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Travel Europe on a Budget

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Budapest price guide | calculating the daily costs to visit budapest.

The daily travel costs to visit Budapest, Hungary. How to estimate your budget for food, accommodation, attractions, alcohol, and more.

City Price Guides

Budapest is one of the biggest cities in the EU and is often called the Paris of the East. It remains a popular destination because of its low prices, beautiful architecture, youthful spirit, vibrant nightlife, and rich history. Plus, it still has that gritty Eastern Europe edge—which adds to its coolness. In this Budapest price guide, we’ll outline the estimated travel expenses for food, accommodation, attractions, alcohol, and other things to help you budget your trip.

This article is part of our Europe Price Guide Series — Click here to see all our European City Price Guides .

Average Daily Cost For Visiting Budapest

It costs around $35-$60/day to visit Budapest as a budget-minded traveler . These prices are based on what you’ll need to visit the city comfortably as a budget traveler staying in a hostel.

If you want to stay in a nicer hotel or rental apartment you should add an extra $60-$80/night to your budget.

These prices also don’t include things like big nights out at the bar/pub, club entry fees, souvenir shopping, tours, random purchases, nicer food, etc. Don’t forget to budget extra for those “non-essentials.”

NOTE: We’ve converted all prices to US Dollars since the Hungarian Forint (HUF) is a bit confusing to convert on the fly. Check out XE.com for the latest exchange rates.

Daily Cost of Budget Travel in Budapest: $ 40

Attractions: $9 (one paid attraction + any free sites)
Breakfast: $3
Treat (dessert/beer/wine): $2
Transportation: $2.50
Accommodation (hostel): $23

Daily Cost of Frugal Travel in Budapest: $ 35

Attractions: $5 (free walking tour + visit one of the free sites)
Breakfast: $0 (free hostel breakfast)
Lunch: $4.50 (ethnic street food or takeaway shop fare)
Dinner: $9 (make your own meal in the hostel or grab something cheap)
Beer: $1 (chill out at the park and have a cold one)
Transportation: $1.50
Accommodation (cheap hostel bed): $16

Budapest Attraction and Museum Prices

Budapest has a load of great attractions which are all affordable or free. The thermal baths are great, so bring a swimsuit or you’ll have to find someplace to buy one (which took me a while when I was there).

Thermal Baths: 4,400-10,00 HUF ($14-$28 USD)
Hungarian National Gallery : 2,900 HUF ($8)
Museum of Fine Arts : 2,400 HUF ($7)
House of Terror Museum : 4,000 HUF ($11)
Pinball Museum : 4,200 HUF ($12) includes all-you-can-play pinball
Walking Tours: Free (but you should tip the guides) — 6,000 HUF/$20 (for paid tours)

Budapest Food Prices

Food prices in Budapest are cheap so you should seek out as much local Hungarian food as possible. Hungarian food consists of hearty soups, stews, goulash, all sorts of meat, seasonal vegetables, fruits, fresh bread, dairy products, and cheeses—it will fill you up!

Prices are very affordable but try to find where the locals eat to get the best quality.

Budget Breakfast Prices in Budapest: Free-$ 6

Many hostels will offer a free, simple breakfast that normally consists of cereal, bread/croissant, and maybe milk, coffee, tea, or juice.
Breakfast is an important meal in Budapest, so you’ll find plenty of cafés serving up some good options. A pastry costs about $1.5. A bigger breakfast will run about $5-$9.
You can also find plenty of budget-friendly options at the bakery or grocery store.

A Few Budget Breakfast Spots:

9BAR : Tasty cappuccino, espresso, and a few pastry options.
VINYL & WOOD : A hip little spot serving up coffee and pastries.
Bite Bakery Cafe : Coffee, huge cinnamon rolls, and chocolate rolls.
Cserpes Tejivo : A cozy spot with coffee, pastries, and sandwiches.
Duran Szendvics : Traditional Hungarian breakfast sandwiches.

Budget Lunch Prices in Budapest: $4-$10

Super budget travelers can make a super cheap lunch of bread, lunch meat, cheese, and fruit from any grocery store for a few dollars.
Takeaway meals (like kebabs with fries) or similar dishes from a takeaway shop will cost about 800 HUF ($3).
Grab a soup to go for 700 HUF ($2.50).
A pizza will cost around 2,100 HUF ($5-$7)
Budapest has a decent number of ‘self-service restaurants’ (basically cafeterias) that hearken back to the days of communism. The meals are simple but tasty… and cheap. Expect to pay around 1,000 HUF ($5) for the main dish.
A combo meal at McDonald’s will cost about 2100 HUF ($6).

Budget Dinner Prices in Budapest: $8-$13

Budget travelers will want to look at the many ethnic restaurants — a bowl of Pho will be about 1790 HUF ($6).
An average meal of meat & potatoes will set you back about 1800 HUF ($9)
You can get a nice meal from a non-touristy restaurant for about 1800 HUF ($7.50).
A burger from a casual restaurant are around $5.
Many of the options from the Budget Lunch section above also work for dinner.

A Few Budget-Friendly Lunch and Dinner Spots:

Street Food Karavan : A spot with multiple food trucks/stalls serving up different food and beer.
Klauzal Cafe : Authentic Hungarian spot serving up traditional fare.
Bors GasztroBar : Super tasty soups and sandwiches.
Regos Restaurant : Hearty traditional Hungarian food.
Hoppacska : Filling Hungarian sandwiches.
Local Korner : Excellent pizza in a super fun atmosphere.
Hai Nam Vietnamese Bistro & Pho Bar : Solid Pho spot.

Drinks and Alcohol Prices in Budapest

A pint of standard beer out: 360 HUF ($1.60)
A pint of beer from a grocery store: 225 HUF ($1)
Bottle of (drinkable) wine from the grocery store: 1000 HUF ($5.25)
Espresso: $1.30

Budapest Transportation Prices

Budapest has a good network of trams, buses, and subways. They’re all affordable — be sure that you always validate your ticket because they do check riders’ tickets often (and you don’t want to get a fine, which is $30-$60).

Single Ticket: 350 HUF ($1)
Book of 10 Single Tickets: 3,000 HUF ($8.50)
Unlimited Day Pass: 1,650 HUF ($5)
Train Ticket Between Airport and City: 400 HUF ($1.25)

Budapest Hostel, Hotel, & Rental Apartment Prices

Hostels and hotels are fairly cheap in Budapest. All the hostels I’ve stayed at have been very high quality, too. There are also a good number of very cheap hotels (they’ll probably be fairly bare-bones), or you can spend a little extra if you want more comfort. Rental apartments can also be a nice option in Budapest.

Hostel Prices in Budapest: $17-$35/night

Hostels are cheap in Budapest. The average price of a bed per night is about $22—although many hostels raise their prices on the weekend. Remember, these prices are for a bed in a shared dorm room. Expect to pay $65-$95/night for a private room.

A few recommended Budapest hostels [Read our full guide to the Best Hostels in Budapest ]:

Carpe Noctem
Pal’s Hostel
Maverick Hostel & Ensuites
Vitae Hostel
11th Hour Cinema Hostel & Apartments

I recommend booking hostels through Hostelworld because they have the best selection.

Budget Hotel Prices in Budapest: $45-$95/night

Expect to pay around $65/night for a decent budget-tier hotel and around $110-$145/night for a nice hotel.

We suggest checking out Booking.com to see hotel prices for your dates since they’re always changing.

Rental Apartment Prices in Budapest: $50-$130/night

Budapest has a decent amount of rental apartments throughout the city. They can be a good option for large groups or travelers who want a little more space (and a kitchen). On the other hand, you may also have to deal with inconvenient check-in processes and things like extra cleaning fees and service charges. For short stays, we prefer hotels but longer stays are ideal for rental apartments. Airbnb is always popular but you can sometimes find cheaper/better options on our list of Airbnb Alternatives .

Learn More About the Cost of Visiting Europe

Check out our guide on How Much It Costs To Backpack Europe to learn more about budgeting your entire trip (including many more city price guides).

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The Cost of Travel in Hungary: A Detailed Expense Report

Hungary is such an underrated country.

Whenever people discuss their favourite places in Europe, I rarely hear Hungary receiving so much as a mention. Everyone’s always so focused on Paris and Rome and London and Madrid. Having now spent two weeks travelling within Hungary, though, I can now tell you that opting to skip over this Central European country is a huge mistake, and Budapest has just as much to offer as the more well-known capital cities of Europe.

Hungary has a ton to discover for those who make the effort to visit, and I count it among my favourite countries in the continent.

When I first travelled to Hungary, I was just one month into my round-the-world adventure and I’ll be honest with you and confess that I wasn’t impressed. I chose one of the worst spots around Lake Balaton to base myself and Budapest just didn’t grab me — probably because it was 35°C when I visited.

When I returned two years later, however, I fell head over flip-flops in love with Budapest, stumbled upon the beautiful city of Eger, and discovered that Hungary is a country that more people need to visit.

So what’s so special about Hungary?

Well, you’ve got incredible Budapest, to start with, and I’m sure you’ll be spending plenty of time there. It’s one of the coolest cities in Europe, with world-class architecture, dozens of activities to keep you busy, and an incredible bar scene.

Hungary is also home to an extremely underrated wine region, has access to the largest lake in Europe, as well as the world’s largest thermal lake, and has dozens of colourful old towns to wander around. There’s delicious local food, easy-to-use transportation, and some seriously welcoming locals. On top of that, it’s still far cheaper than most Western European cities, so you can get a hell of a lot of value from your money.

I’ve been taking note of every single cent I spend while travelling the world, because I want to prove that travel isn’t just for the rich and privileged. I want to show that it’s possible to see this planet on a budget, while also giving a realistic look at the prices you can expect to come up against. In Hungary, this was no different.

I visited Hungary first as a solo traveller on a tight backpacking budget, then later as part of a couple, aiming for a mid-range stay that focused on receiving good value for money. After taking both of these trips, I’m excited to share how you can get the most for your money in this country.

Here, then, is exactly how much you can expect to spend on a trip to Hungary.

How to Find Cheap Flights to Hungary

If you’re European, you won’t have too much difficulty finding a cheap flight to Budapest. With so many budget airlines operating across the continent, you can likely score flights to Hungary for as little as €50 each way . Still, it’s always worth checking the overland options, too, as the trains, buses, and coaches can sometimes be cheaper.

For anyone in North America, Oceania, Asia, and elsewhere, my first recommendation is Secret Flying and my second is Skyscanner .

Secret Flying is my number one flying trick and it’s rare for me to ever travel on a flight that wasn’t found through that site. And no — they’re not paying me to say that. Secret Flying is a flight deals website that shares dozens of great options for routes that have recently gone on sale. It’s thanks to Secret Flying that I flew from Lisbon to Cape Town for €280 return, London to Los Angeles for $120 one-way, and Singapore to London for $120 one-way. In short, regularly checking flights from your home country to Europe on Secret Flying will help you save a lot of money.

I’ll confess that Budapest isn’t one of the major airports in Europe, so deals to Hungary are tougher to find than to somewhere like Paris. Still, in the past couple of months, Secret Flying has unearthed deals like $486 return from NYC to Budapest and 630 CAD return from Toronto to Budapest, so it’s definitely worth taking a look to see if there are any bargains.

First, check Secret Flying deals to Europe as a whole from the U.S. , Canada , Australia , or wherever else you’re from . You’ll likely be able to pick up a flight for somewhere within Europe for as little as €350 return . From there, you can then use Skyscanner to find return flights between that destination to Hungary.

If Secret Flying doesn’t have any great deals showing, or you want to get to Budapest with the least amount of hassle, you can use Skyscanner from the get-go. After eight years of continuous travel, it’s my favourite way to search for flights, and I love that you can search for flights departing from across an entire country to Hungary. You can even search for travel dates across an entire month to ensure you’re flying on the cheapest possible days.

The Cost of Accommodation in Hungary

One of the cheapest ways to explore Hungary is by staying in a hostel. I’ve stayed in several as I’ve travelled around the country, and was impressed with the quality of the hostels, as well as the number of options to choose from. One of the more notable hostels in Hungary is Maverick City Lodge (dorms starting from 5,000 Ft [€16/ $18 ] a night ), as it consistently receives the best reviews of any hostel in the city. It’s in an amazing location, in the centre of the fabulous Jewish Quarter, is clean and modern, and perfect for solo travellers, as there’s so much going on for socialising.

If you’re all about the tight budget and spending as little as possible in Hungary, there are slightly more affordable options for hostel living around the country. Note: I only recommend properties that are rated above 9/10 on Booking.

The cheapest dorm bed in Budapest comes in at 3600Ft/€10/ $12 a night at the exceptionally well-reviewed Central Market Zen Hostel , and the cheapest private double room in the city comes to 5,700Ft/€16/ $19 a night at Vajda 15 Budapest .
In Eger, you’ll pay just 5960Ft/€18/ $21 a night for a dorm bed at the excellently-reviewed Lokomotiv Motel , or 6040Ft/€19/ $22 a night for a private double room at Cecey Vendégház , so there’s no real reason to stay in a dorm here unless you’re craving the social aspects.
In Lake Balaton, there aren’t any decent hostels, but you can stay in a cheap private double room at Glázer-Szálló for just 6250Ft/€20/ $22 a night .

If you’re on an even tighter budget, you might want to explore some options that’ll land you with free accommodation while you’re in Hungary. You’ve probably heard of Couchsurfing before, but if you haven’t, it’s a website where you can connect with locals and sleep on their sofas. It doesn’t cost anything to do so, and is a great way to gain an insight into Hungarian daily life — something that’s tough to do if you’re hanging out in a dorm room with other travellers.

Housesitting is another option that allows you to spend some time in Hungary without having to spend money on accommodation. After signing up for the site, you’ll be able to apply for housesits and look after locals’ homes (and usually their pets) for free . This is a great option for a whole range of travellers, although it’s best for those of you who don’t have fixed travel dates, as it’s rare to find a housesit that perfectly coincides with specific travel dates that are perfect for you. I’ve had friends score housesitting gigs for anywhere from remote farms to enormous castles, so this isn’t an option that’s just for the budget travellers!

And finally, while we’re talking about free accommodation options, you could also take a look at WorkAway in Hungary. Through this site, you’ll work with locals in exchange for lodging and often food, often helping out on organic farms or local hostels. This is a great opportunity to spend an extended amount of time in the country while keeping your costs extremely low.

Okay, but what if you’re not a budget traveller and just want to stay in a lovely, well-reviewed hotel or guesthouse that’s good value for money and has all the things you need from a place to lay your head? I’ve got you!

I visited Hungary on a mid-range budget with my boyfriend and was surprised by how much I could get for my money. For around €40 a night , you’ll be able to stay in an excellently-reviewed apartment or double room, in a central location with friendly staff.

The Best Hotels and Guesthouses in Hungary

As I mentioned above, I’ve visited Hungary a couple of times, both as a solo female who was travelling on a tight budget and as part of a couple that was looking for all things hotel-shaped and mid-range.

I always like to share which accommodation I stayed in on my travels, as well as recommend alternatives when mine sucked. Everywhere I recommend below has excellent reviews and offers great value for money.

Here’s my list of my favourite accommodation options in Hungary:

Budapest: Anabelle Bed & Breakfast ( $81 a night ) receives an average rating of 9.5 on Booking, which makes it one of the best places to stay in the city. It’s located right in the heart of Budapest in a peaceful neighbourhood, close to many of the tourist attractions, a metro station and supermarket, as well as a 10 minute walk from the bus station.

Eger: Hungária Vendégház ( €44 a night ) receives an average rating of 9.6 on Booking, and reviewers regularly declare it the best B&B they’ve stayed at in the country. You stay here for the friendly owners and generous breakfast — the hosts are only too happy to recommend restaurants and attractions to check out while you’re in town, and you’ll feel as though you’re staying with family rather than in a B&B. The guesthouse is located close to downtown but in a quiet neighbourhood, which is an added bonus in my eyes. I wouldn’t stay anywhere else in Eger.

Debrecen: Boutique Hotel Kristály ( €60 a night ) is one of the best value properties in more-expensive Debrecen. Still, you receive great value for money at this lovely boutique hotel. It’s around a 20 minute walk to the centre of town from the hotel, you’ll have access to a small spa and fitness centre, and the breakfasts are plentiful. Altogether, this is a simple, clean, and modern place to base yourself while exploring Hungary’s second-largest city.

Heviz: Villa Lux ( €42 a night ) is another great value accommodation option in Hungary. It’s a 15-minute walk to the lake with several great restaurants nearby. You’ll have speedy Wi-Fi (a rarity for Balaton), comfortable surroundings, and a great breakfast to fill you up before a day of relaxation.

Pecs: Zsinkó Villa ( €51 a night ) is a small guesthouse with a handful of well-equipped bright and airy rooms and apartments to stay in. This is a great option if you prefer to cook your own food as you travel, as you’ll have access to a kitchen while you’re staying here. It’s beautifully decorated and receives an average rating of 9.9 from 100 reviews on Booking.

The Cost of Transportation in Hungary

Over my two weeks in Hungary, the method of transport I enjoyed the most was the train.

The return train ride from between Budapest and Eger was very comfortable, with the one from Balatonelle to Budapest being slightly less so (it was in August and the carriage was hot ). Still, it was cheap, comfortable enough, and an easy way to buy tickets and get around. You can buy train tickets online and in advance through the MÁV-START website .

In general, you’ll score the cheapest deals by either buying online or in person from ticket offices in the stations.

Surprisingly, the buses in Hungary are usually more expensive than the trains. This is mostly because the buses go to more places and are often just as fast as the train in Hungary. Availability is quite low in high season, as the locals prefer to travel by bus over train. You can view an up-to-date schedule and buy tickets in advance through Volanbuz.hu . It’s definitely worth comparing the price of the bus and train before you book, as you may find they vary significantly.

Renting a car is also an option, as driving in Hungary isn’t very intimidating. The roads are well-maintained, the local drivers are respectful, and car hire is inexpensive. You can expect to pay around €8 a day for a compact or economy car hire. I always use RentalCars.com to find the best prices on car rentals, and highly recommend them.

Keep in mind that there are tolls on every motorway in Hungary, and you’ll need to buy a toll pass in advance in order to avoid a fine. It costs €11 for a 10-day toll pass , and you can buy them on the national toll payment website .

What about flying?

There are just under 10 airports in Hungary, with the main ones being Budapest and Debrecen. Domestic flying is usually more expensive than travelling by overland, and while it seems like it could save you time, remember to account for the time it takes to get to the airport, check in, and reach your destination once you’ve landed. An hour-long flight can turn into a four-hour journey, in which case you’d likely be better off taking the train or bus.

When it comes to getting around the cities and towns you visit there are plenty of options. Budapest has an extensive metro system that covers much of the city, but it’s also quite walkable if you feel like exploring above ground. There’s also a tram service, which I much prefer as you can see more of your surroundings as you travel around, but if you’re prone to motion sickness you might want to avoid it.

To give you a good idea of how much you can expect to spend on transportation in Hungary, here’s a list of journeys you might decide to take while you’re in the country:

Single train ticket from Budapest to Eger: 2725Ft (€8/$10)
Single bus ride from Budapest to Lake Balaton: 3395Ft (€11/$12)
Return train ticket from Budapest to Vizegrad: 2240Ft (€7/$8)
Return train ride between Budapest and Esztergom: 2240Ft (€7/$8)
Return bus ticket between Budapest and Eger: 5450Ft (€17/19)
Return train ticket between Budapest and Pecs: 7900Ft (€25/$28)
A one-way ride on the Buda Castle funicular: 1000Ft (€3/$4)
A single ride on Budapest’s metro: €1

How Much Does Food Cost in Hungary?

Hungary is exceptionally affordable when it comes to eating out and buying groceries, so you won’t need to budget a huge amount for food. As an example, a three course meal at a decent, mid-range restaurant will set you back just €15 each !

In general, you should expect to spend the following on each meal:

Breakfast: €2 each for bacon and eggs; €6 each for something in a hipster cafe.
Lunch: €5 each for a set meal in a traditional restaurant.
Dinner: €5 each if you’re on a budget, €12 each for a mid-range restaurant, €25 each for something high-end.

To save money on food, take your eating to the streets. In Budapest, there are plenty of market halls to make this possible — Central Market Hall is a great option for cheap eats, as is the Downtown Market on Hold Street. There, you’ll be able to score a meal for as little as €2 .

There are several food and drink experiences in Hungary that I highly recommend you seek out.

The first of these is the ruin bar scene in Budapest. I can’t tell you how much I adore the ruin bars. Found primarily in the Jewish Quarter, these quirky buildings have been transformed from once-derelict spaces into eclectic rooms crammed full of all kinds of treasures. At Szimpla Kert — my favourite ruin bar — you’ll find a haphazard array of torn-up sofas, old chairs, and benches thrown together around unsteady tables. The front half of an old car was being used as a table; bathtubs and dentist chairs as seats. Rooms were filled with sewing machines, birdcages, typewriters, and old film projectors showing Russian cartoons and silent movies. From the ceiling hung a mixture of mismatched lampshades and smashed chandeliers. I highly recommend checking one out while you’re in town. When the beers are €2 , it’s hard to find a reason not to.

When it comes to food, goulash ( €6 ) is likely the first dish that comes to mind. This Hungarian classic blends a meat stew with the perfect amount of paprika, and is fantastic to eat during the winter months. There are plenty of other traditional foods that don’t get a look-in, though — aim to try €7 Fisherman’s Soup (a spicy paprika-filled soup made with fresh fish from the Danube), €5 Hungarian Lecso (similar to ratatouille, this is a vegetable stew that all my vegetarians out there should aim to try), and €1 langos (deep-fried dough with an assortment of delicious toppings — the traditional version is topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese).

For drinks, aim to try a €3 froccs (a cocktail of wine and soda — perfect for hot summer days) and €3 palinka (a traditional local brandy).

You should usually aim to tip around 10% in Hungary, although this is often added to your bill at the end of the meal.

Here are some more examples of what you can expect to pay for food in Hungary:

Combo meal at McDonald’s: €3.80
Pint of draught beer: €1.30
Glass of wine in a restaurant: €2.10
A cocktail in a fancy bar downtown: €4.25
Coffee in an expat area of town: €2.00
Litre of milk: €0.75
A loaf of bread: €1.80
A dozen eggs: €1.25
1 kilogram of tomatoes: €1.40
1 kilogram of potatoes: €1.25
A bottle of wine: €3.50
A 1.5l bottle of water: €0.70
A 30 cm pizza: €3.80
A gyros for lunch: €2.20
A three course meal and wine in a high-end restaurant in Budapest: €30 each

How to Save Money on Activities in Hungary

While Hungary is very affordable when it comes to accommodation, transportation, and food, the activities are where you’re likely to spend the vast majority of your forints . Still, there are plenty of free activities to take advantage of.

Free walking tours are one of the best ways to kick off your explorations of a new city. These are based on donations, so you can give as much or as little as you want for a two-hour overview of the main tourist attractions. There are several free walking tours in Budapest . Some of these will give you a general view of the city, and others are focused on the Jewish district and city’s communist past.
Visit Heroes Square. One of my favourite areas of Budapest is Heroes Square, and I love to visit just as the sun is setting.
Explore Buda Castle. You’ll have to pay to go inside the castle, but I personally didn’t find it to be worth it. Instead, you should wander the grounds and gardens, and snap photos of its exterior.
Admire Budapest’s Parliament building. You have to pay to explore the inside of this beautiful building, but I think it’s just as impressive from the outside. I especially love taking photos of it from Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest.
Relax beside Lake Balaton. If you decide to visit Europe’s biggest lake, you’ll quickly learn that it’s a popular vacation spot for locals in Hungary. While you’re there, do as they do and admire Tihany Abbey, lay out beside the water, and go for a hike in the hills surrounding the lake.
Drink wine and gaze at the architecture in Eger. I didn’t spent a single cent on activities while I was in Eger, and that’s because I was having such a wonderful time simply wandering aimlessly down narrow alleyways. The architecture is gorgeous in this city, and you’ll be content just to take photos of the beautiful buildings while you’re there. It has one of my favourite old towns in all of Europe!

So, which activities in Hungary are worth the splurge?

If you’re looking for a romantic activity to undertake while you’re in the country, a great option is a Danube River cruise in Budapest (€45) . You’ll spend two hours drifting along the river, sampling traditional Hungarian dishes, and watching the city light up from the water. If you’re on a tight budget, you can jump on alternatives for €9 .
Széchenyi Thermal Baths are a must-do in Budapest. These thermal baths are some of the most famous in the world and have a whopping 17 pools to choose from. It costs €20 to spend a day there, and this option allows you to skip the line to avoid the crowds.
If you’re up for an adventure, you can opt to explore Budapest’s underground cave system (€37) . On the three-hour tour, you’ll learn about the history of the caves and geology of the city, all while wandering beneath the city. It receives excellent reviews!
Hungary makes some surprisingly wonderful wines, so if you’re not planning to spend a few days out in the wine country, you should at least opt to take a day trip to Tokaj (€280) . You’ll spend an entire day on a private tour of the UNESCO-listed Tokaj region of Hungary, visit three different wineries, enjoy a three-course traditional meal, and likely sample more wines than you could possibly imagine. If you’re in Hungary on a special occasion, this is the perfect way to celebrate.
If you’re planning for some action-packed days while you’re in Budapest, consider spending €20 on a Budapest Card . It gives you unlimited free transportation around the city for a day, free entry to the best museums, free access to Lukács Thermal Baths, and discounts on meals throughout the city. It’s definitely worth doing for at least 24 hours.

Miscellaneous Expenses and Information for Hungary

I always like to include a little section in these budget breakdowns to cover all those bits and pieces that don’t neatly fit into anywhere else.

Hungary guidebook: When it comes to travel in Europe, I believe that Lonely Planet’s are king. The Lonely Planet guide to Budapest and Hungary includes some of the best travel itineraries for the country to help you plan the perfect trip, recommends restaurants for local experiences, includes a whole wealth of cultural insights to help you better navigate the country, and so much more. If you’re going to get a guidebook for your time in Hungary, this one is the best. As an added bonus: the paperback copies look so beautiful on bookshelves!

Travel insurance: I’m all about ensuring that every single one of my readers understands the importance of travel insurance. When you work in the travel industry, as I do, you’re inundated with news of destitute backpackers on GoFundMe who fell ill while travelling, didn’t have travel insurance, and now can’t afford the hundreds of thousands of dollars needed to be airlifted home for medical care. It happened to an old school friend of mine just this year. In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died while you’re overseas and need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use SafetyWing as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Hungary. They’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. Finally, they have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

How Much Did I Spend in Hungary?

To round off this article, I’ve pulled up my travel expenses from Hungary to share exactly how much I spent while I was in the country. To make it easier for you guys, I’ll share both my budget breakdowns from my solo trip as a backpacker and my mid-range adventure as part of a couple.

How much I spent as a solo backpacker in Hungary:

Accommodation: €11 per day Transportation: €3.13 per day Food: €12.05 per day Activities: €2.86 per day

Total amount spent: €29 per day

How much I spent as part of a couple on a mid-range budget:

Accommodation: €23 per day (my share of the cost of the room) Transportation: €4.50 per day Food: €27 per day Activities: €4.17 per day

Total amount spent: €59 per day

And that’s it for my budget breakdown of how much it costs to travel in Hungary! I hope you’ve found this post useful when planning your own Hungarian adventure, and feel free to drop any questions you may have in the comments below :-)

Related Articles on Hungary 🇭🇺 25 Things to Do in Budapest 🍷 Exploring The Stunning Town Of Eger And Not Drinking Its Wine

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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25 comments.

Great guide, Lauren! I think Hungary is very underrated as well as very affordable. Budapest is one of my favorite cities in Europe and I’m always recommending it to people. This will be useful to anyone planning a trip to Hungary.

Thanks so much, Cas! I really appreciate your kind words, and agree about Budapest being a fantastic city!

Damn, I really love Budapest. The architecture is amazing, and I got the feeling that the city hasn’t fully modernized yet, which I liked. Heroes Square might be the coolest monument I’ve ever visited.

Great pics!

Heroes Square is amazing!

Hi Lauren! I’m thinking about going to Hungary (Budapest and Eger) in a couple of months. Maybe a stupid question but in your opinion… is Hungary a safe place to travel to?

Hey Mike! Oh, absolutely. I think Hungary is safe to travel to, and I never once felt in danger while I was there. Just take normal precautions as you would anywhere — keep an eye on your belongings, don’t trust random strangers that approach you for no obvious reason, don’t get super drunk, and stay away from any dodgy neighbourhoods. I wouldn’t worry about safety there, though.

Who knew that Hungary is cheap to travel to?! Not me! I’m surprised by some of these prices and it’s causing me to move Hungary further up my list. Maybe I’ll aim to get there this summer.

I’ll keep my fingers crossed that you do! Hungary is certainly fantastic for your travel budget :-)

These breakdowns are always impressive to me. You always manage to cram so much information into them! I’m excited to see how cheap Hungary is to travel in too, as I’ve always wanted to go to Budapest.

Thanks so much, April!

Ahhh hero’s square. Many fond memories there…that was the first place I ever visited in Budapest.

…And it was the last place that I visited ;)

I was in Budapest like 3 days ago!! I absolutely fell in love with Hungary by far the easiest country in Hitch in, and the most fabulous lovely people. I have to go back soon x

Oooh, that’s good to know! Another way to keep the budget low :-)

Budapest has a truly amazing architecture. It is such a beautiful city, especially at night! My favourite buildings are Vajdahunyad Castle and the Hungarian Parliament.

I love the Parliament most! :-)

Impressive list of information and an accurate budget. I loved that you focused on the costs in the country outside of Budapest as well. Most travelers will only visit Budapest when they come to Hungary but there’s so much more that’s worthwhile to see.

I absolutely agree with you! There’s so much more to Hungary than just Budapest :-)

Thank you for sharing this. Hungary is one of my favourite places in Europe and for sure it can be really budget friendly.

No problem! It’s definitely one of the more affordable countries in Europe, and still so worth visiting!

Hi. Excellent post. A few comments, as things have changed a bit since your report. It is still very cheap to stay Hungary. For the over 65s in the EU travel is free. Train, metro, bus – all free. There are really good hotels in Balaton and we stayed at La Riva on Siofok – i give it a 5 star rating and quite reasonably priced. Restaurant meals, even snacks are getting a little more expensive – about £6 for a burger. Coffee/tea £1.50 to £2. We love Hungary and have been several times. It’s worth learning a few words in Hungarian, the locals will love you for it.

I agree that Budapest is a feast for the eyes. In my first and only trip thus far we felt tad overwhelmed at first but soon got the hang of the frequently running trams to get around. One caution about the baths in general – personally I cannot sit and smell sulphur for an entire day nor soak in warm waters in the heat of the day either. It was good to see them from the balcony and then go to my jacuzzi in the hotel to soak away the aches. Towel and hair caps are extras and vary by baths.

To be honest i was visiting Budapest 2 times! First time i was with my girlfriend at a wedding in Etyek,after the wedding we remained one day in Budapest! One month later we decided to go again!Went in the Buda Labyrinth with an oil lamp, in complete darkness, went to Fisherman Bastyon!one thing i can say: I LOVE BUDAPEST!

Just found out that Hungary does not officially use Euros. We’re only going to be in Budapest a couple of days, will we need the local currency? Thanks ps. love a detailed budget breakdown!

A lot of places do accept Euros, but use a crappy exchange rate, so you’ll be worse off by using them.

Is Budapest Expensive? A Budapest Trip Cost Guide

Last Updated on October 9, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

As one of the top destinations to visit in the entirety of Europe, the Hungarian capital of Budapest has so much to offer visitors. But is Budapest expensive to visit? When viewing photos of the grand cityscapes and thinking of all of the incredible things to do in the city, it can be hard to know what you can expect your overall Budapest trip cost to be.

Budapest has a reputation for being quite a budget-friendly city, but does that stand up to the test? Can you stretch your hard-earned cash further here than you can in other European capitals?

In general, Budapest is not an expensive city with an average daily travel cost of €45-155 ($48-164 USD) per person per day.

Before booking a trip to Budapest , it’s essential to figure out a rough budget and be aware of how much various things are going to cost you. Here, we will outline the average costs of accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and entertainment so nothing comes as a surprise when you visit the beautiful capital city of Hungary.

Table of Contents

Budapest Trip Cost Guide

The costs below are just averages and how much your average daily costs are in Budapest are highly dependent on your individual travel style and interests. In general, however, you will find that the city has quite affordable prices and that it is quite feasible to visit Budapest on a budget.

The currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF), however, all prices here are listed in Euro to make things a bit easier to understand.

Accommodation Prices in Budapest

The cost of accommodation in Budapest generally makes the biggest dent in any travel budget, so it’s something that needs consideration.

Luckily, you can get quite good value for money in the Hungarian capital there is ample choice for affordable accommodation close to all of the major attractions and public transport links on both the Buda and Pest sides .

On the budget end, you will find a lot of different options for hostels such as the Lavender Circus Hostel with most dorm beds starting at an average price of about €15-20 per night. This does depend on the season you’re travelling, with prices being lower in the winter and higher in the summer.

On the mid-range, there are plenty of lovely hotels — such as Butterfly Home Danube — that range from around roughly €50-80 per night. If you’re splitting the costs between two people, this can work out to be quite affordable.

Even if you’re looking for something a bit more plush than a mid-range hotel, you will find that some 4-star hotels that are centrally located and boast plenty of amenities are not as pricey as those in many other European cities may be.

If you’re looking to stay in a luxury hotel such as the Maison Bistro & Hotel , expect those to start at around €120-150 per night and can go up from there. This, again, depends on the time of year, day of the week and lots of other variables, as well. However, you generally don’t need to break the bank to stay in style while visiting Budapest.

So, depending on the type of accommodation that you’re after, I’d recommend planning around €15-75 per person per night in this area of your daily budget when you travel to Budapest.

Transportation Prices in Budapest

If you arrive into Budapest airport, then you need to account for the cost of getting from the airport to the city centre. If you go by the direct airport bus, then plan to spend under €5 for this privilege. You can also opt to take a Bolt or taxi or book a private transfer for around €25-30.

Budapest has an extensive public transport system that includes multiple metro, bus, and tram lines. That being said, many of the major sites in the city are quite close together and Budapest itself is quite walkable. However, it is still quite a large city so using the public transport system can be useful and affordable.

If you’re planning on visiting a number of paid attractions, it can be worth it to purchase a Budapest Card . This includes unlimited public transportation along with free and discounted entry into the majority of Budapest’s top attractions. There are lots of different options available, but the savings can be significant if you choose to purchase one.

If you don’t go for the card, you will still find public transit to be quite affordable. Figure out how much you plan to use the metro or tram and make a decision on whether purchasing single-ride tickets or a longer travel card makes sense for you.

A single ticket costs about €1.15 and a 24-hour travel card costs about €6.50 and they are valid on all modes of transport within the city. You can find detailed information about the pricing for Budapest’s public transit on their official website .

If you don’t want to use public transportation or simply want the option of jumping in a taxi, there are a few ride-hailing apps available in Budapest. There is no Uber in Budapest, however, Bolt operates in the city and rides can be affordable.

In general, plan to budget around €5-10 per person per day on transportation, assuming you use the public transport system but throw in a Bolt ride here and there for convenience.

Food Prices in Budapest

The cost of food can really vary in Budapest depending on your habits and where/when you choose to eat out. If you’re really looking to pinch some pennies, you can eat very cheap in Budapest and not go hungry.

If you avoid the tourist trap restaurants along the river or near Castle Hill, eating out in Budapest can be incredibly affordable for visitors. Hungarian food is also unique to that of other Central and Eastern European cuisines so it is very much worth sampling.

There are a number of cheap, international fast food options available for budget travellers as well. For instance, a kebab or falafel from a fast food restaurant will only cost a few euro for a sizable portion. If you want to eat local, expect a langos (a Hungarian-style pizza kind of dish) to also cost around €4-6 depending.

If you’d prefer to eat at a sit-down, mid-range restaurant, a two-course meal will only cost about €10-15 per person and a meal at a budget restaurant will be even less. You can obviously spend more if you’re looking to eat at more upmarket spots or do a food tour but these are just some starting-off figures.

If you are staying in a place that has self-catering facilities and would prefer to cook your own meals, groceries are also quite affordable in Budapest and you won’t have to spend much to eat.

On average, plan to spend about €10-20 per person per day on food in Budapest depending on your habits and preferences.

Activities Prices in Budapest

While it is incredibly possible to experience Budapest to its fullest without spending a cent on activities, sometimes it is nice to visit a museum or historical landmark and most do charge admission fees.

Most museum tickets cost around €10 at full price, and there are a number of discounts available as well. For example, most places offer significant discounts for students, youths (under 25’s), and seniors (over 65’s). You can also get entry to a number of museums for free with a purchase of a Budapest Card.

Some of the top museums in Budapest include the House of Terror (with entry at around €10 full-price) and the Budapest History Museum at the Buda Castle, which is also around €10 for entry. Other museums, like the Hospital in the Rock museum, can be more expensive at around €25. Entry into the Dohany Street Synagogue is similarly priced.

There are also plenty of great free walking tours to take advantage of in Budapest, for which you are only financially responsible for the guide’s tip. In general, plan to tip at least €5-10 per person depending on the quality of the tour – or more, if you think it’s worth it!

If you want to go on a more specialised, paid walking tour, expect these to start at around €10-15 and to go up from there, depending on the type of tour and the group size, particularly for Jewish history or communism tours.

One of the most popular activities in Budapest includes going to one of its many thermal bathhouses, and admission to these can range in price depending on where you go. The popular Széchenyi Thermal Baths , for example, are also among the most expensive, starting at around €25 for basic entry.

My recommendation would be to head to the more local, less touristy bathhouses such as the Rudas Baths where entry prices start at around €15.

Of course, another popular activity in Budapest is to go on a cruise along the mighty Danube. These are frequent and won’t break the bank depending on the type of cruise you book. Expect prices to average around €10-15.

In general, plan to spend roughly €10-30 per person per day on activities for your Budapest travel costs, depending on how many things you want to do and if you choose to purchase any discount cards.

Entertainment Prices in Budapest

Budapest is becoming internationally recognised for its unique nightlife and it is incredibly accessible to experience all the Hungarian capital has to offer while visiting Budapest on a budget. Whether you’re looking to hop from ruin bar to ruin bar until the wee hours of the night or grab a solitary beer or coffee, entertainment prices are something you need to be aware of.

Budapest has some affordably priced alcohol and it doesn’t cost much to grab a pint of beer. Expect a half-litre of local lager to cost roughly €2.50 depending on where you are.

A glass of local wine is priced similarly, however, a basic cocktail such as a gin and tonic or an Aperol Spritz will cost somewhere around €5-8 depending on the establishment. These prices are what you can expect at some of Budapest’s famous ruin bars, like Szimpla Kert, or at other bars and restaurants as well.

If you’re looking to grab a coffee out, plan for an espresso drink like a cappuccino to cost around €2.50, as well.

How much you end up spending on the entertainment end really depends on the kind of holiday you’re looking to have. If you’re the type who wants to enjoy a coffee or a beer at the end of the day, then you will only need to budget about €5 per day. If you’re visiting Budapest to party, plan to budget a bit more.

Average Budapest Budget

To sum it up, this is how much you should expect to spend daily while visiting Budapest. This is assuming that you’re splitting some costs like accommodation and intend to use public transportation.

Accommodation : €15-75 / night

Transport : €5-10 / day

Food : €10-20 / day

Activities : €10-30 / day

Entertainment : €5-20 / day

All in all, your average Budapest cost per day to land somewhere around €45-155 per person, factoring in all of the aforementioned costs. This means that if you’re planning a 4-day budget for Budapest, then expect to spend around €180-620 per person.

Budapest can be an affordable city to visit if you know how much to budget and where to spend your money. In general, you can have a great trip to the Hungarian capital even if you don’t have a lot of extra cash to spend!

Are you planning a trip to Budapest? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

hey guys, I’m living in Bucharest (do not confuse it with Budapest, please) and YES, I do plan to visit Budapest in a few years with my girlfriend. We plan to start a lifestyle blog as well.

Keep up the great job! 🙂

Welcome traveler!

We're Andre & Lisa, adventurers and experienced budget travelers.

We have over two decades of travel experience and since 2018 have led a full-time nomadic lifestyle.

L earn more about us !

Thank you for visiting and we hope you find value in our destination pages! We thoroughly research and curate all content ourselves and everything you find on this site is put together by only the two of us.

HUNGARY TRAVEL GUIDE

Sitting at the crossroads of Europe, Hungary has managed to become modern and cosmopolitan while remaining perfectly Hungarian. It has one of the richest folk traditions still alive in Europe and fuses old Europe and new in its mix of Hapsburg grandeur and Communist-era grittiness. The capital, Budapest, is a city of imposing scale and wide vistas, split by the Danube into historic Buda and buzzy Pest, and offering both the OLD (imperial-era boulevards, Turkish baths) and the NEW (quirky warehouse bars and summer riverboat clubs). It's easy to see why Hungary is one of the 15 most popular tourist destinations in the world and can boast with a capital regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world.

Currency: Currency in use is the forint (Ft or HUF) Current conversion rate is available here .

Electricity: 230V AC electricity. Power outlets are round two-prong sockets (type F which also accepts type C and type E). Be sure to pack a universal travel adaptor so you can still use all your electronic gadgets. If you are from a country with 110V as a standard be aware that you will need a voltage converter.

Visa: Hungary is a party to the Schengen Agreement, which allows for free movement between certain European countries with no border controls between countries that have signed and implemented this treaty. U.S. citizens may enter Hungary for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa and a visa granted for any Schengen member is valid in all other countries that have signed and implemented the treaty. Be sure to check online for the latest entry requirements. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your entry and that you have an available completely blank page in your passport.

Safety: The crime rate in Hungary is low by European standards. Your biggest worry, when travelling to Hungary, should be the pickpockets and scammers. Your main defence is to exercise common sense and refrain from flaunting any luxury items. Tourists are treated with respect by the police (rendörség) unless they’re suspected of smuggling drugs or driving under the influence of alcohol. It's a good idea to review your insurance coverage before you leave to make sure it's adequate. We would suggest checking out either SafetyWing or World Nomads , for travel insurance as they have the best coverage for active travellers.

Language: Hungarians are rightly proud of their unique, complex, sophisticated, richly expressive language. It is considered to be one of the most difficult languages for English speakers to learn with the vocabulary, complicated grammar, and pronunciation being radically different. English is widely spoken, particularly by the younger generation and by those who work in tourism or live in tourist areas. German is very useful and almost as widely spoken as English, and almost universally near the Austrian border.

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR

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For the latest requirements or for application click

Let iVisa take the pain out of travel planning and assist you with Electronic visas, Travel Authorizations, Visas on Arrival, and even Paper Visas. They can also help with Health Declarations and Embassy Registrations. If you're from the US, they provide a One-Stop Shop to renew your Passport securely and error-free.

POSTS ON HUNGARY

SEASONS AT A GLANCE

Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists.

Peak Season

Shoulder Season

Off Peak Season

Climate Chart with avergae monthly temperatues and rainfall

BEST TIME TO VISIT HUNGARY

Hungary's main "tourist season" runs roughly from May through September.

Most visitors come in the summer, generally regarded as the best time to visit Hungary, when nine or ten hours of sunshine can be relied on most days, although sometimes interspersed with short, violent storms. The summer months of July and August has plenty of advantages with its long days and a busy schedule of tourist fun and festivals, although the high temperatures and humidity can become overwhelming at times. There’s little variation in temperatures across the country during summer, although you will find the Great Plain drier and the Highlands wetter.

In spring and fall — May, June, September, and early October — travellers enjoy fewer tourist crowds and milder weather. This is one of the best times to visit Budapest with its spring and autumn festivals, sights, and culinary delights. May can be pleasantly warm but showery and is the ideal time to see the Danube Bend, Tihany, or Sopron before the main season starts.

Winter travellers will find Budapest's concert season in full swing, with almost no tourist crowds, but take heed that some accommodations and sights are either closed or run on a limited schedule. The weather can be cold and dreary, and it gets dark outside well before dinnertime. Apart from Budapest, most other parts of Hungary have little to offer during the winter, and the weather doesn’t become appealing until late spring.

The best time to visit Hungary overall is the shoulder seasons in the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) when it's still warm enough but with far fewer tourists and more palatable prices.

BEST TIME FOR:

If you're desperate for a "beach" while visiting Hungary, head to Lake Balaton to enjoy this Lake Beach with the locals. Other "beach" options are the smaller Lake Velence, Szanazug free beach along the Koros River and Felsőgödi & Alsógödi free beaches along the Danube River.

LOOKING FOR ALTERNATIVES

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Advanced, real-time destination filter by visa required, region, health risk, travel budget, country value, tourist seasons, best weather and activity or sport.

HUNGARY TRAVEL COSTS

As former budget-friendly European cities grow increasingly expensive, prices in Budapest, Hungary remains relatively inviting to the international travel crowd. It's by no means any longer a bargain destination, and especially the cost of accommodation is on a par with Western European countries for most of the year; during July and August, it can shoot upwards. Eating and drinking, however, remain reasonably good value.

There’s great-value accommodation available in Hungary, whether you’re a backpacker on a super-tight budget, part of a couple on a mid-range-priced vacation, or a luxury traveller looking for a value getaway. Hostels are incredibly affordable and you will find dorm rooms starting from $10 USD and private rooms from $20 USD. Some hostels include free breakfasts and WiFi is ubiquitous.

During our 2018 Europe camper-van trip visit to Budapest, we stayed at a very convenient camping spot near the centre - Haller Camping for under EUR 20 per day - which included electricity and access to facilities. It was close enough to walk to the centre of the city but we loved cycling along the Danube.

Budget hotels can be found from $25 USD a night and for a double room with WIFI and breakfast expect to pay closer to $40 USD. For a 3-star hotel, the price will be upwards of $50 USD per night and you should at least double that for a 4-star hotel. Prices outside of Budapest are a lot cheaper in general. A good option would be to consider renting an apartment using Airbnb as it will afford you the opportunity to save on eating out. Shopping for produce and food at markets and grocery stores can be very affordable.

Transportation

As Budapest lies in the centre of the country and pretty much any point can be reached within three hours by train or bus, there isn't much need for scheduled domestic flights. Public transport in Hungary is cheap and fairly reliable, although the air-conditioning doesn't always work on trains or buses. The train network is star-shaped, fanning out from the centre at Budapest which means that if neither your starting nor ending point is in Budapest, expect to travel for a longer time - often with a change in Budapest. Buses and trains connect cities across Hungary for around $6 USD per trip. Budapest has an underground system with 4 lines that are easy to use with a single ticket from $1.00 USD and a 24h pass around $5 USD. Private taxis are notorious for ripping off tourists, so always ask your accommodation to call you a cab when possible. Uber withdrew from Budapest in 2016 but at the time writing, Bolt services were still available. Car rental in Hungary is also really accessible and might be cheaper than expected.

VALUE RANK:

Find discount flights to, travel tips for hungary, hungary travel tips.

Traditional Hungarian food is inexpensive and hearty and if you are on a tight budget you can easily eat for under $ 10 USD a day in Hungary. A meal at a traditional sit-down restaurant with a beer should be around $10 USD and during our last stay in Budapest, we found there is a growing trend towards craft drinks and gastropub-style offerings. For example along the riverside, you will find 'artisanal' burgers plus a craft beer draft on offer for around $ 10 USD at Jónás Craft Beer House . A normal beer at a bar will cost $1.50 USD while buying it at a store will be half of that price. Some actual costs from our visit to Budapest include: 10 Day Highway Vignette EUR 25, Budapest 24-h Travel Card EUR 5, St. Stephens Basilica entrance fee EUR 1.60

REGIONS & HIGHLIGHTS OF HUNGARY

Sights & highlights of hungary.

Whilst Budapest deservedly takes centre stage, there is much more to Hungary than just this single destination. You will find gorgeous Baroque towns right next to ancient castles and fortresses, while nature asserts itself spectacularly in the form of Lake Balaton, the densely forested Northern Uplands, and the immense sweep of the Great Plain, not to mention one of the grandest stretches of the Danube River. Aside from the country’s extraordinary collection of thermal spas, there is also a wealth of adventure and outdoor activities available, including water-sports, horse-riding, cycling and hiking, while nearly two dozen wine regions offer the opportunity to sample a range of quality wines little known beyond the country borders.

Visit Beautiful Budapest

Over one-fifth of Hungary’s population live in Budapest, and it is the political, cultural and commercial heart of the country. Pest is located on the eastern bank of the Danube and Buda on the hilly west bank. Since the unification of these two distinct cities in 1873, the Danube (Duna) is less a dividing line and more the heart of the capital itself, providing its most splendid vistas, from both banks. Even on a short visit, Budapest is easily worth at least three days.

What To See And Do On The BUDA Side Of Budapest

What To See And Do On The PEST Side Of Budapest

FREE Things To See And Do In Budapest

Széchenyi Baths - Budapest's single best attraction and the largest medicinal bath in Europe.
Hungarian Parliament - Vast riverside building with a remarkable interior serving as the government centre.
Great Market Hall - The oldest and largest indoor market in the country. Perfect for browsing, people watching or a quick lunch at a vendor upstairs.
House of Terror - Harrowing remembrance of Nazis and communist secret police in the site of the former headquarters.
Heroes' Square - Mammoth tribute to Hungary's historic figures, fronted by a collection of art museums.
Holocaust Memorial Center - Excellent memorial and museum honouring Hungarian victims of the Holocaust.
St. Stephen's Basilica - Budapest's largest church, with a saint's withered fist and great city views at 96m.
Margaret Island - Budapest's traffic-free urban playground set in the middle of the Danube.
Memento Park - Larger-than-life communist statues collected in one park, on the outskirts of town.
Buda Castle Park (Várkert Bázar) - Urban people zone stretching from the riverbank to the Royal Palace.
Ruin Bars - Synonymous with Budapest and mainly located in the old Jewish quarter.
As independent travellers, we usually prefer to have a go at activities ourselves but like most big cities, Budapest can be a little bit overwhelming initially. To help you make the most of your time, have a look at a few of our recommended tours.
St Stephen's Basilica Tour with Tower Access – Skip the line and take a guided tour of Saint Stephen's Basilica including an exclusive visit to its dome for spectacular panoramic views over Budapest.
Budapest: Sightseeing Tour by Segway – Save precious time and money on an amazing tour of Budapest by Segway. Choose from different itineraries and get the best out of your Budapest visit.
Grand Budapest Sightseeing Bike Tour – A 3-hour long guided ride to explore and see everything you should not miss during your stay in Budapest.

Windsurf Lake Balaton

The major tourist attraction to the west of the capital is Lake Balaton, the biggest freshwater lake in Central Europe and affectionately dubbed the “Hungarian sea” as it's all that remains of the Pannonian Sea which once covered this part of Europe. It is a popular tourist destination both for visitors and nationals thanks to its beaches and volcanic hills. Over towards the north of the lake is the wine-growing region, the wetlands, and some fantastic hiking trails. For those looking for more relaxation, you’ll find over 1,000 hot springs famed for their medicinal properties. Its built-up southern shore features popular (and loud!) resorts such as Siófok, which brands itself as the “Hungarian Capital of Summer”, while gentler Keszthely perches on the western tip. Though the central stretch of the shoreline consists of pay-for-use beaches, there are free beaches 1km further along at both resort areas. The lake is worth a visit if you fancy a spot of swimming, windsurfing or sailing while in Hungary. However in summer Siófok, in particular, is perhaps best avoided if you are looking for a restful or scenic break.

Cruise along the Danube bend

The Danube Bend is a region of peaks and picturesque river towns to the north of Budapest. It's claimed as the most beautiful stretch of the Danube along its entire course, and several historical towns vie for visitors’ attention. As the Danube runs through the entire country, you can visit many of the towns dotting its shores by taking a boat cruise down the river and even head to Germany if you have more time to explore. There is definitely no shortage of trips available from Budapest and you can choose from just a short ride down the river to a full-on 3-night round-trip. Szentendre on the west bank of the Danube Bend is a popular day-trip from Budapest - a picturesque if a rather touristy town of artists - with narrow cobbled streets and quaint houses.

Cycle the Hungarian Countryside

There are well over 2,000 kilometres of cycling paths in the Hungarian countryside with another 200 kilometres just in Budapest in addition. Lake Balaton is especially popular for its cycling route that runs all the way around its 200-kilometre perimeter. The paths in Hungary also connect with routes in Germany and Austria which can make for a perfect multi-day cycling holiday. The paths are easy to navigate although if you prefer to take a guided tour there are plenty available.

Tengerszem Nature Preserve

The most unique ‘lake’ (dam in fact) in Hungary is the Tengerszem, an abandoned mine that slowly filled with rainwater since it was closed in 1907. It was declared the most beautiful area in all of Hungary in 2011, making it a very unique, stunning location to spend the day. It is conveniently close to the Tokaj wine region, so you should be able to make the best out of a day’s trip around the area.

Soak in the Hot Baths

Whether you’re joining the rest of Budapest and relax in the famous Szechenyi Baths or prefer to check out a small hot pool in the countryside, you definitely cannot leave Hungary without partaking in this local pastime. Weekday admission starts from $21 USD per person at Szechenyi , with prices rising slightly over the weekend.

Tour a Hungarian Wine Region

The atmospheric town of Eger boasts a fabled fortress (which famously repulsed an Ottoman attack in 1552) has a cheerful friendliness with its expansive cobbled streets. Eger’s university, opposite the cathedral, ensures that, during term time, the town enjoys a nightlife completely out of proportion to its size. A short walk southwest of the town centre in an area known as Valley of the Beautiful Woman you will find a big square crammed with wine cellars, where you can enjoy back-to-back wine tastings – an integral part of a trip to Eger.

There are a large number of vineyards located in the area with the options of taking tours as well as to sample and buy the wines. A private wine tour and tasting can be very expensive though and the next best thing would be to attend a special wine tasting evening during which you can tour the cellars and enjoy an evening of traditional festivities along with wine sampling!

Explore the Caves of Aggtelek Karst

The Caves of Aggtelek Karst are part of a National Park, one of the only UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country. There are 712 caves spread out over 138,000 acres that runs along the border of Hungary and Slovakia. The site is made up of seven components with five in Hungary and two in neighbouring Slovakia. Within the caves, you can see some of the largest stalactites and stalagmites in Europe. You can also book a tour that will take you across the border to see the caves in Slovakia. To enter the caves, you have to do so as part of a guided tour! For more information on tour times check the official website .

Hike in Hortobágyi National Park

Spanning half of Hungary, the Great Plain area is home to Hungary’s national parks and its key horseriding region. The prime destinations here are Debrecen and the nearby Hortobagy National Park. Hortobágyi, at 800km2, is Hungary's largest protected area, and the largest semi-natural grassland in Europe. The park was created in the 1970s and became a World Heritage Site in 1999. The grassy plains (also known as a steppe ) is home to all sorts of domestic animals, including cattle, horses, and water buffalo all tended to by traditional herdsmen. Some of the rarest animal breeds can be found here, and the landscapes are incredibly stunning, making this a great place to get off the beaten path.

Join a Tour in Hungary

If you prefer travelling with a group tour, we highly recommend G Adventures . They are a super reputable company and have been running tours around the world offering loads of different tour types that cater to all travellers such as well as wellness tours, tours for 18-30-year-olds. If you like the idea of travelling in a group and make new friends, check out the variety of tours that G Adventures has and the details and dates of each trip. We suggest using the filters in the sidebar to help you find a tour that fits your travel dates and travel style.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN HUNGARY

WHAT TO EAT IN HUNGARY

If you have to describe Hungarian cuisine in four words, it would have to be: good old comfort food. The sort of food that’s rich and delicious, leaving you feeling all warm and happy after every meal. Drawing inspiration from Central and Eastern Europe, Hungarian food goes heavy on the meat and dairy, yet is surprisingly delicious and hearty. Spicy, rich and an extravaganza of different flavours, Hungarian cuisine was developed over thousands of years of Magyar history with traditional dishes continuing to be part of a proud and abundant cultural heritage.

Lángos - A disc of fried dough, this inexpensive Hungarian snack comes with a variety of different toppings, from classic sour cream and cheese to experimental sautéed pork and leeks. As Hungarians’ all-time favourite dish (deriving its name from the word 'flame'), you will find it being sold everywhere: bus stations, street food carts, Christmas markets, restaurants – you name it. The origins of lángos are thought to be due to Turkish influence, while others believe it comes from the ancient Romans. What makes it so beloved is the endless varieties of toppings that come with it. It is usually eaten with garlic sauce, cheese, tejföl (sour cream), or even sausages.
Goulash (gulyás) - Goulash is one of the most famous dishes from the Hungarian culinary repertoire, yet even today there are severe misconceptions about the original version of this iconic food. You might be surprised to discover that locals don’t actually eat it that much although that’s not to say you won’t find it on menus across the country. The name derives from the gulyás (herdsmen), who made the dish in a kettle over an open fire. Almost every region has its own variety, although a basic goulash is somewhere between a soup and stew, packed with beef (occasionally veal or pork), onions, paprika and often served with nokedli (small Hungarian dumplings).
Főzelék - Főzelék is such a unique Hungarian dish it can’t be translated into English. It resembles a soup but is more a thick vegetable stew and you will find variations include potato, peas, beans, lentils and carrot, all made by simmering and thickened by flour mixed with sour cream. There are special főzelék bars spread around cities, making it an ideal choice for a quick, healthy and very Hungarian dining experience.
Töltött Káposzta (stuffed cabbage leaves) - Stuffed cabbage is quite common in Central Eastern European kitchens, and Hungarian maintains its popularity today. These perfectly wrapped parcels are made of cooked cabbage filled with pork mince, mixed rice and flavoured with the paprika, pepper and tejföl. They’re then cooked in a tomato, sauerkraut and smoked bacon sauce, before being dolloped with sour cream for serving.
Somlói Galuska - With its well-deserved title of ‘Hungary’s favourite cake,’ somlói galuska is a delicious, unmissable dessert made from sponge cake, layered with chocolate cream, walnut kernel, rum and whipped cream on the top. Legend has it that the original creator’s family keeps the original recipe a secret, thus somlói Galuska varies in form and preparation but always maintains the same fundamental ingredients.
Dobos Torteb - Dobos torte is among the most prominent of Hungarian dishes and has a history dating back to 1885 when the Hungarian confectioner József C. Dobos introduced his pioneering cake at the National General Exhibition of Budapest. The dessert is made from sponge cake layered with chocolate buttercream and topped with caramel. At the time of its creation the technology, form and taste were groundbreaking as the main ingredient, the buttercream, was unknown and used for the very first time.
Kürtös Kalács (chimney cake) - One of Hungary’s most beloved street pastries, 'Chimney cake’, as it is usually referred to, has a sweet, caramelized coating, onto which cinnamon, cocoa, coconut, or chopped walnuts are added. Sweet yeast dough is spiralled around a special cylinder and baked over charcoal before being coated in plenty of sugar. Kürtös Kalács has turned into a cherished everyday food over the years and an indispensable element of every festival.

LGBTQ IN HUNGARY

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WHERE TO STAY IN HUNGARY

For a first-time visit to Hungary, Budapest, the capital city, is an ideal base due to its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Here are some recommendations for accommodations in different price ranges:

Where to stay in Budapest:

Budapest is divided by the Danube River into Buda and Pest, offering a wealth of attractions, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, thermal baths, and lively neighborhoods. Explore iconic landmarks like Buda Castle, Parliament Building, and Chain Bridge.

Budget : Wombats City Hostel Budapest : Wombats City Hostel offers budget-friendly accommodations in a central location near many of Budapest's attractions. Guests can stay in dormitory-style rooms or private rooms with shared facilities. The hostel also provides common areas, a bar, and organized events for socializing.

Mid-range : Bohem Art Hotel offers mid-range accommodations in a historic building close to the Danube River. The hotel features stylish rooms with artistic touches, a cozy courtyard, a library lounge, and complimentary tea and coffee in the afternoon.

Luxury : Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest provides upscale accommodations in the heart of the city. Guests can stay in stylish rooms and suites with modern amenities, enjoy access to a spa, fitness center, and indoor pool, and dine at the hotel's restaurants offering international cuisine.

Tip : Consider visiting Budapest during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for better rates and fewer crowds.

Where to stay in Balatonfüred (Lake Balaton):

Balatonfüred is a charming resort town located on the shores of Lake Balaton, known for its therapeutic mineral springs, historic villas, and recreational activities. Explore the promenade, visit the Anna Grand Hotel, and enjoy water sports on the lake.

Budget : Hotel Annabella offers budget-friendly accommodations with a prime location near Lake Balaton. Guests can stay in simple yet comfortable rooms and enjoy amenities such as an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and a restaurant serving Hungarian cuisine.

Mid-range : Hotel Marina Balatonfüred : Hotel Marina offers mid-range accommodations with panoramic views of Lake Balaton. Guests can stay in spacious rooms and suites with balconies, enjoy access to a wellness center with indoor and outdoor pools, and dine at the hotel's restaurant overlooking the lake.

Luxury : Hotel Azur Premium is a luxurious lakeside hotel offering upscale accommodations and amenities. Guests can stay in elegant rooms and suites with lake views, enjoy access to a wellness center with thermal pools and saunas, and dine at the hotel's gourmet restaurant overlooking Lake Balaton.

Tip : Book accommodations with lake views for a picturesque stay in Balatonfüred.

Where to stay in Eger:

Eger is a charming historic town in northern Hungary, famous for its medieval castle, Baroque architecture, and thermal baths, as well as its wine culture. Explore Eger Castle, stroll through the old town, and visit the Eger Thermal Bath.

Budget : Hotel Szent István offers budget-friendly accommodations in a central location in Eger. Guests can stay in simple yet comfortable rooms and enjoy amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a restaurant serving Hungarian cuisine, and a wellness area with a sauna and hot tub.

Mid-range : Hotel Eger & Park offers mid-range accommodations with a focus on wellness and relaxation. Guests can stay in modern rooms and suites, enjoy access to a thermal spa with indoor and outdoor pools, and dine at the hotel's restaurant offering Hungarian and international cuisine.

Luxury : Imola Hotel Platán offers luxury accommodations in a tranquil park setting near the city center. Guests can stay in elegant rooms and suites, enjoy access to a wellness center with thermal baths and pools, and dine at the hotel's gourmet restaurant featuring Hungarian and international cuisine.

Tip : Consider visiting Eger during the Eger Wine Festival (September) for a celebration of local wines and culinary delights.

For hassle-free bookings, use platforms like Booking.com for competitive rates or Holiday Swap for unique homes worldwide. Ensure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, and align your preferences with nearby activities such as surfing, snorkeling, or cultural exploration.

CHOOSE ANOTHER DESTINATION

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FLIGHTS Find a cheap flight by using Sky scanner or Momondo . These are our favorite flight search engines. They index other travel websites and airlines across the globe to easily find you the best deal.

ACCOMMODATION

Booking.com is our number one resource for researching and booking accommodation. In addition to Booking.com , we have found Agoda.com to consistently returns the cheapest rates in Southeast Asia. For longer stays, find unique homes worldwide on Holiday Swap , the most affordable travel platform that allows you to book homes anytime, anywhere in only a few clicks.

TRANSPORT

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Budapest Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 5, 2024

The massive Hungarian Parliament building beside the Danube River in Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, known for its fascinating history and its rocking nightlife, is a popular budget-friendly backpacker destination located on a beautiful stretch of the Danube River in Hungary .

This vibrant capital is home to spacious parks, grand historic buildings, bustling food halls, hip underground bars, and centuries-old thermal baths.

The city is popular with budget backpackers as well as with European vacationers and river cruisers looking to explore beyond the confines of Western Europe.

Beneath Budapest’s somewhat drab exterior and you’ll find a hip, cool city packed with affordable accommodation and cheap eats that fit quite nicely into even the tightest of budgets.

Budapest has everything you’ll find in Western Europe but for a fraction of the price (and with a fraction of the crowds too). Personally, I think it’s one of the most exciting cities in Europe!

This travel guide to Budapest can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this underrated city!

Things to See and Do
Typical Costs
Suggested Budget
Money-Saving Tips
Where to Stay
How to Get Around
How to Stay Safe
Best Places to Book Your Trip
Related Blogs on Budapest

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Budapest

The famous Széchenyi bathhouse in beautiful Budapest, Hungary

1. Tour Parliament

Home to the National Assembly, this Gothic Revival building designed by Hungarian architect Imre Steindl is absolutely stunning. Opened in 1902, it’s right on the river and, to this day, remains the largest building in the country. Over 100,000 people worked on the construction of the building, and it took just under 20 years to complete. 40 million bricks, 500,000 precious stones, and 40 kilograms (88 pounds) of gold were used in its creation. Tours are available daily for 8,400 HUF.

2. Admire the National Gallery

Established in 1957, this art museum is located inside Buda Castle. Once one of the most glorious royal residences in Europe , Buda Castle dates to the 14th century and was restored in the Baroque style in the late 1700s. World War II damaged the palace severely and it was restored again in the 1960s before becoming home to the National Gallery in 1975. It has works from prominent Hungarian and European artists as well as a collection of Medieval altarpieces from the 15th century. During your visit, you can also check out the underground Habsburg Palatine Crypt and climb to the top of the iconic dome for panoramic views of the city. Admission is 3,400 HUF and an audio guide is 750 HUF.

3. Visit the baths

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths. The thermal waters from deep below the city have been an important part of Hungarian culture for thousands of years. Believed to possess a variety of health benefits, the waters are rich in zinc, calcium, and magnesium which can soothe muscle soreness, reduce inflammation, and improve skin. The oldest bathhouses in use date back to the 1600s. Széchenyi is the most famous, with indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and dunk baths. It is one of the best experiences in Budapest and is the biggest medicinal bath in Europe. Other baths, such as Lukacs and Gellert are also worth a visit. Admission starts at 3,800 HUF.

4. Cruise the Danube

Many hostels organize weekly boat parties that cruise the Danube (the Budapest Party Hostel group is famous for theirs). Experience sweeping views of the city while dancing the night away. It’s the perfect way to combine partying with sightseeing and you can enjoy iconic landmarks lit up in all their nighttime glory. Other boat tours are available with or without dinner and drink options as well. Prices vary but expect to pay at least 7,000 HUF for a 4-hour trip.

5. Hit the Ruin bars

Other things to see and do in budapest, 1. take a free walking tour.

If you want a complete overview of Budapest, take a free walking tour. It’s how I start all my trips to a new city. There are daily tours available from companies like Free Budapest Walking Tours , Strawberry Tours , Trip to Budapest , and Generation Tours . These tours are the best way to learn about the city’s history, culture, and architecture. Just remember to always tip your guide at the end!

2. Visit the House of Terror

This building is a museum and memorial to the thousands of people who were tortured and brutally killed under Hungary’s fascist and communist regimes. The exhibit takes you through the resettlement and deportation of thousands of Hungarians, including an interrogation chamber and displays of propaganda. There is also an exhibit on the Nazi and Soviet occupation of Hungary. From there, you can see reconstructed prison cells and information on the 1956 revolution. It’s not a light way to spend your afternoon but you’ll get massive insight into Hungary’s turbulent history. Admission is 4,000 HUF.

3. Go caving

Budapest has around 200 underground caves, all of which are on the Buda side of the city. Caving Under Budapest runs tours where you can climb up walls and squeeze through incredibly narrow spaces within the sprawling 30-kilometer (19-mile) cave system beneath the city. Tours start from 12,000 HUF.

4. Wander through the Great Market Hall

Built in 1897, this market is the largest (and one of the oldest) in Budapest. Heavily damaged during World War II, it remained that way until the 1990s when it was restored and re-opened in 1997. Don’t miss the Gothic Revival entrance and patterned tiled roof as you enter. Spanning 10,000 square meters (108,000 square feet), the market has vaulted glass and steel beam ceilings and three floors of stalls selling fresh fruits and vegetables, cheeses, sausages, spices, and local handicrafts. There is a food court inside the market on the second floor if you want to grab a bite and people-watch.

5. Visit the Royal Palace (Buda Castle)

Originally constructed in the 13th century, the huge Baroque complex you see today was built between 1749 and 1769. The palace’s days of being a luxurious living space ended in World War II when Nazi (and then Russian) troops looted it. Today, it’s home to a collection of museums, including the Hungarian National Gallery, Budapest History Museum, House of Houdini, Museum of Military History, Museum of Music History, Museum of Telephones, and the Golden Eagle Pharmacy Museum. Beneath the castle, there’s also a labyrinth that was used to imprison Vlad the Impaler!

6. Relax on Margaret Island

This popular island is smack in the middle of the Danube, connected by the Margaret and Árpád Bridges. It used to be a royal hunting reserve but has since been turned into a public park with lots to see and do. You can walk or drive golf carts (or scooters) around the island, explore the immaculate Japanese garden or the rose garden, chill on the beach, visit the small zoo, or visit the ruins of an ancient Franciscan Monastery. Margaret Island also has its very own thermal baths (Palatinus), complete with wave pools, swimming pools, and a water slide. Admission to the pools starts from 2,900 HUF. Exploring Margaret Island is free!

7. Take a day trip to Lake Balaton

For about 6,000 HUF, you can get a round-trip train ticket from the city to Lake Balaton. This is the largest lake in Central Europe (often called the “Hungarian Sea”) and a rich wine region that is also a hub for outdoor activities, especially cycling. There are also thermal baths here, with admission costing 3,800 HUF for three hours or 6,500 HUF for the day. You can also hike around the extinct volcanic landscape in the nearby Tapolca Basin, walk through lavender fields, and look for wildlife like deer and osprey in Balaton Uplands National Park.

8. Visit the Cave Church

This unique underground church is on the Buda side of the city. It was built in the 1920s in a cave that had been previously used by a hermit. The entire church was sealed up behind a wall of concrete until 1989 when the Berlin Wall came down and the church was reopened. There are lots of interesting relics, including a replica of the Black Madonna from Poland. Admission is 600 HUF which includes an audio guide.

9. See the Shoes on the Danube

Erected in 2005, this small monument is the creation of film director Can Togay and sculptor Gyula Pauer. During World War II, fascist militia rounded up 3,500 citizens (800 of which were Jewish) and ordered them to take off their shoes before they were executed and thrown in the Danube. This monument of bronze shoes represents the shoes taken off and left behind prior to the executions.

If you want to learn more about the history of Budapest’s Jewish population, take a self-guided audio tour around the Jewish Quarter . It takes just over an hour and includes 8 stops, including the stunning Dohány Street Synagogue.

10. Hike Gellért Hill

Named after Saint Gerard, this 235-meter (770-foot) hill overlooks the entire city. The climb up isn’t too taxing and the sweeping view over the entire city makes it worth the effort. At the peak, you’ll find a few vendors selling snacks and drinks. Look for the Szent Gellért Monument dedicated to Saint Gerard, who was the first Bishop of Csanád in what was the Kingdom of Hungary in 1030 CE. It’s popular to come here at sunset.

11. Visit the Budapest History Museum

This museum covers four floors of Buda Castle and offers a comprehensive overview of the city’s entire history. Some rooms date back to the 15th century, including the old cellar, which you’re free to explore. The museum also offers an insightful overview of the historical sites around the city center and their role in Hungarian history, from prehistoric times right up to the present. Admission varies by season (2,000-2,400 HUF).

12. See Matthias Church

Located near Castle Hill, the original church in this location was built in the 11th century. The current building was constructed in the 14th century over its ruins, seeing significant renovations in the 19th century. Some parts of the church still date back 500 years, however, including the carvings over the south entrance. The colorful roof of this church almost looks like it was built from Lego. Once inside, don’t miss the vaulted ceilings and ornate décor. In the Royal Oratory, you’ll find the Matthias Church Collection of Ecclesiastical Art, which has stunning artifacts like chalices and replicas of the Crown of St. Stephen. Admission is 1,800 HUF.

13. Admire St. Stephen’s Basilica

This is the largest church in Hungary. Its exterior is covered in ornate Neoclassical architecture propping up a tall dome. The inside is covered in gorgeous artwork and sparkling marble. Don’t miss all the little chapels inside, as well as St. Stephen’s mummified hand. Entry is 1,200 HUF, and it costs 2,200 HUF to visit the tower for views over the city. Remember to dress respectfully as it is a place of worship.

14. Hungarian Presidential Palace

This is the home of the Hungarian president. The palace is called Sándor-Palota (Alexander Palace), and while it’s not terribly eye-catching compared to the surrounding buildings, you can see the changing of the guard at the top of each hour for free (from 9am-5pm, excluding Sundays). Occasionally, the palace is open for tours in the summer (you’ll have to inquire in person about prices and hours as they occur infrequently).

15. See the Hungarian State Opera House

Designed by Miklós Ybl towards the end of the 19th century, this is the second-largest opera house in Budapest. It took almost 10 years to complete and is a Neo-Renaissance masterpiece that has welcomed world-class composers such as Gustav Mahler (he directed the opera from 1888-1891). Tours are 2,900 HUF and tickets for performances vary but expect to pay around 12,000 HUF.

16. Tour Heroes’ Square

Located at the end of Andrássy Avenue, Heroes Square is actually the largest square in the country. Its centerpiece is the Millennial Memorial featuring a 36-meter (118-foot) pillar topped with the Archangel Gabriel, surrounded by 14 statues of Hungarian kings (as well as other historical figures). The monument was built in 1896 to celebrate Hungary’s 1,000th anniversary. At this time, Hungary was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire ruled by the Hapsburgs, and space was left for statues of future Hapsburgs leaders.

Budapest Travel Costs

A view overlooking Budapest, Hungary from above, featuring historic buildings and the beautiful Danube

Hostel prices – Budapest is famous for its hostel culture so you’ll find tons of budget-friendly options here. In peak season, dorm beds start at 3,000 HUF for an 8-10-bed dorm. Private rooms cost around 14,230 HUF per night, though they can be found for as little as 11,600 HUF if booked early. In the low season, you can find dorm rooms for as low as 2,100 HUF per night, while private rooms can be as low as 5,000 HUF.

Free Wi-Fi is standard and a couple of hostels also offer free breakfast. Most hostels have a kitchen if you want to cook your own meals.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city. Expect to pay around 5,500 HUF for a basic plot for two people without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels with air conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi can be found for as little as 11,000 HUF per night if booked early. But for most rooms, expect to pay at least 15,800 HUF per night.

Airbnb is also available in the city, with private rooms starting at 7,500 HUF per night (though they average closer to 17,000 HUF). For an entire home or apartment, prices begin around 15,000 HUF per night (though expect to pay at least 28,000 HUF unless you book early).

Food – Traditional Hungarian food is inexpensive and hearty. It’s very much a “meat and potatoes” country, with popular dishes being meat stew, smoked meats, casseroles, and dumplings. Túró is a popular local cheese and fruit pastries are a popular (and traditional) dessert. Be sure to try halászlé , a hot and spicy fish soup with paprika.

In Budapest, a meal at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 3,200 HUF. For a multi-course meal and a drink at a restaurant with table service, expect to pay closer to 7,000 HUF. For fast food (think McDonald’s), a combo meal costs around 2,200 HUF.

You can find pizza for around 2,100 HUF for a medium while Chinese food costs around 2,900 HUF. Thai food is around 3,000-4,000 HUF while pita or falafel costs 1,500-2,200 HUF.

Beer costs around 500-800 HUF while a latte/cappuccino is 700 HUF. Bottled water is 370 HUF.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 12,000-15,000 HUF. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat. Lidl, Penny, and Aldi are the cheapest supermarkets to shop at if you’re on a budget.

For a variety of tasty eats, check out Street Food Karavan, a food truck lot with tons of delicious options. For hearty local eats, head to Hungarikum Bisztro. For vegan/vegetarian eats, check out Vegan Garden or Las Vegan’s. For dessert, La Donuteria has fancy vegan and non-vegan donuts.

Backpacking Budapest Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 11,500 HUF per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook most of your meals and eat a little fast food, limit your drinking, use public transportation to get around, and do free activities like walking tours or exploring the market. If you plan on drinking, add another 600-1,200 HUF to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 29,500 HUF per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out at cheap restaurants serving traditional cuisine, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting museums and lounging in the thermal baths.

On a “luxury” budget of 48,000 HUF per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you want, rent a car for day trips, and do more guided tours and paid tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in HUF.

Budapest Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Budapest isn’t an expensive place to visit. If you stick to local food markets, dorm rooms, and public transportation, it’s really hard to break the bank. Just limit your drinking. Sure, the beer is cheap but twenty of them add up!

Here are some other high-impact ways to save money in Budapest without sacrificing your trip:

Take a free walking tour – There are plenty of free walking tours available, making for a great introduction to the city. This is the best (and cheapest!) way to explore while getting a detailed overview of the city and its culture and history. Just be sure to tip!
Stay with a local – Couchsurfing allows you to stay on people’s couches or in their spare rooms for free. It’s a great way to save money while meeting locals who can share the ins and outs of their city.
Cook your own meals – While eating out isn’t too expensive here, if you’re on a budget it’s cheaper if you cook your own meals. Head to a local grocery store and save your money!
Get the Budapest Card – The Budapest Card is a travel pass that provides discounts and deals on attractions and activities in the city. You get free public transport, entry to the Lukács thermal baths, and admission to 17 museums. A 24-hour card costs 11,870 HUF, a 48-hour card costs 17,600 HUF, and a 72-hour card costs 23,000 HUF.
Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Budapest

Budapest has lots of great hostels and budget hotels. Here are some of my favorite budget-friendly places to stay:

Carpe Noctum Original
Pal’s Hostel

How to Get Around Budapest

A yellow tram rolling along on a sunny day in Budapest, Hungary

Public transportation – Budapest has an expansive network of buses that connect the whole city. Additionally, Budapest has a large network of streetcars/trams as well as trolleybuses with over a dozen routes. The city has a modern metro system too.

Tickets are valid on the bus, metro, trams, and trolleybuses, and can be purchased at any metro station with a single ride costing 350 HUF. If you want to avoid standing in the queues at the stations, you can also buy tickets at most newsstands, street stands, and ticket vending machines.

One standard ticket is good for one trip. That means if you need to transfer, you need a new ticket (unless you bought a transfer ticket).

You need to validate tickets before riding. If you are caught using public transport without a validated ticket you are liable for an on-the-spot fine.

If you know you are going to be using public transport while in Budapest then it may be worth purchasing a 24-hour transit pass for 1,650 HUF. You can also get a 72-hour card for around 4,150 HUF.

If you have a Budapest Card, public transportation is free.

Train – There are three main railway stations in Budapest that connect the capital with other cities in Hungary as well as to other neighboring countries. The 2.5-hour ride to Vienna can be done for as little as 3,680 HUF while the 2.5-hour trip to Bratislava costs around 4,500 HUF. The trip to Pecs also takes around 2.5 hours and costs around 4,500 HUF.

Ferry – There are two forms of public water transport in Budapest: the Danube River Ferry Service and the Riverboats (which only operate from May-September). The Danube River Ferry Service runs between Újpest and Millenniumi Városközpont while the Riverboats operate the services between Boráros tér and Pünkösdfürdo. The Riverboats depart every 90 minutes between 8am and 8pm with ticket prices ranging from 250-1,000 HUF

Taxi – Taxis start at 1,000 HUF and go up by around 400 HUF per kilometer. Avoid the taxis if you can as they can add up quickly and you can easily walk or take public transportation everywhere. There are no ridesharing services here like Uber.

Bicycle – Budapest is very bike-friendly and has over 200 kilometers (124 miles) of bike lanes. You can find rentals for around 1,200 HUF for 1 hour or 5,500 HUF for 24 hours.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 6,500 HUF per day for a multi-day rental. Unless you’re planning some day trips, however, you won’t need a vehicle. If you’re driving, make sure to bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) — you’ll need one for any car rental.

When to Go to Budapest

Peak season in Budapest is June-August, when temperatures rise to 27-30°C (82-86°F). Budapest experiences a huge influx of visitors during this time and prices increase as well.

However, while the summer is the most popular time to visit, I think the best time to visit Budapest is the shoulder season in the spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm, with temperatures hovering between 12-16°C (54-62°F), and there aren’t as many crowds. Prices are cheaper too.

Winter is from November to March. During this time, there is a lot of rain and snow, with many tourist attractions shutting down. Temperatures regularly drop below freezing. That said, November-December is fantastic for the Christmas markets. If you want to see the holiday markets and visit the museums then winter is a fun time to visit. Just dress warmly!

How to Stay Safe in Budapest

Budapest is a pretty safe city and violent crime is rare. However, scams and pick-pocketing can occur, especially around high-traffic areas and on crowded public transportation. Always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

One scam to be mindful of is the “large bar and restaurant bill” scam. It’s mostly solo male travelers who are the target of this scam. The scam starts when you are approached by a group of women who ask for a light or directions. They then ask if you want to come for a drink in a nearby bar. When the bill comes, it is very expensive and they will be unable to pay their share. This is a very common scam as the women are working for the bar. If you aren’t sure if it is a scam or not, try suggesting you all go to a different bar than the one they suggest.

Additionally, avoid this by checking the prices before ordering.

You can read about other common travel scams to avoid here if you’re concerned.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Budapest Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Budapest Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

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10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

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Is Budapest Cheap? (A 2024 Cost Breakdown)

So, you’re planning a trip to the stunning capital of Hungary, but you have one question before you commit and book your flight. ‘Is Budapest Cheap to Visit?’. Well, in this post we are going to break it down.

Let’s take a look at just how much a trip to Budapest costs, from accommodation and food to transportation and sightseeing. This guide will be your one-stop shop for all things costs related.

I have also provided a table of just how much I spent on my recent trip to Budapest.

Section 1: Budget for Budapest Accommodation

Accommodation plays a big role in any travel budget and Budapest is no different. However, the beauty of this city is that it caters to everyone – from backpackers on a shoestring budget to luxury seekers who want nothing but the best.

Let’s dive in and see what to expect when it comes to the cost of accommodation in Budapest. Whether you’re seeking a hostel dormitory or a 5-star suite.

Average Cost of Accommodation in Budapest

Luxury Travel: Those looking for a splash of luxury can expect to pay around € 250+ per night at a 5-star hotel.

Mid-Range Hotel: If you’re looking for something a bit more comfortable, the average cost of a mid-range hotel is around €100-€150 per night.

Budget Hotel: For those on a budget, there are plenty of budget hotels available for around €50-€80 per night but sometimes these tend to be further away from major attractions.

Hostels: Hostels are the most budget-friendly option, with prices ranging from €25 to €45 per night for a dormitory bed. Private rooms in hostels will cost you around €50-65 per night.

Cheap Accommodation in Budapest

If you’re on the hunt for pocket-friendly accommodations, Budapest won’t disappoint. Here are a few options that are not only affordable but also come highly recommended by past guests.

Wombats Hostel: Located in the heart of Budapest, this hostel offers both dormitory and private rooms at affordable prices. It also has a bar and communal areas for socializing. I have stayed here twice and loved it both times.
Marco Polo Top Hostel: Known for its friendly staff and clean facilities, Marco Polo Top Hostel is another great choice for budget-conscious travellers. A night here will set you back about €15 (off-season) and €40 (peak season).
Ibis Budapest City : If you prefer a hotel over a hostel, Ibis Budapest City is worth considering. It’s a budget hotel that doesn’t compromise on comfort. The average cost per night is around €75-100.

Remember, prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Always book in advance to secure the best rates!

Tips on Finding Cheap Place to Stay in Budapest

Book in Advance: Accommodation prices in Budapest can skyrocket during peak tourist seasons. To ensure you get the best deal, try to plan your trip and book your stay well in advance.
Compare Prices: Use online comparison sites to check the prices of different hostels, hotels, and apartments. Sites like Booking.com , Expedia , and Airbnb can help you find the best deals.
Consider Location: Staying in the city centre may be more expensive, however, staying further outside the city isn’t always cheaper. Consider the cost of transportation to and from your accommodations before booking.
Look for Package Deals: Sometimes, travel agencies offer package deals that include accommodation, meals, and excursions. These can often work out cheaper than booking everything separately. Check out companies such as lastminute.com and Travelocity for package deals.
Be Flexible: If you have a flexible schedule, consider travelling during off-peak seasons to save on accommodation costs. You’ll also avoid the crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience
Stay in Hostels: Hostels are a great option for budget travellers, offering dormitory-style rooms and communal spaces for socialising. They can be found all over Budapest with prices starting at around €30 per night. Check out my guide on the top hostels in Europe for some inspiration.

Section 2: Budapest Food and Drink Prices

The next thing you need to consider when determining your Budget for Budapest is the cost of food and drink. Budapest is known for its mouth-watering national dishes, energetic boat party’s and famous ruin bars. So, it is safe to say food and drink are a highlight of any Budapest Itinerary .

How much is a meal in Budapest?

Breakfast: In Budapest, a typical breakfast at a local café would cost around 1,000-1,500 HUF (€2.5/3), which includes pastries, eggs, coffee, or tea.

Lunch: In a local eatery or bistro where a soup, main course, and a drink would cost somewhere between 1,500-3,000 HUF (€3-5). If you opt for a more high-end restaurant, expect to pay around 5,000-7,000 HUF (€15-20).

Dinner: This is usually the most expensive meal of the day. In a local restaurant, you can expect to spend around 3,000-5,000 HUF (€8-15) for a main course. However, in fancier restaurants, prices can go up to 10,000-12,000 HUF (€25-30) per dish.

Street Food: If you are looking to keep costs down then why not check out Budapest’s incredible street food scene? You can find bites for as cheap as 500-1,000 HUF (€1.5-3). They usually have a range of food, from delicious Hungarian sausages to langos (deep-fried flatbread). If you’re looking for something a little heavier then expect to pay slightly more.

Budapest Beer Prices

Budapest is a city that loves its beer, and you’ll be able to find a pint to quench your thirst without breaking the bank.

Local Beer: If you’re in one of the city’s many bars or pubs, a pint of local beer, such as Dreher or Borsodi, will usually set you back around 500-600 HUF (€1.5-2).

Imported Beer: For international beer enthusiasts, imported beers are slightly more expensive, somewhere in the range of 800-1,000 HUF (€2.5-3).

Craft Beer: Budapest also has a burgeoning craft beer scene. Expect to pay anywhere from 1,000-1,500 HUF (€3-5) for these artisanal brews.

All these prices are only estimates

Where to Find Traditional Hungarian Dishes

If you’re in Budapest and looking to try some traditional Hungarian dishes, you’re in luck. The city is teeming with restaurants that serve authentic local cuisine.

Langos: This deep-fried flatbread is best enjoyed at local street food markets. Check out Karavan Street Food, located in the Jewish Quarter, for some of the best Langos in town. This typically costs around 500-800 HUF (€1.5-2.5), depending on the toppings.

Goulash: This hearty stew is a staple of Hungarian cuisine. Most traditional Hungarian restaurants will have it on their menu, but for an exceptional experience, visit ‘ Getto Gulyas ‘ in the 7th district. Expect to pay 1,500-2,500 HUF (€4.5-7.5) for Goulash.

Dobos Torte: For dessert, make your way to ‘ Auguszt Cukrászda ‘, a historic pastry shop in Budapest, to try Dobos Torte, a Hungarian sponge cake layered with chocolate buttercream and topped with caramel. Dobos range from 500-1,000 HUF (€1.5-3) each.

Section 3: Transport Prices in Budapest

Another element you need to consider when determining if Budapest is cheap enough for you Budget in the cost of transportation. Budapest has a fantastic transport system, with a variety of options to choose from including busses, trams and taxis.

Here’s a brief overview of the current prices (at the time of writing):

Single Ticket: This costs 450 HUF, which roughly translates to about €1.30.
30-Minute Ticket: If you’re planning to use multiple modes of transport in a short period this could be a good option, costing 530 HUF or approximately €1.6.
60-Minute Ticket: For longer journeys, the 60-minute ticket might be more economical at 750 HUF, equal to around €2.2.

They also have multi travel day options, you can check the prices out here but in my opinion you will not need it as Budapest is an extremely walkable city. The only time I used public transport was taking part in my caving tour , the perfect activities for any adrenaline junkies out there! And visiting the Zugliget Chairlift (one of my favourite hidden gems ).

Are Taxi’s Cheap in Budapest?

Ok, so what happens when you are in a rush? You frantically need to get somewhere while in Budapest but don’t want to break the bank. Well, I have some good news for you, while Budapest does not have Uber , their taxi service tends to be rather affordable.

All taxi drivers need to have a license and are regulated by the government. The base fare when entering a taxi is 1000HUF (2.90€), with an additional 400HUF (€1.15) charged per kilometre. They also charge a waiting rate of 100HUF(€0.30) per minute.

If you decide to get a taxi from the Airport expect to pay around 9000HUF (€25), depending on traffic conditions and the exact location of your destination.

Tips on keeping transportation cheap in Budapest

To keep your travel expenses low in Budapest, consider utilizing the local bike-sharing system, known as MOL Bubi . It’s an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to taxis or public transportation.

For short trips around the city centre, the first 30 minutes of each ride are free. After that, small fees apply, making it still a cost-effective solution for longer journeys.

Lastly, walking is not only free, but it also allows you to truly soak in the city’s charm and discover hidden gems you might miss otherwise.

Budapest is an extremely walkable city , yes your step count may be high and your feet may be sore at the end of the day but the memories and experiences you will gain are priceless. Plus, it’s a great way to burn off all of that delicious Hungarian food you’ll be indulging in.

Section 4: Average Prices in Budapest for Attractions & Activities

Visiting Budapest is not just about exploring the city, but also about immersing yourself in its rich culture through the various attractions and activities it offers. Below is a list of some of the cities main paid attractions and their cost.

Szechenyi Baths: This beautiful thermal bath complex is one of the largest in Europe and a must-visit when in Budapest. The entrance fee varies depending on which package you choose, with the basic ticket costing around 5600HUF (€16) for weekdays and 5800HUF (€17) for weekends.

Parliament Building Tour: The iconic Parliament building is a popular tourist spot, and for good reason. The guided tour costs around 5000HUF (approximately €16) for EU citizens and 10000HUF (approximately €32) for non-EU citizens.

Danube River Cruise: A great way to see the city from a different perspective, a Danube river cruise can cost anywhere between 2000HUF (€6) for a basic one-hour tour to 7900HUF (€23) or more for a luxury dinner cruise.

List of 11 Cheap Things to Do in Budapest

If you are looking for affordable things to do in Budapest then the below list is perfect for you! Budapest is a wonderful city, one that should be on everyones Europe Itinerary , and the best part is you do not need to break the bank to visit.

1. Budapest City Park:

The Budapest City Park is a haven for budget travellers. If you are looking for a tranquil green space to explore, then this is the perfect spot for you. Take some time to admire the beauty of Vajdahunyad Castle, or take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque lake, or just take a minute to yourself to relax.

For those planning a trip to Budapest in the winter months, you may be lucky enough to witness the frozen lake and stunning scenery.

The famous Szechenyi Thermal Bath are also located in the park, and while they do cost to visit, they are rather affordable for a spa experience. Also, they are a MUST when visiting Budapest for the first time.

2. Discover Gellért Hill:

If you’re up for a little more adventure, put on your comfy shoes and head towards Gellért Hill. While it does require a bit of a hike, believe me, the views from atop are worth every step. You won’t have to spend a dime relish in the panoramic view of Budapest’s stunning skyline, the winding Danube, and the city’s remarkable architectural marvels. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glorious sunset painting the city in golden hues.

Moreover, tucked beneath the hill, you’ll find the historic Gellért Hill Cave Church which has witnessed the tumultuous past of the city. And did I mention the grandeur of the Liberty Statue that stands tall at the top, symbolizing freedom and offering a constant reminder of Hungary’s tumultuous past?

3. Explore the Ruin Bars:

Even if you’re travelling on a budget, Budapest’s famous ruin bars are an experience you won’t want to miss. These are some of the most famous aspects of the city. A truly unique pub experience, featuring abandoned buildings, factories, or warehouses.

It is no wonder travellers from all over the world keep on coming back. Budapest’s nightlife is one of the best in Europe.

From chill vibes during the day to lively DJ sets at night, there’s always something happening. And the best part? The prices are surprisingly pocket-friendly.

Whether you’re ordering local beers, and wines, or trying out the traditional Hungarian Palinka, these ruin bars will add a spark to your Budapest adventure without burning a hole in your wallet.

4. Discover Budapest’s Street Art:

If you’re a traveller on a budget, Budapest’s colourful street art is another must-do that won’t cost a dime. Take some time to walk around the city’s districts, admiring some of the talented work displayed by famous street artists. Each tells a unique story about the city’s history, culture, and the local’s way of life.

These wall murals quite literally turn the city into an open-air museum, one of my favourite things about this activity is you can explore at your own pace.

Keep an eye out for the rubrics cube, my favourite mural in Budapest.

Chain Bridge from the Banks of the Danube

5. Take a Stroll Along the Danube:

For those travelling on a budget, a walk along the iconic Danube River presents an unbeatable opportunity to soak in the beauty of Budapest. This isn’t just a leisurely stroll; it’s a journey through the city’s historical heart, and guess what? It’s absolutely free.

As you walk, you’ll marvel at the sight of the majestic Hungarian Parliament Building, an architectural masterpiece that stands proudly on the river’s bank. A bit further, you’ll come across the symbolic Chain Bridge, a testament of Budapest’s resilience and progress.

Not to forget, the captivating Buda Castle sitting on the higher bank, offering magnificent views if you’re up for a little climb. One of the most meaningful landmarks in Budapest also lies on the banks of the Danube, the Shoes on the Danube is a memorial for the lives lost in the war.

6. Explore Margaret Island:

Next on our no-cost journey is the tranquil oasis of Margaret Island, right in the heart of the bustling city. Surrounded by the gentle flow of the Danube, this island offers a peaceful retreat – a place to unwind amidst nature, without reaching for your wallet.

The island’s vast parkland is dotted with stunning flower gardens, enchanting musical fountains, and even some surprising wildlife. If you’re up for a leisurely stroll, the island’s 5.3-kilometre rubber-coated jogging track is perfect.

Or maybe you’re in the mood for some history? Venture towards the ruins of a 13th-century Dominican convent and marvel at the island’s ancient past.

As the day fades away, the rhythm of the island changes, the light softens and you might find yourself experiencing one of the most serene sunsets of your life – right in the midpoint of the Danube.

Girl Standing Looking Out at the view from the fisherman's bastion in Budapest

7. Uncover the Charm of the Castle District:

The next stop in our cost-free adventure is the enchanting Castle District. Picture this – cobblestone streets lined with quaint houses, showcasing hues of pastel colours, and rich history etched in every corner. It’s like stepping into a fairytale , and guess what? It’s absolutely free to explore!

As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll find yourself beneath the magnificent Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that reigns supreme over the city. The architectural brilliance of the castle blends harmoniously with the panoramic city views, creating a sight that remains etched in memory.

Don’t forget to stroll down to the Matthias Church & Fisherman Batsion with its striking gothic architecture, telling tales of the past.

8. Free Walking Tours – A Budget Traveler’s Best Friend:

If you’re travelling on a budget, free walking tours are a fantastic option. They are a fantastic way to explore the city without having to eat too much into your budget.

Generally, the tours are led by locals who are passionate about their city and history, offering insights you won’t find in guidebooks.

It is also a great way of getting a feel for the city on the first day you arrive. Test out where you would like to explore more.

9. Discover Heroes’ Square:

I couldn’t leave out the wonderful Heroes’ Square. Imagine this – you’re standing in one of Budapest’s largest squares, surrounded by iconic statues depicting the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars and other important national leaders.

Just like in the Castle District, you’ll be struck by the sheer beauty of the place.

The square is also home to the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Arts, so if you were looking for an extra activity these are great options, But it’s not just about the buildings and statues here.

The Square itself is a symbol of the country’s pride in its history and the heroes of Hungary’s past.

10. Snap a Picture at the Chain Bridge:

Just wait until you see the Chain Bridge! This iconic suspension bridge is a must-visit spot in Budapest, especially for the camera-happy among us.

Connecting the sides of Buda and Pest across the River Danube, the bridge offers breathtaking views of the cityscape.

Its majestic stone lions and stunning architecture make it an ideal backdrop for your travel photos.

Plus, at night, the illuminated bridge against the dark river is just uber-romantic. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or just love capturing memories, the Chain Bridge is a spot you’ll definitely want to hit.

11. Visit the Central Market Hall:

The Central Market Hall is a paradise for savvy travellers looking to experience Budapest’s vibrant culture without overspending.

Here you can find an array of local goods, from fresh produce, and traditional Hungarian spices to artisan crafts and souvenirs. It’s a great spot to pick something up for loved ones out have to break the bank

Foodies will particularly love the opportunity to sample authentic local cuisine at extremely affordable prices.

Whether you’re picking up ingredients for a picnic in the City Park or hunting for unique, budget-friendly keepsakes, the Central Market Hall offers an authentic slice of Budapest life that won’t strain your wallet.

Section 5: The Breakdown of My Budapest Trip Cost

I spent 4 months backpacking across Europe and took careful note of how much I spent on the trip so I could report back with a budget for each destination. Below is my exact spending while in Budapest for 5 days. It is important to note, I didn’t do too many paid activities as this was my 4th time in the city and I cooked most of my own meals. So, if you do intend on visiting you may need to increase your budget according to your spending habits.

Hostel Stay (4 Nights): €84 Food: €79 Alcohol: €26.31 Activities (Just the chair lift): €10.12 Transport: €39.62 Total: €239 (€48 a day)

Section 6: Why is Budapest so Cheap?

Budapest is often considered a budget-friendly destination due to a number of factors.

The cost of living and the value of the local currency, the Hungarian Forint, compared to popular currencies like the Euro or US Dollar, makes it more affordable for tourists.

Moreover, the local economy is designed to accommodate a wide range of income levels, creating a substantial number of options that cater to budget travellers.

Whether it’s the cost of food, accommodation, or tourist activities, you’re likely to find that your money goes a lot further in Budapest than in many other European capitals.

But with that being said, while Budapest may seem affordable to tourists, that is not always the reality for locals. The average salary in Hungary is significantly lower than in other European countries, making it difficult for locals to afford the same luxuries and experiences that tourists may enjoy at a fraction of the cost.

Section 7: Tips for Visiting Budapest Cheap

If you’re planning on visiting Budapest and want to stay within a tight budget, here are some tips to help you save money!

Consider Public Transport: Budapest’s public transport system is efficient and affordable, reducing the need for taxis. You can travel by metro, tram, or bus to reach most parts of the city.
Eat at Local Markets: Local markets, like the Central Market Hall, offer a variety of fresh and inexpensive Hungarian dishes.
Free Walking Tours: There are several free walking tours that provide an excellent overview of the city’s history and culture. Remember to tip your guide according to your budget!
Take Advantage of Free Attractions: Budapest has many free attractions, such as parks and historical monuments, that can be enjoyed without spending a penny.
Visit in the Off-Season: Budapest experiences peak tourist seasons during the summer and Christmas holidays, resulting in higher prices. Consider visiting during the off-season to get better deals on accommodation and activities.
Stay in Hostels: Hostels are a budget-friendly option for accommodation, especially for solo travellers. They also offer a great opportunity to meet other travellers and share tips on how to save money.
Use Discount Cards: Many cities offer discount cards that provide discounted or free entry to popular tourist attractions and transport options. Check if Budapest has a similar option before you arrive.
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle: Instead of constantly buying bottled water, bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up at public drinking fountains found throughout the city.

Section 9: Cost of Flights to Budapest

So, you’ve decided to take a trip to the beautiful city of Budapest. You’ve planned your itinerary and figured out how to do it all on a budget. But, one vital piece of the puzzle remains, and that’s your flight. The cost of flights will vary depending on when and where you’re booking from. But don’t worry, I’ve compiled some estimates to give you a general idea of what to expect.

From New York City, USA: You can find round-trip flights ranging from $450 to $750.
From London, UK: Prices for round-trip fares generally fall in the range of £50 to £200.
From Sydney, Australia: Expect to pay between AUD 1,000 and AUD 1,500 for a round-trip ticket.
From Tokyo, Japan: Round-trip flights usually cost between ¥60,000 and ¥120,000.
From Johannesburg, South Africa: You can get a round-trip ticket for between ZAR 7,000 and ZAR 12,000.

Of course, these are all estimates, for finding the best flight deals I recommend using skyscanner and be flexible with your dates.

Section 8: Is Budapest Cheaper than Other European Cities

Yes, Budapest is generally cheaper than many other European cities. While it’s true that prices have been steadily climbing over the years, especially in the more touristy areas, you can still find plenty of good deals.

The cost of living in Hungary is still relatively low, which means you can enjoy local meals, public transportation, and accommodation for less than what you’d pay in cities such as Dublin or Paris.

That said, it’s always a good idea to budget wisely and keep an eye out for discounts and deals to maximize your savings.

Section 9: Budapest Cheap FAQ

How expensive is budapest.

Budapest is quite affordable when compared to other European cities. On average, you can expect to spend around 15000 HUF (Hungarian Forint) per day, which includes meals, transportation, and sightseeing.

If you opt for budget-friendly options, you could manage to bring down your daily costs even further.

However, it’s also possible to indulge in more luxurious experiences, which will naturally incure a higher cost. At the end of the day it all comes down to your spending habits.

Can you visit Budapest on a Budget?

Absolutely! Visiting Budapest on a budget is quite feasible and doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on a memorable experience. The city is abundant with free or low-cost attractions.

You can explore the city’s history at the Buda Castle Quarter, stroll along the picturesque Danube promenade, or simply take in the city vibes at one of the numerous parks.

Food and accommodation prices are also considerably lower than in many other European cities. If you plan your trip wisely and are willing to do some cost-saving research, you’ll find that Budapest offers great value for the money.

How much will I spend after 2 days in Budapest?

If you’re planning to spend two days in Budapest, your expenses will largely depend on your budget and preferences. However, on average, you can expect to spend around 30000 HUF, which includes meals, sightseeing, and transportation. This estimate assumes you’re choosing moderately priced restaurants and using public transportation. Remember, this is just an estimate and the actual cost could be less if you’re thrifty or more if you prefer luxury. Planning ahead, looking for deals, and being mindful of your spending can help you save money and enjoy your Budapest experience without breaking the bank.

Sure, it’s possible to have a budget-friendly trip in Budapest! The city is brimming with affordable and even free attractions. You can delve into Budapest’s rich history at the Buda Castle Quarter, wander the scenic Danube promenade, or simply soak in the city’s ambience at one of the many parks.

Compared to many other European cities, Budapest offers more affordable food and accommodation options. With careful planning and some cost-saving strategies, you’ll discover Budapest is quite a bargain.

The amount of money you’ll spend on a two-day trip to Budapest largely depends on your budget and tastes.

But to give you a ballpark figure, you can expect to spend around €200-350, including accommodation, meals, sightseeing, and transportation.

Of course, this comes down to personal spending habits but it is definitely doable for this price.

How much would it cost to spend one week in Budapest?

A week-long stay in Budapest will undoubtedly offer a more immersive experience, allowing you to explore the city’s hidden gems at your own pace.

Depending on your budget and personal preferences, the average cost for a week can range from €500 to €1500. This estimate includes accommodation in a budget or mid-range hotel, meals at moderate to high-end restaurants, public transportation, and entrance fees to various attractions.

As you can see, the cost varies greatly as it is nearly impossible to suggest a budget without knowing individual circumstances and travel style.

Should I book a trip to Budapest?

Yes, without a doubt, Budapest is a city that is worth the visit . It is a fun, safe and unique place to explore with an array of things to see and do. You could be busy for days! The city is known for its stunning architecture, delicious food and thermal baths. Whether you’re a solo traveller, couple or family, Budapest caters to all types of travellers. And is sure to make lasting memories for those who decide to visit.

Conclusion: Is Budapest Cheap?

In conclusion, Budapest offers a cost-effective travel experience compared to many other European cities. Despite gradual price increases, particularly in tourist hotspots, Budapest continues to offer value for money.

The lower cost of living in Hungary allows for more affordable local eating experiences, public transport, and accommodation than you would typically find in cities like Dublin or Paris.

However, it’s important for travelers to budget wisely and be on the lookout for discounts and deals to make the most of their money.

As always, try to walk as much as possible, eat at local restaurants, and be open to exploring beyond the popular tourist spots for a truly budget-friendly experience.

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Cost of a Trip to Budapest, HU & the Cheapest Time to Visit Budapest

The average price of a 7-day trip to Budapest is $1,118 for a solo traveler, $2,008 for a couple, and $3,764 for a family of 4 . Budapest hotels range from $32 to $186 per night with an average of $81, while most vacation rentals will cost $130 to $340 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport ( BUD ) are between $655 and $994 per person for economy flights and $2,055 to $3,119 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $25 to $58 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Budapest, HU

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to BUD and stay in a Budapest hotel:

January 1st to April 1st
September 10th to December 9th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Budapest is usually mid January .

Average Budapest Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Budapest for a week is $857-$1,627 ($122-$232 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $25 to $58 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $370 to $825 for economy

Lodging : $52 to $66 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $52 to $64 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Budapest for a week is $1,972-$3,196 ($282-$457 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $50 to $116 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $740 to $1,650 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Budapest for a week is $2,648-$5,716 ($378-$817 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $100 to $232 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,480 to $3,300 for economy

Lodging : $104 to $132 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $78 to $96 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Budapest

How cheap can you make a vacation to Budapest? The cheapest trip to Budapest is about $87 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $21 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $27.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Budapest for a week is $608-$1,348 ($87-$193 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $16 to $31 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $27 to $32 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $21 to $51 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Budapest for a week is $1,090-$2,390 ($156-$341 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $32 to $62 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Budapest for a week is $2,102-$4,660 ($300-$666 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $64 to $124 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $54 to $64 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $29 to $82 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very possible to travel to Budapest cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Budapest Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Budapest.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Budapest for a week is $1,898-$7,020 ($271-$1,003 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $55 to $110 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $973 to $2,170 for first class

Lodging : $90 to $186 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $340 to $680 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Budapest for a week is $3,256-$9,960 ($465-$1,423 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $110 to $220 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,946 to $4,340 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Budapest for a week is $6,512-$18,288 ($930-$2,613 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $220 to $440 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $3,892 to $8,680 for first class

Lodging : $180 to $372 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $544 to $1,088 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Budapest Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Budapest is slightly lower than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Budapest due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Budapest Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Budapest hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Budapest.

Flight Costs to Budapest

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $994 average in early August to a low of $655 in mid January. Median flight price is $794. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Budapest our data includes 314 originating airports, and 151 airlines. The area has average variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Budapest from an airport like Savoonga ( SVA ) in Savoonga, AK (the United States) for an average $9,063 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Schoenefeld ( SXF ) in Berlin (Germany) at an average of just $85.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Budapest, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $339, so you can easily save about 52% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Budapest can easily cost $240 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $16 per person. Private tours can cost $472 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Budapest Guides

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Home » Europe » Is Budapest Expensive? (Save Money in 2024)

Is Budapest Expensive? (Save Money in 2024)

Budapest is an amazing destination that’s actually split into two halves — Buda & Pest. The city’s ancient history and modern marvels mash together, creating a delicious cocktail of travel adventures!

Add in all the fun times to be had at its ruin bars, and good food at its historic local eateries, and you’ve got a real charmer of a city.

Now, Budapest has always had a reputation for being a cheap place to visit. But as it became increasingly popular over the years, does that statement still remain true? In general, yes, but, it all depends on where you put yourself (& your money) into.

Our plan with this guide is to give you all the tools for an inexpensive budget trip to Budapest. We’ll be covering cheap accommodation, cheap eats and how to sightsee without breaking the bank. We want to make sure you get a true experience while still keeping your wallet happy.

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So, How Much Does a Trip to Budapest Cost on Average?

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No matter how budget-friendly you may think it is, the cost of a trip to Budapest is still going to depend on a bunch of different things. You’ve got accommodation, flights, food & drinks, sightseeing/souvenirs… It’s surprisingly easy to go overboard — especially when “everything’s cheap”.

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Travel costs listed in this guide are estimates and subject to change. Prices throughout are listed in US Dollars (USD).

Budapest is the capital of Hungary, of course, which uses the Forint (HUF). As of July 2022, the current exchange rate is 1 USD = 397 HUF.

We’ve summarized the general expenses of a 3-day trip to Budapest to give you a quick first glimpse:

3 Days in Budapest Travel Costs

ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $102 – $1200 USD for a roundtrip ticket.

How expensive is Budapest to fly to? It depends. Which season are you planning to travel in? June and July tend to be the most expensive — book it for February if you really need to cut costs.

The main airport serving the Hungarian Capital is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, aka Budapest Airport (BUD). The city centre is around 15.5 miles away from the airport, so you’ll have to factor in getting there by public transport or taxi into the cost of your trip, too.

Check out our breakdown below for an estimate of Budapest ticket prices from a handful of global transport hubs:

New York to Budapest Airport: 531 – 820 USD
London to Budapest Airport: 83 – 190 GBP
Sydney to Budapest Airport: 756 – 1,410 AUD
Vancouver to Budapest Airport: 938 – 1,303 CAD

The further away you are, the more expensive it’s going to be to fly to Budapest (duh), but there are still ways to find cheap flights . If you’ve never used it before, be sure to give Skyscanner a try when looking for deals.

Opting for a connecting flight via another European destination with a bigger international airport, such as London or Paris, can also make your flight cheaper.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $14 – $150 USD per night

Picking your timing right is key to being able to travel to Budapest cheaply. While things tend to get more expensive in the summer, travelling during the off and shoulder seasons will help keep things cheap.

But more than when you stay, where you stay in Budapest is a big element of it all. There are pros and cons of both hotels & hostels, and even Airbnbs.

Below, we’ll dive into more detail of each accommodation option so you can see which one is best for your budget (and travel style).

Hostels in Budapest

Hostels have been the mainstay of Budapest’s budget accommodation for years and years. But they’re not all backpacker-style digs, there’s actually a lot to choose from! And beds go for as low as $14.

They offer plenty of perks for the solo traveller or curious folk that wants to meet other travellers while roaming around. Some will even have free breakfast, free tours… or the occasional pub crawl!

For now, here are some of our favourite Budapest hostels :

Maverick City Lodge : Part of the trusted Hostelling International group, this is a modern, trendy hostel situated in the historic Jewish Quarter of Budapest. They’ve got clean rooms, a communal kitchen and plenty of social events.
The Hive Party Hostel Budapest : For those who want to join in the nightlife of Budapest, this adults-only hostel will ensure you get to party the night away. Complete with its rooftop bar and large courtyard, it hosts live music and boasts a full itinerary of evening escapades.
Onefam Budapest : A great option for solo travellers, Onefam Budapest is centrally located & a good balance between sociable and laid-back. Free communal dinner served daily!

Airbnbs in Budapest

There are a ton of Airbnbs in Budapest. And unlike many European cities, they’re not expensive at all. You can grab yourself a stay in a cool Airbnb in Budapest for about $40 per night.

They’re great for couples who want the privacy of a hotel, but the freedom (and affordability) of a hostel. Extra budgeting points go to Airbnbs with kitchens stocked with basics to help your money go further.

Sounds good, right? Try out these Airbnbs for size:

Chic Minimal Apartment : A historic apartment that’s been gloriously updated, this place comes with period features like large windows and parquet floors. This newly renovated apartment has good connections to the metro and is situated in a quiet, safe neighbourhood.
Central Modern Budapest Airbnb : Boasting beautifully designed interiors, this apartment is ideal for a group of friends, with enough room to sleep up to four guests. It’s situated close to public transport, with restaurants, bars and famous city sights on the doorstep.
Colourful Unique Apartment in the 6th District : This hip and stylish studio is a great budget option for a couple. Great use of space and comes with two bikes that you can use to explore the city!

Hotels in Budapest

How expensive is Budapest when it comes to hotels? Allow us to help out.

While you’ve got fancy hotels here that go up to the multiple hundreds, the majority of hotels in Budapest are mercifully affordable. We’re talking around $80 a night for a very decent high-quality option.

A hotel is for you if want absolutely nothing to do with chores. Add in the glorious breakfasts, on-site restaurants/bars, maybe a gym or a pool…

Here are a few of the best cheap hotels in Budapest:

T62 Hotel : This contemporary hotel features bold interior design throughout. It boasts its own bar lounge and the boutique style rooms are truly eye-catching. Perfect for a couple on a city break.
Boutique Hotel Budapest : Sleek and stylish, this hotel offers great value for money. Rooms are minimalist and modern, and amenities include an on-site atrium bar and a bistro where the free breakfast is served daily.
Vagabond Downtown : This is an aparthotel, so it’s more like self-catering accommodation but with hotel conveniences. Each room comes with a kitchen diner and lounge for a real home away from home feeling.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $0 – $7.60 USD per day

Budapest is a pretty compact city, which means getting around on foot isn’t too difficult. But like we’ve said before, it’s still a city of two halves. And that means getting between them will probably involve some form of transportation.

With a metro, bus, tram, trolleybus, suburban railway lines and boats, Budapest has a comprehensive network that can get you anywhere in the city for a pretty affordable price.

So without further ado, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the transportation options in the Hungarian capital.

Train and Metro Travel in Budapest

Budapest boasts the oldest underground railway line in continental Europe. It was built in 1896 and it’s part of the city’s heritage!

There are four metro lines in total, with a fifth currently in the works. It’s an easy system to use, and a convenient one too. The M1 line, for example, connects some of the most iconic sights in the city, such as the Opera House, Hero’s Square and City Park.

The cost of a single trip on Budapest’s metro costs $1.20. Tickets are available at metro stations but can be used on all forms of transport across the city, minus transfers (except on the metro).

The suburban rail line is called HEV. This links central Budapest to the suburbs and downtown destinations. You’ll probably only use it to get to locations outside of the city, such as the Roman ruins at Aquincum.

If you do leave the city limits, however, you’ll need a special ticket.

It’s possible to buy travelcards from the metro stations, too. Not only are these a good way to save money, but they can also save you the hassle of having to validate a ticket every time you travel. Check the options:

24-hour ticket : $5.50
72-hour ticket : $14
Weekly ticket : $17
Monthly ticket : $32

It’s also possible to buy tickets in “blocks” of 10 tickets, which cost around $10. If you’re travelling in a group (of up to five), you may want to consider a group travelcard; for 24 hours this costs around $11.

Bus and Tram Travel in Budapest

Trams are an iconic sight in Budapest and one of the best ways to get around. These yellow vehicles trundle around 32 routes, linking spots where the metro doesn’t actually go to.

Some of the tram lines are particularly attractive and make for a good way to glimpse the city — a good hack for some cheap sightseeing in Budapest! Tram 2 (on the Pest side) zooms you past the Chain Bridge and the Hungarian Parliament; trams 19 and 41 (Buda side) are also pretty cool.

The bus network in Budapest is even more extensive. There are about 200 routes with blue buses weaving around the entire city. They can get busy with commuters and locals, but they do run frequently.

The city’s environmentally-friendly red trolleybuses run throughout downtown Pest and in the Zuglo area. Working much like trams and buses, it’s maybe not something you’ll use that much, but they’re fun to see.

Tickets for all the above are the same as those used on the metro and work in the same way, too. One ride costs $1.20; you have to validate your ticket with the machine onboard (or face the wrath of ticket inspectors), and travelcards can also be used.

Renting a Scooter or Bicycle in Budapest

Budapest is a busy city with a confusing network of roads, often heavy traffic, and trolleybuses and trams to contend with. It’s not a great idea to be driving around the city.

And to be honest, you don’t really need to. Public transportation is inexpensive, much better for the environment (and easy on the ol’ wallet) and can connect you to wherever you may want to go.

You could, however, opt to see the city with pedal power.

Budapest has been developing a network of dedicated bike lines, and cycling has become much more of a viable option. While the main roads can be busy and hazardous, there are some awesome areas that are perfect for cycling. Margaret Island is a haven for cyclists, as is City Park.

There’s a bike-sharing system in Budapest called MOL Bubi Bike. These eye-catching bright green bikes — over 1,500 of them — are stashed in over 120 docking stations at major transport hubs and around the city centre.

Simply release your bike using the app and off you go! The first 30 minutes are free; up to one hour of use costs $1.70. From then on it’s an extra $1.70 per hour. It’s also possible to get a 24-hour pass for around $11.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $10 – $30 USD per day

You may not know it, but Budapest has a thriving food scene that ranges from delicious, down-to-earth homespun meals from local food joints, to cool street food and plenty of international eateries.

In recent years, the city has been through a gastronomic revolution. You’ve got a selection of vegan and vegetarian joints added into its traditional mix — and most places that you stumble across will be delicious and cheap.

Make sure you don’t miss…

Goulash : Hungary’s iconic red-hued dish is a beef and vegetable stew with plenty of paprika. This is a staple eaten in homes and restaurants across the country. You can grab a bowl that’ll fill you up for as low as $4.
Paprikás csirke : Another fairly famous dish, you’ll find paprikás csirke (chicken paprikash) on many a menu throughout the city. It’s creamy and packed with Hungary’s favourite spice, with chicken simmered for a long period of time, and usually served with broad egg noodles. Also ~$4.
Langos : These deep-fried flatbreads are a dream. Traditionally topped with sour cream and cheese, you’ll probably want to have plenty. You can get them from various street vendors for as little as $2.50.

In order to keep the costs of your trip to Budapest low, avoid eating at places close to the tourist sights — look for self-serve joints that provide an array of freshly prepared Hungarian dishes for a bargain and stick to low-priced districts.

Where to Eat Cheaply in Budapest

Most people will be able to enjoy Budapest on the cheap even while eating out the whole time. It’s an inexpensive city for food, with a wide choice of restaurant types and cuisines on offer.

That said, some areas are cheaper than others. The centre is bound to be more expensive than the surrounding districts, so it’s best to do some research and go on a foodie odyssey to find some truly tasty and amazingly affordable eats. These include:

An étkezdes : Much like the UK’s greasy spoon cafes, or mom-and-pop diners in the US, étkezdes are a window into the past. With tables adorned with checked tablecloths and rustic interiors, these usually cosy eateries boast a local atmosphere and inexpensive, homespun dishes.
Food stalls in markets : When you’re on the go and don’t have time to sit down for a meal, Budapest has a ton of food stalls. One example is the Great Market Hall. There’s a selection of stalls with a few casual seating areas so you can wolf down your snack and then get on with your day.
A picnic : During the summer, do as the Budapestians do and head out somewhere green space for a picnic. There are multiple spots along the River Danube for this, but Margaret Island is particularly nice!

If you’re truly on a shoestring budget, you’ll probably want to cook for yourself at your hostel or Airbnb. Some of the cheapest supermarkets are:

Aldi : An European chain of low-priced stores with a few locations around the city. They stock budget fruit and vegetables, as well as cheeses and meats, among other staples.
Prima : Prima is possibly the most well-known grocery store in Budapest, boasting multiple locations. You can pick up anything and everything for affordable prices, particularly fruit and vegetables.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $0 – $20 USD per day

Is Budapest expensive when it comes to alcohol? Absolutely-fucking-not , mate!

The reputation for stag and hen parties in Budapest may give you an inkling as to how cheap it is to drink here. And yes, it’s very cheap. In fact, Budapest is one of the cheapest European capitals when it comes to alcohol.

But it’s not just about it being cheap , though — the alcohol is pretty good. And plentiful! A bottle of Dreher, Hungary’s most popular beer, can be picked up for around $1 and so can a glass of wine.

Cocktails like a cosmopolitan or a mojito, for example, cost around $5 each and are generally considered the most expensive drinks. If you’re not a fan of beer, keep things cheap and go for:

Wine : It’s little known, but Hungary is a major wine producer, with 22 wine-producing regions (the most famous being Tokaj). You don’t have to break the bank with fancy wine; there are plenty of cheap options.
Pálinka : This is for you if you like the strong stuff. Pálinka is a fruit brandy that really packs a punch. Usually about 50% ABV, this thing is potent and can definitely get the party going.

One extra tip is to check out Budapest’s famous “ruin bars”, low-priced establishments that have grown out of cool kids setting up shop in open-air courtyards and old run-down buildings. Some hostels will also have free pub crawls that’ll take you around the city’s best (and cheap) bars.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $0 – $25 USD per day

There are a whole load of places to visit in Budapest . From its famous thermal baths (there are many) to the crumbling Jewish Quarter with the Dohány Street Synagogue, you could spend entire days exploring and still leave things out.

It’s a historic city with roots dating back to the Roman era, so naturally, there are some Roman ruins here to check out, too.

The most historic part of the city is found in hilly Buda, while Pest is where you’ll find more recent attractions. These include the opulent Opera House and the majestic Hungarian Parliament…

Getting into all of Budapest’s historic sights can come at a cost, but that’s where these money-saving tips come in handy…

Hit up free sights : You don’t always have to shell out to see the top sights that Budapest has to offer. Some of the best free locations include the picturesque Fisherman’s Bastion, the Chain Bridge and the poignant Shoes on the Danube; Margaret Island is also free to explore.
Keep your ID handy : Cheaper prices for travel and entrance fees are available for certain demographics. There are a number of passes available for students, too — just make sure you’ve got your student ID.

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An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic .

Accommodation, transport, food, drink and all the other stuff we’ve gone through already add up to the cost of a trip to Budapest. But what’s easy to forget is that your trip will more than likely include some extra unexpected business…

A t-shirt you’ve just got to buy, a keyring for that collection you’ve been adding to since age 10… maybe just luggage storage. Whatever it may be, it’s best to plan ahead and save around 10% of your budget to cover this.

Tipping in Budapest

It is commonplace to tip for services in Hungary, so you should definitely factor it into the cost of your trip to Budapest.

At restaurants, for starters, you should leave a tip between 10 and 15% of the final bill, depending on the level of service you got. In more high-end restaurants, you can expect to have a service charge included in the bill of around 12.5%; you can choose to tip on top of this if you like.

In smaller, more local restaurants, tipping isn’t really done. But if you do see a tip jar, or if you want to leave a few hundred Forints on the table, that’s totally fine obviously.

When opting for table service in bars (rather than standing up), you may have 10% of the total added to your bill. If that’s not the case, you can choose to tip the bartender if you want to, but it’s not always necessary.

Elsewhere, attendants — such as those at gas stations and thermal spas — will expect a discretionary amount of loose change for their services. For taxis, just round up the fare so that the driver can keep the change.

Get Travel Insurance for Budapest

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you’ve started to master the art of budget travel , you can try these additional tips for travelling in Budapest even cheaper…

Search out free sights : There are a ton of free things to do in Budapest. Often the free stuff is more kooky and off-the-beaten track, too. Climb up Castle Hill for an awesome view of the city, chill on Margaret Island, or simply stroll around the Jewish Quarter — see where your feet take you!
Get a Budapest Card : Budget travel in Budapest doesn’t get much better than enjoying free rides on public transport, joining free walking tours, or getting discounted entry to some of the city’s top sights (20 museums to start with). For a 72-hour Budapest Card, it costs around $50.
Try out Couchsurfing : If you really are travelling on a tight budget, then you may be interested in giving Couchsurfing a try. Find a local that can host you and/or show you around — it’s great!
Get out of the centre : The core of the city is interesting, of course, but there’s more to Budapest than the very heart of it. Branch your rip out and head to District II for a taste of the great outdoors, District VIII to feel mighty trendy, and District III for the history.
Carry a water bottle : Stop wasting money on plastic, bottled waters; carry your own and refill it in the fountains and the tap. Better for the environment, better for your wallet! A filtered bottle, like the GRAYL, will filter out 99% of viruses and bacteria.
Earn money while you travel : Teaching English while travelling is a great way to make ends meet! If you find a sweet gig, you may even end up living in Hungary.
Become a volunteer with Worldpackers : Give back to the local community and, in exchange, your room and board will often be covered. It’s not always free, but it’s still a cheap way to travel in Budapest.

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A couple of my friends asked me “Why Is Budapest so expensive?” The truth is Budapest is not expensive, at all. But it’s possible for things to get pretty pricey if you don’t watch out for your budget — things are cheap, so you might naturally feel like you can get more of everything!

For optimum money-saving goodness, here’s a round-up of all the best ways to stick to your budget during a trip to Budapest:

Stay in hostels or Airbnbs : 9 times out of 10, both these options will come out cheaper than hotels. The rewards are very in your face, too!
Go local : Take thermal baths, for example. Szechenyi and Gellért are great but pricey, whereas Palatinus on Margaret Island is a local hotspot. It’s retro, it’s got a wave machine & a beach, too!
Get a travelcard : Budapest’s public transport may be cheap, but you can probably make it even cheaper with a travelcard if you’re planning to travel around a lot.
Explore on foot : Not only is the power of your own two feet free , it can also get you discovering some of the more interesting parts of the city.
Avoid tourist restaurants : The more old-school and local a place looks, the better. You should go in, these places are super cheap and will often have English menus. Look away from main tourist areas for your grub.

With the help of this epic budget guide, you can easily make your average daily budget for Budapest fall between $30 to $65 USD per day.

To ensure you’re not spending more money replacing stuff on arrival, make sure you pack properly in the first place! We have a helpful packing list guide you can use, created from almost 10 years of life on the road.

Have a great one!

Agness and Cez

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How much money you need to visit Budapest

Budapest’s tourism has been on the rise for years making more and more people around the World want to visit our beautiful capital. One of the most frequently asked questions is what budget they need to spend a long weekend or a whole week here. Budapest is thought to be a “cheap” destination, but this, of course depends on your needs. The city is more affordable than most European cities, offering a very wide variety of fun things to do to the budget traveler as well as the luxury jet-setter.

Table of Contents

Budapest is still one of the cheapest cities to travel in Europe, partially because Hungary is not part of the Eurozone, and the Forint, the Hungarian national currency has decreased in value in the past years to increase the attractiveness for companies to start open up businesses in Hungary.

Hungarian currency

Hungary’s official currency is Hungarian Forint (Ft or HUF). 1 Euro is usually between 380 to 400 Ft (currently 386 HUF, as of February 2023) depending on current economics. 1 GBP is usually between 440 to 450 Ft

However, shops and restaurants in the city centre commonly accept EUR and US Dollar, but typically at a higher exchange rate, so you end up paying more than you would in local currency. For this reason, it is better to exchange local currency and always keep some Forint on you.

Popular tourist places like Vaci Street sometimes have people on the street offering to exchange your foreign money to Forints – they most probably offer you a fake exchange rate, so be careful with giving them money. We recommend you always use the official Exchange Offices that are found all over the city, especially at the airports, train stations and popular tourists destinations.

On the other hand, even in small shops and restaurants you can pay by debit card so you don’t need to exchange a lot of cash.

Accommodation

As every big European city, Budapest offers a wide variety of accommodations. Danubius Hotel’s an excellent place to start as the group has plenty to offer from 3 start hotels up to high end luxury just like the Hilton hotel Budapest in the Castle District. But you can also stay in the city centre for as little as €50-60 a day. Should you wish to extend your search, the best available Budapest city break deals are right here waiting for you.

The best hotels for your budget

Wishing to stay close to the beating heart of the city centre, and enjoy the modern comfort of a hotel? Radisson Blu Béke Hotel is an ideal choice for everyone who wants to explore the rich cultural life of the capital. The hotel is located just a few steps from the beautifully lit up Andrássy Avenue, and easily accessible by car or public transport. The theatres, museums, restaurants and cafés located nearby guarantee that those interested in high-end entertainment will not be bored for a moment. Rooms available from €100 EUR per night.

Hotel Astoria City Center that opened in 1914 as one of the city’s most elegant hotels, and – over a century later – it stays true to that original character. Guests have always been attracted by its sublime fin-de-siècle architecture and comfortable rooms. The location of the hotel is perfect if you want to stay close to the city centre as it is only a 5-minute walk from prime attractions like the Hungarian National Museum , the Great Synagogue, the Danube promenade and the famous Váci Street. Rooms are available from €64 per night.

Average Daily Costs for food

Depending on your needs, Budapest can be extremely affordable. If you’re on a budget you can visit the city with just as little as 30 EUR a day, excluding accommodation. You can have lovely local or international food the whole day on a tight budget and it would be still one to remember! Hungary’s a great place to eat and drink well on any budget.

Example of a day of food on a budget:

Breakfast pastry 350-480 HUF (around €1,2)

Easy lunch: 2300 HUF & (small beer) 470 HUF (€7)

Dinner: 3400 HUF & (small wine) 700 HUF (€10)

However, of course the city has a touch of luxury hidden between its walls so you can live like Kings and Queens for a couple of days. There are lovely, high end restaurants waiting for you all over the city.

Cooked breakfast with a large latte: 4000 HUF per person (€10.5)

Lunch in a restaurant 4000 HUF & glass of wine 1.200 HUF (€14)

Fancy dinner in the city centre (two courses) 10.000-12.000 HUF per person & bottle of wine from 4.900 HUF (€45)

Restaurant prices

Budapest’s food scene is technically a metaphor of the city itself: authentic, spicy and sprinkled with plenty of surprises as a new generation of Hungarians turned the traditional cuisine into an avant-garde dining experience whilst staying true to real local flavors. Hungarian food will take you far away from what you know by serving you unexpected flavors and hearty, quality wines.

As most things, how much you spend on your dining experience can vary based on your taste and preference. Hungary, especially Budapest is one of the good Heavens of Europe and as the exchange rate works for your favor, even luxurious or more expensive restaurants are more affordable than anywhere else in Europe.

Restaurants for the best value for your money

Our recommendations go from low to high price point Hungarian standards, however the dining experience can still remain between €15 to €40 per person.

Danubius Hotel Helia’s new Yellow Bistro serves not only hotel guests, but also the general public, so that anyone can drop in any time for a pleasant gastronomic adventure.

Yellow Bistro & Bar’s selection includes healthy and quick meals, delicious sandwiches and pastries, but also a great soft drink and wine selection, specialty coffees, and for those with a sweet tooth, the newly introduced bright Yellow Cake. Additional choices include chicken soup with shredded meat, vegetables and quail egg, pasta cognac with beef, pulled pork sandwich with steak fries, chestnut panna cotta with cherry compote, to name just a few of the tastes.

Prices vary from 2900 HUF (~€7,6) for Caesar Salad to 6.800 HUF (~€18) fillet of Atlantic salmon with pumpkin wild rice and oven-baked vegetables Average price for dessert is 1.200 HUF (~€3.5).

Zsolnay Cafe is a little oasis on the busy Teréz körút, located in the Radisson Blue Beke Hotel. It’s the perfect place for a warm-up hot drink, a romantic bottle of champagne or even a late-night cocktail with friends. The pastry assortment takes the place to another level which also includes lactose- and sugar-free options. Just recently refurbished the café with a gorgeous interior is open from 10 am to 10 pm, catering for all meals and drinks of the day. The regular menu offers Home-made grill sausage with sourdough bread and pickled vegetables 3.600 HUF (~€10), Croque Madame (salad with speet potato fries) 4.900 HUF (~€13), patisserie legends from 1.600 HUF (~€4)

Modern and elegant, the stunning Lang Bistro and Grill embraces the future and yet pays homage to the history of the Royal Castle District. Icon has introduced a contemporary décor of warmness to create a relaxed, friendly and informal atmosphere located in Hilton Hotel in a truly premium location right next to Matthias Church. Featuring an upscale 240-seat restaurant with a private saloon and 16 panoramic windows, guests of the Icon can choose from a distinctive Hilton breakfast to an extraordinary a la carte lunch and dinner menu as well as a sumptuous weekend brunch. Appetizers from 4.100 HUF (~€11), salads from 3.600 HUF (~€9,5) or you can go for delicious meat right off the grill, Láng steak for 15.900 HUF (€42).

In Hungary gratuities are appreciated but the general tipping etiquette is not set in stone. People will appreciate it if you tip them for good service, but there won’t be the expectation like there is in the USA for example. You should know that many venues have door and bathroom attendants and tipping these people is good practice, usually 100-200 HUF which is less than a €1.

Tipping in hotels

Again, tipping at hotels is not expected, but it is appreciated. So, if the bellhop helps bring your luggage to your room from the front desk, it is normal to tip him around 500 HUF. Similarly, housekeepers will not mind if you don’t tip them, but will appreciate it if you do. It is common for foreign travelers to tip housekeepers 200-300 HUF each day of their stay at the hotel. If you decide to sign up for the hotel’s concierge services, it will be normal if you tip your concierge 1000 HUF for the services offered.

Tipping in restaurants

When you talk about sit-down eateries in Budapest, the standard tip rate for a good service is 10% of the bill and 15% for an exceptional service. However, many restaurants in Budapest charge a 12.5% service charge on the total bill. So, you don’t need leave anything extra. But it is important that you never leave your tips on the table when you decide to leave. Always tip your waiter directly or drop it in a tipping jar.

Sightseeing

Budapest is rich in attractions and most of them are free which makes your budget even lower. However, if you do decide to visit some museum or exhibitions, calculate with €3-10€ each average.

Thermal Baths: 2.900-9.400 HUF(€8-25)
Hungarian National Gallery: 3.800 HUF (€10)
Museum of Fine Arts: 4.200 HUF (€11)
House of Terror Museum: 4.000 HUF (€10,5)
Escape room for 2 people: from 7.000 HUF (€18)

Most of Budapest’s inner city and historic districts are best to explore by foot. There are pedestrian precincts in downtown Pest and traffic is restricted on Castle Hill, so walking is probably the best way to get around. Great news, however that the city is very well connected by public transportation, too. Budapest has a fast and efficient metro system as well as many trams (streetcars), trollies and buses. Outer suburbs are served by the local suburban railway called HÉV.

Ticket prices and ticket prices

If you’re visiting the city for a couple of days your best option is to purchase a 72-hour or a 7 day pass, even a Budapest card which will give you plenty of benefits when visiting attractions in the city as well. You can of course always decide to go with the single tickets which are valid for one single journey and cost 350 HUF. The official ticket prices are available on BKK’s Official website.

Budapest card

Budapest Card is an excellent option if we you wish to have unlimited travel and planning to visit some attractions as well. Cards can be purchased with 24-hour, 48-hour, 72-hour, 96-hour or 120-hour validity and all of them come with great additional benefits. All cards include unlimited travel on public transportation, free entry to several museums, two free walking tours, and 10%-50% discounts at baths, museums, restaurants and spas.

Taxis can be fast in the city, especially late at night when there is limited public transportation. Taxis can be hailed on the street, but it is cheaper to call ahead of time. All taxis must have a yellow registration plate, as opposed to the white background on regular car plates. All taxameters are equipped with a receipt-printing function, displaying the fares charged and identification of the driver.

Base fare: HUF 1000

Price per minute: HUF 100

Price per kilometer: HUF 400

How much money you need for 3 days in Budapest?

Depending on your needs and taste, the minimum budget you need for visiting Budapest is €35-€50 including all meals of the day and at least one attraction. From here the limit is the sky as the city is offering luxurious accommodation, dining and sightseeing options. With a 72 hour Budapest card (€56) and a comfortable room in one of Danubius Hotels cosy hotels (€48-€75/day), your budget should end up around €290 for one person.

Visiting Budapest will be always the one to remember. So much to see and experience which gets even better with the great exchange rate and affordable prices in one of the best cities in Europe. The young buzz, that cool Eastern European spirit, amazing food, excellent wine paired up with low costs and a great, ever-changing atmosphere. Do you want to have it all? Yes, Budapest is the place to be.

How much forint do you need for a day in budapest?

Young tourist couple spending a day in Budapest

Depending on your needs, Budapest can be extremely affordable. If you’re on a budget you can visit the city with just as little as 10.000 forints a day excluding accommodation. From this budget you will get access to public transportation and have some simple, but delicious Hungarian meals.

Tags: Budapest EN-Budapest EN-BudapestDeszt EN-Home Forint Hungarian currency

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Is Budapest Cheap? 2024 REALISTIC Budapest Travel Costs

May 5, 2023

Budapest Fisherman's Bastion and St. Matthias church

There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. As ever, all opinions are my own.

Are you thinking about travelling to Budapest, but aren’t sure if it’s within your budget? Is it true that Budapest is cheap? How much does it cost to travel to Budapest? Fear not – I’m here to answer all of your questions !

After my wonderful trip to Budapest last year I can confidently confirm that yes, Budapest is cheap, and it’s definitely possible to travel on a budget in Budapest!

It’s important to keep in mind that when I refer to “cheap”, I’m not talking about bad quality. When I use the word “cheap”, I simply mean affordable to those visiting from Western countries. Budapest offers great value for money for travellers, and there’s nothing wrong with that at all!

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the prices in Budapest, and I’ll provide an overview of how much things cost in Budapest , based on my personal experience in the city.

Plus, for those who are curious, I’ll be including real examples of what I spent during my time in the Hungarian capital so that you can plan your trip budget with confidence.

So let’s get started!

Top tip: The Hungarian currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF), and this is the currency in Budapest. With that said, I have listed most of the prices in this post in Euros to keep everything simple.

Table of Contents

Price of Accommodation in Budapest

If you’re worried about accommodation costs when travelling to Budapest, don’t be. Sure, accommodation costs will probably take up the biggest chunk of your Budapest travel budget, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options!

This is definitely one cost in Budapest that’s higher than you might expect, though. In summer, you’re looking at around €80 per night for a well-located 3-star hotel . Obviously, split between two, this works out at €40 each , which isn’t bad at all, but it’s higher than what you might expect.

What’s the reason for these prices? Well, Budapest is one of the most popular city break destinations in Europe. It makes sense, then, that hotels can be slightly pricier than you might expect. Hotel rooms don’t need to be as in line with local prices as, say, food does, since locals won’t be using them.

If hostels are more your thing then you’ll save money on accommodation. Expect to pay around €20 per night for a bed in a dorm room – prices rise during summer due to all the Interrailers though.

Important tip! Budapest is one of the most popular city breaks in Europe at the moment, so that means that accommodation costs are much higher over the weekend than during the week!

During wintertime, however, Budapest is pretty cold and dark. There’s a bright side to this, though – accommodation prices drop slightly! If money is tight, consider winter as the best time to visit Budapest on a budget.

Where to Stay in Budapest

Szechenyi Baths in Budapest in winter, Hungary

The best place to stay in Budapest is in the city centre! The city is surprisingly spread out, so staying in the centre limits the amount of time you’ll need to spend getting from A to B.

I stayed in an apartment in Budapest, but I can’t recommend it because the location sucked and it barely got any daylight! Sometimes photos can be so deceiving… Grr!

Instead, I’ve done some research and picked out three great options for Budapest accommodation in three different price categories – hostel, budget hotel, and mid-range hotel.

There’s no shortage of great hostels in Budapest, but this one gets rave reviews for its security, location and homely atmosphere. This is what I look for when I’m choosing a hostel in European cities because the last thing you want to do is accidentally book a party megahostel!

Dorm rooms cost around €23 per night , and the rooms are bright, colourful and clean. Click here to check it out!

Budget Traveller

When it comes to a budget hotel you can rely on in Budapest, this is the one . I LOVE this affordable budget hotel chain! I stayed in their Belfast branch and was hyped with how clean, well-organised and well-located it was. I expect the Budapest branch to be exactly the same.

Double rooms cost around €55 per night , but they sell out fast, so if you see a room available snap it up before it’s too late! Click here to check it out!

Mid-Range Traveller

If I had my time again, this is where I would stay in Budapest ! The decor is so charming and unique, its location can’t be beaten. It’s just steps away from the House of Terror. Oh, and it’s got an epic 9/4/10 rating on Booking.com.

Double rooms cost around €99 per night, and it has everything you need for a clean and comfortable stay. Check it out here!

Cost of Food & Drink in Budapest

If you love sampling local food, I have good news – Budapest is very cheap to eat and drink, so you’ll be able to indulge without breaking the bank! Budapest isn’t exactly known as a foodie destination, but I was very pleasantly surprised by Hungarian cuisine.

What the city is known for is its parties, so it makes sense that the cost of alcohol in Budapest is low! Want to check out my top restaurant and bar recommendations for Budapest? Head over to my guide to a weekend in Budapest to find out!

When it comes to breakfast in Budapest, you can’t go wrong with stopping at a bakery, where you can grab a pastry and a coffee on the go for around €3 . Whilst in Budapest, you HAVE to sample a kakaós csiga , a traditional Hungarian chocolate pastry that’s to die for!

Of course, there are fancier breakfast places serving pastries and coffee in a more “cafe” setting, where you’ll pay around €5 for breakfast. There are also Western-style “brunch” restaurants , where you’ll pay around €12 !

So, overall it’s fair to say that the cost of breakfast and brunch in Budapest can be low, but it can also be high, depending on what you opt for.

Traditional Hungarian Sweet Pastry kakaós csiga

Lunch & Dinner

Hungarian food is generally hearty, served in big portions, and meat-based. The good news is, there’s almost always at least one vegetarian option on the menu. You’ll probably want to try Hungarian food for both lunch and dinner in Budapest, but it’ll be cheaper to eat more at lunch.

You see, traditional restaurants often have a “ set meal ” offer at lunch in Budapest, which includes a soup, a main (usually a few different versions of stew) and a beer. I paid, on average, €10 for these, which I thought was great value!

Here are some examples of what I paid for different dishes in Budapest:

Big plate of Chicken paprikash = €8
Bowl of garlic soup = €4.50
Beef goulash = €6
Langos (Hungarian pizza) = €6.50

Cost of traditional Food and Drink in Budapest

Tipping in Budapest

Tipping isn’t mandatory or expected in Budapest, but obviously it’s still appreciated. If you come from a culture where you prefer to tip, 10-15% of the bill at a restaurant is a good rule of thumb. It’s not common to tip at bars and pubs if you’re just drinking.

Price of Alcohol in Budapest

Budapest is a well-known party destination, so obviously the price of alcohol in Budapest is low ! Beer is the cheapest thing to drink by far, followed by mixed drinks and wine. Cocktails are not very Hungarian at all, so they’re the most expensive alcoholic drinks in Budapest.

Want to know how much a pint costs in Budapest? I don’t blame you. I did too! Luckily, the cost of beer in Budapest is pretty low! The average price of a pint of beer in a pub or bar in Budapest is around €1.70 , whilst from the supermarket beer will cost around €0.80.

A glass of wine at a bar will cost around €2 , and a bottle of decent stuff from the supermarket will cost around €6.50

For the cheapest drinks, head to the Jewish Quarter , also known as the party district! Sure, you’ll be drinking along with huge groups of stag and hen parties (bachelor and bachelorette parties), but it’s cheap, it’s fun, and it’s where all the cool Budapest ruin bars are!

Cost of Attractions and Activities in Budapest

Most things to do in Budapest are fairly affordable – from boat tours, to museums, to walking tours. One must-visit museum in Budapest is the House of Terror , where you’ll learn all about the Communist era of Hungary and the secret police who spied on the country’s residents. It’s a fairly expensive museum by Hungary’s standards ( €10.50 ) but well worth it.

You can’t visit Budapest without going to one of the many thermal baths. I opted for Széchenyi Thermal Baths , the most famous, and (again) they were well worth it! €25 gets you access for the entire day with locker use. As you can see, even the more “expensive” activities in Budapest have very reasonable prices.

Another thing you need to include on your Budapest trip is a Danube Evening Sightseeing Cruise . There’s nothing that quite compares with how stunning the city looks lit up at night! These cruises are surprisingly affordable – costing around €10 .

Aside from that, most of the things you’ll want to do in Budapest are free! The Hungarian Parliament, Buda Castle and the Fisherman’s Bastion are all free to check out. There are also plenty of free walking tours that’ll take you to the city’s highlights.

Price of Transportation in Budapest

Budapest has a very good public transportation system, so you definitely shouldn’t hire a car in Budapest. From Budapest airport, you can take the airport express bus , the 100E, to the city centre for €6 .

If you’re on a backpacker budget, no worries – you can take a public bus and then a metro into the centre for just €2 . Just use Google Maps at the airport to work out what your most efficient method is.

I recommend downloading the BudapestGO app and buying a Budapest mobile travel card before you arrive in the city. This is so helpful for getting around the city! A 24-hour travel pass costs €6.70 , and a 72-hour pass costs €15. If you’re staying outside of the main tourist area, you’ll earn your money back easily with this.

You’ll have to get used to the Budapest public transportation system because there is no Uber or Lyft in Budapest . The good news is, the buses and metros are so easy to use in Budapest that you’ll soon forget all about Uber!

Cost of Flights to Budapest

The cost of your flights to and from Budapest will totally depend on where you’re flying from. They can be as cheap as chips or a small fortune!

From Europe

Let’s narrow it down a bit. From the UK and other European countries, flights to Budapest can be seriously cheap. My return flights to Budapest from London cost me €50 return, but that’s because I flew at the weekend, with good flight times. If you have more flexibility, you can get flights for as little as €20 return!

For these cheap flights to Budapest, you’re probably going to be flying with Wizz Air or Ryanair.

You should aim to book your flights 4-6 weeks in advance for the best prices on flights in Europe – this has been my experience. If you’re travelling in summer, though, that rule goes out the window – book as early as possible!

From the US & Further Afield

If you’re flying to Budapest from further away, such as the US, you won’t be able to fly directly. Expect return trips from the U.S. to cost around $750-900 – although, of course, there are a few flight ninja tips you can use to bring this price down.

The main tip is to find the cheapest flight from your city to Europe, spend the night there, and then hop on a cheap Ryanair flight to Budapest the next day. The second option is to find the cheapest US city to fly to Budapest from, and then try to find a cheap flight to that city first.

You’re welcome.😉

Cost of Travel Insurance for Budapest

If you’ve got even a little bit of common sense, then you’ll know that travel insurance is an absolute must-have no matter where you’re going – and Budapest is no exception. You might be visiting a safe place, but bad luck can strike at any moment.

Travel insurance will cover you if something goes wrong while you’re away: like your flight being delayed or cancelled, any of your devices getting lost or damaged, or even the airline losing your luggage.

If you need a reliable provider that covers loads of activities and doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, then SafetyWing is for you. It’s one of the most popular policies for adventurous travellers and backpackers worldwide. Plus with prices starting from just €30 for 30 days (that’s less than €1 per day!), it won’t break the bank either!

Click here to get a quote from SafetyWing!

Average Travel Insurance cost = €30 for 1 month (€1 per day!).

Average Daily Budget for Travel in Budapest

Okay, I know there has been a LOT of information in this post, so let’s break it down into something easier to understand. So, how cheap is Budapest? This is my recommended daily budget for travel in Budapest on a mid-range budget.

Double room in a city centre hotel (shared with travel partner) = €80 (€40 each)
Breakfast and coffee = €5
Lunch and dinner at traditional restaurants (including drinks) = €20
A few drinks at cheap bars = €6
Entry to House of Leaves or Sightseeing Cruise = €10
Public transportation for one day = €6

Total average daily travel cost for Budapest = €87

Of course, this budget is the mid-range option, so it’s possible to spend a lot less on your trip to Budapest. Each person’s travel style is different, and if I had been travelling solo, rather than with my partner, I would have probably spent around €55 per day. That’s the amount I expect most backpackers will spend per day in Budapest.

Pastel coloured buildings in Budapest old town

Is Budapest Cheap?

So, is Budapest cheap to visit? Erm… Yes and No. It’s definitely affordable if you’re coming from Western Europe, the USA or Australia. You’ll see that prices in Budapest are low across the board and you get great bang for your buck.

Budapest has this reputation for being incredibly cheap, like, ridiculously so, and I just don’t think that is accurate anymore. Drinks are definitely cheap, yes, but compared to the cost of travel in Poland and the prices in Albania , for example, there’s no doubt that Budapest is more expensive.

So – my short answer is, yes, it is cheap in Budapest! It’s just not crazy cheap. Inflation has hit most countries in Europe hard, and Budapest is no exception.

Plus, Budapest is no longer an up-and-coming travel destination. It’s already come-up! That means the local businesses can charge higher prices, as more tourist money is pumping into the city. Obviously that’s a great thing for the local business owners, so we can hardly complain.

So what are you waiting for? Budapest is waiting for you. Book that trip now and get ready to explore everything it has to offer!

View of Hungarian Parliament at night on a cruise in Budapest

FAQs about the Cost of Travel in Budapest?

Is budapest expensive to visit.

For visitors from Western European countries, the U.S., Canada and Australia, Budapest is not expensive, especially when compared to other European destinations. Of course, prices can vary depending on where you go and what you do, but in general, Budapest is cheap.

However, it’s essential we put this into context. One of the reasons why Budapest is cheap to us is because wages here are lower. For this reason, it would be ridiculous to walk around saying that Budapest is cheap for everybody. For people working minimum wage jobs in Budapest, the city certainly won’t be cheap for them!

This blog post has covered the costs of travel in Budapest for my readers, who are mostly UK and US based, but it would be wrong of me not to mention that what’s cheap to one person is definitely not cheap to another.

Is Budapest Cheaper than Krakow?

In my experience travelling to both cities (which is backed up by a quick Google search so I could be sure) Budapest is more expensive than Krakow in terms of accommodation, eating out, and activities.

Is Budapest Cheaper than Vienna?

I’ve been to both cities, and I don’t need to double check before telling you this: Budapest is a lot cheaper than Vienna. That makes sense because Vienna is known for being one of the most expensive cities in Europe! While Budapest can still be pricey in some areas, such as touristy restaurants and bars, it is generally much more budget-friendly than Vienna.

Is Budapest Cheaper than Prague?

Yes, Budapest is generally cheaper than Prague. While both cities are Eastern European and are generally considered “cheap” by Western European standards, Budapest is a bit cheaper in terms of accommodation, food, and transport.

Is Budapest Cheap for Food?

Absolutely! Eating out in Hungary’s capital city is very accessible and inexpensive with many restaurants offering good quality dishes at low prices. Local delicacies such as goulash soup are particularly popular within the city itself but there are plenty of international options too so everyone should find something that fits their budget!

Why is Budapest so Cheap?

Budapest is a cheap city compared to many other European cities mainly because of its lower cost of living, lower wages, and a history of economic struggles that have kept prices down. It was a communist country from 1949-1989, which definitely had a long-lasting impact on the country’s economy.

Additionally, Hungary’s currency, the Forint, is weaker than many other European currencies, which makes prices in Budapest more affordable for tourists. However, it’s worth noting that the cost of living in Budapest has been increasing in recent years, particularly in the city centre. Prices for tourist restaurants, bars, hotels and activities have risen even in the last year!

What is Cheap in Budapest?

Food and drink is incredibly cheap in Budapest – especially compared to Western European countries. Public transportation and groceries are also cheap in Budapest.

Is Budapest Worth Visiting?

Absolutely yes! Budapest is a beautiful city with stunning architecture, delicious food, and plenty of things to see and do. Whether you want to relax in one of the city’s famous thermal baths or explore the many wonderful historic attractions, Budapest has a lot to offer for a short city break. Plus, the affordable prices in Budapest make it a great choice for travellers on a budget.

What do you think about the cost of travel in Budapest? Are you surprised by how cheap or expensive Budapest is?

Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

48 Hours in Budapest Itinerary: Budapest’s Highlights in 2 Days

July 20, 2023

Currency in Hungary: 2024 Insider Tips & Essentials!

February 24, 2023

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Parliament on the shores of the Danube River in Budapest

How much does a trip to Budapest cost?

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Budapest travel costs

If you’re planning on travelling to Budapest, you’re probably wondering how much you need to budget for your trip. While your travel costs will depend on your travel style, generally speaking Budapest is perfect for a budget trip.

Accommodation costs are generally really low and food and drinks are very cheap. Many of Budapest’s best attractions are very affordable or even free and, while some activities could set you back a fair amount, there’s plenty to do at lower price points too.

How much should I budget for a trip to Budapest?

A reasonable budget for two for a weekend in Budapest is around HUF 141,500 . This assumes you’ll be spending two nights and three days in the city.

The above cost is based on staying in good, mid-range accommodation and going to a mix of restaurants and cafes for meals . It makes allowances for a couple of sightseeing activities, but doesn’t take into account expensive activities like adventure sports or private tours.

How much does accommodation cost?

You can expect to spend between HUF 23,096-HUF 39,086 a night, per couple, on accommodation in Budapest. This will get you a private room with your own bathroom in a 3-4-star hotel or apartment rental.

Hostels are, of course, cheaper, but a private room with a shared bathroom will still cost around HUF 14,213 per night. A bed in a dorm room also averages around HUF 6,395 per night, per person, although there are definitely cheaper options out there.

How much should I budget for food and drinks in Budapest?

Budget to spend around HUF 85,639 for two for a weekend in Budapest. This assumes you’re eating out and drinking some alcohol.

If you enjoy eating out, you can expect to pay around HUF 9,793 for a nice dinner for two, including an alcoholic drink. A meal at a pub is likely to be around HUF 6,348 for two, with cheaper meals available (especially for lunch) for around HUF 2,149 each. You can buy a beer from a bar for around HUF 500 and you can expect to pay around HUF 631 for a cappuccino from a local café.

How much does it cost to get around Budapest?

Getting around Budapest is easiest with a train. Transport costs fluctuate depending how much you travel, but budgeting around HUF 8,500 for two is a good starting point. This should allow you to take a couple of intercity train routes. If you’re planning on doing any tours or using hop-on hop-off buses, you’ll need to up your budget a bit.

The metro is a great way to get around Budapest. You can buy a TravelCard for unlimited travel or, if you enjoy exploring a city by foot, paying as you go could be a cheaper way to go. BKK, the Budapest transport agency, also has a useful guide for tourists wanting to use the metro during their visit.

What should I expect to spend on activities?

A lot of the best things to do in Budapest are free. However, there definitely are some attractions that cost money – entry fees to a museum or an art gallery are usually around HUF 5,400 - HUF 6,800 per person. If you want to do organised day trips or join smaller tour groups to learn more about some of the sites, budget around HUF 23,372 per activity per person.

Budapest is a beautiful destination to visit and is a great place for a cheap trip. Cooking your own meals, carefully selecting accommodation or limiting meals out will definitely help you to reduce your travel costs. And, if you're wanting to treat yourself, there are many luxury options available.

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Last Updated 26 May 2022

FootLoose Dev

Travel blog by an Indian travel blogger.

Budapest Travel Costs – All You Need To Know

Wondering what’s the cost of travelling in Budapest? This blog is all you need!

You don’t need to travel all the way to Hungary to figure out that Budapest is one of the cheapest travel destinations in Europe. Just Google and you will find hundreds of blog posts talking about its affordability.

Where a story on Guardian would encourage you to travel Budapest by stating that it is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe to buy alcohol, a niche travel blog would give you a dozen more reasons to go there.

Cost of Travelling In Budapest

Before I start with particulars, let me give you the biggest motivation for planning a trip to Budapest — a great currency conversion rate.

Where a Euro leaves travellers with a poor currency conversion rate and thus makes the cost of travelling unbearably high before they even arrive in Europe, Hungarian Forint (HUF) makes things rather hopeful.

As an Indian currency holder, it felt amazingly good when I received nearly 4 HUF for every Indian Rupee. It kind of (almost) absorbed the shock of losing 70 Rupees to a Euro, as I did while travelling across other Schengen states.

If you are planning a trip to Europe from India , and you are on a tight budget, there cannot be a better place than Budapest.

Accommodation In Budapest

Budapest is amazingly cheap to stay in, compared to all its neighbours in Europe, including Vienna and Bratislava (which are already considered as cheap travel destinations in Europe).

A 6 or 8-bed dormitory in Budapest costs just as much as it does somewhere in Southeast Asia. Despite a very central location, the place I was staying at (called Avenue Hostel) charged only 6 Euros per night, including free breakfast.

If you can stay outside of the main town, you can find something for an even lesser price, say about 3 or 3 Euros a night.

Consider paying nearly double for everything for a similar experience in Vienna or Bratislava. Or perhaps three or four times more if you’re visiting Zurich, or Munich, or someplace in France.

Transportation in Budapest

Budapest has cheap public transport too.

For 1500 HUF (less than 5 Euros) you get a day ticket that allows you unlimited use of public transport for 24 hours on all city buses, trams and metros. Now compare it with a single 10-minute train journey in Zurich that can cost nearly 7 Euros.

Though I understand Budapest stands nowhere near Zurich in terms of cost of living, I’d still like to give an idea about how brutal prices in Europe can be. And the cost of travelling in Budapest feels like a bargain.

Check this article by lonely planet if you want to know more about public transportation in Hungary.

How Much Does A Beer Costs In Budapest

Beer in Budapest is so cheap that it sometimes cost more to buy a similar brand in Southeast Asian. Even Thailand has some European brands costing more for a pint than it does in Budapest.

A pint of lager in Budapest in a supermarket can cost as low as 200 HUF (or 50 Cents).

Drinking in pubs in Budapest is not too costly either. Most of the ruin pubs offer cheap beers (for about 2 Euros).

Food Expenses In Budapest

If you buy your groceries from a supermarket and cook/process your own meals expect paying for not more than 4 Euros a day. If you are going to eat out, expect your food costs to be somewhere near 6 or 7 Euro a day.

1 Week Budapest Travel Budget

During my 7-day stay in Budapest, I spent just a little over 100 euros. And this included my stay, my food (including 1 or 2 meals in a restaurant every day), public transportation, and fee for a few museums/attractions.

Speaking of how much did I spend in a day, let’s divide the costs per day, per activity basis.

Accommodation : 6 Euros (please note that you can stay in hostels costing around 3 or 4 Euros a day and save a little more. Most of the cheap backpacker hostels are located in Pest).

Transportation : 5 Euros

Food & Beer : 5 Euros

Total = 16 Euros PER DAY!

Please note that this is only a rough estimation of costs. You may end up spending more (or less) depending upon your expenses. If you dine out more and take taxis rather than public transport, you will end up spending a bit more than what I did.

Budapest Visa

Since Hungary is a part of Schengen territory, Indians needs Schengen Visa to travel to Budapest.

A short term single-entry tourist visa costs 60 EUR on top of additional costs by vfs. The maximum time period you’re entitled to visit Schengen territory, on a short term tourist visa is three months.

It may take as long as a month to get the Schengen visa after the application was submitted, so plan well in advance.

For Indian Passport Holders, Schengen Visa is one of the toughest visas to obtain.

Read: How to apply for Schengen Visa in India

Useful Travel Tips

Divided by the ever blissful Dunabe river , there are two (nearly equal) parts of Budapest: Buda and Pest.

Buda is more local and serves as a residential colony for local people. Whereas Pest is the tourism highlight. It is in Pest where most backpackers hostels and tourist attractions like the St Stephen’s Basilica, Old street Market Hall, and the Parliament are located.

Make Pest as your base. Find a hostel near the city center if you want quick transportation options, or a few kilometres away from it, to find a comparatively cheaper option.

Those staying in Budapest for only a few days and wanting to shop and explore tourist highlights on a fast track should consider investing in a Budapest Card available for 48 and 72 hours. It gives free (or a discounted) entry to many attractions/museums, unlimited free travel on public transport, and even a couple of free guided walking tours.

It is possible to reach Budapest from Ljubljana or Vienna or Prague in under 20 Euros by taking the bus service called Flixbus that offer some of the cheapest transportation options and travel-cards for backpackers. You can also read about my travel experience with Flixbus .

Hungary’s official currency is Forint which usually gives nearly 300 Forint against 1 Euro. It is very unlikely to find Forint in your country, so buy some Euros and change them in Hungary. If you’re landing at Budapest airport, be advised that the airport doesn’t give the best conversion rates, so change only a few Euros, take public transport to the city centre and find a conversion shop somewhere in the city center. You will find enough agents converting Euros into Forint for a good price in Budapest city center.

Also read: Budget travel tips for Europe

That’s all in this blog about the cost of travelling in Budapest. If you have more questions, please leave a comment below, or write me a message on Instagram .

What was your total expense of Budapest including all that you have mentioned above ?

Budapest is very amazing place to visit. I already visit there.

My name is Brian and I have been living in Budapest as an expat for over two years now. Most travellers who visit Budapest spend heaps on drinking and going out but if one tries to save money Budapest is actually a very cheap travel destination. Not sure if I can travel for about 16 euros a day here but yes it is indeed possible to live off under 30 eurs a day. Thanks for sharing your wonderful experience.

Super informative post. Hopefully we will get to travel soon.

Cost of living and prices in Budapest, prices of food, rent, shopping, etc. 🇭🇺 Updated Jul 2023

Budapest, Hungary is a beautiful city located in Eastern Europe, offering a high quality of life at an affordable cost. With an average monthly cost of living around 500-600 EUR for a single person, Budapest is an attractive destination for international students and digital nomads looking for a new home.

In addition to its affordable cost of living, Budapest offers a rich cultural experience with its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and delicious cuisine. The city also has a thriving nightlife scene and a variety of outdoor activities, making it the perfect destination for both tourists and long-term residents.

Overall, Budapest is a great place to live or visit for those who are seeking a unique and affordable European experience. With its friendly locals, beautiful surroundings, and high quality of life, it's no wonder that Budapest has become a top destination for travelers and expats alike.

Cost of Living Estimate in Budapest

Total cost of living in Budapest for two person with average consumption for one month will be 871.72 USD , no rent price included. Click here to calculate cost-of-living estimate in Budapest

You can calculate cost of living in Budapest by changing quantity using input near each good or service. Resulting total will appear in a floating box in the bottom of your screen.

Restaurants prices

Budapest, Hungary is a foodie’s paradise with plenty of mouth-watering restaurants and eating options to explore. Be it traditional Hungarian dishes, international cuisine, or fusion foods, Budapest has it all. From stylish fine-dining restaurants to cozy bistros and street food vendors, there’s something for everyone in Budapest. One of the highlights of dining in Budapest is the use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, making the food not just delicious but also healthy and sustainable. Whether you’re looking for an affordable meal or a luxurious dining experience, Budapest offers a wide range of options to cater to all budgets.

If you’re traveling to Budapest, you must try some of the local specialties such as goulash, chimney cake, langos, and strudel. These traditional dishes are a must-try, and you can find them in many places across the city. Budapest is also famous for its vibrant street food scene, with food trucks and market stalls offering delicious snacks and meals all day long. For those looking for an upscale dining experience, Budapest has plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy rooftop bars. With so many different eating options, Budapest truly offers a gastronomic adventure that’s not to be missed.

Markets prices

Budapest, Hungary is known for its vibrant and diverse market scene. From traditional farmers markets to trendy street food markets, there is something for every taste and budget. Prices in the markets can vary depending on the type of product, season, and location of the market. However, overall, the cost of food and goods in Budapest’s markets tends to be more affordable compared to other cities in Europe. Visitors can easily find locally-grown fruits and vegetables, traditional Hungarian specialties, and unique souvenirs within a reasonable price range.

Despite being a popular tourist destination, Budapest’s markets remain authentic and unadulterated. The vendors take pride in selling high-quality products at reasonable prices and are always ready to haggle if needed. Additionally, the markets serve as a great way to experience Hungarian culture and traditions. Visitors can sample local delicacies, interact with vendors, and learn about the history of the products sold in the markets. Overall, the markets in Budapest offer not only affordable prices but also a unique and memorable experience to all who visit them.

Transportation prices

When visiting Budapest, there are several transportation options to explore the beautiful city. One of the most popular choices is the metro system, which is clean, efficient, and well-connected. Budapest's metro system runs from early morning to late at night, making it convenient for exploring the city throughout the day and into the evening. Trams and buses are also available, offering visitors a fantastic opportunity to see the sights and landmarks of the city while enjoying a comfortable ride.

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, cycling is a fantastic option. Budapest is a bike-friendly city, with many bike rental services available at affordable prices. Cycling allows visitors to explore the city at their own pace while enjoying the beautiful scenery and fresh air. Walking is also another exciting option as Budapest's city center is compact and easy to navigate on foot. Whether taking the metro, bus, tram, cycling, or walking, travelers are sure to discover the city's hidden gems while taking in the cultural vibes of Budapest.

Utilities Per Month prices

Budapest, Hungary has an affordable cost of living compared to other European cities. Utility costs, such as electricity, gas, and water, are reasonably priced and cost much less than in many other major European cities. On average, the monthly utility bills in Budapest are lower than in London, Paris, Berlin, and Vienna.

While utility costs in Budapest are affordable, it is important to note that the buildings in Budapest are older and less energy-efficient than in other European cities. This means that heating costs during the winter can be higher than expected, especially if you are staying in an older building. However, many newer apartments and hotels in Budapest are energy-efficient and offer modern amenities, making them a comfortable and affordable option for travelers.

Sports And Leisure prices

Budapest offers a variety of sports and leisure activities for visitors seeking an active vacation. The city is known for its thermal baths, which are sure to provide a relaxing experience for those looking to unwind. There are also several parks throughout the city that are great for picnics or jogging. For those looking for more adrenaline-inducing activities, there are opportunities to go rock climbing and zip-lining. Additionally, the Danube River provides the perfect setting for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Budapest has something to offer everyone.

Sports fans can also find plenty to enjoy in Budapest. The city is home to several professional sports teams, including the popular soccer club, Ferencvaros. There are also opportunities to catch tennis and basketball matches throughout the year. For those who prefer to participate in sports rather than just watch, there are plenty of gyms and fitness centers around the city, as well as yoga and Pilates studios. Overall, Budapest is a great destination for anyone looking to mix leisure, sports, and culture.

Salaries And Financing prices

Budapest, Hungary is a city that offers a relatively low cost of living, which can provide ample opportunities for travelers looking to capitalize on their budgets. Salaries in Budapest are generally lower than in other European cities, and the cost of living is correspondingly lower as well. This means that travelers can spend more of their budget on experiences and activities rather than on living expenses.

Financing options in Budapest are plentiful, and travelers can access banking services easily and efficiently. The city has a number of banks and ATMs, and most places accept credit and debit cards. Additionally, there are a number of currency exchange kiosks located throughout the city that offer competitive exchange rates. For those looking to save on financing, it may be beneficial to withdraw cash and use it for transactions as many businesses offer discounts for cash payments.

Childcare prices

Childcare prices in Budapest, Hungary are generally affordable compared to other European cities. Parents have several options for childcare including schools and Kindergartens. The prices of schools and Kindergartens vary based on several factors such as location, facilities, quality of education, and services offered.

For families on a budget, there are several low-cost Kindergartens available. These establishments may have limited facilities, but they provide basic childcare services. Schools and Kindergartens with more facilities and higher-quality education may have higher prices. However, many parents find that the quality of care and education offered by higher-priced schools is worth the investment.

Clothing And Shoes prices

If you're looking to buy clothes or shoes in Budapest, you're in luck! There are plenty of options available for all sorts of styles and budgets. From trendy boutiques to well-known brands, you're sure to find something that suits your taste. You can also find second-hand shops offering unique items at great prices, or visit the local markets and artisanal fairs for some handmade treasures. No matter what you're looking for, Budapest has something to offer for everyone's style and budget.

When it comes to shopping for clothes and shoes in Budapest, you can easily find them in shopping malls or on popular shopping streets. The city center is home to several malls with plenty of stores to choose from, while the streets surrounding Váci utca are lined with luxury brands. If you're looking for something more budget-friendly, you can check out the shops in the districts beyond the center of the city. There are also several outlet stores around the Budapest area, where you can find great deals on name-brand products. No matter where you decide to shop, Budapest has plenty of options for fashion-conscious shoppers.

Rent Per Month prices

If you're planning a trip to Budapest, there are plenty of short-term rent options available to suit your lifestyle and budget. From apartments to guest rooms and shared spaces, you can find a variety of choices online. You can expect to find short stay options that vary in size, location, and amenities. Depending on your preference, you can choose between modern and traditional styles, ranging from budget to luxury. With so many affordable options, short-term stays in Budapest have never been easier or more comfortable.

Perhaps the most appealing aspect of short stays is the flexibility they offer. Short-term options are ideal for travelers who need to stay somewhere for a brief period, but also for those who are still exploring their options and would like to try out different neighborhoods before settling down. Additionally, short-term rentals in Budapest provide a unique opportunity to live like a local. Whether you're looking for a cozy flat in the city center or a spacious apartment with stunning views of the Danube River, there are short stay options to suit everyone's taste and budget.

Buy Apartment prices

Budapest, Hungary is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history, which makes it a great city for real estate investment. There are various buying options available for those interested in purchasing a property in Budapest. From apartments to houses, there is a wide range of real estate available for sale. Buyers can choose between new and old buildings, as well as renovated or unrenovated properties. The prices vary depending on the location, type, and condition of the property.

For those looking to invest in real estate in Budapest, there are neighborhoods that are considered more expensive than others. The city center is known to be the most expensive area, which is not surprising considering the historic landmarks and attractions located in that area. However, there are other neighborhoods such as Buda and Pest that offer more affordable options for buyers. Overall, the prices for real estate in Budapest are reasonable in comparison to other European cities, making it an attractive location for those who want to own a piece of property in Europe.

Cost of living in the cities nearby

Érd, Hungary
Pomáz, Hungary
Dunakeszi, Hungary
Gödöllő, Hungary
Vác, Hungary
Esztergom, Hungary
Nyergesújfalu, Hungary
Tatabánya, Hungary
Szfvár, Hungary
Dunaújváros, Hungary

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The 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit

Posted: April 28, 2023 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

<p> If you're planning your next vacation, we've found the cheapest countries to visit around the world. Despite the effects of inflation on everything from eggs to electric cars, there are some places where your dollar will work in your favor, getting you an exotic trip for less than you might expect. </p> <p> Our ranking is based on the average total daily cost you might pay once you reach your destination — including accommodation, food, and the daily cost of living. Obviously, the missing element is the cost of airfare, but flight costs vary so much depending on the time of year you're traveling, and where you're flying from, and to, that it's not helpful to factor those into our selection. If you want to know how to find and save money on flights to Europe, we've got some strategies for doing just that. </p> <p> To give you some inspiration for your flight hunting, check out the top 10 cheapest countries to travel to in 2023. </p> <p> Data sources include TheGlobalEconomy.com, Numbeo's cost of living database, and Budget Your Trip. </p> <p> <em>BY QUINCY WILLIAMSON</em> </p>

If you're planning your next vacation, we've found the cheapest countries to visit around the world. Despite the effects of inflation on everything from eggs to electric cars, there are some places where your dollar will work in your favor, getting you an exotic trip for less than you might expect.

Our ranking is based on the average total daily cost you might pay once you reach your destination — including accommodation, food, and the daily cost of living. Obviously, the missing element is the cost of airfare, but flight costs vary so much depending on the time of year you're traveling, and where you're flying from, and to, that it's not helpful to factor those into our selection. If you want to know how to find and save money on flights to Europe, we've got some strategies for doing just that.

To give you some inspiration for your flight hunting, check out the top 10 cheapest countries to travel to in 2023.

Data sources include TheGlobalEconomy.com, Numbeo's cost of living database, and Budget Your Trip.

BY QUINCY WILLIAMSON

<p> <strong>Average daily cost: $131<br> Average accommodation cost: $93<br> Average daily meals cost: $34</strong> </p> <p> From idyllic beaches to world-renowned historical sites, Greece is one of Europe’s top summer destinations for travelers. After the debt crisis in 2010, prices have been relatively low for years, but prices can vary widely depending on location — if you're heading for a holiday hotspot (like Mykonos or Santorini) expect to pay far more than for a lesser-known part of the country. Timing is also crucial when visiting this Mediterranean country. Try to avoid the high-season summer months to take advantage of the great prices. </p>

Average daily cost: $131 Average accommodation cost: $93 Average daily meals cost: $34

From idyllic beaches to world-renowned historical sites, Greece is one of Europe’s top summer destinations for travelers. After the debt crisis in 2010, prices have been relatively low for years, but prices can vary widely depending on location — if you're heading for a holiday hotspot (like Mykonos or Santorini) expect to pay far more than for a lesser-known part of the country. Timing is also crucial when visiting this Mediterranean country. Try to avoid the high-season summer months to take advantage of the great prices.

<p> <strong>Average daily cost: $116<br> Average accommodation cost: $75<br> Average daily meals cost: $34</strong> </p> <p> Portugal is one of the best-value destinations in Europe. It's known for its seafood, wine, views, delicious custard tarts (pastéis de nata), and 300+ days of sunshine. Whether you head for vibrant Lisbon, to the sandy beaches of the south or for a wine and port tour in Porto, you’ll get a reasonably-priced vacation while enjoying the sights and sounds that this friendly southern European country has to offer. </p>

9. Portugal

Average daily cost: $116 Average accommodation cost: $75 Average daily meals cost: $34

Portugal is one of the best-value destinations in Europe. It's known for its seafood, wine, views, delicious custard tarts (pastéis de nata), and 300+ days of sunshine. Whether you head for vibrant Lisbon, to the sandy beaches of the south or for a wine and port tour in Porto, you’ll get a reasonably-priced vacation while enjoying the sights and sounds that this friendly southern European country has to offer.

<p> <strong>Average daily cost: $110<br> Average accommodation cost: $70<br> Average daily meals cost: $30</strong> </p> <p> Only a two-hour flight from Miami and less than four hours from New York City, Americans are frequent visitors to this sunny, year-round Caribbean destination. Spanish-speaking Dominican Republic makes up half of the second-largest island in the Caribbean (Hispaniola), French-speaking Haiti makes up the western half. With white sand beaches, lagoons, and rainforests, there’s plenty to explore while enjoying the natural beauty of the country. </p>

8. Dominican Republic

Average daily cost: $110 Average accommodation cost: $70 Average daily meals cost: $30

Only a two-hour flight from Miami and less than four hours from New York City, Americans are frequent visitors to this sunny, year-round Caribbean destination. Spanish-speaking Dominican Republic makes up half of the second-largest island in the Caribbean (Hispaniola), French-speaking Haiti makes up the western half. With white sand beaches, lagoons, and rainforests, there’s plenty to explore while enjoying the natural beauty of the country.

<p> <strong>Average daily cost: $93<br> Average accommodation cost: $53<br> Average daily meals cost: $20</strong> </p> <p> America’s neighbor Mexico is home to the fifth largest city in the world. Not only does Mexico have several urban oases, but the North American country is also known for its beautiful beaches that are regularly listed as some of the best in the world. From ancient jungle ruins to iconic modernist buildings, you’ll find pretty much everything you could want in a vacation here and for a good price. </p>

Average daily cost: $93 Average accommodation cost: $53 Average daily meals cost: $20

America’s neighbor Mexico is home to the fifth largest city in the world. Not only does Mexico have several urban oases, but the North American country is also known for its beautiful beaches that are regularly listed as some of the best in the world. From ancient jungle ruins to iconic modernist buildings, you’ll find pretty much everything you could want in a vacation here and for a good price.

<p> <strong>Average daily cost: $81<br> Average accommodation cost: $41<br> Average daily meals cost: $17</strong> </p> <p> Despite being the size of West Virginia, Costa Rica is a land of abundance and adventure. The quiet central American country has miles of coastline of both the Pacific and Caribbean oceans, it's got jungle lodges, rainforest treks, volcanoes, and cloud forests. It boasts some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. With fresh food and fruit in abundance, you can truly enjoy the “pura vida.” </p>

6. Costa Rica

Average daily cost: $81 Average accommodation cost: $41 Average daily meals cost: $17

Despite being the size of West Virginia, Costa Rica is a land of abundance and adventure. The quiet central American country has miles of coastline of both the Pacific and Caribbean oceans, it's got jungle lodges, rainforest treks, volcanoes, and cloud forests. It boasts some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. With fresh food and fruit in abundance, you can truly enjoy the “pura vida.”

<p> <strong>Average daily cost: $70 <br> Average accommodation cost: $33 <br> Average daily meals cost: $17</strong> </p> <p> At the crossroads of Europe, Hungary has managed to keep its quaint villages, while Budapest — the “city of lights” — still reigns as a metropolitan center. You’ve most likely seen the spectacular Hungarian Parliament building sitting on the Danube River. Hungary’s countryside includes beautiful scenery with mountains, rivers, and lush valleys. </p>

Average daily cost: $70 Average accommodation cost: $33 Average daily meals cost: $17

At the crossroads of Europe, Hungary has managed to keep its quaint villages, while Budapest — the “city of lights” — still reigns as a metropolitan center. You’ve most likely seen the spectacular Hungarian Parliament building sitting on the Danube River. Hungary’s countryside includes beautiful scenery with mountains, rivers, and lush valleys.

<p> <strong>Average daily cost: $52<br> Average accommodation cost: $21<br> Average daily meals cost: $14</strong> </p> <p> Flights to this south Asian country can be expensive, but other costs make up for it. Known for its tropical beaches, jungle temples, Buddha statues, and the delicious restaurants and street markets in the bustling city of Bangkok, it's no wonder Thailand is the most visited country in Southeast Asia. </p>

4. Thailand

Average daily cost: $52 Average accommodation cost: $21 Average daily meals cost: $14

Flights to this south Asian country can be expensive, but other costs make up for it. Known for its tropical beaches, jungle temples, Buddha statues, and the delicious restaurants and street markets in the bustling city of Bangkok, it's no wonder Thailand is the most visited country in Southeast Asia.

<p> <strong>Average daily cost: $47<br> Average accommodation cost: $36 <br> Average daily meals cost: $12</strong> </p> <p> Indonesia is home to Bali — often at the top of rankings when it comes to the best place to visit in the world. But there’s more to this paradise of a country than Instagram-worthy views. With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the world’s largest island country boasting stunning beaches, volcanoes, jungles, orangutan colonies, giant Komodo dragons, and vast mountain ranges. And the best of all — your money goes very far here. </p>

3. Indonesia

Average daily cost: $47 Average accommodation cost: $36 Average daily meals cost: $12

Indonesia is home to Bali — often at the top of rankings when it comes to the best place to visit in the world. But there’s more to this paradise of a country than Instagram-worthy views. With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the world’s largest island country boasting stunning beaches, volcanoes, jungles, orangutan colonies, giant Komodo dragons, and vast mountain ranges. And the best of all — your money goes very far here.

<p> <strong>Average daily cost: $23 <br> Average accommodation cost: $13 <br> Average daily meals cost: $7</strong> </p> <p> Turkey is one of the most visited countries in the world but remains an underrated tourist destination. Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey is a fabulous melting pot of cultures that can be seen in everything from architecture to cuisine. There's an assortment of choices for visitors, from mountain ranges to beach-littered coasts, to the sprawling colorful metropolis of Istanbul — Turkey has everything. Despite the devasting earthquakes that hit the country, many tourist destinations in the west of the country (hundreds of miles from the affected areas) are open and actively welcoming visitors. Tourist dollars will be all too vital for the rebuilding effort. </p>

Average daily cost: $23 Average accommodation cost: $13 Average daily meals cost: $7

Turkey is one of the most visited countries in the world but remains an underrated tourist destination. Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey is a fabulous melting pot of cultures that can be seen in everything from architecture to cuisine. There's an assortment of choices for visitors, from mountain ranges to beach-littered coasts, to the sprawling colorful metropolis of Istanbul — Turkey has everything. Despite the devasting earthquakes that hit the country, many tourist destinations in the west of the country (hundreds of miles from the affected areas) are open and actively welcoming visitors. Tourist dollars will be all too vital for the rebuilding effort.

<p> <strong>Average daily cost: $15<br> Average accommodation cost: $8<br> Average daily meals cost: $5</strong> </p> <p> Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia but it still manages to have over 4,000 islands. From the islands of the Mekong Delta to the stunning waterfalls of the interior, Laos is one of the few countries in the world that hasn’t lost its natural beauty to sprawling development. And yet, there's more than enough to tempt the most jaded traveler — from cookery schools for food lovers to climbing, caving, and jungle treks for thrill-seekers and temples galore for those more culturally inclined. </p>

Average daily cost: $15 Average accommodation cost: $8 Average daily meals cost: $5

Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia but it still manages to have over 4,000 islands. From the islands of the Mekong Delta to the stunning waterfalls of the interior, Laos is one of the few countries in the world that hasn’t lost its natural beauty to sprawling development. And yet, there's more than enough to tempt the most jaded traveler — from cookery schools for food lovers to climbing, caving, and jungle treks for thrill-seekers and temples galore for those more culturally inclined.

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Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

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Average daily travel expense of tourists to South Korea in 2023, by origin

According to a survey conducted in South Korea throughout 2023, tourists from the United States who organized their own trips had the highest average travel expense per person per day while visiting, having spent an average of 486 U.S. dollars. This was followed by tourists from the United Kingdom and the Middle East. That year, the average tourist spent around 340 dollars per day.

Average travel expense per person per day when traveling to South Korea in 2023, by origin (in U.S. dollars)

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Worldwide, South Korea

every month in 2023

16,196 respondents

15 years and older

among visitors who planned their own trips and stayed for less than 90 days

Computer-assisted personal interviews (CAPI)

Respondent count by region was as follows:

Mainland China: 1,588

Japan: 1,963

Taiwan: 1,263

United States: 1,444

Hong Kong: 868

Thailand: 824

Vietnam: 521

Malaysia: 678

Philippines: 512

Singapore: 873

Russia: 332

Middle East: 583

Indonesia: 664

Canada: 537

Australia: 639

United Kingdom: 488

Mongolia: 359

Germany: 496

France: 497

Statistics on " Travel and tourism in Hungary "

Inbound visitor growth in CEE 2020-2024
Inbound tourist arrivals growth in CEE 2021-2026, by country
Travel & Tourism market revenue in Hungary 2017-2028, by segment
Share of the GDP of the tourism sector in Hungary 2013-2028
Gross value added (GVA) of tourism industries in Hungary 2010-2022
Accommodation services and hospitality's share in GVA in Hungary 2015-2022
International tourist expenditure in Hungary 2009-2023
International overnight tourist arrivals in Hungary 2009-2023
International same-day tourist arrivals in Hungary 2009-2023
Share of inbound overnight tourist trips to Hungary 2023, by region visited
Share of inbound tourist spending in Hungary 2023, by type of expense
Total number of days spent by foreigners in Hungary 2018-2023
Domestic tourist spending on overnight trips in Hungary 2008-2023
Number of overnight domestic tourism trips in Hungary 2008-2023
Number of domestic overnight tourism trips in Hungary 2023 by motivation
Nights spent on domestic trips in Hungary 2014-2023
Quarterly number of domestic overnight trips in Hungary 2019-2023, by region
International travel expenditure in Hungary 2012-2023
Expenditure on outbound trips made from Hungary 2023, by country of destination
Number of outbound trips from Hungary 2008-2023
Number of outbound trips made from Hungary 2023, by country of destination
Number of same-day outbound trips from Hungary 2012-2023
Number of outbound overnight trips from Hungary 2012-2022
Total number of days spent abroad by Hungarians 2017-2023
Gross revenue from commercial accommodation establishments in Hungary 2021-2022
Number of commercial travel accommodation establishments in Hungary 2022, by type
Monthly number of domestic arrivals at tourist accommodation in Hungary 2021-2024
Monthly international arrivals at tourist accommodation in Hungary 2021-2024
International tourist arrivals in accommodation in Budapest 2000-2022
Hotel revenue per available room in Budapest 2015-2023
Class distribution of hotel rooms in Budapest, Hungary 2023
Expenditure of inbound wellness trips in Hungary 2017-2023
Number of inbound wellness trips in Hungary 2017-2023
Number of overnight domestic wellness trips in Hungary 2015-2023
Number of baths offering wellness treatment in Hungary 2010-2022
Number of bath visitors in Hungary 2010-2022
Frequency of traveling for personal purposes in Hungary 2023
Frequency of traveling for business purposes in Hungary 2023
Share of population booking travel products in Hungary 2023
Share of population booking travel products online in Hungary 2023

Other statistics that may interest you Travel and tourism in Hungary

Industry overview

Basic Statistic Number of foreign arrivals in tourist accommodation in CEE 2013-2022, by country
Premium Statistic Inbound visitor growth in CEE 2020-2024
Premium Statistic Inbound tourist arrivals growth in CEE 2021-2026, by country
Premium Statistic Travel & Tourism market revenue in Hungary 2017-2028, by segment
Premium Statistic Share of the GDP of the tourism sector in Hungary 2013-2028
Premium Statistic Gross value added (GVA) of tourism industries in Hungary 2010-2022
Premium Statistic Accommodation services and hospitality's share in GVA in Hungary 2015-2022

Inbound tourism

Premium Statistic International tourist expenditure in Hungary 2009-2023
Basic Statistic International tourist arrivals in Hungary 2009-2023
Basic Statistic International overnight tourist arrivals in Hungary 2009-2023
Premium Statistic International same-day tourist arrivals in Hungary 2009-2023
Premium Statistic Leading international tourist markets arriving in Hungary 2023
Premium Statistic Share of inbound overnight tourist trips to Hungary 2023, by region visited
Premium Statistic Share of inbound tourist spending in Hungary 2023, by type of expense
Premium Statistic Total number of days spent by foreigners in Hungary 2018-2023

Domestic tourism

Premium Statistic Domestic tourist spending on overnight trips in Hungary 2008-2023
Premium Statistic Number of overnight domestic tourism trips in Hungary 2008-2023
Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight tourism trips in Hungary 2023 by motivation
Premium Statistic Nights spent on domestic trips in Hungary 2014-2023
Premium Statistic Quarterly number of domestic overnight trips in Hungary 2019-2023, by region

Outbound tourism

Premium Statistic International travel expenditure in Hungary 2012-2023
Premium Statistic Expenditure on outbound trips made from Hungary 2023, by country of destination
Premium Statistic Number of outbound trips from Hungary 2008-2023
Basic Statistic Number of outbound trips made from Hungary 2023, by country of destination
Basic Statistic Number of same-day outbound trips from Hungary 2012-2023
Basic Statistic Number of outbound overnight trips from Hungary 2012-2022
Premium Statistic Total number of days spent abroad by Hungarians 2017-2023
Basic Statistic Gross revenue from commercial accommodation establishments in Hungary 2021-2022
Premium Statistic Number of commercial travel accommodation establishments in Hungary 2022, by type
Premium Statistic Monthly number of domestic arrivals at tourist accommodation in Hungary 2021-2024
Premium Statistic Monthly international arrivals at tourist accommodation in Hungary 2021-2024
Basic Statistic Tourist arrivals in accommodation in Budapest 2000-2022
Premium Statistic International tourist arrivals in accommodation in Budapest 2000-2022
Basic Statistic Hotel revenue per available room in Budapest 2015-2023
Premium Statistic Class distribution of hotel rooms in Budapest, Hungary 2023

Wellness tourism

Premium Statistic Expenditure of inbound wellness trips in Hungary 2017-2023
Premium Statistic Number of inbound wellness trips in Hungary 2017-2023
Premium Statistic Number of overnight domestic wellness trips in Hungary 2015-2023
Premium Statistic Number of baths offering wellness treatment in Hungary 2010-2022
Premium Statistic Number of bath visitors in Hungary 2010-2022

Travel behavior

Premium Statistic Frequency of traveling for personal purposes in Hungary 2023
Premium Statistic Frequency of traveling for business purposes in Hungary 2023
Premium Statistic Share of population booking travel products in Hungary 2023
Premium Statistic Share of population booking travel products online in Hungary 2023

Further Content: You might find this interesting as well

Travel Planning Guide

10 Days in Hungary: The Best Tours

Ready for a 10-day journey to Hungary that combines relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery? We've sifted through a wide range of guided tours, meticulously analyzing them based on service, price, guest ratings, and activities. These 10-day tours to Hungary are the absolute best based on these criteria, so that your trip planning can be easy and fun. They offer the perfect balance between a leisurely holiday and thrilling escapades, allowing you to immerse yourself in the essence of each destination. From exploring iconic landmarks to savoring the local cuisine, every moment of these tours is designed to provide an enriching and unforgettable experience. Get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime and make the most of your 10-day escape with one of these amazing tours below.

Budapest to Bucharest 10 Days, $2650.00
Best of the East 10 Days, $974.73
Prague, Vienna & Budapest 10 Days, $1379.00

Which 10-day tour options are available in Hungary?

Here are the important factors:

4 trip options analyzed
$153 average price per day (USD)
4.38 of 5 average rating
22 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of tours lasting 10 days in Hungary, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.38 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 22 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. With our thorough analysis of 4 tours lasting 10 days, we've found the best. So rest assured that Hungary has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 4 Best 10-Day Tours in Hungary

Budapest to bucharest.

High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This 10-day trip, visiting Hungary and Romania, is ideal for guests from 15 and up. And priced at only $186 per day, it's a great value, too. Experience a trip that takes you to 7 remarkable destinations, including Brasov, Eger, Maramureş, and Sighisoara. Begin your trip in Budapest and complete it with a memorable finale in Bucharest. It's offered by Intrepid Travel , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

Coach / Bus
In-depth Cultural

Best of the East

Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours lasting 10 days.

Priced at just $97 per day, this terrific 10-day voyage, visiting Hungary, Czech Republic, and Poland, is ideal for guests from 18 to 80 years old. Explore 4 incredible locations on this trip, including Prague and Krakow. Your journey starts off in Budapest and finishes in Krakow. Organized by the reputable Euroadventures , this is one of the best tours on this list.

Prague, Vienna & Budapest

Check out this incredible voyage that has received a 4.2 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary. And since the priority is on local culture and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. With a duration of 10 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 28 people, and is good for travelers of all ages. Your journey will begin in Prague and end in Budapest. This fantastic option, organized by Wingbuddy , presents an unbeatable value at just $138 per day.

Budapest to Sofia Adventure

Spanning over 10 days, this voyage, visiting Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria, has a maximum size of 16 individuals. Welcoming guests from 12 to 90 years old, it is organized by G Adventures , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. This trip takes you on an adventure to 9 destinations, including Bran, Bucharest, Veliko Tarnovo, and Arbanasi. Begin your trip in Budapest and complete it with a memorable finale in Sofia. Rest assured, this trip is all about cycling and local culture, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. Available at an unbeatable price of only $190 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Hungary , The Best Historical Tours in Hungary , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Hungary , The Best River Cruises in Hungary , The Best Bicycle Tours in Hungary , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Hungary , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Hungary , The Best Adventure Tours to Hungary , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Hungary , The Best Cultural Tours in Hungary , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Hungary , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Hungary , The Best Luxury Tours to Hungary , The Best Budget Tours to Hungary , or The Best Tours for Seniors to Hungary for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Budapest , The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest for more package tour options.

How much do 10-day tours to Hungary cost?

Travelers to Hungary will have a large number of terrific options for tours lasting 10 days at a variety of great prices. The price of tours lasting 10 days here can vary by type, destinations, length, and travel style. Based on thorough data from 4 tours lasting 10 days, their average daily price is a very reasonable $153 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Hungary .

And for more information on Hungary, see Hungary Travel Costs and Hungary Hotel Costs .

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Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

IMAGES

Budapest Price Guide
Backpacking Hungary Travel Guide: Things To Do, Costs, Budget [2021
How Much Does It Cost to Visit Budapest, Hungary?
The Cost of Travel in Hungary: My Detailed Budget Breakdown (2023)
The Cost of Travel in Hungary: My Detailed Budget Breakdown (2023)
Budapest: Cost of Living, Salaries, Prices for Rent & food

COMMENTS

Hungary Travel Cost
Food Budget in Hungary Average Daily Costs. Calculated from travelers like you. While meal prices in Hungary can vary, the average cost of food in Hungary is $23 (Ft8,088) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Hungary should cost around $9.14 (Ft3,235) per person.
Budapest Price Guide
Average Daily Cost For Visiting Budapest. It costs around $35-$60/day to visit Budapest as a budget-minded traveler. These prices are based on what you'll need to visit the city comfortably as a budget traveler staying in a hostel. If you want to stay in a nicer hotel or rental apartment you should add an extra $60-$80/night to your budget.
The Cost of Travel in Hungary: A Detailed Expense Report
To make it easier for you guys, I'll share both my budget breakdowns from my solo trip as a backpacker and my mid-range adventure as part of a couple. How much I spent as a solo backpacker in Hungary: Accommodation: €11 per day. Transportation: €3.13 per day. Food: €12.05 per day.
Budapest Travel Cost
Food Budget in Budapest Average Daily Costs. Calculated from travelers like you. While meal prices in Budapest can vary, the average cost of food in Budapest is $24 (Ft8,502) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Budapest should cost around $9.60 (Ft3,401) per person.
Hungary Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
Get the Budapest Card - The Budapest Card is a travel pass that provides discounts and deals on attractions and activities in the city. You get free public transport, entry to the Lukács thermal baths, and entry to 17 museums. A 24-hour card costs 11,870 HUF, a 48-hour card costs 17,600 HUF, and a 72-hour card costs 23,000 HUF.
Is Budapest Expensive? A Budapest Trip Cost Guide
In general, Budapest is not an expensive city with an average daily travel cost of €45-155 ($48-164 USD) per person per day. Before booking a trip to Budapest, it's essential to figure out a rough budget and be aware of how much various things are going to cost you. Here, we will outline the average costs of accommodation, transportation ...
How much does a trip to Hungary Cost?
The Cost of a Trip to Hungary. A trip to Hungary for one person usually costs between $33 and $214 per day and $66 to $429 for two people. This is a wide range of costs, and the daily average per person from our data is $84 (Ft30,380) per person.
Prices in Hungary. Cost of Living & Travel Budget Calculator
Accommodation prices in Hungary vary depending on the city, neighborhood or tourist season. For example, the average price of accommodation in Budapest (June 2024) ranges from 19202 HUF (53 USD) per night in a hostel to about 66080 HUF (182 USD) in a 3-star hotel. The price of a night in a luxury hotel is an expense from 127850 HUF (353 USD ...
Hungary Travel Guide 2024: What to See, Do, Costs, & Ways to Save
A normal beer at a bar will cost $1.50 USD while buying it at a store will be half of that price. Some actual costs from our visit to Budapest include: 10 Day Highway Vignette EUR 25, Budapest 24-h Travel Card EUR 5, St. Stephens Basilica entrance fee EUR 1.60
Budapest Budget Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
Get the Budapest Card - The Budapest Card is a travel pass that provides discounts and deals on attractions and activities in the city. You get free public transport, entry to the Lukács thermal baths, and admission to 17 museums. A 24-hour card costs 11,870 HUF, a 48-hour card costs 17,600 HUF, and a 72-hour card costs 23,000 HUF.
Is Budapest Cheap? (A 2024 Cost Breakdown)
Ibis Budapest City: If you prefer a hotel over a hostel, Ibis Budapest City is worth considering. It's a budget hotel that doesn't compromise on comfort. The average cost per night is around €75-100. Remember, prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Always book in advance to secure the best rates!
Cost of a Trip to Budapest, HU & the Cheapest Time to Visit Budapest
Average Solo Traveler. The average cost for one person to visit Budapest for a week is $857-$1,627 ($122-$232 per day). Food, Travel, and Sightseeing: $25 to $58 per day for one person's daily expenses. Flights: $370 to $825 for economy. Lodging: $52 to $66 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room. or $52 to $64 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental
Is Budapest Expensive? (Save Money in 2024)
Travel costs listed in this guide are estimates and subject to change. ... (USD). Budapest is the capital of Hungary, of course, which uses the Forint (HUF). As of July 2022, the current exchange rate is 1 USD = 397 HUF. ... 3 Days in Budapest Travel Costs; Expenses Estimated Daily Cost Estimated Total Cost; Average Airfare: N/A: $102-$1200 ...
Hungary travel budget, Prices and Cost of living in 2024
Calculate your travel budget to visit Hungary in 2024 with this free tool and discover the local cost of living with all prices. ... Travel budget and cost of living in Hungary how much does a trip cost? ... Daily budget: $ 106 for 2 ppl. $ 27 per person; $ 12 per person; $ 7.1 per person;
How much money you need to visit Budapest
Hungary's official currency is Hungarian Forint (Ft or HUF). 1 Euro is usually between 380 to 400 Ft (currently 386 HUF, as of February 2023) depending on current economics. 1 GBP is usually between 440 to 450 Ft. However, shops and restaurants in the city centre commonly accept EUR and US Dollar, but typically at a higher exchange rate, so ...
Is Hungary Expensive to Visit?
Based on our calculations from previous travelers, a one week trip to Hungary will cost around $601 per person. This amount includes sightseeing activities, hotels, restaurants, local transportation, and other travel expenses. For two people, a one week trip would cost $1,201. On average, a two week trip to Hungary costs about $1,201 per person ...
Is Budapest Cheap? 2024 REALISTIC Budapest Travel Costs
A few drinks at cheap bars = €6. Entry to House of Leaves or Sightseeing Cruise = €10. Public transportation for one day = €6. Total average daily travel cost for Budapest = €87. Of course, this budget is the mid-range option, so it's possible to spend a lot less on your trip to Budapest.
How much does a trip to Budapest cost?
A lot of the best things to do in Budapest are free. However, there definitely are some attractions that cost money - entry fees to a museum or an art gallery are usually around HUF 5,400 - HUF 6,800 per person. If you want to do organised day trips or join smaller tour groups to learn more about some of the sites, budget around HUF 23,372 per activity per person.
Cost of Travelling In Budapest
Since Hungary is a part of Schengen territory, Indians needs Schengen Visa to travel to Budapest. A short term single-entry tourist visa costs 60 EUR on top of additional costs by vfs. The maximum time period you're entitled to visit Schengen territory, on a short term tourist visa is three months.
Cost of living and prices in Budapest Updated ...
Contents. Budapest, Hungary is a beautiful city located in Eastern Europe, offering a high quality of life at an affordable cost. With an average monthly cost of living around 500-600 EUR for a single person, Budapest is an attractive destination for international students and digital nomads looking for a new home.
How much does a trip to Budapest Cost?
The Cost of a Trip to Budapest. A journey to Budapest will usually cost from $35 to $257 for an individual and $71 to $514 for two people. The mid-range tends to hover around $93 (Ft32,957) per person daily, as calculated from our travel cost data from fellow travelers covering food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation expenses. This is a fairly wide price range, and your ...
Types and prices
I only travel within Budapest. I travel in the metropolitan area. Adult. Student/pupil. Pensioner. ... Hungary Pass (full price) 18 900 Ft. Read more. Hungary Pass (discounted, Hungarian student ID required) 1 890 Ft. ... Handling fee for daily travelcards and passes. 1 000 Ft. Pass ID for pensioners. 250 Ft. Read more.
The 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit
9. Portugal. Average daily cost: $116 Average accommodation cost: $75 Average daily meals cost: $34. Portugal is one of the best-value destinations in Europe. It's known for its seafood, wine ...
South Korea: daily travel cost by origin 2023
Average daily travel expense of tourists to South Korea in 2023, by origin. According to a survey conducted in South Korea throughout 2023, tourists from the United States who organized their own ...
10 Days in Hungary: The Best Tours
Travelers to Hungary will have a large number of terrific options for tours lasting 10 days at a variety of great prices. The price of tours lasting 10 days here can vary by type, destinations, length, and travel style. Based on thorough data from 4 tours lasting 10 days, their average daily price is a very reasonable $154 per day.

City Guides .\33 a132798-3f3b-4585-954d-7e70cf863447{fill:#231f20}

Average Daily Cost For Visiting Budapest

Daily Cost of Budget Travel in Budapest: $ 40

Daily Cost of Frugal Travel in Budapest: $ 35

Budapest Attraction and Museum Prices

Budapest Food Prices

Budget Breakfast Prices in Budapest: Free-$ 6

A Few Budget Breakfast Spots:

Budget Lunch Prices in Budapest: $4-$10

Budget Dinner Prices in Budapest: $8-$13

A Few Budget-Friendly Lunch and Dinner Spots:

Drinks and Alcohol Prices in Budapest

Budapest Transportation Prices

Budapest Hostel, Hotel, & Rental Apartment Prices

Hostel Prices in Budapest: $17-$35/night

Budget Hotel Prices in Budapest: $45-$95/night

Rental Apartment Prices in Budapest: $50-$130/night

Learn More About the Cost of Visiting Europe

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City Guides

Join My Journey

The Cost of Travel in Hungary: A Detailed Expense Report

How to Find Cheap Flights to Hungary

The Cost of Accommodation in Hungary

The Best Hotels and Guesthouses in Hungary

The Cost of Transportation in Hungary

How Much Does Food Cost in Hungary?

How to Save Money on Activities in Hungary

Miscellaneous Expenses and Information for Hungary

How Much Did I Spend in Hungary?

Lauren Juliff

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Is Budapest Expensive? A Budapest Trip Cost Guide

Budapest Trip Cost Guide

Accommodation Prices in Budapest

Transportation Prices in Budapest

Food Prices in Budapest

Activities Prices in Budapest

Entertainment Prices in Budapest

Average Budapest Budget

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HUNGARY TRAVEL GUIDE

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Budapest Travel Guide

Table of Contents

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Budapest

1. Tour Parliament

2. Admire the National Gallery

3. Visit the baths

4. Cruise the Danube