Don’t Get Scammed in Budapest: Tourist Traps to Avoid

Stay Safe in Budapest: Avoiding Rogue Taxis, Scam Bars, and Tourist Traps

We love Budapest – the food, the history, the views, the thermal baths... but as one of Europe’s most visited cities, it does attract the occasional scammy character or tourist trap. So, from all of us at Churchill Shooting (a bunch of Brits and Americans who’ve been here a while), here’s our honest, no-fluff guide to what to avoid and how not to get ripped off in Budapest.

Because the only thing that should blow your budget is a bottle of Tokaji and a few rounds at the range – not an accidental €600 bar tab.

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1. Taxis: You Don’t Need to Get Taken for a Ride

Here’s the deal: Budapest taxis should be yellow, have a visible rate card, and run on a meter. But some dodgy ones (especially outside train stations, touristy areas, and nightclubs) will try to charge tourists double or triple.

How to avoid it:

• Use trusted companies like Főtaxi or apps like Bolt.
• Don’t accept rides from drivers parked up shouting "Taxi?" at you.
• Always make sure they turn the meter on.

Top tip: The minimum fare is around 1,000 HUF. If someone says "flat rate" or doesn’t turn the meter on – hop out.

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2. The €600 Pint: Bar Scams Are Real

You’re wandering around, and a friendly local invites you for a drink. A little flirty, maybe too friendly, and the bar seems okay. You sit, sip, and BOOM – a bill for €500+, plus pressure to pay up immediately.

Yes, this actually happens.

How to avoid it:

• Don’t follow strangers to unknown bars or clubs.
• Avoid places with no visible menu.
• If they have their own ATM inside – red flag.

Stick to well-reviewed pubs, bars, or cafes. Ask locals (like us!) or check apps like AWOL for safe places to drink.

3. Restaurants With Hidden Charges

Some tourist-targeted restaurants pull sneaky moves: hidden service fees, random menu swaps, or just flat-out dodgy pricing.

How to avoid it:

• Look at the menu before you order.
• Service charge already added? No need to tip extra.
• If something feels off, go somewhere else – you’ll never run out of options in Budapest.

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4. ATM & Money Exchange Tricks

Some currency exchange places scream "NO COMMISSION!" but have laughable rates. Others literally hand you fake or foreign currency if you exchange on the street.

Don’t be that tourist.

How to avoid it:

• Use official exchange offices like Northline or pull cash from ATMs inside banks.
• Never exchange money on the street.
• When the ATM offers to convert to your home currency, say no. Always withdraw in HUF.

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5. Fake Fines from "Ticket Inspectors"

Real Budapest transport inspectors wear badges and give proper receipts. Fake ones (yes, they exist) demand on-the-spot cash fines for invalid tickets.

How to avoid it:

• Always validate your ticket before riding.
• Ask to see their ID if you're unsure.
• If it feels dodgy, ask to deal with it at the police station – scammers usually back off fast.

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6. Pickpockets Love Distracted Tourists

Especially in areas like Váci Street, ruin bars, or packed metros. The usual trick? Distract you with noise, a bump, or someone asking for help while their mate grabs your wallet.

How to avoid it:

• Keep bags zipped and in front of you.
• Don’t leave phones or wallets in back pockets.
• Be aware when it gets crowded or chaotic.

7. Bonus Scams: From "Petitions" to "Special" Tours

Sometimes scammers will pretend to be collecting signatures or sell you a “special tour" on the spot. Others push overpriced souvenirs or fake designer goods.

If it feels too good to be true, it probably is.

Churchill Tip: Stay Smart, Stay Chill

The good news? 99% of your Budapest trip will be safe, fun and unforgettable. But now that you know the tricks to avoid, you can relax, enjoy, and explore without getting caught out.

And hey, when you’re ready for an honest, safe, no-BS thrill – you know where to find us. Churchill Shooting has no hidden fees, no weird fine print, and absolutely no one dragging you to an ATM. Just good old-fashioned fun.