Maximizing Your Budget Experience in Budapest

One of the main attractions for travelers visiting Budapest is its reputation as an affordable destination. While prices have increased over the years, many still find it more economical compared to other European capitals.

Here are some excellent tips to help your money go further in Budapest.

Low-cost airlines operate flights to Budapest’s primary airport

Unlike many major European cities that have distant airports for budget airlines, Budapest features a single airport. Regardless of whether you arrive on a major airline or a budget carrier, you'll land in the same location. The budget airline Wizz Air is a Hungarian company that operates from Budapest airport.

Use public transport to travel from the airport to central Budapest

Although Budapest’s airport is technically within city limits, it’s quite a distance from the center, so you'll need to arrange transport into town. Luckily, affordable public transport options are available to get you where you need to go. A one-way ticket on bus 100E to the city costs 900 Ft (around US$3) and will take you to Deák Ferenc tér, where metro lines 1, 2, and 3 intersect, or you can disembark at Kalvin tér for metro line 4. Both stops are conveniently located in downtown Pest.

Central Budapest is home to numerous hostels.

Budapest offers numerous excellent hostels, making it easy to find a dorm or an affordable private room in the city center. Dormitory rates can start as low as 3000 Ft (US$8) per night, but if you’re after a good night’s rest, steer clear of those labeled as “party hostels.”

Experience local living: couch surf or book a homestay

For a more personal – and budget-friendly – way to experience Budapest, choose a homestay or a private room instead of booking an entire apartment or hotel. You can find rooms through Airbnb with local hosts (be sure to check the ratings and reviews), as well as homestays on Homestay.com and occasionally on Booking.com. Couch surfing is also a viable option. In the Budapest “Official” Couchsurfing group, you can request hosting or advice from local members.

Skip the tour bus: explore the city using public transport

Looking for a sightseeing experience at a fraction of the cost? Just take advantage of Budapest’s public transport. Tram line 2, which runs north to south along the Danube, is one of Europe’s most scenic tram routes, offering breathtaking views of the riverbanks along the Pest side, including Castle Hill and the Hungarian Parliament as you travel.

To reach the riverbanks of the Danube on the Buda side, take trams 19 or 41. Alternatively, you can ride along Andrássy Avenue – a UNESCO World Heritage site – on bus 105, which will take you to Heroes’ Square and back along the Danube. A single bus fare is just 350 Ft (around US$1).

Sail the Danube using public transport during summer

If you're visiting Budapest in the summer, a Danube boat ride is a must. Many of the city’s iconic landmarks – including Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament, and the bridges – are best viewed from the water. However, you don’t need to splurge on an expensive cruise: simply take the boat operated by BKK, Budapest’s local transport authority. A ticket for one of these boats costs 750 Ft. Note that boat services run only in summer, so check the BKK website for schedules.

Choose the less-crowded, budget-friendly thermal baths

Budapest is renowned for its historic thermal baths, but if you prefer to avoid the higher entry fees, consider the lesser-known bathhouses. The Dandár Baths in District XI are basic and affordable, with tickets priced at 2800 Ft. You can also enjoy popular baths on a budget: visit the Lukács Baths after 5pm, when the ticket price drops to 2600 Ft from the usual 3500 Ft.

Travel to Budapest in spring or autumn

Not only is Budapest more affordable off-season, but spring and autumn are also the most picturesque times to explore the city. In spring, the fruit trees bloom beautifully, while autumn casts a stunning rust hue over Budapest.

In addition to the scenic beauty, these shoulder seasons are also gentle on your budget. If you want to save money, steer clear of summer, particularly August, which is peak season with soaring accommodation prices, especially during the Sziget Festival or the Formula 1 Grand Prix. December, when Christmas markets thrive, is another high-demand month that increases prices.

Have lunch at local markets or opt for the daily specials in restaurants

For budget-friendly dining, check out the food courts in market halls such as Nagycsarnok, which offer cheaper options than sit-down restaurants. If you prefer to prepare your own meal, the market stalls are perfect for gathering picnic supplies. Alternatively, if you want to dine out, keep an eye out for lunch specials, where you can find two- or three-course menus (ebéd menü) at reasonable prices, even in tourist-heavy downtown spots.

Purchase a Budapest Card to save on public transport and museum admissions

If you plan to use public transport and visit major attractions like the Hungarian National Museum, Ludwig Museum, Memento Park, and the Museum of Fine Arts, consider getting the Budapest Card. This card offers free public transport, complimentary entry to 20 museums and the Lukács Baths, a cave tour, plus discounts at restaurants and tours. A 24-hour card costs 14,990 Ft, while 48 hours is 19,990 Ft and 72 hours is 25,990 Ft. Calculate the savings as you plan your itinerary to see if the Budapest Card is worth it.

Discounts available for European students and seniors in Budapest

Residents of the European Economic Area can present their ID to receive discounts at attractions like the Hungarian Parliament. Reduced museum fees are available for EEA citizens aged 62 to 70 (those over 70 enter for free), as well as visitors under 26. Additionally, EU citizens over 65 can ride public transport for free.

The VIII, IX, and XI districts offer affordable lodging options.

Budapest has budget-friendly hotels beyond just hostels, with prices generally decreasing the further you are from the city center. For a lively yet economical area near the center, consider the artsy VIII District—stay within the ring of the Grand Boulevard (Nagykörút) to avoid sketchy spots at night—or explore the IX District in Pest or the XI District in Buda.

Daily expenses in Budapest

Bed in a hostel dorm: 2600–8100 Ft Basic hotel room for two: 11,000–32,500 Ft Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from 14,500 Ft Public transport ticket for 24 hours: 1650 Ft Coffee: 400–1200 Ft Sandwich: 2000–6000 Ft Dinner for two: 8000–25,000 Ft Beer/pint at the bar: 600–1200 Ft