Smart Saving Strategies for Hungary's Stunning Capital
Budapest offers incredible value compared to other European capitals. With our local knowledge, you can experience thermal baths, ruin bars, and stunning architecture while keeping to a budget of just RM140-180 per day.
This guide combines our team's insider tips with proven budget strategies to help you make the most of your Hungarian adventure.
How to experience Budapest for RM140-180/day
These central districts offer affordable guesthouses and hostels. Avoid the Castle District where prices are higher. Our picks: Maverick City Lodge (RM55/night) or Meander Hostel (RM60/night).
The 72-hour card (RM110) includes unlimited transit and entry to many museums. Calculate if your planned activities make it worthwhile.
Great Market Hall offers hearty Hungarian meals for RM15-20. Try lángos (fried bread) at the upstairs food stalls for RM8.
Many restaurants offer discounted lunch menus (11am-3pm). Look for "napi menü" signs with 2-3 course meals for RM20-30.
Budapest's tap water is safe and free. Carry a bottle to refill - this saves RM10-15/day on bottled water.
Budapest is very walkable. For longer distances, buy a 10-ride transit pass (RM30) instead of single tickets.
Take the 100E bus (RM8) instead of taxis (RM50+). Even cheaper: metro+bus combo for RM4 (requires transfer).
Visit Széchenyi Baths in the evening (after 5pm) when tickets are 20% cheaper (RM35 vs RM44). Bring your own towel to avoid rental fees.
Tip-based tours cover major sights. Original Free Walk (daily at 10:30am) is excellent. Budget RM20-30 tip per person.
Visit Szimpla Kert before 9pm when prices are lower. Try local beers (RM5-8) instead of cocktails (RM15+).
Many museums offer free admission on national holidays. Check the Hungarian Cultural Calendar for dates.
Walk up Castle Hill for free instead of paying RM15 for the funicular. The paths offer beautiful views.
Evening cruises can be expensive (RM60+). Opt for daytime sightseeing cruises (RM25) or the public ferry (RM5).
This beautiful park is completely free. Rent bikes (RM15/hour) or enjoy the musical fountain and rose garden.
Visit on the last Tuesday of the month when admission is free (normally RM25). Arrive early to avoid lines.
Here's how to allocate RM180 for a perfect Budapest day:
Let us handle the planning while you save
From RM2,199
5-day budget-friendly introduction to Budapest
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12-day tour including 3 nights in Budapest
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Includes 2 nights in Budapest
Budapest secrets from our Hungarian guides
"Skip the crowded Fisherman's Bastion. For free panoramic views, go to Gellért Hill (sunrise is magical) or the terrace at Buda Castle near the History Museum."
Budapest Native & Guide
"While Széchenyi is famous, locals prefer the more affordable Rudas Baths (RM25 on weekdays). The 16th-century Turkish baths are especially atmospheric."
Tour Leader
"Beyond Szimpla Kert, try lesser-known ruin bars like Ellátó Kert (cheaper drinks) or Instant (multiple rooms to explore). Go before 10pm to avoid cover charges."
Cultural Expert