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

Should you visit Paris or Budapest?

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

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

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

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.

Paris and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Eiffel Tower
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Paris or Budapest?

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.

The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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.

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

Paris
Budapest

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.


Is Paris or Budapest Better for Theater?

Paris
Budapest

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.

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

Paris
Budapest

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.

Is Paris or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Paris
Budapest

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.


Is Paris or Budapest Better for Music?

Paris
Budapest

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.

Is Paris or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Paris
Budapest

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Budapest?

Paris
Budapest

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.


Is Paris or Budapest Better for Christmas?

Paris
Budapest

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.

Is Paris or Budapest Better for Families?

Paris
Budapest

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.

Is Paris or Budapest Better for Couples?

Paris
Budapest

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.


Is Paris or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris
Budapest

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.

Is Paris or Budapest Better for Students?

Paris
Budapest

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.

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

Paris
Budapest

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.


Is Paris or Budapest a more walkable city?

Paris
Budapest

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?.

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Paris?

How long in Paris or Budapest?

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.


  • How many days in Paris or Budapest? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paris 3-7 
    Budapest 2-5

One day in Paris or Budapest?

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.

A weekend in Paris or Budapest?

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.


Five days in Paris or Budapest?

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.

A week in Paris or Budapest?

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.


Which place is cheaper, Budapest or Paris?

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.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paris 151
    Budapest 45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paris 302
    Budapest 90
Compare Hotels in Paris and Budapest

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.

Hotels in Paris


Hotels in Budapest


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Paris Hotel Prices and Budapest Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paris 21
    Budapest 9.66
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:


  • Metro
    6.40
  • Train from Airport
    9.00
  • Metro tickets
    6.80
  • Train
    20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paris

Also for Paris, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Versailles: Skip-the-Line Day Tour & Transfer from Paris: $2,280
  • Private Transfer to or from Toulouse: $1,412
  • From Le Havre/Honfleur: Private Transfer to Versailles: $1,411
  • Private Transfer to or from Lyon: $977
  • Private Transfer to or from Strasbourg: $977
  • Luxury Mercedes Transfer to Deauville or Le Havre: $814
  • Private Transfer from Paris City to Le Havre: $276
  • Private Airport Transfer Paris - Round Trip: $276
  • Charles De Gaule Airport Private Transfer: $276
  • Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Round Trip Transfer to/from Paris: $276
  • Private Transfer to or from Beauvais Airport: $271
  • Private transfer from Beauvais airport to Paris or back: $270

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Budapest

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Budapest:


  • Short Taxi Ride
    6.38
  • Metro Pass
    3.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Budapest

Also for Budapest, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • T72 Tank Driving with Hummer Transfer: $1,576
  • Budapest - Hungary to Bucharest - Romania /Private Transfer: $1,304
  • Bucharest - Romania to Budapest - Hungary /Private Transfer: $1,196
  • Private transfer from Budapest to Prague: $1,075
  • Private transfer from Budapest to Zagreb: $945
  • Transfer from Vienna to Budapest: $717
  • Budapest-Vienna Private Transfer by Luxury Vehicle: $652
  • From Bucharest: One-way Private Fast Transfer to Budapest: $652
  • Private transfer from Budapest to Vienna: $597
  • Private transfer between Budapest and Vienna: $478
  • Budapest-Bratislava One-Way Sightseeing Transfer: $298
  • Private Transfer from Budapest to Zadar, Hotel-to-hotel, English-speaking driver: $286

Is it cheaper to fly into Paris or Budapest?

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.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Paris 41
    Budapest 21
Typical Food Prices in Paris

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Paris:


  • Ice Cream
    8.00
  • Breakfast
    7.00
  • Breakfast for 2
    30
  • Dinner on River Cruise
    86
  • Dinner
    57
  • Cheese
    13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paris

For Paris, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Authentic Indian Dinner in Paris : $50
  • Paris Capitaine Fracasse 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $52
  • Paris : Seine River Bistronomic Dinner Cruise: $53
  • Seine River Panoramic Views Dinner Cruise: $67
  • Paris en Scene 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $68
  • No Diet Club - Paris : Night food tour - Montmartre: $68
  • Paris : No Diet Club Food Tour - Best Spots in Le Marais: $68
  • 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Bistro Dinner: $69
  • Dinner with Customized Wine Selection: $76
  • 3-Hour Dinner Cruise on Seine River and Saint-Martin Canal: $76
  • Paris Food Tour: $76
  • Seine River Dinner Cruise from Eiffel Tower: $86

Typical Food Prices in Budapest

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Budapest:


  • Lunch
    3.11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Budapest

For Budapest, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Downtown Budapest Cruise with Pizza and Beer: $35
  • Pizza & Beer Downtown Budapest Cruise: $35
  • Traveling Spoon Hungarian Goulash Private Online Cooking Class: $40
  • Vegan Hungarian Food Tour (full meals): $51
  • Medieval Dinner Show with Drinks: $53
  • Evening Cruise and Dinner with Champagne: $74
  • Danube Cruise with Hungarian Dinner and Live Music: $75
  • Dinner & Cruise on the Danube with Folklore Dance Show & Live Music: $76
  • Dinner Cruise with Operetta and Folk Show: $86
  • 3 course Dinner Cruise with Operetta and Folk Show: $87
  • 3 course Dinner Cruise with Piano Battle Show: $87
  • Lángos (Hungary’s nr1 streetfood) cooking class: $88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paris 77
    Budapest 20
Typical Entertainment Prices in Paris

For Paris, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Louvre Entry for Two
    18
  • Admission to Pantheon
    5.00
  • Catacombs (2)
    23

Tours and Activities in Paris

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Paris.

  • 2-Hour Walking Tour About French Revolution : $43
  • A Day at Parc Saint-Paul Ticket and Transport Included: $209
  • Guided Tour to Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Chronicles: $49
  • Paris Boat River Seine Cruise Sightseeing TICKETS: $22
  • Paris City Center Self-Guided Walking Tour : $11
  • Paris Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $269
  • Paris Sightseeing Tour with Seine River Cruise from Disneyland®: $83
  • Skip-the-Line Paris Catacombs Special Access Tour: $131
  • Versailles Palace Skip the Line Small Group Guided Tour: $68
  • Île de la Cité - Sainte-Chapelle & Conciergerie Tour Private Tour: $177
  • Île de la Cité, Latin Quarter & Seine River Cruise: Private Tour: $155
  • Île de la Cité, the Old Town of Paris Private Guided Tour: $201

Typical Entertainment Prices in Budapest

For Budapest, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Entrance to the Baths for Two
    6.25

Tours and Activities in Budapest

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Budapest.

  • E-ticket to Vajdahunyad Castle with Audio Tour on Your Phone : $19
  • Private Budapest city tour with a daytime Danube river cruise: $243
  • 1 Hour Budapest Segway Tour - Parliament Hightails: $39
  • 2 Hour Budapest Market and Tasting Tour: $57
  • 2 Hours Buda Castle Walking Tour - Walk with a Historian: $38
  • 2 Hours Jewish Heritage Walking Tour - Walk with a Historian: $49
  • 2-Hour Private Budapest Castle Walking Tour: $128
  • 2-Hour Private Night Tour of Budapest: $268
  • 22 Dog-statues in Budapest - an unusual tour: $25
  • 3 Cocktail Cruise Budapest Winter Edition: $35
  • 3 Hours Budapest Segway Grand City Tour Buda, Margaret and Pest: $94
  • 3-Hour Budapest E-Bike Adventure!: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paris 24
    Budapest 16
Typical Alcohol Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:


  • Wine
    14

Sample the Local Flavors in Paris

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:

  • Daily Paris Pub Crawl: Meet, Drink & Party (With Club Entry): $14
  • Original Paris Pub Crawl : $17
  • Daily Paris Pub Crawl: Meet, Drink & Party (With Club Entry): $17
  • Latin Quarter Guided Pub Crawl to Bars and Clubs: $22
  • Paris Bar Crawl: $24
  • Paris Latin Quarter Pub Crawl Bars and Clubs: $24
  • Paris Pub Crawl: $26
  • Vineyard tour and wine tasting in Davron: $32
  • Wine Museum Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $39
  • Audio guided tour and wine tasting at Caves du Louvre: $40
  • Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise & l'Atelier des lumières: $50
  • Vegan Wine Tasting in Paris right next to Père Lachaise: $50

Sample the Local Flavors in Budapest

Also in Budapest, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • 5-Hour Pub Crawl through Ruin Bars: $22
  • Ultimate Budapest Pub Crawl: $23
  • Bingo Bar Crawl: $25
  • Ruin Bar Pub Crawl with Entry Tickets: $29
  • Detective Pub Crawl Game by App: $38
  • Tipsy Tour Fun Bar Crawl with a Local Guide: $40
  • Drunken History Bar Crawl Tour with Local Drinks: $42
  • Private Wine Tasting in Budapest: $50
  • Hungarian Wine Tasting (with Cheese and Charcuterie) in Budapest: $50
  • Pub Crawl Through The Ruin Bars in Budapest with T-shirt Included: $54
  • All You Can Drink Pub Crawl Through The Ruin Bars in Budapest: $60
  • Wine Tasting Walk in Jewish Quarter Bars: $60


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?.


Which is Bigger, Paris or Budapest?

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.


When is the best time to visit Paris or Budapest?

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 Paris or Budapest in the Summer?

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.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Paris 20°C (68°F) 
    Budapest 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Paris or Budapest in the Autumn?

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.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Paris 13°C (56°F) 
    Budapest 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Paris or Budapest in the Winter?

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.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Paris 5°C (40°F) 
    Budapest -1°C (31°F)

Should I visit Paris or Budapest in the Spring?

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.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Paris 11°C (52°F) 
    Budapest 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Budapest and Paris

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)