Hungary ranks among top 15 most nerve-wracking countries for drivers
A recent study by the UK-based Scrap Car Comparison magazine ranked Hungary as one of the scariest places in the world for drivers, placing it 15th on the list with a ‘scare score’ of 6.52 out of 10.
Scariest places for drivers
The study surveyed 2,000 motorists from 10 different countries—including the UK, USA, and Germany—who were asked to rate how nervous they would feel driving in 49 of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Hungary, alongside Turkey, Greece, and Italy, was highlighted as one of the European nations where overseas drivers feel the most uneasy, Greek Reporter wrote based on Scrap Car Comparison.
Driving in Hungary: What makes it intimidating?
Hungary’s high ranking reflects a variety of challenges that drivers, especially tourists, face. The country’s infrastructure includes a mix of modern highways and more rural roads, where potholes and uneven surfaces can increase the risk of accidents. Additionally, traffic congestion in cities like Budapest, coupled with aggressive driving styles, often makes driving an intimidating experience for foreigners.
Much like its European counterparts Greece and Italy, Hungary is known for its narrow, winding streets, especially in historic areas, which can be difficult to navigate. Tourists who are unfamiliar with local driving norms or road layouts may find themselves particularly nervous in these conditions.
Global driving hazards
While Hungary made it to the top 15, the global ranking was topped by India, which received a ‘scare score’ of 7.15. Countries from Africa and Asia, including Venezuela, Zimbabwe, and Morocco, also ranked among the top five most nerve-wracking places to drive.
Interestingly, the UK and the USA, both known for their complex road systems, ranked lower on the list at 26th and 33rd, respectively. The Netherlands, with its well-maintained roads, scored the lowest on the ‘scare scale,’ making it the country where tourists feel most comfortable driving.
Despite the challenges, Hungary remains a popular destination for tourists, but those planning to drive through the country should be prepared for the unique challenges the roads may present.
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I don’t think driving in Hungary is particularly scary, intimidating or challenging compared to others. Lots of countries have rural and poorly maintained narrow country roads, the UK, Ireland and France for example have an endless amount. I have driven a lot all over the world and if I had to pick countries in Europe that are unpleasant to drive, Austria and Belgium are 2 that come first to my mind, for different reasons.