Hungary Travel Guide for Indians: Europe on a Budget
When people think of Europe, they usually imagine expensive cafés, overpriced drinks, and travel costs that quickly burn through savings. But Hungary completely flips this idea.
Hungary is one of the most affordable countries in Europe, offering beautiful architecture, rich history, vibrant nightlife, and surprisingly low daily expenses. It is also a popular filming destination for Bollywood and international cinema, which is why many Indian travelers already feel drawn to it.
Why Hungary Is One of the Cheapest Countries in Europe
Hungary consistently ranks among the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe. Compared to Western European countries, daily expenses such as food, accommodation, transport, and entertainment cost significantly less, without compromising on quality or experience.
This makes Hungary an ideal destination for:
- First-time Europe travelers
- Budget backpackers
- Students and young professionals
- Travelers looking for nightlife without overspending
Cost of Beer and Drinks in Hungary
Hungary is especially famous for its cheap alcohol prices.
A half-litre beer in bars usually costs between ₹300 and ₹1200, depending on the location and type of establishment. In supermarkets, beer can cost as low as ₹100 per pint.
Local wines and spirits are also very affordable, making Hungary one of the cheapest nightlife destinations in Europe.
Accommodation and Food Costs
Traveling in Hungary is very budget-friendly for Indian tourists.
Budget hostels and guesthouses typically cost between ₹1200 and ₹2000 per night. Mid-range hotels and Airbnbs usually range from ₹2500 to ₹5000 per night.
Local meals generally cost ₹400 to ₹700. A full day’s food expense can easily be managed within ₹1000 to ₹1500.
Hungarian food is filling, flavorful, and vegetarian options are widely available, especially in tourist areas.
Free and Low-Cost Attractions
One of the biggest advantages of traveling to Hungary is that many attractions are either free or very affordable.
Visitors can explore historic streets, bridges, viewpoints, and riverside walks without paying anything. Hungary’s famous thermal baths are reasonably priced, and museums and castles have low entry fees compared to Western Europe.
Sightseeing costs remain minimal, even for travelers staying several days.
Budapest: The Highlight of Hungary
The capital city, Budapest, is often ranked among the most beautiful cities in Europe.
Budapest is known for its stunning architecture, iconic bridges, thermal baths, ruin bars, scenic river views, and lively nightlife. The city is safe, walkable, and offers a premium European experience at a fraction of the cost of cities like Paris or London.
Many travelers describe Budapest as luxurious yet affordable.
Bollywood and Cultural Connection
Hungary, especially Budapest, has been a popular filming destination for Bollywood and international movies due to its European appearance and lower production costs.
This cultural exposure makes Hungary feel familiar and welcoming for Indian travelers.
Visa Information for Indians
Hungary is part of the Schengen Zone.
Indian passport holders need a Schengen tourist visa to visit Hungary. Once approved, the same visa allows travel across multiple European countries.
Hungary is well connected to India through major international flight hubs, making travel relatively convenient.
Why Hungary Is Perfect for First-Time Europe Travelers
Hungary offers one of the best value-for-money travel experiences in Europe.
It combines affordable accommodation, cheap food and drinks, free attractions, rich culture, and a safe environment. Planning a trip to Hungary is straightforward, making it ideal for first-time European travelers.
Final Thoughts
If you want to experience Europe without overspending, Hungary is one of the smartest choices.
Cheap beer, affordable stays, free attractions, historic cities, and vibrant nightlife make Hungary a top budget-friendly destination for Indian travelers