Pandemic Restrictions Eased in Budapest, Too

As of midnight this Sunday, most of the restrictions introduced due to the coronavirus pandemic will be lifted in the Hungarian capital.

The Minister in charge of the Prime Minister's Office, Gergely Gulyás stated that “although the movement restrictions will be lifted in Budapest on Monday, keeping a safe, 1.5 meters distance will remain obligatory.”

Speaking about the details of the new rules, Minister Gulyás said that wearing masks in shops and on public transport will still be compulsory. The 9-12 a.m. shopping time slot for those above 65 years of age will also stay in force. However, public parks and spaces, as well as outdoors playgrounds can be used beginning on Monday.

“Beginning on Monday, all shops and businesses may reopen, customers will be allowed to use the terraces and gardens of restaurants and cafés,” Gulyás said, adding that until September 1 these businesses will not have to pay for the usage of public spaces. Outdoor spas and museums can stay open from Monday.

Similarly, weddings and masses may be held from next week. Family events under 200 guests, however, may only take place after June 15 in Budapest and after June 1 outside the capital.

“In higher education institutions, the same rules will apply as in rural Hungary. Visiting dormitories of higher education institutions will still be prohibited,” Minister Gulyás said.

Commenting on the easing of restrictions two weeks after the same happened in the countryside, Budapest mayor Gergely Karácsony said he was glad that "the government finally had the courage to do it."