Cash or card in Budapest: Which is the best way to pay?

If the Hungarian capital is your next travel destination, you’re likely working out a travel budget. No matter how much you plan on spending, knowing the habits of the Hungarian locals is an essential part of getting ready. Some countries are still very cash-oriented, while people in others prefer various types of cashless payment methods.

Cash remains the most popular payment method in Hungary, but cards and digital wallets are also widely used, especially in Budapest. Although the future will likely be completely cashless, Budapest is still holding onto banknotes. Since it can be tricky to decide what you should rely on during your trip, we’re here to help. We’ll cover this and go into more detail to help answer the question - which is more convenient, cash or card in Budapest?

We’ll also show you a cost-effective way to handle your finances in Budapest with Wise. For all international purchases, online or in person, you can rely on the Wise card. You can even withdraw Hungarian forints like a local for low fees* and at the mid-market exchange rate.

How cash-centric is Budapest?

Although Hungarians use different cashless methods, including digital wallets, cash is still quite popular. However, this largely depends on personal preference and the payment options available. For example, people will usually use cards and e-wallets in grocery stores, but rely on cash in taxis or at the hairdresser.¹

Since Budapest is the largest city in Hungary, you can expect the majority of establishments to accept cards.

Cash etiquette in Budapest

You won’t be expected to tip in Budapest or in Hungary in general, but the gesture is appreciated. If you’d like to show that you’re happy with the service you’re receiving, leaving 10-15% of the bill is standard practice.²

However, be sure to check the menu to see if a 12.5% service charge is already included in the prices. If it is, tipping is not necessary.²

Cash or card in Budapest - the comparison

We’ve listed some common situations where you’ll be paying for things in Budapest. Here’s whether you’ll be able to pay by card, in cash or both:

Paying for…	Card	Cash
🚕 Taxis3	Yes	Yes
🏪 Convenience stores	Usually, yes	Yes
🚎 Public transport4	Yes	Yes
☕ Coffee shops	Usually, yes	Yes
🖼️ Museums5	Usually, yes	Yes
♨️ Thermal bath6	Usually, yes	Yes

Want to work out exactly how much things cost? Explore our live Hungarian exchange rate currency converter.

Using your card in Budapest at an ATM

There are around 4,800 ATMs in Hungary, with some of the biggest banks in the country being Unicredit, OTP Bank and K&H Bank. When looking for an ATM, keep an eye out for the word 'bankomat,' which can help you spot one. Budapest ATMs accept international cards, so you’ll be able to use your UK-issued card.⁷

Withdrawal limits at Budapest ATMs range from 100,000 to 200,000 forints per transaction. Most ATMs don’t charge fees, but those that do typically have a fee of around 1,200 forints.⁷

Will my UK debit card work in Budapest?

Yes, you can use your UK-issued debit card for both withdrawals and payments in Budapest.

Can I use my UK credit card in Budapest?

You can use your UK credit card while in Budapest. However, keep in mind that additional fees may apply for using your card abroad.

Reasons to use cash in Budapest

While you’ll have various payment options in Budapest, cash is the only method accepted everywhere. It’s commonly used at markets, small restaurants, and street food stalls.

Cash tips are also preferred, so it's a good idea to have some on hand. This ensures that the person who served you receives their tip directly.

And if you decide to leave Budapest and visit some smaller towns, cash might be the only available option.

Reasons to use credit or debit cards in Budapest

Since Budapest is the capital city, card payments are available nearly everywhere. This is also a more convenient way to carry forints, sparing you from dealing with loose change at the end of your trip.

Credit and debit cards are a good choice to help protect you from pickpockets, and your card may offer additional perks like travel insurance.

Are contactless card payments common in Budapest?

Yes, contactless payments are becoming very popular in all of Hungary. The contactless limit is 15,000 forints per transaction, after which you’ll need to enter your PIN.⁸

Your Wise card can also be used for contactless payments in Budapest. If you don’t want to carry multiple cards with you, you can get the Wise virtual card with the same features.

Other payment methods in Budapest

Besides the traditional cards and cash, other payment methods are available in Budapest.

Buy now pay later options (BNPL)

BNPL options are great for larger purchases or even everyday expenses. This payment method is becoming increasingly popular in Hungary, especially with the availability of local providers like Cofidis and SimplePay.⁹

Mobile payment

Mobile wallets are commonly used for both e-commerce and in-store purchases. Global apps like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are available in Budapest, alongside local competitors such as Barion and SimplePay.⁹

PayPal is also a popular payment option in Hungary. Locals use it for purchases in Budapest, across the country, as well as abroad.⁹

For an additional layer of security, you could add your Wise virtual card to your wallet. It has all the benefits of a regular Wise card, but it exists in your phone only. You can freeze your Wise virtual card after every transaction, too.

What is the best way to pay in Budapest: cash or card?

If you're unsure whether to use cash or card in Budapest, the answer is likely cash. It’s accepted everywhere, so you won’t have trouble making payments.

That said, cashless payments are common in Budapest, and you may be able to rely solely on your card. This can also be a safer option, as it reduces the need to carry large amounts of cash. Still, cash remains the better choice.

Ideally, use your card for larger expenses, like accommodation, and rely on cash for everyday purchases.

Spend like a local in Budapest with Wise

Hungarian locals still mostly use cash for paying. Although this is expected to change, it’s still the best option for a trip to Budapest.

And if you want to spend like a local in Hungary and 150+ countries without worrying about exchange rates and hidden fees, the Wise card might be just the thing you’re looking for.

The Wise card can be used for all international payments, including accommodation costs and daily expenses. It automatically converts the currency at the mid-market exchange rate with only a small, transparent currency conversion fee*.

You can also use it to easily withdraw cash from the ATMs in Budapest. Each month, you can make 2 withdrawals of up to 200 GBP for free. After that, there is a charge of 0.5 GBP per withdrawal. There’s also a 1.75% fee on any amount you withdraw above 200 GBP.

Learn more about the Wise card 💳

Cash or card in Budapest - FAQs

To summarise, here are some of the most frequent questions about using cash or cards in Budapest.

How cashless is Hungary?

Cards and digital methods are accepted almost everywhere in bigger cities, but Hungarians still use cash.

How many Hungarian forints do you need for a day in Budapest?

That largely depends on your spending habits and travel style. However, you can always withdraw more money if you end up needing it. Learn more about money in Hungary.

Which ATM is best for foreigners to use in Budapest?

All Budapest ATMs accept foreign cards and there are usually no fees involved.

How much are ATM fees in Budapest?

Many ATMs in Hungary don't charge fees, but those that do may charge up to 1,200 forints per transaction.

Is Budapest cheap to eat and drink?

Eating and drinking in Budapest is much more affordable than in UK cities. For instance, a pint of beer averages £2, while a cappuccino costs around £1.80.¹⁰

Do stores in Budapest ever accept euros or pounds?

Some tourist spots accept euros, but this is not the norm. Also, you’ll probably get a bad exchange rate, so it’s better to pay in the local currency.¹¹

Can you use a UK debit or credit card in Hungary?

Yes, you should be able to use your UK debit and credit card without issues in Hungary.

---

Sources used:

1. Statista - digital payments in Hungary
2. Corinthia - Hungarian customs
3. BKK - taxi services in Budapest
4. BKK - Budapest Pay&GO
5. Museum of Fine Arts - special payments
6. Széchenyi Thermal Bath - FAQ
7. ATM Fee Saver - ATMs in Hungary
8. Mastercard - contactless limit raise
9. NORBr - payment methods in Hungary
10. Numbeo - London vs Budapest cost of living
11. Travelex - currency of Hungary

Sources last checked on date: 08-Jan-2025