A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Budapest vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Budapest or Barcelona?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Budapest and Barcelona can help you decide which place is right for you.

Budapest

Budapest is a historic, authentic, and bustling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a friendly, high energy, and youthful 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. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Budapest and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Budapest or Barcelona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Barcelona. Although Budapest and Barcelona are popular destinations, Barcelona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Barcelona is more touristy than Budapest and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Budapest is famous for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene.

How is Budapest different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Budapest and Barcelona.

Many visitors head to Budapest specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Barcelona can be an interesting and educational experience. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

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

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

Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

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 Budapest or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Barcelona is a must-see party destination. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Budapest has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Budapest or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is terrific for its live music scene. However, Budapest is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Barcelona. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Budapest is not a live music destination.

Is Budapest or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is very good for the beache. However, Budapest is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Barcelona to enjoy the beach. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Budapest or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Budapest and Barcelona are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Many visitors go to Barcelona to see the historical old town. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in Budapest or Barcelona?

Barcelona is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Barcelona draws large crowds to its stores. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Budapest or Barcelona Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Budapest or Barcelona.

Budapest offers lots of family activities. 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.

Barcelona is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Budapest or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Budapest is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Budapest or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Budapest and Barcelona are amazing places to visit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Budapest is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Barcelona is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Is Budapest or Barcelona Better for Students?

For students, both Budapest and Barcelona are amazing places to visit.

Students come from all over the world to visit Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Barcelona is a great destination for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

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

Budapest is renowned for its public transit. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Budapest or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Budapest is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

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

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Barcelona?

Both Budapest and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Budapest. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Budapest, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Budapest 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 Barcelona.

One day in Budapest or Barcelona?

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.

The beautiful city of Barcelona offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Budapest or Barcelona?

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.

Barcelona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Budapest or Barcelona?

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.

Barcelona is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Barcelona, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Budapest or Barcelona?

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.

Barcelona is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Barcelona has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest, The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Budapest and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona 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 Budapest Expensive? and Is Barcelona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Budapest or Barcelona?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Barcelona. When comparing the sizes of Budapest and Barcelona, 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 Budapest or Barcelona?

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 Budapest or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and Budapest during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Budapest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Barcelona in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Budapest is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 21°C (70°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Budapest. In the summer, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Budapest gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets more rain in July than Barcelona. Budapest gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Barcelona in the Autumn?

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

Budapest is cooler than Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Budapest gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Budapest usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Budapest gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Budapest or Barcelona in the Winter?

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

Budapest can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Budapest is much colder than Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Budapest in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Budapest gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Barcelona. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Barcelona in the Spring?

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

In April, Budapest is generally cooler than Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 12°C (53°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during spring. Budapest gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Budapest usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Budapest