Soaring costs at Lake Balaton: Is the iconic Hungarian destination still worth it? – Prices, tips
Beach season is in full swing, and crowds have once again descended on Hungary’s Lake Balaton—but is it still worth the trip? More and more Hungarian families are asking that question, as the “Hungarian Sea” is no longer the budget getaway it once was. While Balaton can still be cheaper than many international vacations, prices for summer 2025 have hit new highs.
Rising prices for lángos, fried hake, and beer: What’s the damage?
The most striking price hikes are being felt at beachside snack bars. According to RTL’s report, a classic lángos with cheese and sour cream now starts at around HUF 2,400 (EUR 6), with speciality versions exceeding HUF 3,000 (EUR 7.5). Grilled hake sells for HUF 4,000–4,500 (EUR 10–11.3), while a bowl of fish soup or a gyro plate could set you back as much as HUF 6,000 (EUR 15).
If you’re in the mood for a cold beer, expect prices between HUF 1,500 and 1,900 (EUR 3.8 and 4.8). Even a 0.5-litre bottle of mineral water can cost up to HUF 750 (EUR 1.9). Ice cream goes for HUF 600–650 (EUR 1.5–1.6) per scoop, and a single ear of boiled corn runs between HUF 1,100 and 1,700 (EUR 2.8 and 4.3).
Beach admission: If you want to do more than just look at the water
Entrance fees to Balaton’s beaches have also climbed significantly. Paid beach access now costs between HUF 1,500 and 2,600 (EUR 3.8 and 6.5) for adults, while children’s tickets range from HUF 1,000 to 1,300 (EUR 2.5 to 3.3), according to Index. The steepest increase was seen in Fonyód, where ticket prices jumped by 47%.
For example, a family pass in Balatonalmádi (for two adults and children) now costs HUF 6,300 (EUR 15.8). To save money, visitors can opt for afternoon tickets, which are 30–40% cheaper.
Accommodations: Hard to find anything below EUR 38
Lodging costs are also on the rise. In mid-range apartments, the base rate per person per night with advance booking is around HUF 12,000–14,000 (EUR 30–35), but in peak season, that can go up to HUF 15,000 (EUR 38) or more. Different areas around Balaton reported significant year-over-year increases: prices rose 29% in Almádi, 17% in Füred, and 15% in Keszthely.
Entertainment and extras add up
Recreation isn’t cheap either: renting a pedal boat costs between HUF 3,000 and 7,000 (EUR 7.5 and 17.5) an hour. A glass of wine spritzer or a cocktail can cost anywhere from HUF 2,000 to 3,500 (EUR 5 to 8.8). Entry to kids’ attractions like inflatable castles and playgrounds ranges from HUF 500 to 1,500 (EUR 1.25 to 3.8) per use.
The bottom line: What one day at Lake Balaton costs
According to RTL reporter Anna Morva, a family of four could spend HUF 35,000–40,000 (EUR 88–100) in a single day on entrance fees, lunch, and snacks. Another report said a couple could easily spend HUF 25,000 (EUR 63) in one day, factoring in food, boat rides, and transportation.
Snack bar operators attribute the price hikes to rising overhead costs but say they still aim to accommodate customers’ budgets. Nonetheless, an average sit-down meal now costs at least HUF 4,500–5,000 (EUR 11.3–12.5) per person.
How to save money at the lake
Afternoon tickets: Available at a 30–40% discount, and even free at many locations.
Free public beaches: Available in places like Fonyód, Alsóörs, and Balatonfűzfő with no entry fees required.
Bring your own food and drinks: One of the biggest money-savers. A well-stocked cooler can save thousands of forints.
- Book early in smaller towns: Accommodations can be 30–40% cheaper away from the most popular lakeside cities.
Not your parents’ summer vacation anymore
As RTL’s report points out, 40 years ago a company-sponsored vacation or a two-week family retreat at Lake Balaton was the norm. Today, even a single spontaneous beach day can strain the household budget without careful planning.
Lake Balaton remains beautiful and full of experiences, but in 2025 it has clearly moved into the premium vacation category. With smart planning, early bookings, and some compromises, it’s still possible to enjoy it—but the days of spontaneous and cheap lakeside adventures seem to be gone.
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