According to forum posts, Hungary offers extensive train services which are convenient for tourists traveling between major cities and across international borders. Trains in Hungary are operated by MAV, the national railway company, and details can be found on their official website (mavcsoport.hu).

Some travelers mentioned direct international train links from Budapest to cities like Vienna, Zurich, and Prague. These services provide a mix of options including night trains and scenic routes, with varying classes of service available.

For domestic travel, trains are popular for their accessibility and coverage of major and minor cities. Travelers have called out that Hungarian trains connect to various regional hubs and scenic routes, making it practical to explore the countryside as well as urban centers.

It's noted that tickets for trains can be purchased online, but physical printing of tickets might be required at stations. Some users have pointed out that train tickets can be bought at the station on the day of travel, especially for less busy routes.

Some travelers have recommended Koala Autorent and SIXT as reliable car rental options in Budapest. Koala Autorent is noted for being economical and having multiple pickup points in the city and at the airport. SIXT is recognized for its honesty and extensive service, though it is more expensive than some other options.

For convenient car pick-up and drop-off, users mentioned that Koala Autorent offers services at Budapest airport and other city locations like Mammut mall. SIXT and other major rental companies also have offices at Budapest airport, providing flexibility for travelers starting or ending their journeys there.

Travelers have advised thoroughly checking the rental vehicle and taking photos before signing the rental agreement to avoid disputes upon return. It's also essential to communicate travel plans with the rental company, especially if planning to drive outside Hungary, as this may affect insurance and rental terms.

According to forum posts, Hungary hosts multiple Christmas markets, notably in Budapest, with the main ones being at Vörösmarty tér and Szent István tér. These markets, however, have been described as not particularly large or diverse compared to those in neighboring Austria and Germany.

Travelers have called out the atmosphere in these markets as underwhelming, with similar stalls and offerings found in other major city markets. The Szentendre market, in particular, was noted for not living up to the expectations set by its reputation as an artist colony.

Some users mentioned that the markets are not typically open on Christmas Day, aligning with local customs where Christmas Eve is the main celebration and everything shuts down by mid-afternoon. However, there have been exceptions where the main market in Budapest opens for a time on Christmas Day.

For many users, the experience of visiting these markets is mixed, with recommendations to manage expectations regarding their size and the variety of goods available. Despite this, the markets still offer a quintessential festive experience with typical seasonal offerings.

Some travelers suggest starting in Budapest, spending a few days exploring the city, and then moving on to Lake Balaton, Eger, and Pécs. For a more nature-focused itinerary, visiting the northern side of Lake Balaton, followed by stops in Eger, Miskolc, and Debrecen, has been recommended.

For those interested in day trips from Budapest, Szentendre is highlighted as a worthwhile destination, easily accessible and offering a picturesque setting. Additionally, Eger is frequently mentioned for its wine and sightseeing opportunities.

Alternatively, some users have recommended focusing on the eastern side of Hungary, exploring places like Eger, Tokaj, and the Cave Bath at Miskolctapolca, although effective public transport options may be limited in this area without a car.

Travelers have also noted that visiting certain areas like Lake Balaton might be less appealing outside of summer unless using a car due to limited activities and transportation options.

According to forum posts, the Ritz-Carlton in District 5 is highly recommended due to its central location near city attractions and effective soundproofing despite being near lively areas. Hotel Collect, also in District 5, is praised for its quietness, making it suitable for those seeking a more peaceful stay. Additionally, Callas House in District 6 is noted for its boutique hotel charm and proximity to cultural sites like the Opera.

Travelers have called out District 5 for its centrality and ease of access to public transport and Budapest's main attractions. District 6 and District 7, while central and vibrant, may have higher traffic and noise levels. For a quieter, more residential atmosphere, District 13's Újlipótváros is recommended, known for its family-friendly environment and growing number of shops and eateries.

For those traveling with pets and a car, District 13 near Margaret Island offers more green space and potentially free on-street parking, which is suitable for longer stays. However, it is noted that public transit from this area might involve transfers and additional travel time to central Budapest.

According to forum posts, travelers exploring Danube River cruise options in Hungary have several choices depending on their interests and time constraints.

Some travelers recommend evening cruises for breathtaking views of Budapest's illuminated landmarks. However, it's advised to dine separately on land to enjoy better food quality before boarding an evening cruise, as the onboard dining experiences have been criticized for poor quality.

For those with more time, full-day cruises provide a comprehensive experience of the river's scenery. Options like Viking Cruises offer extensive tours from Budapest to other cities like Visegrad, although some travelers suggest opting for city tours when the river's scenic offerings become mundane outside city limits.

There are also specialty cruises available, such as gourmet dinner cruises, although these tend to be expensive. Travelers looking for unique experiences may find these appealing, but availability can be inconsistent, especially post-COVID.