Budapest is a beautiful city in Hungary that offers a lot for backpackers. With its rich history, stunning buildings, and lively atmosphere, you can enjoy a great trip without spending too much money. Here are some easy tips to help you explore Budapest on a budget.
1. Choose Affordable Accommodation
To save money on your trip, look for budget-friendly places to stay. Hostels are a great option, offering shared rooms at low prices. You can find good deals on websites like Airbnb and Booking.com. Prices for hostels start at around 10€-15€ per night, while private rooms on Airbnb or Booking.com can range from 25€-50€ per night depending on the location and features.
2. Use Public Transportation
Budapest has a good public transportation system with buses, trams, and the metro. Instead of taking taxis, buy a travel card for unlimited rides. A 24-hour travel card costs about 5€, while a 72-hour card is around 15€. This will help you save money and make it easy to get around the city.
3. Explore Free Attractions
There are many beautiful sights in Budapest that you can see for free! Here are a few to check out:
Fisherman’s Bastion
Free access, but there’s a fee (around 3€-5€) for the upper levels with the best views.
Heroes’ Square
Free to enter and enjoy the surroundings.
City Park
Free entry, great for a picnic or a relaxed walk.
4. Eat Like a Local
Food can take up a lot of your budget, but you can find tasty meals at low prices. Try local markets and street food stands. The Great Market Hall is a great place to sample Hungarian dishes like langos (fried dough) or goulash without spending much, with meals costing around 3€-7€. Eating at small local restaurants or snack bars can also be very affordable, often offering meals for 5€-10€.
5. Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours
Free walking tours are a fantastic way to learn about Budapest while meeting other travelers. Many companies offer these tours, and at the end, you can pay what you think the tour was worth. A common amount is around 10€-15€ for a good experience.
6. Visit Thermal Baths on Discount Days
Budapest is known for its thermal baths, but the entry fees can be high. Szechenyi Baths typically charge around 20€-25€ for a full day ticket. Look for discount days or visit during off-peak hours to save money. Soaking in the healing waters is a must-do experience!
7. Enjoy the Danube River
The Danube River has stunning views of the city’s landmarks. Instead of taking an expensive cruise (which can cost around 15€-20€), you can walk along the riverbanks or use a public ferry, which typically costs about 1€-2€ for a ride. This is a budget-friendly way to enjoy the scenery, especially at sunset when the city lights up.
8. Find Budget-Friendly Activities
Look for free or low-cost activities, like local festivals, markets, or art exhibits. Many events in Budapest are open to the public and can be enjoyed for little to no cost, allowing you to experience local culture without spending much.
Final Thoughts
Backpacking in Budapest can be affordable and fun. By choosing budget accommodation, using public transport, and seeking free attractions, you can explore this amazing city without overspending. Enjoy the local culture, try new foods, and take in the stunning sights—all while saving money. Happy travels!
