Introduction
You’ve just booked your Budapest vacation and you’re wondering how much pocket money you will need for 5 days. Well, you’re in the right place! Hungary’s capital Budapest is blessed with incredible historic and cultural sites delicious foods and of course natural beauty. Forgoing overspending is always a daunting task, especially when travelling, which is why in this blog post, we will help you balance your expenditures.
Accommodation Expenses
Living expenses if you plan on renting an apartment in Budapest will probably be one of the biggest expenses which you will incur. There are many choices available for the tourist to meet the need of every pocket. As much as it is expected to experience some cash drain in the process, there are budget friendly hotels like hostel or Economy hotels depending on your preferences. The average price per night for a basic to moderately good hotel range from 50-100 dollars.
Transportation Costs
This being the capital city of one of the most developed countries in Europe, Budapest is well equipped with a modern transport system that ensures tourist can easily move around the city without having to spend too much. This is by agreeing to pay a fixed amount of money which gives you the Budapest Card with free public transport and cheaper prices on various things. It’s possible to purchase the card for various period: 3 days, the price for which is approximately $24. But if you do not object to individual tickets, a single journey in public transport can be obtained for about $1.50.
Food and Drink Expenses
The lovers of good foods will always find tasty meals in Budapest and all of them are cheap. Hungary has great restaurant and foods to taste, the Hungarian food specialties include goulash, chimney cake, and langos. Good cheap eats can be eating everywhere in the city in restaurants and definitely from street food sellers. And while dining out, one can spend from $10 -$20 per meal on an average if dining at a mid price range restaurant.
Attractions and Sightseeing
As any tourist knows, it would not be a proper visit to Budapest if you don’t get to tour this city’s landmarks. The city has a rich culture and history; tourists can visit Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and Fisherman’s Bastion among other points of interest. Most of these attractions have provision for free entry, or reduced rates for students, and senior citizens. On average expect to spend between $20 $30 for entrance fees and guided tours.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Budapest is a city with a rich nightlife, many clubs, night clubs and entertainment institutions where you can go out after sunset. The ruin bars emerging in the Jewish District are not to be missed. These are quite exotic bars and they are located in the buildings which can be considered abandoned and the parties are rather buoyant. The cover charges to most bars and clubs range from low charges or free charges and the cost of drinks ranges from $5 to $10 for most of the drinks.
Additional Tips
Perhaps you should buy a local SIM card and data bundle to avoid high rates usually charged when roaming.
Refill your water bottle in a fountain or simply purchase a small water bottle instead of a big one to save your money you spend on water.
Make sure you study and book all your travel plans before hand so that you do not have to pay a lot on impulse.
Search for any promotional performance or show, festival, or any exhibit that may be on tour within your chosen place of visit.
It is advisable to sit at little testy restaurants rather than the big fancy ones that are likely to attract a high number of international tourists.
Conclusion
When it comes to budget traveling, I would recommend Budapest which I am going to discuss below. If you manage your spending wisely, you can easily be able to spend five days in Budapest without digging a deep hole in your pocket. Do also know that your budget would vary based on your preferred or desired lifestyle while on the trip. Combined with a wealth of history and architecture and relatively low prices – Budapest will surely enchant you.