Some bars and clubs, especially those in district v - the business area in central Pest add surcharges to the bills which can run into 100s of euros. If not settled security guards will escorts victims to an ATM. Restaurants and bars with unclear prices on the menu also operate in this way.

Be warned that some taxis drivers are involved in these scams and will encourage tourists to go to these places. Please see the advice and information in clubbing and nightlife in Budapest.

In Budapest especially in markets and on public transport (including escalators) there is a risk of pick pocketing or bag snatching. Popular haunts for pickpockets are the Danube Promenade, Fishermen's Bastion,Matthias Church, Parliiament and the surrounding area, Vaci Street and the zoo. The Annual Sziget Festival in August is also a hunting ground of thieves. Badly lit areas in Districts V111 & at night carry a risk of mugging.

If you are travelling on an overnight train to or from Budapest you should ensure that your sleeper compartment door is securely locked. If it is not sleep on valuables and passport.

 

Tourist Traps In Budapest

 

One of the most common problems faced by tourist is hiring a taxis. There are several companies all charging different rates. One or two seem to specialise in overcharging tourists and business travellers.

We strongly advise you not to hail a taxi in the street. If you have to the taxi, if it is licensed, will have a yellow licence plate and a taxi sign secured on the roof. It will also have the name of the company on the door. You should make a note of the name of the company or its telephone number before getting in. When inside it should have the fares clearly displayed. This table is normally on the dashboard.

If the taxi does not have these four identities it is likely that you will be overcharged. You should not get in any car that only has a taxi sign on its roof. These taxis are not licenced are usually driven by freelance drivers who are notorious for overcharging tourists big time.

It is usually a good policy to ask you hotel to order your taxi for you or give you a reliable number. Failing that City Taxis Telephone 2 111 111 has a good reputation. Some of its operators also speak English.

It is a good policy not to ask taxis drivers to choose which restaurant bar or club you should go to. This is because many of them recieve a commision for taking you there which you end up paying for by high bills. They are likely to take you to one of the places in the paragragh below! See the advice and information in clubbing and nightlife in Budapest.

The other common tourist trap in Budapest are restaurants (and to a lesser extent bars) that offer you a menu without the prices service charges and vat charges expressed clearly on it. Under Hungarian law these prices must be shown. If you find yourself in one of these establishments you should leave immediately as their prices are always ridiculous.

Single men who end up chatting to local girls in bars can also expect a high bill for her thirst.