The forint is subdivided into 100 fillér, although these are no longer used in circulation due to their low value. The forint is available in both banknotes and coins, with banknotes ranging from 500 to 20,000 HUF, and coins ranging from 5 to 200 HUF.
The forint’s design features famous Hungarian landmarks and famous Hungarian people. For example, on the 10,000 HUF note, you can see a portrait of Ferenc Liszt, a famous composer and pianist. Or, on the 2,000 HUF note, you can see the Chain Bridge in Budapest, the Hungarian capital.
One of the biggest advantages of using the forint is that it is widely accepted throughout Hungary. Whether you are in Budapest or a small village, you should be able to use the forint for most transactions. This is especially true for cash transactions, although many larger businesses will accept credit cards as well.
That being said, it is important to note that not all ATMs in Hungary will accept foreign debit or credit cards. If you plan on using your card frequently while in Hungary, it might be a good idea to check with your bank beforehand to see if they have any agreements with Hungarian banks.
Another advantage of using the forint is that it is relatively cheap compared to other European currencies. For example, as of September 2021, 1 EUR is equivalent to around 355 HUF. This makes Hungary an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers.
Of course, one downside of using the forint is that it is not a widely traded currency on global markets. This means that if you need to convert your forint back to your home currency, you might not get the most favorable exchange rate. That being said, exchanging cash at a bureau de change or using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees can help mitigate the cost of exchanging currency.
In conclusion, the Hungarian forint is a widely accepted and relatively stable currency that is a great choice for travelers to Hungary. With its attractive exchange rate, visitors can enjoy all that Hungary has to offer without breaking the bank. Just remember to check with your bank before your trip to ensure that you will be able to access your funds while in Hungary.