multiple commodities, prices are already provided in euros. One example is car purchase. Of course, you can pay in forints for your car, but its sum will depend on the exchange rate, varying frequently.
A similar trend is perceptible in the construction industry. If you ask for a price calculation concerning some kind of development in your home, you may get the price in euros.
In the Hungarian property market, the changes may mean millions of forints. For example, a 90 m2 luxury apartment cost HUF 376 million before. Now, it is HUF 402 million. The reason is that you have to pay in euros for it, and that price remains unchanged: EUR 978 thousand.
The question is how long Hungarians will tolerate this trend. In 2026, general elections will be held in Hungary and PM Orbán has a challenger, Péter Magyar, the head of the Tisza Party and the ex-husband of former Justice Minister Judit Varga. If the Orbán cabinet becomes unable to deal with economic difficulties, Mr Magyar has a chance to win in 2026.
Read also:
- The European Commission cools PM Orbán’s optimism about Hungary’s 2025 GDP growth – read more HERE
- Shocking: Stunning rise in Hungary’s housing prices outpaces all of Europe
MÁV imposes extraordinary order due to brutal snowfall in Hungary
The snowfall and frost across much of Hungary demand heightened attention to traffic conditions. To prioritise safety, both MÁV and Magyar Közút have implemented winter-specific operational protocols. Meanwhile, meteorologists have issued heightened warnings, particularly for the western and Transdanubian regions, where snow showers could complicate driving.
Zsolt Hegyi, CEO of MÁV, announced the adoption of winter traffic measures to safeguard rail operations during challenging weather conditions. Acknowledging potential disruptions, Hegyi assured the public of the company’s commitment to maintaining smooth operations. According to Pénzcentrum, MÁV has introduced an on-call system to enable rapid responses to unforeseen events. The CEO also urged caution, particularly at level crossings, emphasising that transport safety is a collective responsibility.
Snowfall and meteorological warnings
According to HungaroMet’s latest forecasts, snowfall is anticipated from Thursday evening, predominantly affecting the Transdanubian region and western areas. Warnings for snow showers have been issued in three counties, while general snowfall risks cover half the country. These forecasts are critical for both transport authorities and motorists in planning their journeys.
Since the 10th of November, Magyar Közút has been operating under its winter schedule. Starting Thursday evening, preventative salting will occur in 12-hour shifts, with snow clearing to follow as needed on state-managed roads. Motorists are urged to equip their vehicles with winter tyres and adjust their driving habits to the weather conditions. Reduced speeds and heightened attentiveness are vital for avoiding accidents.
What you should do if you decide to travel
Over the coming days, both drivers and pedestrians will need to exercise extra caution. Whether travelling by car or train, the combination of snowfall and icy surfaces presents increased risks. Before setting out, it is essential to check the latest weather and traffic updates and to avoid unnecessary risks.
MÁV and Magyar Közút’s measures aim to improve transport safety, but their success hinges on the cooperation of travellers. Proper preparation—such as fitting winter tyres, driving carefully, and adhering to traffic rules—will be crucial in navigating snowy conditions.
Winter weather poses challenges to transport systems annually, but the extraordinary measures now in place should help mitigate these difficulties. By working together, road and rail users can ensure safe travel despite the snow and frost. Over the coming days, caution, preparation, and responsible behaviour will be vital to avoid serious disruptions.
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