Budapest on a Shoestring
Budapest is great for a shoestring traveler—with rich experiences that will not put a dent in your wallet. Here are some pointers that will help you discover this city affordably.
Getting There
Fly to Budapest's Main Airport
Budapest has one main airport, serving flagship and low-cost carriers alike—including Wizz Air.
Transport
Getting into Town from the Airport with Public Transport
Take 100E bus from the airport to central Budapest for 900 Ft (about $3).
Sightseeing with Public Transport
Take public transport-not overpriced tourist trams or buses. Tram line 2: Castle Hill and the Parliament in view. Trams 19 and 41: the scenic route on the Buda side. Bus 105: runs up Andrássy Avenue to Heroes' Square. Public Ferry: 750 Ft summer rides on the Danube. Accommodation Hostels Dorm beds from 3000 Ft ($8) per night. Opt for quieter hostels, not "party hostels." Homestays and Couchsurfing
Stay with locals on websites such as Airbnb, Homestay.com, or Couchsurfing for a personal and budget-friendly experience.
Attractions
Thermal Baths
Dandár Baths: 2800 Ft.
Lukács Baths: 2600 Ft after 5 pm.
Spring or Fall Visit
Spring and autumn are quite nice, with fewer tourists and lower prices compared to the peak summer season and the Christmas season.
Dining
Market Meals and Lunch Menus
Eat at the market halls, for example, Nagycsarnok, or lunch at affordable lunch menus of restaurants.
Saving Money
Budapest Card
Free public transport, entry to 20 museums, and discounts on tours and restaurants. Costs:
24 hours: 14,990 Ft
48 hours: 19,990 Ft
72 hours: 25,990 Ft
Discounts for EU Citizens
EEA citizens get various discounts, with free public transport for those over 65.
Budget-Friendly Areas
Low-Cost Accommodations
Stay within the VIII District, inside the Grand Boulevard; IX District, Pest; or XI District, Buda.
Estimated Daily Costs
Hostel Dorm Bed: 2600–8100 Ft
Basic Single Room in a Hotel: 11,000–32,500 Ft
Self-Catering Apartment: from 14,500 Ft
Public Transport Ticket (24 hours): 1650 Ft
Coffee: 400–1200 Ft
Sandwich: 2000–6000 Ft
Dinner for Two: 8000–25,000 Ft
Beer at the Bar: 600–1200 Ft
The best of Budapest doesn't have to break your wallet.
