Hungary is in the Schengen Area. EU citizens need only an ID card. Many non-EU nationals (US, Canada, UK) can stay visa-free for up to 90 days. Check with the Hungarian embassy.

What currency is used?

Hungarian Forint (HUF). Euros are sometimes accepted at tourist spots but at poor rates. ATMs are widely available.

Is English widely spoken?

English is common among younger people and in tourist areas, but older locals may speak German or Russian. Learning a few Hungarian phrases is appreciated.

What is the best way to get from Budapest to Szombathely?

Direct trains from Budapest Keleti station take about 2.5-3 hours. Buses are also available. Driving via M1 motorway takes around 2 hours.

Are credit cards accepted?

Yes, most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept Visa/Mastercard. Smaller vendors and markets may prefer cash.

What is the local cuisine like?

Hearty and flavorful, with dishes like goulash, lángos (fried dough), and töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage). Try local wines from the Sopron region.

Is Szombathely family-friendly?

Absolutely. The city has parks, the Savaria Museum, and the nearby Kőszeg Mountains offer hiking and castles. The annual carnival is a hit with kids.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe and of good quality. Bottled water is also widely available.

Szombathely

CityVas County, Hungary

Szombathely is a CITY in Vas County, Hungary.

Nestled in the heart of Vas County, Szombathely is Hungary's oldest recorded city, founded by the Romans as Savaria. Today, it seamlessly blends ancient history with modern charm. Wander through the beautifully preserved ruins of the Iseum Savariense, a temple dedicated to Isis, or stroll along the leafy Fő tér (Main Square) with its colorful Baroque buildings and the iconic Szentháromság-szobor (Holy Trinity statue). The city is a cultural hub, hosting the vibrant Savaria Historical Carnival each August, where the streets come alive with Roman legionaries, gladiators, and artisans. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Kőszeg Mountains or relax in the thermal baths of Sárvár. With its pedestrian-friendly center, excellent museums, and warm Hungarian hospitality, Szombathely offers a rich, authentic experience away from the tourist crowds.

Best time to visit Szombathely

Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant foliage. Summer (July-August) is peak season with the Savaria Historical Carnival and warm temperatures, but accommodation prices rise. Winter is cold but charming, with Christmas markets.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 7 to 14°C, colorful foliage

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Great for hiking and photography.

Know before you go

Getting there

BUD

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport

International

220 km away

VIE

Vienna International Airport

International

130 km away

GRZ

Graz Airport

International

150 km away

Getting around

"Szombathely is compact and walkable, especially the historic center. Local buses (Volánbusz) connect neighborhoods and nearby towns. Taxis are affordable; use apps like Bolt or call a local company. Biking is popular, with bike rental available. For day trips, trains and buses run to Kőszeg, Sárvár, and Lake Balaton."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in city centre, cafes, and hotels

Local SIM

Local SIM available at post offices or mobile shops from $5

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Generally safe, but be vigilant during festivals and at night in less crowded areas.

Night safety

7/10

Generally safe, but be vigilant during festivals and at night in less crowded areas.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Szombathely is generally very safe, with low crime rates. Petty theft like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, especially during festivals. Keep valuables secure and avoid poorly lit streets late at night. Scams targeting tourists are rare but be cautious with unofficial currency exchange. Emergency services are reliable."

Police

999

Ambulance

112

Entry and health

Health information

"No specific vaccinations are required for Hungary. The healthcare system is good, with public hospitals and private clinics available. Pharmacies (gyógyszertár) are well-stocked and can provide basic medications. EU citizens should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is recommended for non-EU visitors. Tap water is safe to drink."

Culture

Local customs

"Hungarians greet with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. When invited to a home, bring a small gift like flowers or wine. Dress smart-casual; avoid overly revealing clothing in churches. Tipping 10-15% is expected in restaurants. Always say 'Egészségedre!' (cheers) when clinking glasses. Avoid political discussions."

Hungarian (official)EnglishGermanHungarian

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$8 | a cheap local meal costs ~$8

Hotels

$50-90 | budget hotels range $50-90/night

Local transport

$1.20 | local bus ride ~$1.20

Cost notes

Prices are lower than Budapest, especially for accommodation and dining.

Timezone

Europe/Budapest
Local time 01:44

More facts

Population

78,025

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Sabaria, Sambotel, Savaria, Sombatgej, Sombathejus, Sombathel, Sombathelj, Sombathėjus, Sombatkhej, Sombatkhel, Sombotel, Steinamanger, Szombathely, ZBX, smbathy, som bxt he, sombeoteuhei, sonbatohei, song bo te hai yi, swmbthy, Сомбатгей, Сомбатхей, Сомбатхељ, סומבטהי, سمباتهی, شامباتہیلی, โซมบอตเฮ, სომბატჰეი, ソンバトヘイ, 松博特海伊, 솜버트헤이, HU-SH, Stein am Anger, زومباثلي, Sombatxey, Σόμπατχεϊ, سومبات‌هی, סומבטהיי, Սոմբատհեյ, Sombatheja, سمباتهي, Kamenec, โซมบ็อตแฮย์, Сомбатһей

Capital CityMajor HubHistoricCulturalFamily-FriendlyHikingThermal Baths