Not only is Hungary listed among the top 15 most visited countries in the world, its capital is also regarded as among the most beautiful, giving tourists many reasons to go there. Being home to various UNESCO heritage sites, there are simple so many places that one can visit, making It ideal to travel by rented or private car so as to have more flexibility with which places to visit.
Entering Hungary by car requires a valid International Motor Insurance Card and your registration documents. A power of attorney is also necessary in case the car you are driving is not yours. Border guards enforce these documentary requirement strictly, so make sure you have them.
Aside from the modern motorways, a lot of the roads are composed of two lanes. Most of them are in good shape, but you will need to watch out for the occasional potholes and cracks. While the expressways cost some money to pass, there aren’t any other tolls to deal with. Make sure you get a Vignette.
Normal roads in between cities have a 90 km/h speed limit and those within the cities have 50 km/h. These roads are often filled with traffic, so you’ll be running at an average of 60 km/h. Highways have a speed limit of 130 km/h, but be mindful of speed signs that provide for a different limit. Travel at the rightmost lane, only going on the left when you’re passing other vehicles. It is prohibited to pass on the right on highways.
Most of the street signs in Hungary use pictures only, but fortunately they use universal symbols intended for the foreign traveller’s convenience. Be mindful to always give way to the vehicle coming from the right, especially for those who are accustomed to having the right of way when they reach the intersection first.
You are required to drive with your headlights on throughout the day. If you see a vehicle flashing its headlights, it means that you’re being offered the right of way.
Other common rules apply, such as the zero tolerance on alcohol, mandatory seatbelts, and hands free equipment for mobile phones (when making calls for driving). Make sure you’ve got a warning triangle, first aid kit, headlight converters, GB Plate, and spare bulbs with you at all times, although car rental companies in Hungary will provide them. Take note that violating these regulations means that you’ll be fined on the spot.
Most fuel stations run 24 hours, while others are open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Make sure you know how to use self-service stations. Also, you’re not allowed to carry spare fuel cans with you in the car.
Parking in tourist spots will be free. You can park on the right hand side of the two-way streets, and both sides for one-way streets. But if you find yourself in major cities like Budapest can be a bit more difficult.
Despite the notable number of driving accidents annually, travellers shouldn’t fear driving in Hungary if they drive defensively and follow all the rules, thanks to good enforcement from the local police. Just don’t forget to bring your passport with you wherever you go.
Summary
| Modern motorways, a lot of the roads are composed of two lanes. |
| Make sure you get a Vignette. |
| 90 km/h speed limit on normal roads, 50 km/h within a city and 130 km/h on motorways. |
| Travel at the rightmost lane, only going on the left when you’re passing other vehicles. |
| It is prohibited to pass on the right on motorways. |
| You are required to drive with your headlights on throughout the day. |
| If you see a vehicle flashing its headlights, it means that you’re being offered the right of way. |
| Zero tolerance on alcohol. |
| Make sure you’ve got a warning triangle, first aid kit, and spare bulbs with you at all times. These are provided if you rent a car. |