Hungary’s Lake Balaton more expensive than the Croatian or the Italian seaside?

Planning your 2025 summer getaway but can’t decide between Lake Balaton, Croatia, or Italy? Here’s a look at how much a one-week holiday will cost at home and abroad.

Domestic or international?

As Szeretlek Magyarország reports, when it comes to planning a holiday, many people immediately ask: why stay local when I can enjoy the seaside abroad for the same price—or even less? It’s true that in recent years, many have opted for Croatia or Italy for precisely this reason, as accommodation, dining, and activities often cost roughly the same as a trip to Lake Balaton. But in 2025, it’s worth doing the maths: do we really get more value for our money abroad?

Lake Balaton

At Lake Balaton, a one-week getaway for a family of four in a mid-range apartment starts at around 300,000 to 350,000 forints (EUR 751.48 to 876.72). If you’re seeking a modern, waterfront property, expect to pay closer to 400,000 forints. For luxury accommodation—such as four-star hotels offering full board and wellness services—costs can climb to between 1.5 and 2 million forints (EUR 3757.39 and 5009.86).

And that’s before factoring in Lake Balaton beach entry fees, meals, and various activities, all of which can significantly increase the total cost. All in all, a holiday at Lake Balaton could come to approximately 650,000 to 700,000 forints (EUR 1628.20 to 1753.45).

Croatia

Croatia remains a top holiday destination, especially the island of Vir, which is particularly popular among Hungarian travellers. Costs here are comparable to those at Balaton: a seaside apartment typically ranges from 400,000 to 450,000 forints (EUR 1001.97 to 1127.22).

One major perk is that most Croatian beaches are free—so that’s a cost you can avoid. However, dining tends to be slightly more expensive than in Hungary, with a restaurant lunch for a family costing between 15,000 and 25,000 forints (EUR 37.57 and 62.62). Ice cream isn’t any cheaper than at Balaton, either. Grocery prices are fairly similar, but travel expenses—including fuel and tolls—can add up to 200,000 to 250,000 forints.

Altogether, a Croatian holiday also falls in the 700,000 to 750,000 forint (EUR 1753.45 to 1878.70) range, putting it on par with domestic holidays in terms of overall cost.

Italy

Italy’s beaches—such as those in Bibione—are generally more expensive. Apartment rentals here start at 450,000 forints, with properties closer to the water ranging between 500,000 and 550,000 forints (EUR 1252.46 and 1377.71). While beach access is often free, renting a sunbed and umbrella can add up quickly over the course of the week.

Dining is also pricier: a typical Italian pizza or pasta dish costs between 10 and 20 euros, while a full family dinner can easily come to 25,000 to 30,000 forints (EUR 62.62 to 75.15). In addition, there’s shopping, transportation (whether by car or plane), and spending money to consider.

All told, a one-week Italian holiday for a family of four can cost around 800,000 to 850,000 forints (EUR 2003.94 to 2129.19).

Weighing the options before you book

While a holiday abroad might sound tempting at first, the figures suggest it’s not necessarily a cheaper alternative to Balaton. Croatia is roughly on par with local destinations in terms of cost. Italy remains the more expensive choice, although it offers unrivalled culinary and cultural experiences.

In the end, beyond price, it’s the overall experience, travel convenience, and your family’s preferences that will determine the best destination.

To read or share this article in Hungarian, click here: Helló Magyar

More travel news here.