Like in past years, the lower Danube embankment road on the Pest side of the capital city will be opened to pedestrians, bicyclists and users of scooters and roller skates every weekend this summer, the mayor of Budapest said on Thursday.
Gergely Karácsony said in a post on Facebook that the road’s full width will be free of cars and lorries from spring to autumn every weekend between March 15 and October 26 and during public holidays. At the same time, the viaduct next to the Jane Haining embankment and several other sections along the river bank may be renovated starting this year or in 2026, he said.
The central section of the embankment will be fully opened to pedestrians from June 21, after the end of the school year, until mid-August, when preparations will begin for the August 20 national holiday.
UPDATE: Budapest public transport company unions, management reach wage agreement
The management and unions of Budapest public transport company BKV have reached an agreement on an 8pc base wage increase for 2025, BKV said on Friday. The agreement contains an additional 1pc increase comprising a “Budapest bonus”, vouchers and seniority perquisites.
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The streets of Budapest are bracing for disruption as taxi drivers plan a large-scale strike on 15 January. Organised by the Taxis’ Interest Group, the demonstration aims to bring attention to a range of pressing issues, from fair taxation to safer transportation in the capital.
The route and schedule
As we reported on Tuesday, the protest will begin at Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere) at 1:30 PM. However, this is just the starting point, Világgazdaság writes. Striking taxi drivers plan to traverse key locations across the city, including:
The Ministry of Construction and Transport
City Hall (Városháza)
The Ministry of National Economy
The Ministry of Finance
Budapest Transport Center (BKK)
Their goal is to highlight grievances at each stop, ensuring their voices are heard by the relevant authorities. Adding to the disruption, the year’s first snowfall earlier in the day is likely to exacerbate traffic chaos.
The advocacy organisation has laid out a series of demands aimed at improving the working conditions for taxi drivers while fostering a safer and more sustainable urban transport system:
Raising the VAT exemption threshold The group calls for the tax exemption limit to be increased and regularly adjusted to reflect current economic conditions.
Rejecting inflation-based taxation They argue against policies that tie taxation to inflation, claiming it unfairly burdens businesses and the general population alike.
Introducing taxi licencing limits in Budapest While other major Hungarian cities have implemented such limits, the capital has yet to follow suit.
Overhauling the tax system Taxi drivers are pushing for comprehensive tax reforms and have submitted detailed proposals for consideration.
Addressing safety concerns The organisation stresses the need to reassess safety measures, both for general traffic and for issues specific to taxi drivers.
A call for change
The Taxis’ Interest Group is demanding reforms that ensure livable incomes, better job opportunities, and a greener, safer transportation system. Organisers believe these changes are crucial to improving the quality of life for both taxi drivers and the wider population. With routes spanning key government and transport offices, the protest is expected to bring significant traffic disruptions to Budapest. Residents and commuters are advised to plan accordingly, especially as wintry conditions further complicate mobility.
In 2025, there will be five long weekends in Hungary, but there will be no 6-day-long weekend like in 2024. The list of the long weekends was published by national economy minister Márton Nagy.
According to 24.hu, there will be one more four-day-long weekend in 2025 compared to 2024, while the number of 3-day-long weekends will be significantly lower. At Christmas, there will be a 5-day-long weekend. Employees in Hungary will have to work on three Saturdays in 2025.
Jobbik, a Hungarian opposition party, regularly submits a bill to turn 24 December a holiday. They say Hungary is a Christian country, and the Orbán cabinet is fiercely Christian, so they should not allow work on Christmas Eve. However, the Hungarian government never supported that initiative: the Fidesz majority discarded it in the Parliament’s Business Development Committee last December. Meanwhile, in Poland, the parliament accepted it, and President Andrzej Duda signed a bill that turned 24 December into a holiday starting from 2025. Interestingly, this year, 24 December will be a holiday despite the Orbán cabinet’s resistance. Let us show you how below.
Photo: depositphotos.com
National Holidays
On 15 March, Hungary celebrates the outbreak of the 1848 civic revolution, which later became a freedom fight against the Austrian Habsburg and the Russian Tsar. In 2025, 15 March will fall on a Saturday, so it will not be a public holiday. 23 October marks the outbreak of the 1956 anti-Communist and anti-Soviet revolution, and we will celebrate it this year on a Thursday. Therefore, it will be a public holiday. 20 August is the main national holiday of Hungary, marking the foundation of the Christian Hungarian Medieval state. This year, it will be on a Wednesday.
Rest days for Easter, Pentecost, All Saints’ Day, Christmas, New Year’s Eve
In 2025, Good Friday will be on 18 April, so there will be a four-day-long weekend between 18 and 21 April. 9 June will be Pentecost, so there will be a three-day-long weekend between 7 and 9 June. 1 November (All Saints’ Day) will be a Saturday. At Christmas, we will have a truly long weekend between 24 and 28 December. Finally, New Year’s Eve will be on a Wednesday, while New Year’s Day will be on a Thursday.
There will be one more four-day-long weekend between 1 and 4 May celebrating Labour Day on 1 May, which will fall on a Thursday.
Rescheduled workdays in 2025
There will be three rescheduled workdays in Hungary in 2025. We will have to work on 17 May (instead of 2 May, which will be a rest day), 18 October (24 October) and 13 December (24 December).
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Key changes in Hungary from January 2025 – Here is what you need to know
As of 1 January 2025, two major telecom companies, Vodafone Hungary and DIGI have ceased to exist as separate entities following a merger of the 4iG Group’s telecommunications brands. This consolidation brings Vodafone Hungary, DIGI, Antenna Hungária, and Invitech under a single brand: One.
The transition involves temporary service disruptions for Vodafone Hungary customers between 31 December 2024, at 3:00 PM and 2 January 2025, at 7:00 AM, 24.hu reports. During this period, online services, mobile payment options, the My Vodafone app, and other features, including balance top-ups, data purchases, and toll and parking payments, will be unavailable.
Websites associated with the former brands, such as digi.hu and vodafone.hu, have also been retired, with the new centralised site, one.hu, set to go live soon.
Current customers of telecom giants Vodafone and DIGI need not worry about their services. Contracts and service terms remain unchanged, and there will be no automatic changes to plans or tariffs due to the rebranding.
Vodafone entered the Hungarian market in 1999, and in 2023, 4iG Plc., in partnership with the Hungarian state, acquired the company for HUF 660 billion (EUR 1.60 billion). This latest step signifies a major transformation in Hungary’s telecommunications landscape.
As the new year begins, Hungarians are bracing for a mix of financial challenges and opportunities that will shape their daily lives in 2025. While rising costs in various sectors are expected, significant wage increases, pension adjustments, and enhanced family support programs aim to offset the financial burden for many households. Here is a detailed look at the key changes taking effect on 1 January 2025.
Rising costs across sectors
Fuel prices are set to increase due to higher excise taxes. Petrol will see a rise of HUF 10 per litre, while diesel will climb by HUF 11 per litre. Although the increments are modest, they could add up for frequent drivers and logistics companies, potentially impacting the broader economy, Világgazdaság reports.
The banking sector is also introducing higher costs for its services. Following the end of a temporary freeze on transaction taxes in 2024, fees for transfers and direct debits will rise. Major financial institutions like OTP Bank and MBH Bank have already announced adjustments to their pricing structures. These changes are expected to affect households and businesses alike, with increased banking fees adding to monthly expenses.
Highway tolls will also become more expensive, with a 3.4% increase coming into effect. The prices for weekly, annual, and county-specific passes are all set to rise, impacting commuters and frequent travellers. For example, national yearly vignettes for cars will now cost HUF 49,190 (EUR 120), while a weekly pass will be priced at HUF 6,450 (EUR 16).
Smokers will face further financial strain as excise taxes on tobacco products are scheduled to climb by 9.5%. This continues a broader trend of rising cigarette prices aimed at reducing tobacco consumption and aligning with EU regulations.
Wage increases bring relief
Amidst rising costs, many workers can look forward to higher wages. The minimum wage will increase by 9%, reaching a gross HUF 290,800 (EUR 707), while the guaranteed minimum wage for skilled workers will rise by 7% to HUF 348,800 (EUR 878). These changes are expected to benefit hundreds of thousands of employees across various sectors.
Public sector workers will see even more substantial raises. Teachers, who have long advocated for better pay, will receive a 21.2% increase, bringing their average gross salary to HUF 844,000 (EUR 2,050). Water management workers and judicial employees are also set to benefit, with pay hikes of up to 30% and 15%, respectively. These adjustments aim to improve job satisfaction and retention in essential services.
Pensioners will receive a 3.2% increase in their monthly payments, in line with the government’s inflation forecast. This adjustment will add approximately HUF 7,400 (EUR 18) to the average pension, bringing it to nearly HUF 240,000 (EUR 583). For many elderly citizens, this boost will provide some relief amidst rising living costs.
Enhanced family support programmes
Families will also benefit from expanded support programmes aimed at easing financial pressures. While specific details have yet to be announced, the government has indicated that family-focused initiatives will play a key role in its 2025 budget priorities.
A mixed outlook for 2025
As 2025 unfolds, Hungarian households will face both challenges and opportunities. Rising costs in fuel, banking services, tolls, and tobacco will likely strain budgets, but wage increases, pension adjustments, and family support programs may offer a counterbalance. While these measures may not entirely offset the financial burdens for all citizens, they reflect a concerted effort to address economic pressures and improve the quality of life for many.
Whether these changes succeed in striking the right balance remains to be seen, but they underscore the evolving economic landscape that Hungarians must navigate in the year ahead.
Some of the most popular Hungarian thermal baths will remain open even at night and prepare with a New Year’s Eve party to greet 2025.
According to Termál Online, generally, thermal baths will close earlier on New Year’s Eve, but some will organise parties for their visitors, for which you have to buy a separate entrance ticket. On 1 January, generally, baths will open later.
Photo: FB/Rudas
Here are the opening times on 31 December and 1 January for some of the most popular thermal baths:
31 December: 6 AM – 6 PM; 9 PM – 3AM. 1 January: 10 AM – 8 PM
Programs include music (DJ set), access to all pools including the panorama pool, authentic Turkish bath experience, cocktail show, free cocktails and free midnight champagne, belly dance show, and prize draw. The entrance ticket includes a welcome drink, snacks, a glass of champagne and the programmes. Rudas offers a New Year’s Eve dinner party and a Hangover party on 1 January, as well. You can buy your tickets HERE. The combined ticket with the dinner costs HUF 39,000 per person (EUR 95).
From Friday, 27 December, until 5 January, trams on line 4-6 connecting South Buda with Pest and North Buda will commute in a shorter route missing South Buda and South Pest. The trams will only connect the North Buda end station with the Corvin-negyed metro station.
According to turizmus.com, trams on the 4-6 line, often referred to as Budapest’s “party tram line” (because it carries people to the party district) will not commute on the entire line from today until next Sunday since water pipe maintenance had to be started in South Buda near Irinyi József Street. Therefore, trams will carry passengers only between the Széll Kálmán metro station in North Buda and the Corvin-negyed metro station.
Since the water pipe is under the tram rails, tram traffic had to be restricted. However, the Budapest Transport Company (BKK) will operate replacement buses between the Corvin-negyed metro station and the South Buda end stations. They will have the 4-6 sign, so they will be easy to recognise.
Photo: FB/BKK
Replacement buses to carry passengers on tram lines 4-6
Replacement bus nr 4 will commute between Újbuda-központ (Újbuda centre tram station) and the Corvin-negyed metro station. Meanwhile, replacement bus nr 6 will carry passengers between the Móricz Zsigmond körtér and the Corvin-negyed. The buses will stop on the Ferenc and József körút side in the Corvin-negyed.
However, BKK does not recommend passengers to use the replacement buses. They recommend the M4 metro line, the 47, and 49 trams and bus lines 7, 107, 133E or tram line nr 2 for passengers during the maintenance work as an alternative.
Tram line nr 2, chosen one of the most beautiful. Photo: FB/Karácsony
Read also:
Significant change in Budapest’s public transport from 2025: security increases – read more HERE
Budapest’s iconic tram line 2 set for overhaul at World Heritage location – read more HERE
Christmas markets are open across Budapest and Hungary, offering festive entertainment and shopping opportunities. However, not everyone visits these markets in the holiday spirit; some aim to exploit the season for quick profits through scams. Here’s what to watch out for.
Beware of food and drink scams
When buying food or drinks at Christmas markets, ensure proper hygiene and preparation standards are met. Avoid purchasing warm food served cold, items handled without gloves, or paying for samples. Always ask about the type of wine used for mulled wine and, if possible, request a tasting before committing to a purchase. For meat products, choose stalls where preparation and cooking are done in front of you.
Freshly prepared items, such as chimney cakes and flatbreads, are best bought from vendors visibly making dough on-site. According to Travelo, when purchasing prepackaged goods like sweets or baked items, you should ensure the vendor does not charge for packaging materials, as this is prohibited.
Consumer rights and guarantees
Vendors at Christmas markets must comply with the same consumer protection laws as regular shops. This includes displaying their company name, address, and contact details for customers to address any future complaints. They are also obligated to provide receipts or invoices. Products purchased come with warranties and guarantees, which cannot be voided due to missing packaging or receipts, except for custom-made items.
Fraudulent charity collectors often take advantage of the festive atmosphere to solicit donations for fake causes. If approached, ask for identification, and if you decide to donate, do so discreetly to avoid drawing attention to your wallet.
Money exchange risks
Avoid exchanging cash with strangers in the market, as this could result in counterfeit money or no money in return. Police recommend refusing such requests altogether. Drivers should also avoid leaving valuables in visible locations within their vehicles, even in guarded parking lots.
Christmas markets are hotspots for pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure at all times. Avoid placing wallets in back pockets or outer bag compartments, and store valuables in inner coat pockets for added security.
Reporting issues
If you encounter irregularities, inform the market organisers first. For food safety concerns, contact the National Food Chain Safety Office (NÉBIH), and for dangerous products, reach out to consumer protection authorities. For serious incidents, notify nearby police officers or dial 112. In minor cases, seek help from the market’s security personnel.
By staying vigilant, you can enjoy the festive season safely while avoiding scams and mishaps.
Did you forget something? Did your bejgli crack and want to remake it for perfection? Don’t worry, you can still buy the necessary ingredients last minute before the holidays. Most supermarkets will be open on 24 December but remember that they will have shortened opening hours.
Which supermarkets will be open?
As Telex writes, the majority of supermarkets will remain open on the 24th of December. However, they will operate with opening hours different from usual. Most of them will be open until noon, thus you should hurry if you forgot something and want to buy it at the last minute! As shops will remain closed during Christmas, 25 and 26 December, they will open on the 27th and operate as usual. On 31 December the shops will most likely close around 2-4 pm.
Auchan stores will operate until noon on 24 December, resume normal opening hours from 27 to 30 December, and close at 4 pm on 31 December.
Penny stores nationwide will close at noon on 24 December but offer extended hours on 19, 20, 21, and 23 December, staying open until 9 pm. From 27 to 30 December, they will follow normal schedules and close at 2 pm on 31 December.
Most Spar and Interspar locations will shut at noon on 24 December, with exceptions for some shopping centre stores. Interspar hypermarkets will operate from 6 am to 10 pm from 20 to 23 December, while select Spar supermarkets will extend hours on 21 and 22 December. Between the holidays, normal schedules will resume, with supermarkets closing at 2 pm and most Interspar hypermarkets at 4 pm on 31 December.
Tesco stores will close at noon on 24 December, operate as usual during the festive period, and shut at 6 pm on 31 December.
Aldi will open until 12 noon on 24 December and close at 4 pm on 31 December.
Photo: depositphotos.com
Which shops will be closed on Christmas Eve?
According to Magyar Nemzet, the following chains will remain closed on 24 December in Hungary:
Rossmann
Media Markt
Praktiker
Jysk
In addition, Lidl will remain closed on 24 December too but extend hours on 23 December. Between the holidays, Lidl stores will operate as usual and close at 4 pm on 31 December. Two popular chains, CBA and DM still have not shared whether they are planning to be open on Christmas Eve or not. We will provide updates as we gain more information.
Post offices and pharmacies on duty
Post offices open until 23 December 2024 – normal opening hours
24 December 2024 (Tuesday) is a day of rest – due to the pre-holiday parcel rush, postal service points operating on Saturday will be open until 12 noon.
25-26 December 2024 (Wednesday-Thursday) public holiday – all postal service points will be closed.
27 December 2024 (Friday) holiday – all post offices operating on Saturday will be open for up to 4 hours until 12 noon.
28 December 2024 (Saturday) – post offices operating on Saturday will be open for a maximum of 4 hours until 12 noon.
30 December 2024 – Postal service points will be open according to normal working hours.
31 December 2024 – all postal service points open for a maximum of 12 hours.
1 January 2025 (Wednesday) public holiday – all postal service points will be closed.
From 2 January 2025 (Thursday) – all postal service points will be open according to normal working hours.
Pharmacies will also be closed, but pharmacies on duty or on-call will be open on these days. On-call pharmacies can be found on the OGYÉI website.
24 December is not a public holiday in Hungary (yet)
As we have reported HERE, the Hungarian National Election Committee (NVB) has approved a referendum proposal to designate 24 December as a public holiday, marking a key milestone in the Trade Union of Commercial Employees’ efforts to expand Hungary’s list of recognised holidays. The referendum question, which proposes making 24 December an official holiday from 2025, was endorsed by a 10-2 vote during the NVB’s session. Currently, Hungarian public holidays include 1 January, 15 March, Good Friday, Easter Monday, 1 May, Whit Monday, 20 August, 23 October, 1 November, and 25–26 December.
On the fourth Sunday of Advent, a wavy frontal system approaching from the northwest will bring significant weather changes across Hungary. The southern winds are expected to pick up, with increasing cloud cover spreading over the country. By the afternoon, light precipitation may occur in northern regions, followed by more widespread rainfall and snowfall later in the evening.
Budapest in November 2023. Photo: MTI/Máthé Zoltán
According to Időkép, snow and sleet are forecasted for northern and northeastern areas, while rain is expected elsewhere. Around Budapest and in the Northern Mountains, a few centimetres of snow accumulation is likely by midnight.
The beginning of next week will see a Mediterranean cyclone sweeping across Hungary, bringing additional precipitation. On Monday, most parts of the country, except the northwestern and northern Great Plain regions, could experience snowfall or sleet. The real highlight comes on Tuesday, Christmas Eve, when significant snowfall is anticipated, particularly in eastern parts of the country.
This snowfall could create a picturesque white landscape across many regions—a rare sight for the holiday in recent years. However, along with the snow, strong winds are forecasted, leading to the possibility of blizzards and drifting snow, especially in open areas.
While many eagerly anticipate a white Christmas, travellers and residents should prepare for potential disruptions caused by the strong winds and snowdrifts. Stay tuned for updates as weather conditions unfold.
Budapest’s iconic tram lines 4 and 6, among the city’s most frequented public transport routes, will face significant service changes between 27 December 2024, and 5 January 2025. A damaged water pipe beneath the tracks near Irinyi József Street necessitates urgent repairs, affecting tram operations on the southern section of the route.
Adjusted tram service
During the maintenance period, trams will only run between Széll Kálmán Square and Corvin-negyed under the joint 4-6 label, Világgazdaság reportsbased on BKK’s statement. To ensure connectivity, replacement buses will operate on the affected sections:
Between Újbuda-központ and Corvin-negyed with route number 4.
Between Móricz Zsigmond körtér and Corvin-negyed with route number 6.
The replacement buses will stop at key points, including Üllői Road, where passengers heading toward Széll Kálmán Square are advised to transfer to the tram or metro at the Ferenc körút stop.
The Budapest Transport Center (BKK) recommends several alternative transport options during the repair works:
M3 metro combined with M4 metro via Kálvin Square for seamless travel to Újbuda-központ.
M4 metro or tram 47 for routes starting from Újbuda-központ.
M4 metro, bus 7, or trams 47 and 49 for connections from Móricz Zsigmond körtér.
Buses 107 and 133E for journeys originating near Budafoki Road.
Tram 2 for those travelling from Boráros Square towards the city centre.
Practical travel tips
Passengers are encouraged to use the BudapestGO app, which provides real-time route information and allows users to purchase tickets and passes conveniently. Additionally, BKK staff will be available at key locations to assist travellers during this period.
The repair work has been scheduled strategically during the winter school holidays and festive season to minimize disruptions. Despite the temporary changes, the availability of replacement buses and alternative routes ensures that passengers can still travel efficiently across the city.
Hungary’s national railway company, MÁV-START, is gearing up for the busy holiday season with increased services and helpful travel tips for passengers. To accommodate the higher demand during Christmas and New Year’s, certain InterCity routes will feature additional coaches, ensuring more seating capacity for travellers.
Expanded services on key routes
Popular lines, including Budapest–Debrecen–Nyíregyháza (Nyírség), Budapest–Miskolc–Nyíregyháza (Tokaj), Budapest–Nagykanizsa (Tópart), Budapest–Keszthely (Balaton), Budapest–Békéscsaba (Békés), Budapest–Cegléd–Szeged (Napfény), and Budapest–Pécs (Mecsek), will see expanded train capacities, MÁV reports.
Passengers are encouraged to book their tickets in advance, particularly for trains without mandatory seat reservations, as securing a seat during this high-demand period could otherwise prove challenging.
Easy ticket purchases
Tickets can be conveniently purchased through ticket vending machines, the Elvira online platform, or the MÁV app. The app also allows travellers to buy tickets for Volánbus intercity services, making holiday travel planning seamless.
Special holiday timetables
Adjustments to train, bus, and HÉV schedules will be in place:
From 22 to 28 December, public transportation will follow a modified timetable, reflecting workdays, holidays, and rest days.
On 24 December, some buses will not operate, while HÉV trains will run on a Saturday schedule during the day.
For those travelling between Christmas and New Year’s, MÁV and Volánbus recommend planning trips ahead to avoid any inconvenience. Timetable details and updates can be found on MÁV’s official website.
A smooth holiday journey by MÁV
By expanding services and offering user-friendly booking options, MÁV-START is committed to ensuring a smooth travel experience for passengers this holiday season. Be sure to plan ahead, book early, and enjoy the festive spirit with hassle-free journeys across Hungary!
The Hungarian Highway Code (KRESZ) has been amended with immediate effect, as announced in Monday evening’s Magyar Közlöny (Hungarian Gazette). The changes pertain to vehicles using emergency signals.
Immediate change in Highway Code
Under the new regulations, vehicles from police public order, traffic law enforcement, and personal protection units, as well as the Counter Terrorism Centre (TEK), are now permitted to use bus lanes when operating with emergency signals, provided they do not disrupt bus and trolleybus traffic, Index reports.
Previously, only scheduled buses, trolleybuses, and emergency vehicles under special conditions could use these lanes.
Additionally, a new rule bans overtaking vehicles using emergency signals.
Drivers must maintain a following distance that avoids disturbing the emergency vehicle and other road users.
Emergency vehicles can also disregard “No Entry” signs and exceed speed limits if traffic safety is not compromised.
The changes, signed by PM Viktor Orbán, took effect on Tuesday.
Adjusting to life in Hungary can be a challenge for many foreigners, particularly when it comes to understanding Hungarian customs that may seem unfamiliar. From unique social etiquette to distinct culinary traditions, these customs play a significant role in daily life and interactions. Here, we explore five Hungarian customs that foreigners might find challenging to get used to.
A language that just does not make sense
Hungarian is a complex language that poses challenges due to its intricate grammar, extensive vocabulary, and unique pronunciation. This complexity can make it difficult for non-native speakers to achieve fluency, often leading to frustration and misunderstandings when communicating in everyday situations. The Hungarian language is unique primarily because of its origins in the Finno-Ugric branch of the Uralic language family. Therefore it may be tricky to find similarities between Hungarian and your mother language.
Photo: Youtube
Different name order
In Hungary, the name order is distinctively different from many Western cultures, as Hungarian custom dictates that the family name precedes the given name. For example, János Kovács is Kovács János in Hungary. This naming convention can lead to confusion for foreigners who are accustomed to the Western format of given names first. However, most Hungarians keep this in mind and swap their names when introducing themselves to others.
Formal and informal
The distinction between formal and informal speech is another aspect of Hungarian customs that may be challenging for newcomers. Hungarians typically use formal titles and last names when addressing someone they do not know well or in professional settings, while friends and family may use first names or nicknames. This shift in language formality can be subtle yet significant in social interactions. In addition, Hungarians use formal speech, similar to using v-form in Romance languages. Thus, formal speaking goes beyond addressing someone by formal titles, it has its own grammatical rules as well.
Toasting rituals
Toasting rituals are an important part of Hungarian dining etiquette. When raising a glass, it is customary to make eye contact and say “egészségedre,” which means “to your health.” Interestingly, it is considered bad luck to clink glasses with beer; this tradition highlights the cultural significance placed on specific customs during social gatherings. This Hungarian custom has a historical background, about which you can learn more HERE.
Photo: depositphotos.com
Showering before bathing
Hungarian baths are an integral part of the country’s cultural heritage, reflecting centuries of tradition and social customs. The practice of bathing in thermal waters dates back to Roman times, and today, Hungary is renowned for its numerous thermal baths, many of which are located in Budapest. In public baths, a Hungarian custom requires patrons to shower before entering the bathing areas. This practice is rooted in hygiene and respect for communal spaces, ensuring that everyone enjoys a clean and pleasant environment while relaxing in the thermal waters that Hungary is famous for.
The Széchenyi Thermal Bath. Source: szechenyibath.hu
Primark has issued a warning to its customers in Hungary to remain vigilant against fraudulent websites falsely claiming to sell the brand’s products online. The fast fashion retailer, which opened its first Hungarian store in Budapest earlier this year, has confirmed that it does not operate an online store in the country.
Fraudulent websites target Hungarian shoppers
According to Forbes.hu, several fake websites, including www.primark-magyarorszag.com, have been reported for scamming customers by offering non-existent online shopping services. Victims have lost tens of thousands of forints to these schemes, with some individuals reporting losses of up to HUF 40,000–50,000 (EUR 98–122).
Fans of the newcomer franchise have voiced their concerns in online groups, sharing stories of being duped by these fraudulent sites. Among the deceptive domains identified in the past are primarkmagyarorszag.com, primarkhungarywebshop.com, and primarkonlinewebshop.com. All of these have been confirmed as scams.
The retail chain has taken action against these fraudulent websites. According to a company statement sent to Forbes.hu: “We treat such issues with the utmost priority and take all necessary measures to have these fake websites removed as quickly as possible. We urge our customers to exercise caution when encountering suspicious sites and to refrain from sharing personal information with unknown online sources. Our official website, https://www.primark.com/hu-hu, provides information about our latest collections and in-store availability.”
Photo: Commons.wikimedia.org By Kolforn
No online shopping, but expansion continues
Despite the increasing popularity of e-commerce, the franchise remains primarily a brick-and-mortar retailer. Its only online shopping service, Click & Collect, is currently being trialled in select UK stores. Customers in Hungary do not have access to online ordering or delivery services, a fact scammers exploit to deceive shoppers.
Primark opened its first Hungarian store on 28 May 2024, at the Arena Mall in Budapest. The store offers the brand’s full range of products, including clothing for men, women, and children, as well as home decor, beauty products, and accessories.
The fast fashion giant continues its expansion in Europe and beyond. With over 400 stores in 16 countries, Primark plans to grow its network to 530 locations by 2026, further solidifying its position as one of Europe’s most popular retailers.
Stay safe
The Irish retail chain advises customers to rely on its official website for accurate information about its products and services. If you come across any suspicious websites claiming to sell Primark products, report them immediately to prevent further scams.
MOHU, which has a nationwide municipal waste management concession, is investing several tens of billions of forints to upgrade its fleet of garbage trucks, the unit of Hungarian oil and gas company MOL said on Thursday.
MOHUsaid it plans to purchase around 1,000 trucks and will initially take delivery of 165 Mercedes vehicles from Germany. The first new trucks will be put into service in various parts of the country from 2025.
MOHUsaid that the average age of the 2,000 garbage trucks currently operating in Hungary is 13 years. The average age of the trucks could be lowered below 10 years by 2027 with the new purchases.
MOHU has committed to raising Hungary’s recycling rate from 32pc to 65pc by 2035.
MOL’s gas station refuel truck decorated with Christmas lights will travel 5,000 kilometres until 24 December. The attraction will be seen in Budapest and several towns in Hungary, including Tiszaújváros, Százhalombatta, Szolnok, Komárom, Szeged, and Nyíregyháza.
The truck will start its journeys at nightfall to visit busy gas stations all over Hungary. HEREyou may check out its schedule.
Read also:
Hungary deposit-return system reacheshalf a billion milestone
Hungary’s 2025 calendar includes five long weekends, featuring one three-day, three four-day, and an exceptional five-day Christmas holiday. While some holidays fall on weekends, others are adjusted with “work Saturdays” to balance extra days off. Key dates include Easter, Pentecost, and 23 October, ensuring opportunities for extended breaks throughout the year.
Hungary’s 2025 calendar will feature several long weekends and adjusted workdays to accommodate public holidays. Minister of National Economy Márton Nagy has outlined the dates for long weekends and the corresponding Saturdays when work will be required to make up for these extra days off, 24.hu writes based on Portfolio’s report.
Long weekends in 2025
In 2025, there will be five long weekends, with one notable change: unlike 2024, there will be no six-day long weekends. Instead, 2025 will feature one three-day and three four-day long weekends, alongside an exceptional five-day long weekend for Christmas.
20 August (State Foundation Day): Falls on a Wednesday.
23 October (1956 Revolution): Falls on a Thursday, creating a four-day weekend.
Easter and Pentecost
Easter: 18-21 April will form a four-day weekend, with Good Friday on 18 April.
Pentecost: 7-9 June will create a three-day weekend, with Whit Monday on 9 June.
All Saints’ Day
All Saints’ Day (1 November) falls on a Saturday, meaning no long weekend will be possible.
Christmas and New Year’s
Christmas in 2025 brings a five-day long weekend (24-28 December). However, New Year’s Eve falls on a Wednesday, followed by New Year’s Day on Thursday, splitting the holiday midweek.
Adjusted workdays
To balance the extra days off, three Saturdays will be designated workdays in 2025:
17 May (to compensate for 2 May)
18 October (to compensate for 24 October)
13 December (to compensate for 24 December)
With these adjustments, 2025 promises a mix of holidays and adjusted work schedules, ensuring ample time for relaxation while maintaining productivity.
Free Christmas in 2025?
As we reported before, the Hungarian National Election Committee (Nemzeti Választási Bizottság, NVB) has approved a referendum proposal submitted by the Trade Union of Commercial Employees that seeks to designate 24 December as a public holiday. This step marks significant progress in the union’s efforts to expand recognised holidays in Hungary.
In its Wednesday session, the National Election Committee (NVB) validated a referendum initiative that would make 24 December an official public holiday. The proposal for certification was put forward by the Trade Union of Commercial Employees.
Currently, Hungarian law recognises the following as public holidays: 1 January, 15 March, Good Friday, Easter Monday, 1 May, Whit Monday, 20 August, 23 October, 1 November, and 25-26 December. The proposed referendum question asks: “Do you agree that starting from the calendar year 2025, 24 December should be designated as a public holiday?”
Budapest’s public transport operator, BKK, will increase the frequency of its airport shuttle services during the holiday season to accommodate higher passenger demand. The enhanced schedule will be in effect from 16 December to 5 January.
Photo: BKK
To manage the anticipated surge in passenger traffic during the year-end holidays, BKK will run the 100E Airport Express more frequently, the company announced on Thursday. From 16 December to 5 January, buses will depart every 7–8 minutes on weekdays and Saturdays during morning and afternoon peak times. On busier travel days—Mondays, Fridays, and Sundays—buses will operate every 6–7 minutes between the city centre and Budapest’s Liszt Ferenc International Airport.
Additionally, starting 1 December, the 200E bus connecting Kőbánya-Kispest and the airport will run every 10 minutes on Sundays and holidays during early morning hours, replacing the current 10–20-minute intervals.
As a premium public bus service, the 100E Airport Express always provides a predictable, reliable and fast direct connection between Liszt Ferenc Airport and Budapest city centre, which makes it a perfect choice for travellers who wish to get to Budapest Airport easily.
