Hungary Sets New Tourism Benchmark in 2025 as International Arrivals and Domestic Travelers Combine to Boost Economic Impact

Published on
January 21, 2026

Hungary reached a historic milestone in 2025 as more than 20 million guests stayed in commercial accommodations across the country, setting a new national tourism record. This growth reflects both a resurgence in international travel and robust domestic tourism, highlighting Hungary’s continued appeal as a cultural, historical, and recreational destination in Europe. Budapest and Lake Balaton emerged as the most popular destinations, while regional towns and spa resorts saw significant increases in visitor numbers.

Tourism Surpasses Previous Records

According to official statistics, 2025 exceeded the previous tourism benchmark set in 2024, marking a turning point in Hungary’s travel industry. Both domestic and international travelers contributed substantially, demonstrating that the country’s tourism growth is broad-based and resilient. The rise in visitors outpaced the European Union average by more than double, positioning Hungary as one of the fastest-growing tourism markets in Europe.

International travelers were a major factor behind this surge, with arrivals increasing by 12% compared with the previous year. Key source markets included Germany, Romania, Poland, the United Kingdom, and the Czech Republic. This growth emphasizes Hungary’s status as a preferred destination for European travelers seeking a blend of historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and natural attractions.

Budapest Drives Visitor Growth

The capital city remained Hungary’s most visited destination, hosting over 8 million tourists who accounted for more than 18 million overnight stays. Compared to 2024, the number of guests in Budapest rose by 13%, while overnight stays increased nearly 10%. The city continues to draw visitors with its mix of architectural marvels, thermal baths, museums, cultural events, and a vibrant dining scene, offering experiences that appeal to diverse types of travelers.

Air travel was a key contributor to Budapest’s growth. Ferenc Liszt International Airport recorded 19 million passengers in 2025, marking the highest traffic in its history. Rather than peaking in a single season, arrivals were spread throughout the year, indicating consistent international interest. The airport’s connectivity to major European cities and long-haul destinations helped fuel the steady growth in visitor numbers.

Regional Tourism Expands Strongly

While Budapest remains the central hub, other regions in Hungary also saw notable increases in tourism. Spa towns continued to attract large numbers of visitors, with Siófok, Hévíz, and Hajdúszoboszló emerging as leading destinations. Travelers were drawn by the combination of wellness tourism, therapeutic treatments, and recreational opportunities, highlighting the diversity of experiences offered beyond the capital.

Lake Balaton, the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe, welcomed approximately 3.4 million guests in 2025, reflecting a 3% growth compared to the previous year. Water-based activities, sightseeing cruises, and lakeside accommodations contributed to the rise, while passenger ship and ferry traffic reached levels not seen for decades. Domestic travelers accounted for the majority of stays outside the capital, while international tourists remained concentrated in urban centers, creating a balanced pattern of tourism activity.

High Demand in Accommodations

The influx of visitors put pressure on hotels and other accommodations, particularly in the three- and four-star segment, where occupancy rates remained high throughout the year. Nationwide, guest nights rose to nearly 49 million, up from 46.6 million in 2024, confirming that tourism growth was broad and evenly distributed.

Domestic travel initiatives also played a key role in supporting the hospitality sector. Spending via Szép voucher cards reached HUF 492 billion in 2025, reflecting the effectiveness of policies designed to stimulate local tourism. Such programs helped encourage exploration of regional destinations, contributing to the broader economic impact of tourism.

Economic Benefits of Tourism

Tourism’s influence on the Hungarian economy continued to expand, with the sector accounting for over 14% of the nation’s GDP in 2025. Nearly 10% of government revenue was linked directly or indirectly to tourism-related spending, including accommodation, transportation, dining, and leisure activities. The sector remains a significant source of employment, supporting businesses across the country from urban centers to smaller towns.

Public investment in tourism infrastructure further fueled growth. More than 21,000 projects received funding, totaling nearly HUF 405 billion, while additional support for businesses through low-interest loans enabled modernization, facility improvements, and expansion of services. These efforts have strengthened Hungary’s tourism ecosystem and enhanced its ability to accommodate rising visitor numbers.

Infrastructure and Capacity Considerations

The record tourism figures also highlighted challenges related to infrastructure capacity. Budapest, in particular, experienced high demand for hotels, transport systems, and city services. To address this, development projects at Ferenc Liszt International Airport are scheduled to begin in 2026, focusing on increasing capacity, streamlining operations, and improving the overall experience for visitors. Investments in infrastructure will be essential for sustaining growth and ensuring that Hungary can continue to attract both domestic and international travelers.

Impact of EU Border Systems

Hungary’s record year coincided with the introduction of new European Union border management systems. The Entry-Exit System (EES), operational since October 2025, digitally records entry and exit information for non-EU short-term travelers. Full implementation is expected by April 2026. The system applies to travelers who require visas or enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, while EU citizens and residents are exempt.

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will also begin in late 2026. Visa-exempt travelers will need to apply online for authorization before entering Hungary and other EU countries. The authorization will be linked to passports and remain valid for up to three years or until the passport expires. These systems are intended to improve border security and streamline short-term entry while leaving long-term visa and residence rules unchanged.

Looking Ahead

Hungary concluded 2025 with record-breaking tourism numbers, demonstrating the country’s strong international appeal and the effectiveness of its tourism policies. The growth was driven by both domestic and international travelers and extended across urban centers, spa towns, and natural destinations like Lake Balaton.

As infrastructure upgrades and border management systems are implemented, Hungary is well-positioned to maintain momentum in 2026 and beyond. Continued investment in tourism facilities, support for local businesses, and marketing campaigns will help sustain growth, attract high-value markets, and strengthen Hungary’s position as a leading European destination.

The success of 2025 illustrates that Hungary’s tourism sector is not only a key driver of economic growth but also an important tool for regional development. By offering a diverse range of experiences and improving infrastructure, Hungary is creating a sustainable foundation for tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities. With this strong foundation, the country is poised for continued success and long-term growth in the global tourism market.