Gap Year Programs in Hungary

Landlocked between seven countries, Hungary is the veritable heart and soul of Central Europe. Its cities are quirky and hip, yet the national parks and rural farms hang on to vestiges of life before Instagram and Snapchat. No matter where you go you’ll be welcomed by the people’s famous hospitality— and while they won’t clink beer glasses with you (not since 1849, long story)— they will welcome you into their homes with a hot meal and good conversation.

Budapest. Welcome to capital and one of the most interesting cities in Hungary. Perhaps the most iconic symbol of the city are the ruin bars. These old, neglected buildings from the historic Jewish quarter have been transformed into functioning lounges that bring people from all districts under one welcoming roof. The city is great to explore by foot and when the weather’s nice, you can check out the zoo and botanical garden or stroll through the main park with a lake that turns into an ice rink in winter. Budapest is more touristy than other areas, but you’ll find a lot more students and expats to bond with as well.

Miskolc. This smaller and exceptionally picturesque city is located in the northeast of Hungary. The Castle of Diosgyro and Bukk National Park are stunning, but the true gem is a forest train that rivals the Hogwarts Express on its journey to Lillafured. While the buzz of city life is exciting, a breath of Hungarian country air will have you staking your claim and pitching a tent right then and there. Rural areas are breathtaking and offer a sneak peek into folksy traditions of the past and hearty food of the present. Organic farms provide accommodation for you to explore the area, volunteer your time, and get to know indigenous domestic animals.

A gap year in Hungary will leave you with infinite ways to fill your days. Whether you want to volunteer your time or enter formal (if not traditional) study, you’ll form close-knit groups with other participants and feel connected to a part of the world eager for new visitors. 

Music. A pleasant and hard thing to avoid in Hungary, and who would want to?! Folk songs imbue every corner of the cities with local flair and good energy. Depending on your existing musical skills and your host family placement, you can either incorporate high-level music courses into your regular academic study or attend more casual after-school classes. Both offer the opportunity to join the school orchestra and perform at competitions, concerts, and festivals.

Animals. If there’s anything that defines rural Hungary better than its indigenous animals, it’s hiding even better than the hazel dormouse in a Hungarian haystack. Meet the indigenous long-horned grey cattle or the brown hare that populate the landscape. You can also explore the fiy-ah wilderness during your gap year in Hungary, starting off from any of the guest houses scattered throughout the countryside. And while it’s generally prudent advice not to get into hot water while traveling— not here! Hungary has over 1,000 natural springs and the world’s biggest thermal lake. So bring your swimsuit and enjoy. 

Sports. Hungarians love sports and are deeply proud of the fact that they’ve earned some of the most Olympic medals per capita. They shine at fencing, swimming, gymnastics, and particularly, water polo. They also maintain their love of all things equine since they rode into the Carpathian Basin and conquered the area on horseback. You can volunteer in stables or simply go for a ride on your day off.

Costs. Recently, Hungary was voted to be one of the cheapest destinations in Europe. Rent is considerably lower than other European countries, and transport is affordable and efficient. As a program participant you’ll likely not need to worry about too many costs, as gap year programs in Hungary typically include placement with a host family, enrollment in school, orientations, and insurance. You’ll only need to splurge for an extra serving of lángos. Set up a FundMyTravel account and spread the word about your upcoming travels!

It’s also best to have Hungarian currency with you. Even though larger shops and popular restaurants will accept the Euro and Dollar, their exchange rate tends to be higher. Take the time to do your exchanges at the bank and avoid the temptation of the ease of street exchanges.

Accommodations. Hungarian gap year programs typically house participants with a warm and welcoming host family, either in the city center or on a farm in rural areas. You’ll have your own room with meals will be provided—but you may be living with another participant. Families are usually eager to show off their home country, and will often take you to their favorite places that a tourist may never get to see! If you want more self-sufficiency, some programs offer the option of independent living in city apartments.

Visas. Hungary is part of the EU, so EU citizens are free to enter and leave as they wish. Those outside the EU need a passport and a visa if they stay more than three months. Check the GoAbroad embassy directory for the nearest Hungarian embassy for the most updated and country-specific information.

Safety. Crime is considerably low in Hungary, but petty theft towards tourists is the same as any other populated area. Take care in crowded areas and transportation hubs, but don’t let it get in the way of enjoying the cities. Check with a local if you have any doubts about a particular area, and they should be able to steer you in the right direction.

Gap years rock. Gap years are increasing in popularity, and for good reason! Stepping off the beaten path and taking the time to learn about yourself and the world at such a crucial age is invaluable. You’ll be able to dream bigger, and know you have the strength to accomplish anything you set your mind to!

Travel tip. English and German are both spoken throughout Hungary, though it might be harder to find in the more rural areas. If you’re going to be visiting the countryside (and even if you’re not), it would be a good idea to learn at least a few phrases in Hungarian. Kérem and köszönöm go far and the locals will appreciate the effort.

Hungarians are known for their inventiveness; under decades of strict communist rule, they became experts at finding “the little gate,” a work around honed by decades of surviving strict regulations. It’s been said they are the only people in the world who can enter a revolving door behind you and come out ahead! If there was ever a perfect metaphor for what a gap year in Hungary can do for you, this is it.

Hungary for more tips?! Check out these awesome the 5 BEST destinations for a gap year abroad!