THE is committed to ensuring a safe, inclusive and enjoyable experience for all our delegates.

To help you prepare for your upcoming visit, we encourage you to review the key information and travel advice below.

Before traveling, we recommend checking the travel guidelines and recommendations from your home country's embassy. Additionally, we advise consulting your primary care provider to determine whether any vaccinations or other health preparations are needed for your trip.

Sessions and activities will take place at Obuda University and Semmelweis University throughout the summit, please find the addresses below. Shuttle buses will be provided to take delegates between campuses.

Obuda University (Óbudai Egyetem)
Bécsi út 96/B
Budapest
1034 Hungary

Basic-Medical Science Center, Semmelweis University
Tűzoltó u. 37-47
Budapest
1094 Hungary

European Union citizens as well as citizens of Norway, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Switzerland and a number of countries with a bilateral or multilateral agreements are eligible for visa-free entry to Hungary. The list of these countries can be found here.

Citizens of countries not listed above require a Schengen visa to visit Hungary. Please note that it can take several weeks to process a visa application so early application is recommended.

We can provide visa invitation letters for ticket holders when requested. Please email a photo/scan of your passport to events@timeshighereducation.com once you have booked your ticket.

We cannot accept any responsibility for visa applications. Where a delegate is unable to attend because of failure to obtain a visa on time, the normal cancellation policy for the ticket fee will apply.

We recommend having travel insurance for the duration of your trip. Please contact your travel agent for further details.

Getting to Budapest by plane

Budapest is served by Ferenc Liszt International Airport, located 16km southeast of the city. Transfer services to the city can be booked via the airport website.

Getting to Budapest by train

Budapest's main international and inter-city railway terminal is Budapest-Keleti, with easy bus links around the city.

Getting to the campus

By public transport
Obuda University’s Bécsi út campus is easily accessible from the airport by public transport. Tickets can be purchased at machines located at the bus stop or through the BudapestGo app.

By taxi
Taxis are available at designated taxi stands outside the terminal. A ride to the city centre costs 12,000–15,000 HUF (30–35 EUR) and takes 30–40 minutes.

By ride-hail
Services like Bolt and Uber operate in Budapest and offer convenient rides throughout the city.

Delegates are responsible for reserving and covering the cost of accommodation for the duration of their stay.

Below you will find suggested hotels as well as a map through which you can easily browse for other hotels and private accommodation. Hover over an accommodation to view travel times and distances to the venue.

Leonardo Hotel

Budapest, Tompa u. 30-34, 1094 Hungary

Located only 3 metro stops away from Budapest, this hotel includes free wi-fi in all rooms, an indoor bistro, as well as a fitness centre and bar.

We have secured a discounted rate of €85/night. To book, click on the relevant black pin on the map below and apply the code THE-Summit.

Mercure Budapest Korona Hotel

Budapest, Ntak: Sz19000369, Kecskeméti u. 14, 1053 Hungary

Situated in the heart of Budapest, this pet-friendly hotel includes free wi-fi in all rooms, an indoor bar and restaurant, as well as breakfast and room service.

We have secured a discounted rate of €285.60/night. To book, click on the relevant black pin on the map below.

Verdi Akeah Hotel

Budapest, Üllői út 89b, 1091

Located near the historic city centre, this hotel offers the best rest close to everything you need to see. Services include a fitness centre, private parking, bar and garden. This 4-star hotel also offers concierge service, tour desk, 24-hour reception, airport shuttle service, ATM and free WiFi in all areas.

We have secured a discounted rate of €88/night, including breakfast. To book, click on the relevant black pin on the map below.

To protect your personal safety we recommend:

• avoiding having valuables on show
• taking safe and reliable transport
• travelling with colleagues or other delegates, especially at night
• being alert in crowded and tourist areas, airports, restaurants, pubs and bars and on public transport
• keeping your card in sight and concealing your PIN when using ATMs and paying by card

Hungary's main emergency service number is 112. Call this number if you need urgent help from police, fire or ambulance services.

What is the main language?
Hungarian is the main language, however English serves as an informal second language and is widely spoken in urban areas.

Which currency can I use?
Hungary’s currency is the forint (HUF) with notes in denominations of 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000 and 20,000. Many places accept credit cards but cash is recommended for smaller purchases, especially in markets of more traditional establishments. ATMs are widely available, and currency exchange services are available at the airport, major hotels and exchange offices throughout the city.

What is the local tipping culture?
Tipping is customary in Hungary, typically 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

What is the climate like?
Early May in Budapest usually means mild spring weather, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 12°C to 22°C. Evenings can still be cool and occasional rain showers are common, so be prepared for varying conditions. We recommend packing:

• Light layers, including long sleeves and a light jacket for cooler moments
• A warm sweater or coat for brisk evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing
• An umbrella or light raincoat in case of spring showers

Which plug socket is used?
Hungary uses type C and F plug sockets with two round pins. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 50 Hz. We would recommend bringing a universal adapter.

Will wi-fi be available?
Free wi-fi is available throughout the university's buildings. Connection details will be displayed at the check-in desk.

Are there data roaming charges?
You will need to check the exact charges with your network provider but most international delegates will incur high data roaming charges. We recommend buying an eSIM via Airalo which gives you 1GB of data for 7 days for US$4.50. Use our referral code TIMESH7718 for US$3 off. We recommend checking that your phone supports eSIMs before making your purchase.

Is tap water safe to drink?
Tap water in Budapest is safe to drink and cook with.

Do you have any guidance for LGBTQ+ delegates?
Homosexuality is legal and it is illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation. For more information and advice for LGBTQ+ travellers, visit the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association's website.

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