Is food and drink cheap in Budapest?

Budapest's daily prices are lower than those of other European capitals. For example, you can have a good meal for € 10 ( US$ 11.63) at many restaurants or eat during a boat ride for around € 54 ( US$ 62.83).

Is Budapest cheap to eat and drink?

Is Budapest cheap to eat? Yes, Budapest offers affordable dining options. Local eateries serve meals for just a few dollars, and mid-range restaurants provide good value. Street food and market stalls present delicious, low-cost choices, allowing you to savor the city's culinary delights without a hefty price tag.

How expensive is a pint in Budapest?

To give you a clearer picture, let's break down Budapest prices for food and drink in pounds: Coffee: Coffee typically costs around £1.20 to £2.50. Beer: A pint of local beer usually ranges from £1.50 to £3.

How much do I need for 3 days in Budapest?

How much money you need for 3 days in Budapest? Depending on your needs and taste, the minimum budget you need for visiting Budapest is €40-€55 including all meals of the day and at least one attraction. From here the limit is the sky as the city is offering luxurious accommodation, dining and sightseeing options.

How much does a coffee cost in Budapest?

A coffee will rarely cost more than 900 HUF (about £2.50) for a coffee — and for an espresso or cortado, it is usually closer to 600 HUF (£1.60). What is this? Two minutes' walk from the Hungarian National Gallery, Budapest Baristas' vibrant green façade stands out on the busy Múzeum körút.

Explore BUDAPEST on a BUDGET: 10 Money-Saving TIPS by a Local | Hungary Travel Guide

Should I take cash to Budapest?

Hungary is quite card-friendly, especially in larger cities like Budapest. Most restaurants, shops, and hotels accept credit and debit cards. However, cash is still king in many smaller towns and when dealing with smaller businesses, such as market vendors or local eateries.

Can you use euros in Budapest?

Do stores in Budapest ever accept euros or pounds? Some tourist spots accept euros, but this is not the norm. Also, you'll probably get a bad exchange rate, so it's better to pay in the local currency.

How much does a toilet cost in Budapest?

Public facilities usually have toilets and hand washing amenities, but some offer showers, hair dryers and even towels. Of course an extra fee applies for these additional services. It's good to have some coins with you, as many public toilets operate automatically. These usually cost 200 HUF.

Why is it so cheap in Budapest?

The Hungarian Forint (HUF) is the local currency, with an exchange rate of approximately 367,783 HUF to 1 USD as of March 2025. This favorable exchange rate for many international travelers contributes to Budapest's affordability.

Is Budapest cheap for shopping?

In addition, Budapest is an exciting and relatively cheap shopping destination. Whether you're looking for designer clothing labels, handmade shoes, or flea-market bargains, you'll find them in this stylish city.

Do you pay for water in Budapest?

You can ask for free tap water

Although free water in restaurants is not common in Hungary, it is an option. It's worth knowing that you won't be charged for water if you specifically ask for tap water, but otherwise you'll always be served mineral water, for which you'll have to pay.

Are there toilets at Buda Castle?

CSIKÓS COURTYARD, BUDA CASTLE RIDING HALL EVENT SPACE

The main entrance of the Riding Hall is accessible by ramp. Inside the building there is lift access to the cloakroom, the accessible toilets, the boxes, and to the hall without any difference in level.

Can you use contactless in Budapest?

Choose payment method: you can pay by cash, bank card (PayPass/contactless cards). I prefer using bank card, and recommend this payment method for tourists as well.

How many HUF to a pound?

£ 1 GBP = Ft 450.8691 HUF

Last updated Sunday, 31 August 2025 07:13. Rates shown are interbank rates. eurochange rates will differ.

What language is spoken in Hungary?

– Hungarian: The only official language of the country, unrelated to any of the neighbouring languages. It is the first language of some 98.9% of the total population.

Do taxis in Budapest take credit cards?

Yes, all taxis accept credit cards. Of course, you can pay in cash. Although paying with Euro can be an option it's not recommended because of the bad exchange rate.

Is it better to use HUF or euro in Budapest?

Even Hungary is part of the European Union, you pay there with Forint, the Hungarian currency. However, many shops and restaurants in Budapest accept payments in cash or by credit card in Euros but applied rates are unfavorable. Therefore we recommend you to pay in Forint, in cash or by credit card.

What is a traditional meal in Budapest?

Goulash. Goulash is perhaps the quintessential Hungarian dish, or at least the one that has spread the furthest beyond Hungary's borders. You can also find it in some form or another in other central European countries such as the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Is it better to buy forints in Hungary?

As mentioned before, in Hungary foreign currency is not accepted anywhere, so you will need the local currency the Hungarian Forint (HUF) during your stay. We suggest not to buy forint in your home country, because HUF is likely an exotic currency and its exchange rate is less favourable than in Hungary.

What is included in a 3 course meal?

What is a 3-course meal? A 3-course meal is any meal that includes one entrée, one main course, and one dessert. Also referred to as a standard course meal, 3-course meals are considered the starting point for fine dining.

Do and don'ts in Budapest?

What time is dinner in Budapest?

#6 - In Hungary, people usually eat dinner between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. and it's the main meal of the day. For the best experience, try booking a table for 8 p.m. Most fine dining restaurants turn only one table an evening, meaning that you should be able to score an 8 p.m. reservation.