Can I Pay with Euro in Hungary?

Hungary has its official currency, the Hungarian forint (HUF). While some businesses, especially in tourist areas, may accept euros, it's not common and the exchange rate may not be favorable. It's best to use forints for transactions. You can easily exchange euros for forints at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs throughout the country.

General Overview of Euro Usage in Hungary

Yes, you can pay with euros, but not everywhere. Small shops might not accept euros and instead require the use of a bank or credit card. However, in bigger shops and supermarkets, such as SPAR, cash euros are accepted. The exchange rate in these shops is often not so good, but it may not be a significant issue for tourists.

Acceptance of Euros in Specific Locations

Many places in Hungary accept euros, including SPAR supermarkets or tourist-specific places, as well as some gas stations. However, it's advisable to use HUF and exchange euros in advance or use a credit or debit card. The places that accept euros often use very poor exchange rates, sometimes 10% or even higher than the official rate. If you're alone and need to buy a small item, like a bottle of whisky or Pálinka, you might accept the extra cost. However, for general daily life, it's best to avoid using euros in Hungary, as the exchange rates are not favorable.

Business Transactions in Euros

In a business context, it is common and legal to make contracts in euros in Hungary. This is especially common between local parties and foreign parties.

Cannot Pay with Euros in Ordinary Places

Most ordinary places, such as supermarkets, do not accept euros. The official currency in Hungary is the forint (HUF). Therefore, it's a good idea to carry forints with you and exchange them at a proper rate at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs. There are many exchange kiosks (Valutaváltó) in the cities for this purpose.

Alternatives to Paying with Euros

While some places accept euros, it's often more practical to pay with HUF or use bank cards, which can be used almost everywhere. Banks and exchange offices are readily available in cities and towns, making it easy to convert euros to forints as needed.

Why Use Forint Instead of Euros?

Using forints provides a more favorable exchange rate and avoids the poor rates that may be charged for using euros in Hungary. Additionally, accepting forints supports the local economy and supports smaller businesses that may not have the resources to offer competitive exchange rates.