Which place is cheaper, Budapest or Paris?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Should I visit Paris or Budapest? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.
Paris is a iconic, bustling, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.
Budapest is a bustling, cultural, and artistic 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. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.
Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris than Budapest. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Paris is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Budapest attracts visitors for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Budapest and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Budapest is famous for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Budapest and Paris. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Paris 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 Paris are world-renowned. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.
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.
Paris is terrific for its theatre productions. However, Budapest is not a theatre destination.
The theater scene in Paris is world-class. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.
Budapest is not a theatre destination.
Paris is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.
Paris has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.
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.
Paris is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.
Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.
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.
Paris 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 Paris. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.
Budapest is not a live music destination.
Budapest is great for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.
Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.
Paris does not have a historic old town.
Paris 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, Paris draws large crowds to its stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.
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.
Paris is terrific for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Budapest does not offer Christmas activities.
With so many activities, Paris is a top place to visit during Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.
Budapest does not offer Christmas activities.
Paris is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.
Paris is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.
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.
Paris 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, Paris has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.
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.
For backpackers, both Paris and Budapest are world-class places to visit.
Many backpackers frequent Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.
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.
For students, both Paris and Budapest are world-class places to visit.
Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.
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.
Paris and Budapest both offer world-class public transit to get you around.
The thorough and effecient public transit system of Paris can take you anywhere. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.
Budapest has a great public transit system. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.
Budapest is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.
Budapest is a very easy city to get around on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.
Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.
For even more information, also check out Is Paris Worth Visiting? and Is Budapest Worth Visiting?.
In either Paris or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than Budapest because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Paris, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.
Families should spend more time in Paris than Budapest. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Paris than Budapest. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris 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 Paris.
Paris is a big city with plenty to do. 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.
In Budapest, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this authentic big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.
Paris is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Budapest. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.
Paris is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paris, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.
Budapest is a fun place to experience. In Budapest, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this big city destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.
Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.
You'll find nightlife and shopping around the historic big city of Budapest. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Budapest, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Paris is €232, while the average daily cost in Budapest is €82. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Paris and Budapest in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Paris or Budapest? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:
Also for Paris, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Budapest:
Also for Budapest, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Budapest and Paris change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Paris:
For Paris, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Budapest:
For Budapest, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
For Paris, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Paris.
For Budapest, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Budapest.
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:
Also in Budapest, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paris and Budapest, we can see that Paris 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive? and Is Budapest Expensive?.
Paris has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Budapest. When comparing the sizes of Paris 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.
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.
Both Budapest and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Budapest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.
In the summer, Paris is around the same temperature as Budapest. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paris in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Budapest averages at about 21°C (70°F).
It's quite sunny in Budapest. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paris. Paris usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during summer. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Paris usually receives more rain than Budapest. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.
Both Budapest and Paris during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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.
In October, Paris is generally a little warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 13°C (56°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).
In the autumn, Paris often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun.
Paris usually gets more rain in October than Budapest. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Budapest. Many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Budapest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.
Budapest can be very cold during winter. Paris can get quite cold in the winter. Paris is much warmer than Budapest in the winter. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).
Paris usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Budapest during winter. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Paris usually receives more rain than Budapest. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.
The spring brings many poeple to Paris as well as Budapest. Most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Budapest because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.
In the spring, Paris is around the same temperature as Budapest. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paris in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).
In the spring, Paris often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Budapest. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun.
Paris usually gets more rain in April than Budapest. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.
Paris | Budapest | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 5°C (40°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) | -1°C (31°F) | 42 mm (1.7 in) |
Feb | 6°C (42°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) | 2°C (35°F) | 39 mm (1.5 in) |
Mar | 8°C (47°F) | 52 mm (2.1 in) | 7°C (44°F) | 35 mm (1.4 in) |
Apr | 11°C (52°F) | 50 mm (1.9 in) | 12°C (53°F) | 42 mm (1.7 in) |
May | 15°C (59°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) | 16°C (62°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) |
Jun | 18°C (64°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) | 20°C (67°F) | 69 mm (2.7 in) |
Jul | 20°C (68°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) | 21°C (70°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) |
Aug | 20°C (67°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 21°C (69°F) | 56 mm (2.2 in) |
Sep | 17°C (63°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) | 17°C (63°F) | 39 mm (1.5 in) |
Oct | 13°C (56°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) | 12°C (53°F) | 34 mm (1.3 in) |
Nov | 8°C (47°F) | 57 mm (2.2 in) | 6°C (42°F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) |
Dec | 5°C (42°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) | 1°C (34°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |