Is Lake Balaton really that expensive? A day at Western Hungarian spas might cost even more!
When people hear about rising prices and summer beaches in the same sentence, they usually think of Lake Balaton. But this year, even a day at a classic countryside spa can easily match—or even surpass—Balaton’s price levels, as seen in a price analysis from Bükfürdő.
Entrance fees alone come with a price tag
According to Pénzcentrum, fans of this spa town will have to dig deep into their wallets just to start the day. An adult day pass costs HUF 6,900 (EUR 17), student tickets are HUF 4,700 (EUR 12), and children pay HUF 3,100 (EUR 8). A family ticket for three is HUF 14,900 (EUR 38), an afternoon ticket is HUF 5,100 (EUR 13), and access to the sauna area will set you back HUF 10,500 (EUR 26). These prices rival — and in some cases even exceed — those found at some of the most popular beaches around Lake Balaton.
Menu prices mirror Balaton’s levels
Food and drink selection is broad, but far from budget-friendly. A bowl of goulash soup costs HUF 1,230 (EUR 3), an American-style burger is HUF 3,100 (EUR 8), a hot dog costs HUF 1,400 (EUR 3.5), and lángos ranges between HUF 1,500 to 2,000 (EUR 3.8 to 5) depending on toppings. Pancakes go for HUF 1,000 (EUR 2.5), while a pizza will cost between HUF 2,500 to 3,000 (EUR 6.3 to 7.6). Among non-fast food options, breaded chicken breast is priced at HUF 2,400 (EUR 6), and fried hake fish goes for HUF 3,400 (EUR 8.6). Takeaway food containers cost an extra HUF 150 (EUR 0.4) each.
As for beverages, canned beers range between HUF 800 and 1,000 (EUR 2 and 2.5), energy drinks cost between HUF 900 and 1,200 (EUR 2.3 and 3), and a half-litre of lemonade is HUF 1,350 (EUR 3.4). Freshly squeezed juice is HUF 850 (EUR 2.1), while a half-litre bottle of mineral water sells for HUF 750 (EUR 1.9). And let’s not forget the ice cream: one scoop costs HUF 650 (EUR 1.6). These “countryside” prices now fully match the well-known Balaton price scale.
On the upside, the higher costs are offset by a high level of service. Many concession stands feature touchscreen ordering kiosks to speed up service and minimise lines. Orders are fulfilled quickly, and staff remain polite and well-prepared for the summer crowd.
The takeaway: Not just Balaton, countryside spa days are pricey too
Bükfürdő makes it clear: when it comes to summertime price hikes, Balaton is no longer the only hotspot. Those seeking a relaxing day in a spa town should know that a simple outing — from entrance tickets to snacks and drinks — can easily add up to the cost of a minor family vacation. Travellers planning a getaway should do their research, because spending at a countryside spa can equal or even exceed that of the “Hungarian Sea.”
To read or share this article in Hungarian, click here: Helló Magyar
Read more Balaton-related news on Daily News Hungary!
Read also: