Budget Guide to Budapest

Budapest is one of the most wonderful cities in the world. It is a great place to visit and enjoy the culture and history of the city. It is also a great place for budget travellers as it is a very affordable place to visit.

Budapest, Hungary. Cityscape image of Budapest, capital city of Hungary with Margaret Bridge and Hungarian Parliament Building at sunset.

This Budapest travel guide is a budget guide that will help you plan your trip where you can enjoy it while still being able to afford everything.

Doing Budapest on a budget can still be a very fulfilling and memorable experience. You just need to plan ahead so that you do not spend too much money.

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How to get around Budapest on a budget

Budapest is relatively easy to get to, with direct flights from most major European cities. You can also travel by train or bus.

Public transportation within Budapest is affordable and efficient, but if you prefer your own set of wheels, there are many car rental companies in Budapest.

The city is very walkable and you will be able to get around just fine on foot, but it is still good to know that there is affordable public transport in Budapest.

The best time to visit Budapest

Budapest is a city that can be enjoyed all year round. The best time to visit Budapest is in the spring or fall (when the weather is mild, but not hot) between April and June or September through to mid-October.

The summer months are generally warm and dry; however, they can also get very hot, especially in July and August when temperatures average around 30 degrees Celcius.

Hotels during peak summer months will also increase their rates slightly compared to other times of the year due to demand from tourists!

Budapest in winter. Hungary - skyline panorama of Budapest in the winter. The Danube the Parliament the Chain Bridge and the Buda Castle.

Budget things to do in Budapest

If you are new to Budapest, it is easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of things to see and do. Do not worry! There are plenty of ways to get a good look at this beautiful city without breaking the bank.

The first thing to do is to get your bearings. The city centre is a great place to start, as it contains most of Budapest’s major attractions and historical sites.

You should not have trouble finding something here that interests you! Next, head out into the neighbourhoods to see what makes each one unique.

Central Market Hall

Budapest’s central market hall is a great place to start, especially if you love food. The building itself is stunning, daring architecture that will make your jaw drop. Inside there are several small shops selling everything from fresh produce and meats to prepared foods like sandwiches or baked goods.

Furthermore, there are stalls lining the walls selling everything from flowers, textiles and wooden toys for kids.

The market is free to enter and enjoy, with food, drink and goods being sold at affordable local prices. You will find lots of traditional Hungarian food here such as Chimney Cakes, Goulash and Langos.

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY - Great Market Hall or Central Market Hall in Budapest, Hungary

Free Walking Tour of Budapest

There is a lot to do in Budapest, but if you are not up for the crowds and spending a ton of money on sightseeing, try a free walking tour.

There are tonnes to choose from all over the city and it is one of the best ways to get acquainted with any new city. The guides know where all of the best sights are—with no admission or transportation fees attached!

You can explore at your own pace and learn about the history, culture and politics of your destination as you go. There will always be someone ready to show you around and provide a fun walking tour.

Danube River view of the Buda Castle at dramatic sunset, Budapest, Hungary

Széchenyi Thermal Baths

The thermal baths are a great way to let off steam and unwind. The baths are great for meeting new people, seeing the city from a different perspective and just generally having fun.

There is nothing quite like going for a swim in the warm water – typically around 40 degrees Celsius. The hot springs are a favourite pastime for many Hungarians, who enjoy the mineral-rich waters of these decadently hot pools.

So if you are looking for something fun to do while visiting Budapest or even if you just want something relaxing and unique during your stay there then try out one of the spas.

We would recommend the Széchenyi Thermal Baths as they are considered to be the most luxurious, however, are still very affordable. An entry ticket costs €32 and this provides entry for a full day!

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY - Szechenyi Baths in Budapest, Hungary.

Places to visit in Budapest on a budget

There are many places to visit in Budapest on a budget, and you can choose the best one depending on your interests.

The city is home to many museums, galleries and historical sites that will give you a taste of Hungarian culture. You can also enjoy some of the world’s most beautiful architectural buildings here.

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

The construction of the bridge dates back to 1840 when four stone lions were carved by János Marschalkó. Marvelling at this chain bridge is completely free and is a must for any budget travel to Budapest.

You will see stunning views across the Danube River so be sure to bring your camera along! The Széchenyi Chain Bridge stands as both a symbol of Budapest’s freedom and a homage to its citizens.

The bridge links Buda and Pest over the Danube River, offering excellent views of both sides of the city.

Budapest, Hungary. Aerial cityscape image of Budapest with Chain Bridge and parliament building during summer sunset.

Budapest Castle

When visiting Budapest for the first time, you need to visit the iconic Buda Castle. This attraction is free to walk around outside so you can experience the architecture and amazing views for absolutely nothing.

The Buda Castle is located on the Buda side of Budapest and was built as a protective stronghold at the end of the 13th century.

The castle has had many different uses throughout its long history and today still sounds proud. The castle has now been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical culture and architecture.

The castle is also home to many museums, including the Hungarian National Gallery and the National Széchenyi Library.

The castle has a beautiful view of the city, so if you are visiting during the day or at night you can see the lights of Budapest.

The best way to explore this attraction is on foot because there are many things to see and do. You can also get around by using public transportation which will drop you off near the entrance gate.

Budapest, Hungary. Beautiful aerial view of historic Buda Castle Royal Palace and South Rondella at sunrise with blue sky and clouds. View of Buda side of Budapest from Gellert Hill. History Museum.

Fisherman’s Bastion & Matthias Church

The Fisherman’s Bastion, a landmark in the city of Budapest and located near Buda Castle in the first district, is one of its most popular tourist attractions. This landmark is also free to explore and the views are unparalleled anywhere else in the city.

The Matthias Church is a Roman Catholic church that can be found within the Holy Trinity Square; it is located in this same complex. Heading over to this site will provide you with multiple things to do and views to enjoy, all for free!

Matthias church in Fisherman Bastion, Budapest, Hungary

Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building is an iconic structure in the city of Budapest. Its Italian Renaissance style can be seen not only on its interior but also outside—a fact which made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.

The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the most interesting attractions in Budapest and is definitely a sight to see, especially if you are interested in architecture. The building itself is huge and impressive.

Hungarian parliament building and Danube river, Budapest, Hungary.

The Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter is one of the most popular attractions in Budapest. It is a place that everyone should visit at least once, especially if you are interested in learning more about Hungarian history.

The Jewish Quarter is located near the Danube River and is home to many museums, synagogues and other important sites that tell the story of Budapest’s Jewish population during World War II.

The city has done an excellent job preserving this old quarter. Walk the streets and explore this area, then grab a bite to eat at one of the local food carts.

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY - The Gozsdu Courtyard, once the core of Budapest's Jewish quarter, today is popular place with restaurants, pubs and bars.

Where to stay in Budapest on a budget

You can find plenty of accommodation options in Budapest. There are hotels, guesthouses, hostels and apartment rentals on the Airbnb site. We recommend looking at all the different kinds of places to stay and picking one that suits your needs best. There are many affordable options if you shop around.

To stay in the heart of Budapest, choose a hotel near the Danube River. From this location, you can walk to most attractions and enjoy city life to its fullest.

This also means that you will not have to spend as much money on public transport, as most places are walkable. Another key decision to make when booking your accommodation is if you want to be on the Buda or Pest side of the Danube River.

The Buda side is more upscale, with expensive restaurants and hotels near historical sites such as the Buda Castle.

This means the accommodation can be a little more pricey. The Pest side of the river has a younger feel to it and some might say that it is slightly more hip. You will also find some really affordable hostels.

Some recommendations include Hostel One Budapest, The Hive Party Hostel and the Toucan Hostel Budapest. All are within walking distance of the city centre and provide a great base for exploring Budapest.

Budapest, Hungary - Street in historical city centre of Budapest in Jewish Quarter

Cheap tours to do in Budapest

There are a number of cheap tours in Budapest that will help you to get the most out of your trip. Some of the best include a river cruise, a walking tour and the Buda Castle night tour.

You can also add a trip to the thermal baths. Below is a round up of stand-out tours that are sure to improve your holiday experience.

Budapest Evening Sightseeing Cruise

Spend an evening on the Danube River, sightseeing as you sip a drink and take in famous landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament Building.

This sightseeing cruise is less than £10 and includes a cocktail! Gain an alternative perspective of the city as all the buildings are illuminated. The tour lasts about one hour and departs from Dock 42.

Budapest, Hungary - View of Danube river in Budapest, toward the Parliament building, with cruise boat in the foreground, at night.

Budapest Pub Crawl

See what the city has to offer at night with a Bar crawl tour! Get a feel for Budapest’s nightlife on this entertaining pub crawl. After you meet your guide at the beginning of the tour, head out to explore bars and pubs in classic areas like the Jewish Quarter.

After you have been introduced to the group, head to one of the city’s biggest party bars and enjoy an open bar before continuing your crawl through ruin bars, cocktail bars and more.

As you go from place to place, make sure that you make new friends and memories along the way!

The Gozsdu Courtyard, once the core of Budapest's Jewish quarter, today is popular place with restaurants, pubs and bars.

Budapest Interactive Horror Experience

Experience the horror of Budapest in a way you have never imagined with an Interactive Horror Experience. Dare yourself to enter an immersive horror theatre in Budapest with admission to ‘The Nightmare,’ where you will find performers dedicated to creating truly terrifying experiences that provoke all of your senses.

The experience is designed to be intense and definitely not for the faint-hearted. There are only a limited number of spaces available so make sure you book early to secure a place, tickets cost approx £11.50.

3D Gallery Budapest

This unique 3D Gallery allows you to take original photos with lots of 3D art. Have lots of laughter during your time here by snapping lots of photos with your own phone.

The 3D Gallery Budapest is a fun place to visit, full of laughter and smiles. The staff are very friendly and welcoming, so you can feel at ease while taking your photos.

Organ Concert in the St. Stephen’s Basilica

Experience an organ concert at St. Stephen’s Basilica. Be transported by the music of Bach, Vivaldi and other famous composers performed by some of Hungary’s leading musicians within the magnificent dome made for such acoustics. The Organ Concert lasts around two and a half hours and the ticket price is £25.

St. Stephen's basilica dome at sunset, Budapest, Hungary

Conclusion

You can do Budapest on a budget. You just have to plan ahead and be prepared. If you want to avoid paying high prices for everything from accommodation to food and drink, you will need to be strategic in how you spend your time here. The good news is that there are many things to do in Budapest that are free of charge or for a small fee.

The best way to do this would be by doing research beforehand about what there is available in Budapest before making any plans. Budapest is a great city to visit, especially if you are looking for a break from typical tourist destinations and want something different.

Recommended tours in Budapest

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Author

  • Samantha King

    Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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