Saint James Eye Clinic

Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF), not the Euro, despite being an EU member state. Credit cards are widely accepted at hospitals, hotels, and restaurants in Budapest, but carry forints in cash for tipping, market purchases, and smaller shops. ATMs are plentiful in Budapest, and withdrawing forints directly gives much better rates than currency exchange booths. Tipping 10-15% is customary in restaurants — tell the server the total you want to pay rather than leaving money on the table.

Yes, Budapest tap water is safe to drink and meets strict EU water quality standards — Hungary's regulations are actually stricter than EU requirements on several parameters. The water comes from the Danube and natural groundwater sources, processed through modern filtration. In very old buildings, pipes may affect taste, so ask your accommodation about their plumbing if concerned.

Budapest has an excellent public transport system including metro, trams, and buses, all accessible with a Budapest travel card available at metro stations. Bolt is the most popular ride-hailing app and uses standard metered taxi fares, making it a safe and convenient option for getting to hospital appointments. Most major private dental and medical clinics in Budapest offer complimentary airport transfers and hotel-to-clinic shuttles — confirm this when booking your treatment.

Pharmacies (gyógyszertár) are identified by a green cross and are found throughout Budapest, with several operating 24/7. Common medications like painkillers, antacids, cough remedies, and skin creams can be bought over the counter, but unlike some countries, even basic items like ibuprofen are only available at pharmacies — not in grocery stores or convenience shops. Pharmacists often speak English or German and can advise on non-prescription alternatives for common post-procedure needs.

Hungarian medical staff are formal and professional — address doctors as Doktor followed by their surname. Private clinics catering to international patients typically have English-speaking staff, but learning a few Hungarian phrases like köszönöm (thank you) is appreciated. Budapest's famous thermal baths are a popular recovery activity for dental and orthopedic patients, but always get clearance from your treating doctor before using thermal waters post-procedure, as heat can affect healing.