Travelling from Hungary? Good news: Flights are now cheaper than last year across Europe!
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In a surprising shift from previous years, airfare prices across Europe have decreased rather than increased in 2025—despite high passenger demand and nearly full flights. According to data from Repjegy.hu, the average load factor on European routes remains between 90–95%, yet prices are often lower than in 2024, even outperforming train travel in terms of cost and time.
According to Világgazdaság, one key factor behind the lower fares is the removal of Hungary’s excess profit tax (departure tax) on airlines, which had previously inflated ticket prices. While budget airlines continue to offer the most affordable options, even full-service carriers are seeing price reductions on certain routes—especially outside peak travel periods.
Top destinations cheaper than in 2024
Rome and London remain the top destinations, but cities like Malta, Bari, Naples, Stuttgart, Copenhagen, and Alicante have made significant gains in popularity this year. Notably, Malta, Bari, and Athens have entered the top 10 most booked destinations. Istanbul, a consistent favourite, has climbed to third place, overtaking Paris and Amsterdam.
Among the most surprising price drops, flights to Naples are now 15% cheaper than last year, while Athens and Malta saw decreases of 11.3% and 12.6%, respectively. Even with increased popularity, Milan, Catania, and these southern European destinations remain more than 10% cheaper compared to 2024.
Excellent news. Air travel must never become the preserve of the elites, who lecture us about SavINg tHe pLaNEt while they send empty private jets across the Atlantic to get a favorite cake from Paris.