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Hungary, often referred to as the “Heart of Europe,” is a captivating destination that promises a truly unforgettable experience. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its vibrant culture and warm hospitality, Hungary has something to offer every traveler.
Budapest, the capital, is a treasure trove of historical sites, including the Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and the Fisherman’s Bastion, all of which offer a glimpse into Hungary’s storied past. The country’s thermal baths, like the famous Széchenyi and Gellért Baths, have been enjoyed for centuries, providing a unique opportunity to relax in a setting that has remained virtually unchanged.
Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of goulash, paprika chicken, and chimney cake, and savor some of the world’s finest wines from the Tokaj and Eger regions. The local food scene is a delightful blend of hearty and delectable dishes that cater to various tastes.
Hungary boasts stunning natural beauty, with its enchanting landscapes, including Lake Balaton, the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe, and the Danube Bend, a picturesque river valley surrounded by rolling hills and charming villages. You can explore these scenic locations and partake in outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and sailing.
Whether you’re drawn to its historical sites, culinary delights, or natural beauty, a journey to Hungary promises to be a memorable and enriching adventure. Don’t miss the chance to explore this hidden gem in the heart of Europe.
While we haven’t yet had the chance to thoroughly explore the optimal routes or accommodations to Hungary, we’re happy to help!
With just a little more information we can help design a plan that will get your adventure started.
Architectural wonders around every corner in Budapest, a city steeped in history and beauty
Explore the vibrant street markets of Budapest, where local flavors and artisan crafts come to life
Savor the delicious flavors of Hungarian cuisine, a culinary journey through hearty goulash and sweet chimney cake
Danube Bend serenity: Where rolling hills embrace the meandering river, creating a picturesque escape in Hungary
Discover the tranquil beauty of Lake Balaton, a sun-kissed retreat in Hungary where shimmering waters meet the horizon
Exploring the hidden gem of Rudabánya in Hungary, where history and nature converge in a picturesque setting
Sipping the essence of Hungary in its wine regions, where vine-covered landscapes unfold in a symphony of flavors and tradition
American Airlines provides excellent availability from most major U.S. cities to several different cities in Hungary. Award tickets on American Airlines are usually available for about 60,000 miles which means that one credit card alone could be enough to get your flights. American Airlines does add on additional fuel charges, but even with this charge the simplicity of being able to travel from anywhere in the US to any city in Europe makes it our top choice.
First, make an American Airlines account. It is free to make on their website.
Next, start searching for tickets. Remember to try different departure or arrival times to find tickets for lower points. We would highly recommend researching different cities to fly into since this could affect the amount of fuel surcharges they add to the price of your ticket.
Cards: (click on the links to apply)
They provide excellent availability from most major U.S. cities to several different cities in Hungary. Unlike other airlines, United Airlines does not add additional fuel charges, which can add up to a few hundred dollars. It is not our first option because depending on where you are flying, you may need to apply for more than one card to have sufficient points for your trip. Normally, award tickets are available for 80,000 miles.
First, make a United Airlines account. It is free to make on their website.
Next, now that you have an account, begin searching for tickets. Try different departure or arrival times since this can result in finding tickets for lower points. Depending on your circumstances, research flying in or out of different cities since this could also open up better options.
Flying to Hungary could cost more points than your initial bonus, depending on the time of year you are traveling. If one card is not enough, we recommend applying for another card at least 30 days after receiving the first card. The easiest route would be getting the United Explorer Card followed by the United Gateway Card. This will allow you to have 70,000+ points while only needing to spend $4,000.
Cards: (click on the links to apply)
Chase is not tied to one specific airline but is in fact partners with 11 different airlines, several of which fly into Hungary. So why is this not our first option? Because even though it is the most flexible option, it is also the one that takes most amount of time and effort to organize. If you’re willing to invest the time, these cards offer the widest range of options to earn points for free travel.
We would begin with the first card on the list below, Chase Sapphire Preferred, since it provides you a good amount of points and the initial spend is possible for most. If you have a business, which can be anything as simple as selling things on eBay from time to time, you can apply for the Chase Ink Business Preferred card. The points of all of these cards can be combined into one of your Preferred cards. This will allow you the most flexibility.
There are two basic ways to use these points. The first is by using the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal to search for flights. It works in a similar way to searching for tickets on Expedia. How much are the points worth? As an example, 100,000 points are worth $1,250 when used to buy tickets through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal.
The other way to use your Chase points is to move points from your Chase account to an airline where you may have found cheap rewards tickets. For example, in your research you find tickets on Virgin Atlantic. Once you are ready to purchase the tickets you can transfer the points from your Chase Ultimate Rewards account to your Virgin Atlantic account. Important: once you transfer points into a partner program, you can’t transfer them back to Chase.
Cards: (click on the links to apply)
If you want to keep things as simple as possible then we suggest applying for the American Airlines or United Airlines cards.
On the other hand, if you enjoy researching and are a bargain hunter like we are, then jumping into Chase Ultimate Rewards is the way to go.
To give you an example of how powerful Chase Ultimate Rewards points are, you could take the tag team approach where both spouses apply for cards. Doing so would mean you can end up 620,000+ Chase Ultimate Rewards points. That is the same as adding $6,200 in cash into your bank account or having $7,750 if used through the Chase Travel Portal or even more value if transferred into an airline or hotel program.
♦ Important Reminder: In order to transfer into an airline or hotel you must move your points into one of your Chase Preferred cards.
There are more than 150 hotels in Hungary affiliated with Marriot, IHG, or Hyatt!
Chase is not tied to one specific hotel but is in fact partners with 3 different hotels Marriott, IHG and also Hyatt. This makes Chase Ultimate Rewards the most flexible and powerful option. That being said, it will take a bit of time and effort to research. If you’re willing to invest the time, these cards offer the widest range of options to earn free nights in Hungary.
We would begin with the first card on the list below, Chase Sapphire Preferred, since it provides you a good amount of points and the initial spend is possible for most. If you have a business, which can be anything as simple as selling things on eBay from time to time, you can apply for the Chase Ink Business Preferred card. The points of all of these cards can be combined into one of your Preferred cards. This will allow you the most flexibility.
There are two basic ways to use these points. The first is by using the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal to search for hotels. It works in a similar way to searching for tickets on Expedia. How much are the points worth? As an example, 100,000 points are worth $1,250 when used to buy tickets through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal.
The other way to use your Chase points is to move points from your Chase account to Marriott, IHG or Hyatt hotel where you may have found cheap nights. For example, in your research you find hotel nights in Paris at the Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile for 21,000 points a night. When you are ready to book transfer 21,000 points from your Chase Ultimate Rewards account to your Hyatt account. Important: once you transfer points into a partner program, you can’t transfer them back to Chase.
Cards: (click on the links to apply)
SPECIAL INFORMATION FOR JUST THIS COUNTRY
Marriott Bonvoy points are highly advantageous for travelers due to their versatility and extensive benefits. With 60 hotels in Hungary alone, these points offer access to a diverse range of accommodation options, making it easier to find the perfect place to stay.
The price per night may vary from 17,000 points a night all the way to 100,000+ points a night. In the case of Hungary of the 60 hotels that Marriott has, half of them are under 40,000 points a night. This means one credit card alone can get you anywhere from 3 to 5 nights at a hotel.
Marriott Bonvoy’s absence of blackout dates ensures flexibility in travel planning, while the consistent quality and service standards across their properties instill confidence in travelers. The program’s multiple earning sources, allow you to easily accumulate points.
To start collecting Marriott Bonvoy points, begin by signing up for a Marriott Bonvoy account on their website. One of the quickest ways to earn points is by getting a Marriott Bonvoy credit card, which often offers sign-up bonuses and point-earning opportunities for everyday spending.
Moreover, Marriott Bonvoy allows you to transfer points from Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards and airline loyalty programs like United Airlines, providing further opportunities to boost your point balance.
To keep your points active and prevent them from expiring, ensure there’s some account activity at least once every 24 months, which can be as simple as earning or redeeming points on any of your credit cards.
Cards: (click on the links to apply)
SPECIAL INFORMATION FOR JUST THIS COUNTRY
We found Hilton to be particularly advantageous due to its easy-to-accumulate points system and the ability to share and combine points from multiple individuals.
If you and your spouse apply for Hilton credit cards, you can maximize your earning potential by pooling your points into a single account. By utilizing this two-person strategy, you can consolidate all your points and have a significant balance at your disposal.
Another significant advantage of the Hilton program is the ability to pool points from up to 10 different people. This feature allows you to gather points not only from your spouse but also from family or friends that may be feeling generous. In fact, you can combine up to 2 million points per year, making it easier than ever to accumulate a substantial number of points.
Hilton credit cards also offer a convenient way to accumulate points for travel rewards. With various cards available, you can earn points through everyday purchases, hotel stays, and travel expenses. Redeem these points for complimentary stays, upgrades, and more within the Hilton Honors program.
The initial step involves creating a Hilton Honors account through their website.
Cards: (click on the links to apply)
The Clever Tourists recommend Chase Ultimate Rewards as the most versatile choice thanks to its partnerships with 3 hotels, providing a wide range of possibilities.
Marriott Hotels are the runner-up recommendation, with Marriott Bonvoy points providing diverse benefits like free nights, elite status perks, and the option to transfer points to airlines.
Hilton Hotels is also another top choice for its easy-to-accumulate points system and the option to pool points from multiple individuals, making it convenient for couples and groups.
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