Is it cheaper to go to Budapest or Vienna?

Budapest is significantly cheaper than Vienna, offering better value for accommodation, food, and activities. While Vienna is a more expensive Western European capital, Budapest remains one of the most affordable, often 30-40% cheaper for daily expenses. Budget travelers can spend $24-$50 a day in Budapest, while enjoying similar European charm.

Is Vienna cheaper than Budapest?

When it comes to budget, Budapest is cheaper to visit than Vienna. Your money will go further in Budapest especially when it comes to food and accommodation.

How much does a pint of beer cost 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. Wine: A glass of house wine is about £2 to £4.

Is 500 euros enough for 5 days in Budapest?

500-600 EUR should be more than enough if you are not aiming for the tourist traps and partying.

Which is cheaper, Austria or Hungary?

While Hungary is definitely a cheaper bet than Austria, there is something about the symphony of Salzburg, and the cultural extravaganza of Vienna that draws tourists here. If you are looking to save up on the cash, we'd suggest Hungary.

10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Budapest

Is it okay to speak English in Budapest?

In short, yes, people in Budapest do speak English, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and popular attractions. While you may encounter language barriers outside the city center or in more local settings, the overall experience for English-speaking travelers is generally smooth and manageable.

Is Vienna or Budapest better?

It somewhat depends on what you want to do. Vienna, as the Hapsburg capital, has more and better art and architecture. Budapest, in my opinion, has better food and better nightlife. I thoroughly enjoyed both, so if you have time, splitting it is a good idea.

How much is 10 pounds in Budapest money?

10 British Pounds (£) is worth approximately 4,400 to 4,440 Hungarian Forints (HUF), though the exact amount fluctuates with the live exchange rate, so check a current converter for the precise figure when you're converting. 

Is Budapest cheap for Brits?

No, Budapest remains one of Europe's most budget-friendly capital cities in 2025. It's approximately 47% cheaper than Western European capitals like Paris or London.

Is it customary to tip in Budapest?

In Hungary, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. It's standard practice to tip between 10 to 15 percent but many establishments include a 12.5 percent service charge so check your bill when it arrives. If service charge is included, there's no need to leave any extra.

What is the main beer in Budapest?

The best known domestic brands are Dreher, Borsodi and Soproni. Although these are mainstream breweries, you can still find good tastes among them.

How much is a train ticket from Vienna to Budapest?

The price of train tickets from Vienna to Budapest starts at £8.21§ one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

How to do Budapest on a budget?

How to get the best out of Budapest on a budget

1. Budget airlines fly into Budapest's main airport. ...
2. Take public transport from the airport to central Budapest. ...
3. Central Budapest has lots of hostels. ...
4. Stay with locals: couch surf or find a homestay. ...
5. Forget a tour bus: see the city from public transportation.

Is Hungary 1 hour ahead of the UK?

United Kingdom is 1 hour behind of Hungary. If you are in United Kingdom, the most convenient time to accommodate all parties is between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm for a conference call or meeting. In Hungary, this will be a usual working time of between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm.

Can you do Budapest and Vienna in 4 days?

This itinerary is especially meaningful to me because I curated it for some dear friends visiting Budapest, Vienna and Prague for the first time, with only 3–4 days to experience it all. They had a blast exploring the rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant culture each city has to offer.

How long is the train journey from Vienna to Budapest?

Thanks to Europe's great rail connections and train services via ÖBB—Austria's national train operator—the journey from Vienna to Budapest takes an average of 3h 18m, with about 17 trains leaving the Austrian capital per day. Trains from Budapest to Vienna take an average of 3h 39m with around 22 trains per day.

Do and don'ts in Budapest?

DON'T go jogging in the city. The streets can be dirty, the sidewalks are narrow, and you always have to stop when you cross a street. DON'T change too many Hungarian forints. Awful currency, in a few years the nice 20,000 forint banknote will be worth only a few USD.

Do UK residents need a visa for Budapest?

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area, which includes Hungary, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel: as a tourist. to visit family or friends.