A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bucharest vs. Budapest for Backpackers, Attractions, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Bucharest or Budapest?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bucharest and Budapest. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a charming, historical, and less touristy city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Budapest

Budapest is a authentic, bustling, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Budapest?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Budapest than Bucharest, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Budapest is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bucharest is more popular for its food. Budapest is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. Also, Budapest is famous for The Hungarian Parliament Building. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Budapest and Bucharest. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bucharest or Budapest?

Budapest is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Budapest. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

Is the Food Better in Bucharest or Budapest? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bucharest is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Bucharest has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Bucharest or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Budapest is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Budapest is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Budapest is well known for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Budapest?

Budapest is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Budapest is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Budapest Better for Families?

Budapest is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Budapest. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Budapest Better for Couples?

Budapest is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Budapest frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is renowned for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Bucharest or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is renowned for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

Is Bucharest or Budapest Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Budapest is renowned for its public transit. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Budapest has a great public transit system. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

Bucharest offers a very effecient public transportation network. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Is Bucharest or Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Budapest on foot is easy. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

For even more information, also check out Is Bucharest Worth Visiting? and Is Budapest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Budapest?

In either Bucharest or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than Bucharest because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

Families should spend more time in Budapest than Bucharest. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Budapest, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Budapest than Bucharest. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Budapest that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Budapest than Bucharest if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Budapest.

One day in Bucharest or Budapest?

The city of Bucharest offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

People visit Budapest because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Budapest?

Bucharest is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bucharest, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

People visit Budapest because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Budapest?

Bucharest is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

People visit Budapest because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Bucharest or Budapest?

Bucharest is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Budapest is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bucharest and Budapest, we can see that Bucharest is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Bucharest would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bucharest than you might in Budapest.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bucharest Expensive? and Is Budapest Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Budapest?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 11% larger than the population of Budapest. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest and Budapest, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Bucharest or Budapest?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bucharest or Budapest in the Summer?

Both Budapest and Bucharest during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Budapest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Budapest in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Budapest, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Budapest. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Budapest. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Budapest in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Budapest. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Budapest. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of rain as Budapest. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Budapest in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Budapest. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Budapest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Budapest can be very cold. Bucharest can be very cold during winter. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Budapest. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Budapest in the Spring?

Both Budapest and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Budapest in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Bucharest usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Budapest during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives more rain than Budapest. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Bucharest