South Central Hungary, Hungary
Follow this chronological timeline to manage tasks effectively and avoid last-minute stress.
Strategic planning at different stages simplifies your journey to Pécs.
Check your passport's expiration date. Make sure it is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return.
Determine if you need a Schengen visa. Begin the application process if so. Book international flights to Budapest (BUD).
Research and purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip cancellation, such as from World Nomads.
Book all your accommodation in Pécs and any other Hungarian cities. Book train tickets from Budapest to Pécs.
Notify your bank of travel plans. Start researching specific attractions and restaurants in Pécs.
If you plan to rent a car and are a non-EU citizen, obtain your International Driving Permit (IDP).
Reconfirm all flights, accommodation, and transport bookings. Begin packing your luggage.
Download essential apps like Google Maps (offline) and Google Translate. Charge electronics.
Make digital and physical copies of documents. Have some Hungarian Forints or a way to obtain cash upon arrival.
Securing these items in advance aids in obtaining your preferred choices and often better rates.
Tending to home matters before you leave conveys peace of mind while traveling.
Familiarizing yourself with the destination prior to arrival greatly deepens your experience.
Always purchase travel insurance before your trip for unexpected circumstances. Consider World Nomads.
These steps aid in settling in smoothly upon arriving in Pécs, minimizing any initial hurdles.
Have your passport and any required visa or ETIAS documentation ready. Be prepared for questioning.
Collect your checked luggage from the carousel.
If you did not get cash beforehand, find an ATM at the airport (Budapest) or in the city center of Pécs to withdraw Hungarian Forints. Avoid airport exchange desks if possible, as rates are usually less favorable.
Follow your pre-planned transportation method (train, bus, shuttle, taxi) to reach your accommodation in Pécs.
Head to the Pécs Tourist Information Office (usually centrally located) for maps, brochures, and personalized guidance.
Take a short walk around your accommodation's neighborhood to get a feel for the area, locating nearby shops, cafes, or pharmacies.
ATMs connected to major international networks are the best way to get Forints, offering competitive rates. Avoid airport exchange desks if possible, as rates are usually less favorable.
When you withdraw cash, try to get some smaller denominations for bus tickets or small purchases.
If desired, purchase a local SIM card (passport is usually needed for registration).
This provides affordable local calls and data access throughout your stay.
You might need cash for a bus ticket, a coffee, or a small snack upon arrival.
Be prepared for cashless payments where possible, but always have some cash.
Having your transportation to accommodation planned and directions saved offline minimizes stress immediately after landing.
Preparing for your departure from Pécs conveys a smooth journey home or to your next destination.
Plan your souvenir purchases and consider shipping options for larger items, alongside any VAT refund procedures.
Allow ample travel time from Pécs to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), plus 2-3 hours at the airport before your flight.
The train journey from Pécs to Budapest spans approximately 3 hours, so factor in around 6-7 hours total from Pécs to your flight's departure.
