Hungary Holidays 2025: What You Need to Plan for Your Vacation

Hungary is a fascinating travel destination in the heart of Europe, offering both historic cities and beautiful nature. Whether you want to visit the vibrant capital Budapest, Lake Balaton, or the picturesque villages in the country – for your Hungary vacation in 2025, you should plan the upcoming costs well. In this article, you will find out what expenses you need to budget for flights, accommodations, food, and activities, and how you can make your holiday in Hungary affordable.

Flights to Hungary: What to budget for your outbound and return flight

Most international flights to Hungary land at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, which is well connected to many European cities. Prices for flights to Budapest vary depending on the season and time of booking. In the off-season, you can find affordable flights starting from about 40 to 80 euros, while prices during peak season, like summer or around holidays, can rise to 100 to 150 euros.

If you plan to visit other cities in Hungary as well, there are affordable train or bus connections available from Budapest. These are often significantly cheaper than domestic flights and allow you to travel around the country in a comfortable way.

Accommodations in Hungary: How much to budget for hotels and hostels

Hungary offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. Prices vary depending on the type of accommodation and the destination within the country.

Luxury hotels and resorts: In Budapest and other larger cities, there are numerous 4- and 5-star hotels that provide luxury and comfort. A night in one of these hotels costs between 70 and 150 euros. During the peak season, prices can rise to 200 euros.
Mid-range hotels: A 3-star hotel offers a good price-performance ratio and costs between 30 and 60 euros per night. In less touristy areas, prices can be even cheaper.
Budget accommodations: For travelers on a tight budget, there are many affordable options, such as hostels, guesthouses, or simple hotels. Prices start from about 15 to 30 euros per night. Especially in less touristy regions of Hungary, you can find even cheaper places to stay.

If you plan your Hungary vacation in advance, you can often benefit from discounts and special promotions. Last-minute deals also offer good opportunities for affordable accommodations.

Dining in Hungary: What does food cost?

Eating out in Hungary is quite inexpensive compared to many Western European countries, and you will encounter many delicious dishes that you should definitely try. Hungary is particularly known for its hearty cuisine featuring dishes like “Gulyás” (goulash soup) and “Lángos” (fried flatbread).

Street food and small restaurants: A lunch at a simple restaurant or a snack like lángos generally costs between 3 and 8 euros. This option is especially good for eating quickly and cheaply.
Restaurants: In a regular restaurant, you should budget about 8 to 15 euros for a main course. Portions are usually quite generous.
Upscale restaurants: In upscale restaurants, main courses cost between 15 and 25 euros. Particularly in Budapest or other tourist cities, prices can be higher.

Prices for drinks are also very affordable, especially if you try the world-renowned Hungarian beer or a good local wine. A glass of beer typically costs about 1 to 2 euros, and a glass of wine can be had for 2 to 3 euros.

Activities in Hungary: Attractions and experiences for every budget

Hungary offers a variety of attractions that will make your holiday unforgettable. From historic cities like Budapest to national parks and thermal baths, there is plenty to discover.

Budapest: The Hungarian capital boasts a wealth of attractions that you must visit. Entrance to the famous Fisherman's Bastion and Matthias Church is usually free, but many attractions like the Parliament or Széchenyi Thermal Bath charge a fee of about 10 to 20 euros.
Lake Balaton: Lake Balaton is one of Hungary's most popular travel destinations. Here, you can swim, go boating, or relax by the shore. Entrance to the beaches is often free or involves a small fee. Boat trips start at around 10 to 15 euros per person.
Thermal baths: Hungary is famous for its thermal baths, particularly in Budapest and surroundings. Entrance to the thermal baths usually costs between 15 and 25 euros, depending on which bath you visit and what additional treatments you utilize.
Wine regions: In Hungary's wine regions, you can participate in wine tastings and try local wines. Prices for a wine tasting start at around 10 to 15 euros per person.

Local transport: Public transport and taxis

In Hungary, the public transportation system is well-developed and very affordable. A ride on the metro in Budapest costs only about 1 euro. Trams and buses are also inexpensive and allow you to easily and quickly get from one sight to the next.

Taxis are also a convenient way to get around. A short ride within Budapest costs around 5 to 10 euros, while longer trips can range from about 15 to 20 euros. For those looking to cover larger distances, car rentals are also available, starting from about 20 to 30 euros per day.

Total budget for a week in Hungary

Your total expenses for a vacation in Hungary depend on your travel style. Here is a rough estimate of expenses for a week’s holiday in Hungary:

Budget travel: From 250 euros per week (hostels, street food, and using public transportation).
Mid-range travel: Between 500 and 800 euros per week (mid-range hotels, dining out, and entrance to attractions).
Luxury travel: Starting from 1,200 euros per week (luxury hotels, fine dining, and private tours).

Conclusion: Hungary vacation – a worthwhile and affordable trip

Hungary is a wonderful travel destination that has something to offer for everyone – be it culture, history, nature, or relaxation. The costs for a Hungary vacation in 2025 are very affordable compared to many other European countries. With some planning, you can make your holiday in Hungary both affordable and varied.