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

Should you visit Nice or Budapest?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nice and Budapest can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nice

Nice is a opulent, trendy, and chic seaside destination. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Budapest

Budapest is a historic, authentic, and bustling 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.

Nice and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nice or Budapest?

You'll generally find more things to do in Budapest than Nice. Budapest is bigger than Nice, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Budapest is better known for its museums and big city activities, while Nice is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Nice is more touristy than Budapest and is popular for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Budapest is well known for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. Also, Budapest is famous for The Hungarian Parliament Building.

How is Nice different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Budapest is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Budapest. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Nice has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

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 Nice or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

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

Nice is a must-see party destination. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice or Budapest Better for Resorts?

Nice is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Budapest is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Nice is a perfect choice. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Budapest is not a resort destination.

Is Nice or Budapest Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice 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 Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nice or Budapest Better for Beaches?

Nice is great for the beache. However, Budapest is not a beach destination.

Nice is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Nice or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Both Nice and Budapest have superb historic old towns worth visiting.

Nice is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nice or Budapest?

Both Nice and Budapest are superb shopping destinations.

Nice is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Nice or Budapest Better for Families?

Both Nice and Budapest are notable to visit with kids.

Nice is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Budapest is a family-friendly seaside destination. 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 Nice or Budapest Better for Couples?

Nice 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, Nice has plenty to offer. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the town.

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 Nice or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is renowned for backpackers. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination to visit 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 backpackers visit Nice. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

Is Nice or Budapest Better for Students?

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

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

Nice is not popular with students.

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

Budapest is renowned for its public transit. Also, Nice is not as famous, but is still a good seaside destination 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.

Nice offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are both buses and trams.

Is Nice or Budapest a more walkable city?

Nice and Budapest both are amazing when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Nice on foot. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Nice?

How long in Nice or Budapest?

In either Nice or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Nice has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Nice than Budapest. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Nice, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Budapest than Nice 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 Nice or Budapest?

The beautiful seaside destination of Nice offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Budapest is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Nice or Budapest?

Nice 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.

Budapest is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Nice or Budapest?

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

Budapest is a authentic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Nice or Budapest?

Nice is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This seaside destination offers something for everyone.

The authentic city of Budapest offers museums and nightlife. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, 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 Nice and Budapest, we can see that Nice 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 Nice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nice 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 Nice Expensive? and Is Budapest Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nice or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Nice. When comparing the sizes of Nice 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 Nice 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 Nice or Budapest in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nice as well as Budapest. Many visitors come to Nice in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Budapest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

Nice usually gets less rain in July than Budapest. Nice gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Budapest in the Autumn?

Both Budapest and Nice are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Budapest because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nice is a little warmer than Budapest. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nice in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

It's quite rainy in Nice. In October, Nice usually receives more rain than Budapest. Nice gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nice or Budapest in the Winter?

Both Budapest and Nice during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Nice because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

It's quite cold in Budapest in the winter. In January, Nice is generally much warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Nice average around 9°C (48°F), and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

Nice usually gets more rain in January than Budapest. Nice gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nice or Budapest in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nice and Budapest. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nice this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Budapest for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Nice is a little warmer than Budapest in the spring. The daily temperature in Nice averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Nice usually receives more rain than Budapest. Nice gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Nice