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Here’s how Hungary’s the ’Spice of Europe’ will shake up Europe’s tourism

May 16, 2018 - Zoltán Kovács

If you haven’t been to Budapest lately, you should do yourself a favor and visit. One of Europe’s great capitals is going to get even better in the coming years, and this week, Hungary embarks on its first-ever tourist campaign to promote Budapest as one of Europe’s best destinations.

News in Brief

Budapest's Ludwig Museum of contemporary art makes it onto the list of the 100 most significant art institutions in the world

May 09, 2018

The Ludwig Museum has become the first Eastern European museum of contemporary art to receive this distinction

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The annual 'Nagy Futam' event to take place over Labor Day weekend

Apr 29, 2018

Race cars, performance motorbikes, planes and special trucks will speed through Budapest on May 1st

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Taxi fares will jump when new rules come into effect this summer

Apr 26, 2018

Zoltán Metál, president of the Hungarian Taxi Association, said that he believes the reason why it is so hard to get a taxi in Budapest today is because of the greater demand on the taxi market – not the prices!

News in Brief

This year’s Sziget Festival has a budget of 27.7 million EUR to provide first class performers and entertainment

Apr 20, 2018

Held between August 8-15th in Budapest, the festival will include US singer Lana Del Rey, rapper Kendrick Lamar as well as British band Gorillaz, Mumford and Sons, Dua Lipa, Kygo and the Arctic Monkeys

News in Brief

Police investigate 'acid attack' which injured four people in Budapest's party district

Apr 19, 2018

According to reports, four victims suffered light burns and were taken to hospital late Tuesday evening

News in Brief Prime Minister

PM Orbán: Hungary's capital is one of the safest in the world but one bad decision would render Budapest unrecognizable

Apr 05, 2018

The prime minister said the government regards the security of the Hungarian people as its highest priority because where there is no security there are no investments, no new jobs, no incomes or pensions that hold their value, and there is no growth

News in Brief

Budapest taxi fares to increase by 10 percent this summer

Apr 04, 2018

The basic taxi fare will rise from 1.44 to 2.24 euros, the price per kilometer will increase from 0.89 to 0.96 euros, while the price of waiting will rise from 22 to 24 cents per minute

News in Brief

The Onyx restaurant in Budapest becomes the first in Hungary to receive two Michelin stars

Mar 28, 2018

Joining Onyx, Costes, Costes Downtown and Borkonyha all managed to retain their stars – bringing Hungary’s Michelin star restaurant total to four

News in Brief

Hungary to host the FINA Artistic Swimming World Series in May

Mar 26, 2018

The newly-constructed Duna Arena will play host to the event between May 18th and 20th and people are expected to attend from all over the country and from abroad

News in Brief

Hungarian housing market continues to prosper with rising house prices and increased investments

Mar 21, 2018

Figures show that districts 5, 6, 1, 2 and 12 are the most expensive and desirable places to live in Budapest

News in Brief

Lana Del Rey added to the line up for The Sziget Festival 2018

Mar 19, 2018

Lana Del Rey will join the Arctic Monkeys, Brit star Dua Lipa, Gorillaz, Grammy winning rapper Kendrick Lamar, Norwegian DJ Kygo and Mumford and Sons between August 8th and 15th

News in Brief

Budapest announced as 2019’s European Capital of Sport

Mar 01, 2018

“We can be proud of this title, our athletes and professionals, and of Budapest, because the title is a clear acknowledgement of the fact that we can be a worthy host of large-scale sports events, and that we also play an important role in international sports life within the field of recreational and youth sports," the sports official said

News in Brief

Jennifer Lawrence tells reporters she is Hungarian and Budapest is her home

Feb 28, 2018

Jennifer Lawrence confesses her love for Budapest and says she would love to shoot a sequel in the city. “The people are so lovely, the culture and the city are so beautiful. I loved it!,” she said

News in Brief

John Malkovich to star in the Budapest Photo Festival 2018

Feb 12, 2018

John Malkovich’s legendary photo series will finally come to Budapest for the exhibition which opens on February 28th

News in Brief

Budapest taxi fares set to increase by 15 percent

Feb 08, 2018

Zoltán Metal, the head of the National Taxi Federation, said that he has submitted plans to the Budapest Municipal Council, including an increase in starting fee, the price per kilometer and waiting fares

News in Brief

Budapest Mayor reveals there will be wheelchair accessibility on Budapest’s M3 metro line

Feb 07, 2018

The M3 line, which is currently being refurbished, will use “cabin structures” fitted onto escalators in the metro stations where the use of elevators is not an option

News in Brief

Futuristic plans unveiled for new M2 metro line

Feb 01, 2018

The new M2 route will take just 25 minutes to reach Deák Ferenc Square from Rákoskeresztúr instead of the current 60 minute journey

News in Brief

The price of a new home in Budapest rose by 7.8 percent in the first three quarters of 2017 while resale homes increased by 7.5 percent

Jan 30, 2018

The most expensive districts to purchase a home are 1, 2, 5, 6 and 12, and prices will continue to rise over the coming years to catch up with Hungary's European neighbors

News in Brief

New MOL Limo service will use 200 petrol and 100 electric cars to ferry members of the public around central Budapest

Jan 26, 2018

MOL plans to double the number of Limo cars by 2020 and extend the service to the entire area of Budapest. Liszt Ferenc International Airport could be added to the system as early as 2019

News in Brief

Sziget Festival announces big names for 2018 line-up

Jan 23, 2018

Kendrick Lamar, Kygo and Mumford & Sons are set to headline this year. Liam Gallagher, Bastille and The Kooks are also scheduled to play at the Sziget Festival between 8th – 15th August

News in Brief

Sziget wins best line-up of the year at the European Festival Awards

Jan 19, 2018

The European Festival Awards, which took place in the Netherlands this year, is considered the pinnacle body for honoring festivals and is the so-called “Oscars” of the events world

News in Brief

Real estate prices continue to rise in Hungary, according to Eurostat

Jan 19, 2018

Eurostat figures show that home prices grew 3 percent compared to the previous quarter and 10.2 percent compared to Q3 of 2016. Rent is also going up in Budapest and other towns and cities across Hungary

News in Brief

First look at new Metro line 3 designs

Jan 17, 2018

Designs for the new metro line 3 have been released to show the public how the stations will look when renovation work is completed in 2019

News in Brief

Budapest flats are among some of the cheapest in Europe but are still rising in price

Jan 08, 2018

The average price of property in Budapest's central district has risen to 884,000 HUF per square meter for used flats, and prices can reach 1.4-1.8 million HUF for brand new properties

News in Brief

Budapest's party district hangs in the balance as residents take a vote to close bars at midnight

Jan 05, 2018

The District VII Council Assembly has set the referendum regarding the opening hours of clubs for February 18th

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Hungarian government creates reserve in budget to pay EU fines over Metro 4 line scandal under Socialist-led government

Jan 03, 2018

The Hungarian government believes that this may be the most significant abuse of EU funds since the end of communism

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New metro line to be built in Budapest

Jan 03, 2018

Permission for the construction of a new metro line to Rákosmente is being prepared so that work can begin in 2019, and completed in 2020

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Chimney cakes prove a big seller during the festive season

Dec 27, 2017

Costing around 300 HUF each, the chimney cake comes in many different flavors from walnut, chocolate, cinnamon, vanilla and coconut

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Things to do this festive season

Dec 26, 2017

A series of Christmas markets, concerts, theatre shows, culinary fairs and candle lighting ceremonies are taking place at several venues across Budapest

News in Brief

The best Christmas fairs and markets in Budapest

Dec 26, 2017

Hungary is renowned the world over for its Christmas fairs and markets.The festive season just isn't the same without the traditional selling of sweets, gifts and homegrown Hungarian products

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Half-naked Santa Clauses take to the streets of Budapest to raise money for charity

Dec 11, 2017

Thousands of people dressed as Santa Claus took part in the fourth annual Santa Run in Budapest over the weekend

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EC awards Budapest's Dohany Street Synagogue European Heritage site status

Dec 08, 2017

The European Commission announced that the 158-year-old synagogue, the largest in Europe and the second largest in the world, would be added to the list of 38 heritage sites next year, joining the likes of Italy’s Fort Cadine and Slovenia’s Javorca Church

News in Brief

Condé Nast Traveler places Hungary as the third-best travel destination to visit this winter

Dec 06, 2017

In the article, titled “The Best Places to Go This Winter”, the author says, “almost thirty years after the fall of communism, Hungary’s capital has reclaimed its title as Paris of the East” and calls Budapest the “crown jewel of the Austro-Hungarian Empire"

News in Brief

Most expensive apartment in Hungary to sell for 1.5 million euros

Dec 06, 2017

A new penthouse is being built in the heart of Budapest that will cost 9,500 euros (3 million HUF) per square meter. Districts 5, 6, 1, 2 and 12 are the most expensive places to live where prices reach way above the average 600,000 HUF per square meter

News in Brief

Budapest's famous Christmas “light tram” is back in service until January 7th

Dec 01, 2017

The famous “light tram”, or fényvillamos, is covered with over 39,000 lights and is put into operation from 5pm each evening throughout December and early January

News in Brief

World's first robot to be granted citizenship to appear at Brain Bar Budapest 2018

Nov 30, 2017

The eagerly-anticipated Brain Bar Budapest festival returns to Hungary on June 1 to 2, 2018, at Corvinus Campus Budapest

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Ice Rink at Budapest City Park will open on November 20th

Nov 20, 2017

First opened in 1870, the rink is one of Europe's oldest ice skating parks housing a 12,000 square meter area for skating

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World famous Budapest Advent and Christmas Fair returns to Vörösmarty square

Nov 15, 2017

Budapest's world famous Advent and Christmas Fair has returned to Vörösmarty square and will remain open until December 31st

News in Brief

Budapest property prices continue to rise

Nov 08, 2017

Districts 5, 6, 1, 2 and 12 are the most expensive and desirable places to live in Budapest, where prices can reach way above and beyond the average 600,000 HUF per square meter. Some streets can fetch 1.8 million per square meter

News in Brief

Northern section of metro line 3 will be closed from Monday for a year-long renovation

Nov 03, 2017

Six stations will be closed between Lehel tér to the northern terminus Újpest Központ until the end of 2018

News in Brief

Hungary confirmed as one of the world's top film production destinations

Nov 03, 2017

It is now a fact that Hungary has become one of the world’s top production destinations for Hollywood movies, and the second-largest in Europe

News in Brief

Terminator 6 to be filmed in Hungary

Oct 20, 2017

Tim Miller’s Terminator film is scheduled to begin production in March 2018 in Hungary and Spain

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Enrique Iglesias to perform in Hungary for the first time in 18 years

Oct 18, 2017

Latin pop singer Enrique Iglesias will perform at the Papp László Budapest Sports Arena on March 11th, 2018

News in Brief

Budapest is clear favorite to host 2023 IAAF World Championships

Oct 13, 2017

The proposal to host the IAAF World Championships was put forward by the Hungarian Athletics Association (MASZ) earlier this year, and will continue with development plans put in place for the Budapest 2024 Olympic bid

News in Brief

MOL Group to build Budapest's first skyscraper

Oct 03, 2017

More than 2,000 MOL workers currently positioned in 11 buildings in five districts, will be placed at the new base upon its completion in 2020

News in Brief

Video: Watch American tourists give their verdict on Hungarian food

Aug 30, 2017

The Endless Adventure try three of the best dishes Hungary has to offer - goulash soup, chimney cake and langos

News in Brief

Budapest has become one of the world’s sporting capitals, foreign minister says

Aug 30, 2017

Péter Szijjártó, minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, said that “after a summer like this there can be no question that Budapest is one of the world’s sports capitals"

News in Brief

Hungary is one of the safest places in Europe according to UK Government body

Aug 22, 2017

János Lázár, the minister heading the Prime Minister’s Office, said the prime minister has expressed his wish to his government that the country must make the top ten list of the world's safest countries

News in Brief

VIDEO: Tourists give their opinions on Budapest

Aug 18, 2017

The message is very clear that Budapest is a great city and the people are very nice. The video also touches on the beautiful architecture, the night life, the prices and, of course, the Hungarian cuisine

Blog

Top 10 reasons why Hungary is an ideal summer holiday destination

Aug 09, 2017 - Zoltán Kovács

Despite the summer heat, tourists have flooded the streets of Budapest and the Hungarian countryside. Tourism remains one of the leading sectors of the Hungarian economy, and the numbers are growing exponentially.

News in Brief

Hungarians made FINA World Championships a success

Aug 08, 2017

Balázs Fürjes, Government Commissioner for Major Budapest Developments, said the event's triumph was not the success of the government, but the shared success of Budapest and Hungary

News in Brief

FINA World Championships has had a positive impact on Hungary

Aug 02, 2017

Hungary did not only pass the test with flying colors as the organizer of the FINA event, but also as a host and tourist destination over the past couple of weeks. Billions will flow into tourism thanks to the tournament

News in Brief

485,000 spectators watch FINA World Championships in Budapest and Balatonfüred

Aug 01, 2017

Hotels in Budapest were fully booked, the average occupancy rate was in excess of 90 percent during the two weeks of the World Championships, and the average prices of rooms increased by 200 percent

News in Brief

Students pay 490 euros a month on rent in Budapest

Jul 27, 2017

Rents vary depending on district. Apartments in the central 5th and 6th districts can reach 228,000 HUF (745 EUR) per month. In the downtown parts of Budapest, prices drop to around 90,000 HUF (294 EUR) a month

News in Brief

Katinka Hosszú wins Hungary's first gold medal at FINA World Championships

Jul 25, 2017

Hosszú pulled out of the 100m backstroke event to focus on the IM, and it certainly paid off after she clocked a time of 2:07:00

News in Brief

"It is a pity Budapest dropped out of race for 2024 Summer Olympics," writes leading sports analyst

Jul 25, 2017

Leading sportswriter Alan Abrahamson says if these first few days of the 2017 FINA world championships are any indication, and they are, Budapest would make a great stage for a Summer Olympics

News in Brief

Hungary pick up first medal at FINA World Championships

Jul 24, 2017

Katinka Hosszú swam the fastest time in the semi-finals of the women’s 200 IM. Dániel Gyurta and László Cseh are hoping to bring home gold medals in the breaststroke and butterfly

News in Brief

Budapest Airport to receive 100 million euros from European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)

Jul 24, 2017

The operator of Liszt Ferenc International Airport will receive the funds as part of a 1.32 billion euro financial restructuring package

News in Brief

Hungary's health authority issues heat alert for weekend

Jul 21, 2017

On Friday and Saturday afternoon the highest temperatures are expected to hit 37 C. The ministry warned people to stay away from the sun and avoid intense physical activity

News in Brief

Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis take their children to watch FINA World Championships

Jul 18, 2017

The stars were accompanied by three-time Olympic champion Dénes Kemény, the president of the Hungarian water polo federation

News in Brief

Budapest to host 2024 short course swimming world championships

Jul 18, 2017

Zoltán Balog, minister of Human Capacities, highlighted that the Duna Arena swimming complex was not built for just one event

News in Brief

Driverless cars hit the streets of Budapest

Jul 17, 2017

AImotive already has a fleet of ten cars making their way around the city, and a unit is present in Szépvölgyi Street, Budapest

Blog

FINA Aquatics Championships taking over Hungarian cities this week

Jul 12, 2017 - Zoltán Kovács

Thousands of athletes, a record-breaking fast-track preparation for the international event, and the most picturesque diving background ever. The 2017 FINA World Aquatics Championships, Hungary’s largest sporting event to date, will overtake the cities of Budapest and Balatonfüred for over two weeks. As a nation with exceptional watersports traditions and accomplishments, Hungarians can barely wait, although it is not just our athletes who are setting the bar high.

News in Brief

FINA World Aquatics Championships begin in Hungary this Friday

Jul 10, 2017

Hungary will host the 17th FINA World Aquatics Championships, July 14-30, for the following disciplines: swimming, water polo, open water swimming, synchronized swimming, diving and high diving

News in Brief

PM Orbán meets with Saudi Arabian speaker to build economic relations between the two nations

Jul 06, 2017

During the meeting, the topic of conversation focused on the improvement of Hungarian-Saudi economic relations and both parties believed that there are still unexploited opportunities in this area

News in Brief

Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis move to Budapest

Jul 06, 2017

The Hollywood stars have moved to Budapest for the next four months while Kunis shoots her new movie, The Spy Who Dumped Me

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Direct flights from Budapest to New York and Los Angeles confirmed for early 2018

Jul 06, 2017

Liszt Ferenc International Airport will provide direct flights to New York and Los Angeles in early 2018, operated by LOT, the Polish airline

News in Brief

Hungary to build economic relations with Egypt

Jul 04, 2017

The prime minister welcomed Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi in Budapest on Monday, where the pair discussed Hungarian-Egyptian relations, and building bilateral and economic partnerships

News in Brief

Tourist numbers increase by 70 percent thanks to FINA World Aquatics Championship

Jul 03, 2017

The FINA World Aquatics Championship will be held in Budapest and in Balatonfüred between July 14 and 30. Accommodation bookings indicate a significant spike over last year

News in Brief

Red Bull Air Race World Championship returns to Budapest for tenth time this weekend

Jun 29, 2017

The pilots will battle it out for the championships by flying up and down the Danube between Parliament and Margaret bridge in timed laps

News in Brief

Hungary to launch direct bus service from central Budapest to Ferenc Liszt International Airport

Jun 27, 2017

BKK has announced that they will run a bus service between Deák Ferenc Square in central Budapest to Ferenc Liszt International Airport

News in Brief

Katinka Hosszú nominated for ESPY award

Jun 23, 2017

The self-titled 'Iron Lady' is the only female nominated alongside Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, Jamaican Usain Bolt, Mexican boxer Canelo Álvarez and Irish mixed martial arts specialist Conor McGregor

News in Brief

Budapest receives international praise for its delicious food and amazing architecture

Jun 22, 2017

The UK's Daily Express newspaper has written an extensive article on amazing Budapest, its architecture, tourist hotspots and delicious food

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PM Orbán holds talks with president of the World Jewish Congress

Jun 22, 2017

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the Jewish Community Roundtable convened for the 11th time in Budapest to discuss issues related to the Jewish people

News in Brief

Siemens invests 10 billion HUF on expansion in Hungary

Jun 21, 2017

Hungary's foreign minister said that the investment was a joint step towards moving the Hungarian economy and Hungarian industry forwards into a new dimension, a digital era based on research and development and innovation

News in Brief

Night of Museums returns to Hungary for 15th time on June 24

Jun 14, 2017

For those wanting to experience events in Budapest, armbands will be provided which will allow users discounts on the Budapest Bubi bikes and electric cars, as well as free bus travel between venues

News in Brief

Hungary allocates 30 billion HUF for infrastructure developments for 'Jewish Olympics'

Jun 13, 2017

The government has allocated over 30 billion HUF (90.7m EUR) for infrastructure development projects required to host the European Maccabi Games in Budapest in 2019

News in Brief

IKEA opens largest store in Central and Eastern Europe in Budapest's 23rd district

Jun 12, 2017

The 33,500 square-meter facility will be one of the largest in the region, and will create almost 300 new jobs in Hungary

News in Brief

Hungarian government fully supports refurbishment of metro line 3

Jun 09, 2017

The government will provide all assistance with the commencement of the refurbishment, and supports Budapest Mayor István Tarlós’s plan of implementation

News in Brief

Hungary's Wizz Air launches direct flight service between Budapest and Astana in Kazakhstan

Jun 08, 2017

Wizz Air has today launched its direct flight service between Budapest and Astana and will operate the flights twice a week

News in Brief

Budapest signs sister cities' agreement with Krakow

Jun 06, 2017

Mayor Tarlós and Krakow Mayor Jacek Majchrowski opened an exhibition in Krakow as part of the Hungarian cultural season in Poland

News in Brief

Liberty Bridge to become a pedestrian-only zone during summer weekends

Jun 05, 2017

Liberty Bridge will become a pedestrian-only zone between June 17th and 18th, 24th and 25th, August 5th and 6th, and 12th and 13th

News in Brief

Flash mob draw attention to the importance of traditional family values

May 29, 2017

Organizers of the flash mob are also encouraging the public to create their own videos, and to post them online under the hashtag #uptofaith2017

News in Brief

PM Orbán at World Congress of Families XI summit: 2018 will be the year for families

May 25, 2017

The World Congress of Families XI summit got underway in Budapest today, taking place between May 25th to 28th

News in Brief

Hungary's Parliament building voted in top ten of most popular landmarks

May 25, 2017

Hungary placed seventh in the top ten list, ahead of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, Big Ben in London, and the Acropolis in Athens

News in Brief

LEN Champions League final to take place at Danube Arena

May 25, 2017

During the course of the LEN Champions League event, the official opening ceremony of the Danube Arena will take place at 2.30 pm on Saturday, May 27th

News in Brief

Hungary wins right to host 2018 Ice Hockey World Championship

May 22, 2017

The decision was announced on Friday at the congress of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), and the event will take place at the 9,000-seat László Papp Budapest Sports Arena in Hungary on April 22-28, 2018

Blog

The FINA World Aquatics Championship comes to a true watersport nation

May 22, 2017 - Zoltán Kovács

The big event is right around the corner. From July 14 to 30, Budapest and the Lake Balaton city of Balatonfüred will host the FINA World Aquatics Championships. Over the next few weeks, it’s a race to get everything ready.

News in Brief

Hungary's Danube Arena shines in blue and multi-colored lights to promote LEN Champions League and FINA World Aquatics Championships

May 17, 2017

The arena houses two Olympic worthy swimming pools, diving pool and a short course training pool. There are 5,000 seats, and 8,000 additional pop-up seats have been designed especially for the 2017 World Aquatics Championships

News in Brief

Hungarian house prices increased by a whopping 15.4 percent in 2016

May 16, 2017

The percentage increase in Hungarian house prices is expected to hit double digits in 2017 and 2018 as the property market surges

News in Brief

Gourmet Festival 2017 to take place this weekend

May 15, 2017

The revamped festival will take place in Budapest, May 18-21, at Millenaris Park

News in Brief

25th Sziget Festival is Hungary's largest tourist attraction

May 12, 2017

More than 1,000 acts will take part in the 2017 festival, between August 9 and 16, which has grown from a relatively small concert into one of the world's largest festivals in just 25 years

News in Brief

Budapest's Liberty Bridge to open as pedestrian-only space during summer weekends

May 11, 2017

The city is planning on closing the Liberty Bridge on weekends following the end of the school term until August 20

News in Brief

Brain Bar Budapest comes to Hungary in June

May 11, 2017

The Budapest-based event has been hailed as Europe’s finest and largest festival on the future and is positioned throughout the city from June 1 to 3, 2017

News in Brief

Nokia Skypark building opens in Budapest securing Hungary as leading R&D hub

May 09, 2017

Hungary aims to offer the most favorable conditions in central Europe for R&D to stimulate new technology investments, says foreign minister.

News in Brief

European handball title won by Győr

May 08, 2017

Győr beat HC Vardar 31:30 after extra-time in a close final game of the TIPPMIX EHF FINAL and brought home their third EHF Champions League title in five years

News in Brief

Son of Saul director László Nemes working on new film titled Sunset

May 03, 2017

Sunset will be set in Budapest in 1915 and will begin shooting in June. It is expected to hit cinema screens in 2018

News in Brief

Hungary is well prepared for FINA Aquatics World Championships in July

May 03, 2017

“All preparations are moving forward according to schedule seventy-three days ahead of the start of the FINA Aquatics World Championships, the biggest ever sports event hosted by Hungary," Hungary's minister for National Development has said

News in Brief

Foreign investors becoming more interested in Hungarian real estate

May 02, 2017

According to a real estate report, the presence of foreign investors has not yet caused a rise in prices that would make them too high for Hungarians

News in Brief

Direct flights from Hungary to USA to launch in 2018

May 01, 2017

Budapest Airport is aiming to provide customers with direct flights from Hungary to USA by the summer of 2018

News in Brief

Jackie Chan comes to Hungary to promote Chinese culture

Apr 24, 2017

Zoltán Balog, minister of Human Capacities, met with the actor to promote Chinese culture in Hungary

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Sziget Festival 2017 releases anthem

Apr 18, 2017

The annual summer festival will take place this year between August 9 and 16 at its traditional location on Hajógyári Island in the Danube in northern Budapest

News in Brief

Budapest Airport continues to expand with extra flights to Canada

Apr 18, 2017

Aiport expansion plans are also in development. A new terminal building is to be constructed at Budapest's Ferenc Liszt International Airport and will be completed in 2018

News in Brief

Thousands march through Budapest to remember victims of the Holocaust

Apr 17, 2017

The March of the Living began at the “Shoes on the riverbank” memorial honoring the memory of Holocaust victims killed on the banks of the Danube, where participants placed stones, candles and flowers. The memorial march led across the Chain Bridge to Clark Adam Square on the Buda side

News in Brief

Helpers during the Holocaust honored in Hungary

Apr 17, 2017

A memorial plaque commemorating 19 helpers of Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg, who rescued tens of thousands of Jews during the Holocaust in Hungary, was unveiled in Budapest on Sunday

News in Brief

Two protesters sentenced to public work for paint bombing Presidential Palace

Apr 14, 2017

Márton Gulyás and Gergő Varga sentenced to public work for their questionable tactics during peaceful protest

News in Brief

International Book Festival Budapest to take place between April 20-23

Apr 13, 2017

The festival will host nearly 150 exhibitors and 500 programs, including book presentations, signings, concerts and discussions. Guest of honor will be Turkish Nobel prize laureate Orhan Pamuk

News in Brief

Budapest to bid for 2023 International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) World Championships

Apr 07, 2017

The Hungarian capital still plans to build many of the facilities they proposed if they were awarded the Olympic games. This includes the main Olympic Stadium along the banks of the River Danube, which would host the IAAF World Championships

News in Brief

Hungarian Post reveals ceremonial stamps for 17th FINA World Championships

Apr 06, 2017

The special stamp issued by the Hungarian Post can be purchased at designated post offices and branch offices for 435 HUF (1.40 EUR). 200.000 stamps have been produced in total

News in Brief

Hungary's Wizz Air announces flights to Kazakhstan

Apr 03, 2017

Wizz Air will launch a direct flight between Budapest and Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, from June 8. The flights could also "boost bilateral economic, tourism and trade relations"

News in Brief

The Budapest Spring Festival begins today

Mar 31, 2017

Hungary's annual Budapest Spring Festival will take place between March 31 - April 23, and will include a play starring Hollywood actor John Malkovich

News in Brief

Hollywood star Jamie Foxx becomes Hungary football fan

Mar 22, 2017

Hollywood star Jamie Foxx, in Hungary filming the new Robin Hood movie, has been gifted an official Hungary football vest by team captain Balázs Dzsudzsák, and wished them luck for the World Cup

News in Brief

Hungary's international tourism numbers grow by 16 percent

Mar 22, 2017

In January 2017, the number of nights spent by international tourists increased by 14 percent and that of nights spent by domestic tourists by 5.6 percent compared to a year earlier

News in Brief

New metro cars introduced in Budapest

Mar 21, 2017

The new white metro cars, dubbed 'angels', have modernized pneumatic and braking systems, and a new drive system, which is more energy efficient by 30 percent. The passenger sections are vandal-proof, and the cabins are entirely fire-proof

News in Brief

Official countdown to 2017 FINA World Aquatics Championships launched

Mar 20, 2017

The 17th FINA Aquatics World Championships will be held in Budapest and Balatonfüred between July 14 and 30, 2017

News in Brief

Budapest spas and thermal baths prove some of the most popular in Europe

Mar 17, 2017

Visitor numbers were up 3 percent to over 4 million in 2016. Revenue rose by 14 percent to 11.5 billion HUF (37m EUR)

News in Brief

Sziget Festival announces new acts for 2017 line-up

Mar 16, 2017

The annual summer festival will take place this year between August 9 and 16 at its traditional location on Hajógyári Island in the Danube in northern Budapest

News in Brief

Direct flights from Budapest to Kiev to launch in June

Mar 13, 2017

Budapest’s Ferenc Liszt International Airport saw more than 10,000 passengers arriving indirectly from Ukraine, and the new flights will help service their needs. The new service will provide more than 2,500 seats to Kiev Boryspil weekly

News in Brief

Budapest property soars as prices hit 500,000 HUF per square meter

Mar 13, 2017

There was a 18.4 percent increase in the prices of Budapest properties in 2016, and other areas in Hungary also saw an increase

News in Brief

New outdoor city arena plans unveiled for FINA World Championships

Mar 02, 2017

Hailed as one of the world's greatest water sport competitions, the 2017 World Aquatics Championships will be held in Budapest, from July 14-30, 2017

News in Brief

FINA world championships water polo draw announced

Feb 27, 2017

The 2017 FINA World Championships will take place in Budapest and Balatonfüred from July 14 to 30, 2017, and will feature swimming, open-water swimming, synchronized swimming, diving, high diving and water polo

News in Brief

Property prices have increased significantly along the M4 metro line

Feb 24, 2017

The biggest increases were seen in Pest, especially Kálvin Square where prices doubled. In Buda, some areas increased by nearly 40 percent

News in Brief

'Remarkable' Danube Arena completed in Budapest

Feb 22, 2017

The new Danube Arena in Budapest will house seating for 15,000 spectators, completed in just 14 months for the FINA world championships to be hosted in Budapest in July

News in Brief

Budapest's Széchenyi Chain Bridge and Buda castle tunnel to be renovated

Feb 22, 2017

The Buda Castle tunnel has been in need of refurbishment for some time, and the Chain Bridge was last renovated in 1988. The estimated cost of the projects will come to roughly 18 billion HUF

News in Brief

Budapest bomber finally admits attack

Feb 20, 2017

The suspect, named only as László P, has admitted that he was the hooded figure who can be seen on security footage near the site that evening and that the remains of his rucksack were found at the site after the explosion

News in Brief

New law to regulate drone use in Hungary

Feb 15, 2017

Drones below 250 grams are classed as toys, while drones of up to 2kg will require online certification under the proposed law. Operators of drones weighing between 2kg and 25kg will have to obtain a license

News in Brief

European Police Academy celebrates successful year with event in Budapest

Feb 15, 2017

The academy (CEPOL) is an EU agency aimed at training police officers and increasing the capabilities of law-enforcement bodies to fight international challenges such as drug trafficking or terrorism

News in Brief

Smog warning reintroduced for Budapest

Feb 15, 2017

The smog concentration is not expected to drop during the day and will remain around the warning level

News in Brief

Metro 4 corruption scandal is a 'textbook example of fraud'

Feb 13, 2017

The Prime Minister’s Office has launched an investigation to determine whether the alleged misappropriations also concerned government money contributed to the metro 4 project

News in Brief

Hungary to become top five tourist destination within two years

Feb 13, 2017

48 beaches at Lake Balaton will be renovated at a cost of about 1.86 billion HUF, wine routes will be built in the region of Sopron, the Széchenyi Palace in nearby Nagycenk will be renovated and much more

News in Brief

Budapest's crime rate has fallen dramatically in just one year

Feb 10, 2017

Last year, 60,864 criminal cases were reported in Budapest, while that number had been over 70,000 in 2015

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Former mayor of Budapest to face parliamentary committee over M4 corruption scandal

Feb 07, 2017

Gábor Demszky's lawyer said the former mayor would cooperate with any investigation and has nothing to hide

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Drone smashes into car on Budapest's Liberty bridge

Feb 07, 2017

Police have raised charges against a man for committing a crime against road safety through negligence, no one was hurt in the incident

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Hungarian property prices have increased the most in Europe

Feb 07, 2017

Property prices in the third quarter of 2016 have increased by 11.6 percent in just one year, which far exceeds the 4.3 percent average measured in the EU

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Mosque being built by Islamic community in Budapest

Feb 06, 2017

The mosque is currently under construction in Zugló and will become a cultural center for the Islamic community in Hungary

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Engineering firm responsible for construction of metro four line project under investigation

Jan 19, 2017

The central investigating chief prosecutor’s office (KNYF) is conducting a full-scale investigation into the case concerning French engineering company Alstom’s contracts for the Budapest metro

News in Brief

Investigation by Europe's anti-fraud office concerns period before Fidesz took over council

Jan 19, 2017

Hungary could be fined almost 77 billion HUF, or 250 million euros, for violations based on the OLAF report

News in Brief

Hero Wallenberg must never be forgotten

Jan 18, 2017

Wallenberg rescued tens of thousands of Hungarian Jews from the Nazis by providing them with Swedish passports or housing them in diplomatic buildings. But in January 1945, he vanished from the streets of Soviet-occupied Budapest and was never seen again

News in Brief

OLAF uncovers losses of 167 billion HUF on metro 4 project

Jan 17, 2017

Implicating the Socialist-led government in the biggest corruption scandal since Hungary joined the EU, the OLAF report uncovered irregularities and the suspicion of corruption in connection with 57 contracts, with most losses tied to five contracts

News in Brief

Hungary's tourism industry set to grow to largest in central and eastern Europe

Jan 13, 2017

Hungary has many internationally renowned sights that draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year to Budapest and the countryside, such as Parliament, Buda Castle, Heroes' Square, Lake Balaton, the many spas and much more

News in Brief

Budapest Airport to benefit from new terminal building

Jan 11, 2017

The new passenger pier will increase the size and capacity of the airport, including new shops, 27 new gates and 10 new jet bridges

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Book your FINA World Aquatics Championships tickets before they sell out

Jan 06, 2017

Demand has been at its highest for events on July 24 in which three-time Olympic champion Katinka Hosszú is expected to compete

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Hungary celebrates 25th anniversary of first heart transplant operation

Jan 04, 2017

The transplant was performed in January 1992 at Semmelweis University by cardiac surgeon Zoltán Szabó and his team

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Renovations to the M3 metro line will begin this summer

Jan 02, 2017

The renovations would cover the installation of elevators at every station of the metro line, as opposed to the most vital upgrades needed

News in Brief

Zsa Zsa Gabor to be buried in Budapest

Dec 29, 2016

The Hungarian-born actress will be buried in Budapest following a funeral in Beverly Hills on Friday

News in Brief

Budapest dental clinic to accept Bitcoin payments for services

Dec 27, 2016

Helvetic Dental Clinics has taken the step to cut credit card costs and to preserve patient privacy, and to become the first dental service in Hungary to accept Bitcoins as payment

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PM Orbán to meet with President Putin in Budapest

Dec 22, 2016

Péter Szijjártó, minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, has confirmed that a high level Hungarian-Russian summit and official foreign ministerial meeting will be held in Budapest

News in Brief

The Budapest bath buzz is gaining international momentum

Dec 21, 2016

The Rudas or Szechenyi baths are two of the most famous in Budapest, allowing guests a relaxing time in several different pools with varying temperatures

News in Brief

Brain Bar Budapest returns for third year

Dec 16, 2016

Festival goers can listen to discussions on the most exciting trends in technology, business, culture and politics and meet fifty internationally acclaimed thinkers and innovators

News in Brief

M3 Metro line renovations to take place in 2017

Dec 15, 2016

The estimated budget of 137.5 billion HUF fits well within the previously allocated amount, and the work is not expected to exceed these forecasts

News in Brief

Budapest's 2024 bid cleared by Olympic committee

Dec 08, 2016

The three bid cities now have until February 3 to submit documents regarding "Games delivery, experience and venue legacy"

News in Brief

Wizz Air unveils Budapest 2024 Olympic aircrafts

Nov 29, 2016

Two aircrafts will feature the new Budapest livery for the entire duration of the Olympic and Paralympic Bid, until August 31, 2017

News in Brief

Hungary wins the right to host leading Fencing and Pentathlon events

Nov 28, 2016

The Fencing and Pentathlon events are qualifiers for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo

News in Brief

Hungary unveils its UEFA EURO 2020 host city logo

Nov 17, 2016

The aim for 2020 is to build bridges between nations and fans. The Budapest logo portrays the renowned Széchenyi Chain Bridge which spans the River Danube

News in Brief

Robbie Williams coming to Budapest next summer

Nov 10, 2016

Williams will take to the stage of the Groupama Stadion Budapest, August 23, 2017

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Hungary's homeless shelters brace for winter

Nov 02, 2016

Increasing capacity in homeless shelters comes amid concerns for the number of homeless people taking up residence on the streets of Budapest

News in Brief

Budapest and Moscow strike agreement on urban development

Nov 01, 2016

Budapest and Moscow have signed an agreement on cooperation until 2019

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Raoul Wallenberg officially declared dead

Nov 01, 2016

His family requested that he be declared dead officially, in order to “let Raoul rest in peace”

News in Brief

Romanian wins Hungarian ATP tennis tournament

Oct 31, 2016

Challenger tennis returned to the Hungarian capital for the first time since 2005 and will make its ATP World Tour debut next year on red clay

News in Brief

Budapest bomber caught

Oct 20, 2016

According to several reports, a young man was detained by TEK squads yesterday afternoon on suspicion of carrying out a bomb attack in central Budapest, September 24

News in Brief

Police officers injured in Budapest bomb attack released from hospital

Oct 19, 2016

CCTV footage obtained from the Prima supermarket on Teréz Körút, near Nyugati station, clearly shows the suspect's face and sheds new light on his identity

News in Brief

Budapest house price surge being closely monitored

Oct 19, 2016

Between the first quarter of 2014 and the first quarter of 2016 the Budapest house prices jumped by more than 50 percent, while properties in the countryside rose by 20 percent

News in Brief

More money needed for Metro line renovations

Oct 14, 2016

"If the budget for the project remains “capped” at the current 140 billion HUF, plans to upgrade the stops will have to be abandoned," Mayor of Budapest has said

News in Brief

Budapest bomber could be a disgruntled former police officer

Oct 12, 2016

Police recently released new CCTV still images showing the Budapest bomb attacker in order to try and catch the suspect

News in Brief

Hungary on right track ahead of hosting FINA World Championships

Oct 05, 2016

The World Championships will serve as the championship event for 6 different aquatic sports: pool swimming, open water swimming, diving, water polo, synchronized swimming, and high diving

News in Brief

Budapest police officer injured in bombing awakes from coma

Sep 29, 2016

If you have any helpful information, police can be contacted through the toll-free telephone number 06-80/620-107, 06-80/555-111, on either of the central emergency numbers (107; 112) or in person at any police station

News in Brief

WATCH: Police release CCTV footage of Budapest bomb attack

Sep 28, 2016

Police are offering a 10 million HUF reward for help in identifying the attacker and are calling on members of the public to reveal the individual’s identity

News in Brief

PM Orbán: No evidence Budapest bomb was linked to terrorism

Sep 28, 2016

Police are offering a reward of 10 million HUF for information leading to the arrest of the suspect

News in Brief

Budapest bomb was aimed at police officers

Sep 26, 2016

Hungarian authorities have put up a cash reward of 10 million HUF for anyone who can lead them to the suspect - a 20 to 25-year-old wearing a light-colored fishing hat, a dark canvas jacket, blue jeans and white trainers

News in Brief

New thriller 'The Alienist' to be filmed in Budapest

Sep 23, 2016

The Alienist will use Budapest as an 1890s New York City when it starts filming in early 2017

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Budapest Zoo's 150th anniversary honored with special coins

Sep 19, 2016

The uncirculated nickel-brass 2,000-forint and Proof silver 10,000-forint coins honor the zoo's milestone and are set to become collector's items

News in Brief

Budapest tram killer jailed for 18 years

Sep 16, 2016

A 74-year-old woman was hit by the 4/6 tram two years ago, having been kicked in the back into its path at the Margaret Bridge stop

News in Brief

Hungarian National Ballet announces new season of shows

Sep 15, 2016

With over 120 performances throughout the season, fans are offered a wide selection of popular repertoire pieces and new productions at the Opera House and the Erkel Theatre

News in Brief

Budapest to host Urban Games inspired by 2024 Olympic bid

Sep 15, 2016

The Urban Games, featuring five sports including cycling, table tennis, four-a-side football, running and longboarding, has the backing of both the City of Budapest and Budapest 2024 and is due to be held on October 1st.

News in Brief

Finding a solution to Budapest's homeless community

Sep 14, 2016

An organization called Utcarol Lakasba is working with the support of local authorities, renovating state-owned houses for homeless families

News in Brief

Statue of Count Gyula Andrássy inaugurated in front of Hungarian Parliament

Sep 14, 2016

The monument in honor of Andrássy, prime minister between 1867 and 1871, was inaugurated by László Kövér, House Speaker

News in Brief

The 14th Ferenc Liszt international piano competition gets underway

Sep 05, 2016

Thirty-six pianists from 11 countries on three continents will start competing for the title this week

News in Brief

Budapest is the perfect city to host the 2024 Olympic Games

Aug 17, 2016

Budapest is in with a strong chance of winning the 2024 Olympic Games bid, the first central European city to host the event

News in Brief

More than six hundred yoga fanatics take class on Freedom Bridge

Aug 10, 2016

Watch more than 600 people take part in a yoga class on Freedom Bridge in Budapest

News in Brief

Hungary gears up for grand prix

Jul 19, 2016

Taking place at the famous Hungaroring circuit, the teams will battle it out for the prestigious circuit title

News in Brief

Hungary's popularity thanks in part to its famous hot springs and bath houses

Jul 19, 2016

Budapest's spas, hot springs and bathing culture have attracted visitors to Hungary since Roman times

News in Brief

Red Bull Air Race in Budapest this weekend

Jul 15, 2016

Viewing is free for spectators along the edge of the river, so don't miss out!

News in Brief

ATP Tour announces tennis event in Budapest

Jul 04, 2016

For the first time in tennis history, an ATP men's event will be played Hungary

News in Brief

Budapest's Jewish quarter is one of Europe's treasures

Jul 01, 2016

Budapest’s seventh district is home to restaurants, cafés, galleries, boutiques and cultural highlights that invoke an indie spirit and stray away from the mainstream model

News in Brief

Government to provide replacement bus service for M3 renovations

Jun 30, 2016

Around 150 buses are needed for a replacement service for when the M3 line goes through renovations in November

News in Brief

Budapest airport to receive multi-billion HUF renovation

Jun 30, 2016

Investment will be made in the new passenger pier B, but developments will also include construction of an airport hotel as well as other logistical and security changes

News in Brief

Rare Amedeo Modigliani exhibition coming to Hungary

Jun 29, 2016

A total of 61 Amedeo Modigliani works will be displayed at the Hungarian National Gallery in Budapest from June 29

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Hyperloop to become a reality after Russian government invests

Jun 23, 2016

A trip that normally takes several hours from Budapest to Bratislava will only take 10-minutes by Hyperloop

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Hungarian State Opera announces new programs

Jun 17, 2016

Plans have been announced to hold more than 2,000 programs during the new season

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Hungary celebrates the life of Houdini

Jun 13, 2016

The House of Houdini Museum is now open in Buda Castle and is already proving a hit

News in Brief

New Budapest beach bar opens on Margaret Island

Jun 10, 2016

Soak up the sun on the Danube with an open-air terrace, sandy beach, DJs, quality drinks and legendary Budapest summer nights

News in Brief

Refugee runs successful business in Budapest

May 27, 2016

Ibrahim's story just goes to show that Hungary can be accepting of other cultures

News in Brief

Iconic chain bridge to be renovated

May 23, 2016

Latest projects are all part of the government's ambitious program of renewal

News in Brief

Jamie Oliver opens restaurant in Budapest

May 20, 2016

Oliver has a passion for Hungarian cuisine and working together with “hard-working, intelligent” Hungarian colleagues

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Hungary to host renowned Bocuse d’Or European Selection in Budapest

May 06, 2016

The event will include a number of exciting new features that promises to further boost the development of Hungarian gastronomy

News in Brief

Hungarian government building a bigger and better Budapest

May 02, 2016

Hungary's capital has entered its most profound period of transformation since its imperial zenith

News in Brief

Top chefs to descend upon Hungary for the annual Gourmet Festival

Apr 28, 2016

Gourmet Festival to showcase Hungarian delicacies in Budapest this May

News in Brief Prime Minister

Nobel Prize for Literature winner Imre Kertesz laid to rest at the National Burial Garden in Budapest's Kerepesi Cemetery

Apr 25, 2016

Prime Minister Viktor Orban paid his respects at the funeral service on Friday

News in Brief

Demand in Hungarian real estate increases by 30%

Apr 22, 2016

Both international and domestic interest in conducting business in Hungary has increased dramatically during the first quarter of 2016 alone.

News in Brief

Largest-ever collection of Picasso artwork comes to Hungarian National Gallery

Apr 22, 2016

Picasso Exhibition returns to Budapest after 100 years - bigger and better than before!

Blog

Budapest embarking on a new era

Apr 22, 2016 - Zoltán Kovács

Thanks in no small part to healthy FDI in recent years, Hungary has been in a prime position to invest in renovation and infrastructure.

News in Brief

New international jazz festival to provide platform for rising Hungarian talent

Apr 21, 2016

Billy Cobham brings a bit of Jazz to Hungary this weekend.