Brutal price increase in Hungarian cinemas

It has been revealed that Hungarian cinemas, specifically Cinema City, have once again raised their ticket prices, with some tickets now costing over HUF 1,000 (EUR 2.62) more than before. The unexpected price increase has raised some eyebrows. The impact of inflation, rising operational costs and disruptions in the film industry due to the Hollywood strike have caused heated debates in 2023.

Annual tradition of price hikes

According to IGN Hungary, Cinema City has a track record of annually increasing its ticket prices, following in the footsteps of the Art Cinema network and Pannonia cinemas. This trend has led to arthouse cinema prices surpassing those of mainstream venues in certain locations. As of today, the new prices are in effect at Cinema City, reshaping the cost landscape for moviegoers. If you are one of them, you can read about the best English cinemas in Budapest HERE.

Revised ticket prices

Here is a breakdown of the most common ticket types at Cinema City’s cinemas in Budapest:

• 2D Adult: HUF 2,900 / EUR 7.61 (previously HUF 2,500 / EUR 6.57)
• 2D Discounted Tickets: HUF 2,400 / EUR 6.29 (previously HUF 1,950 / EUR 5.12)
• 3D Adult: HUF 3,100 / EUR 8.13 (previously HUF 2,650 / EUR 6.97) (+ glasses: HUF 400 / EUR 1.05)
• 3D Discounted Tickets: HUF 2,600 / EUR 6.82 (previously HUF 2,100 / EUR 5.51) (+ glasses: HUF 400 / EUR 1.05)
• 2D IMAX Feature Film: HUF 3,200 / EUR 8.39 (previously HUF 2,750 / EUR 7.20)
• 2D IMAX Feature Film Discounted Tickets: HUF 2,700 / EUR 7.07 (previously HUF 2,250 / EUR 5.91)
• 3D IMAX Feature Film: HUF 3,400 / EUR 8.92 (previously HUF 2,900 / EUR 7.61) (+ glasses: HUF 500 / EUR 1.31)
• 3D IMAX Feature Film Discounted Tickets: HUF 2,900 / EUR 7.61 (previously HUF 2,450 / EUR 6.43) (+ glasses: HUF 500 / EUR 1.31)
• 4DX 2D Adult: HUF 4,200 / EUR 11.03 (previously HUF 3,500 / EUR 9.19)
• 4DX 2D Discounted Tickets: HUF 3,700 / EUR 9.71 (previously HUF 3,100 / EUR 8.13)
• 4DX 3D Adult: HUF 4,400 / EUR 11.57 (previously HUF 3,900 / EUR 10.24) (+ glasses: HUF 400 / EUR 1.05)
• 4DX 3D Discounted Tickets: HUF 3,900 / EUR 10.24 (previously HUF 3,700 / EUR 9.71) (+ glasses: HUF 400 / EUR 1.05)
• ScreenX 2D Adult: HUF 3,600 / EUR 9.44 (previously HUF 3,050 / EUR 7.99)
• ScreenX 2D Discounted Tickets: HUF 3,100 / EUR 8.13 (HUF 2,500 / EUR 6.57)
• VIP 2D: HUF 9,500 / EUR 24.88 (previously HUF 8,350 / EUR 21.92)
• VIP 3D: HUF 9,750 / EUR 25.55 (previously HUF 8,600 / EUR 22.55) (+ glasses: HUF 400 / EUR 1.05)

The silver lining: Wednesday discounts and December film offerings

While the price increase may seem substantial at first glance, it’s crucial to note that cinema remains one of the more affordable forms of entertainment in Hungary. Movie enthusiasts can still take advantage of the Wednesday discount, which offers a reduced ticket price of HUF 2,100 (EUR 5.51) for 2D films. Additionally, with an array of new films hitting the screens in December, there are plenty of options for moviegoers to enjoy the cinematic experience without breaking the bank.

Just like other industries, Cinema City adjusts its prices in response to various economic factors. The impact on moviegoers is undeniable. However, with ongoing discounts and an expanding lineup of films, the allure of the big screen remains intact. While debates about affordability continue, the cinema experience remains a cherished pastime for many in Hungary.

Source: IGN Hungary