What Currency Does Hungary Use?

Hungary uses the Hungarian forint (HUF), not the euro. UK travellers must pay in forints for goods and services.

What Currency Does Hungary Use? (UK Traveller’s Guide)

If you're travelling to Hungary from the UK—whether for a cultural break in Budapest or a spa weekend in Hévíz—it’s important to understand the local currency to avoid confusion or unnecessary charges. Although Hungary is part of the European Union, it does not use the euro. This guide explains what currency Hungary uses, how it works in practice, and what UK visitors need to know before spending money there.

What Is the Official Currency of Hungary?

Hungary’s official currency is the Hungarian forint.

  • Currency name: Hungarian forint

  • Currency symbol: Ft

  • ISO code: HUF

  • Subunit: 1 forint = 100 fillér (though fillér coins are no longer used)

The forint is issued by the Magyar Nemzeti Bank (Hungarian National Bank).

Does Hungary Use the Euro?

No. Hungary is an EU member state but has not adopted the euro. The Hungarian government continues to use the forint as the country’s legal tender.

That means all prices in shops, restaurants, and transport systems are listed in HUF, and euros are not accepted as standard payment.

How Does Currency Work in Practice?

  • Prices are listed in HUF across the country

  • UK bank cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted in most shops, restaurants, and hotels

  • Contactless payments are widely supported, especially in cities like Budapest

  • ATMs are available nationwide and dispense Hungarian forints

Cash is still common, especially in rural areas, local markets or for tipping.

Benefits and Considerations for UK Travellers

Benefits:

  • The forint is a widely stable currency for everyday travel use

  • Card payments are accepted in most urban areas

  • ATMs are reliable and easy to use

Considerations:

  • GBP and EUR are not accepted in most places

  • You may need to exchange or withdraw forints upon arrival

  • UK banks may charge foreign transaction fees

  • HUF amounts are often large (e.g. 10,000 HUF = ~£22), so it's worth familiarising yourself with the conversion rate

Travel Tips for Spending in Hungary

  • Use a travel-friendly card like Monzo, Starling, Chase UK or Wise to avoid currency conversion fees

  • Always choose to pay in local currency (HUF) rather than GBP when offered—this avoids dynamic currency conversion fees

  • Avoid changing money at airports or hotels—use ATMs or city-centre exchange offices for better rates

  • Carry a small amount of cash in HUF for tips, taxis and local vendors

FAQs

Can I use euros in Hungary?
No. While some tourist hotels or souvenir shops may accept euros, the exchange rate is usually poor, and HUF is expected everywhere else.

Is Hungary expensive?
Hungary offers good value for money compared to Western Europe. Food, public transport and attractions are often much cheaper than in the UK.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes—while card payments are widely accepted, having some forints in cash is helpful for small purchases and rural areas.