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

Should you visit Budapest or Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles can help you decide which place is right for you.

Budapest

Budapest is a authentic, bustling, and cultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Budapest attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Budapest travel costs.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a multicultural, sprawling, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, theater, and nightlife. See Los Angeles travel costs.

Budapest and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Budapest or Los Angeles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Budapest, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Los Angeles is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Budapest is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Los Angeles is more touristy than Budapest and is known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood. Budapest is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene.

How is Budapest different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Los Angeles are world-renowned. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Budapest can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Is Budapest or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is great for its theatre productions. However, Budapest is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Budapest is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Los Angeles has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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 Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

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

Los Angeles is a must-see party destination. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

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 Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Budapest is not a live music destination.

Is Budapest or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is great for its luxury resorts. However, Budapest is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Los Angeles. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Budapest is not a resort destination.

Is Budapest or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Budapest or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is terrific for the beach. However, Budapest is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Los Angeles is a very popular vacation destination. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Budapest or Los Angeles Better for its Old Town?

Budapest is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

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.

Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

Is Budapest or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is terrific for hiking. However, Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Budapest or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles draws large crowds to its stores. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

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 Los Angeles More Beautiful?

Budapest is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Budapest attracts visitors from all around. Set against the river, the city has beautiful buildings and nice parks.

Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Budapest or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Budapest or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Los Angeles has plenty to offer. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date 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.

Is Budapest or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Budapest, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Is Budapest or Los Angeles Better for Students?

For students, both Budapest and Los Angeles are first-rate 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.

Los Angeles is a great destination for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Budapest or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Budapest is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Los Angeles?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Budapest or Los Angeles?

Budapest is a bustling city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Los Angeles offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Los Angeles?

Budapest is a artistic big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Los Angeles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Los Angeles?

Budapest is a artistic city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Los Angeles is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting Budapest. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Los Angeles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Los Angeles has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Budapest, The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Budapest and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Budapest is in Europe and Los Angeles is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Budapest or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Budapest. When comparing the sizes of Budapest and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Budapest or Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Budapest and Los Angeles. Many visitors come to Budapest in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Budapest is around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Budapest in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In July, Budapest usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Budapest gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Budapest or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Budapest as well as Los Angeles. 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. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Budapest is generally much colder than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 12°C (53°F), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Budapest usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. Budapest gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and Budapest are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Budapest because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

The weather in Budapest can be very cold. Budapest is much colder than Los Angeles in the winter. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around -1°C (31°F) in January, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In January, Budapest usually receives less rain than Los Angeles. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Budapest or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Budapest during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Budapest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Budapest is cooler than Los Angeles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Budapest in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Los Angeles averages at about 61°F (16°C).

Budapest usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Budapest