Europe’s least visited destinations: why Hungary can attract more tourists

According to a recent study, once-crowded destinations such as Barcelona will no longer be at the top of travellers’ wish lists by 2050. Instead, the spotlight may shift to countries that currently receive fewer visitors. Riviera Travel looked at Eurostat data for 2023 to see which European locations fit this description—and the results may surprise you.

Hungary: a hidden gem worth exploring

Hungary is rounding out the top ten of the least visited destinations in Europe, which often takes a back seat to more prominent tourist destinations such as Rome, Paris, and London. But Hungary has a unique identity and a wealth of attractions, making it more than worth a closer look:

1. Budapest’s attractions: Divided by the Danube into historic Buda and bustling Pest, the capital offers stunning architecture, a thriving café culture, and world-famous thermal baths such as Széchenyi and Gellért.
2. Cultural wealth: from the music of Liszt and Bartók to the most modern contemporary art, Hungary boasts a rich heritage. The vibrant festival scene offers endless reasons to visit, from classical concerts and opera to the famous Sziget Festival.
3. Picturesque landscapes: Beyond the capital, Hungary’s landscapes are diverse. The area around Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest lake, attracts bathers and wine lovers alike, while the Tokaj wine region is famous for its sweet dessert wines.
4. Historic towns and villages: Sopron charms with its medieval streets, while the Alföld offers rural beauty steeped in centuries-old traditions.
5. Affordability: For many travellers, Hungary’s relatively low prices compared to Western European countries make it an attractive destination. The cost of accommodation, food and entertainment can be significantly lower than in more visited cities such as Barcelona or Paris.
6. Weather: the four seasons bring four different types of weather to the country, but if you dress well, you can still enjoy pleasant walks in the quieter months of winter, such as January and February. It can be very hot in summer, but that has its own beauty, and extreme heat is rare.
7. Family and safety: The main slogan of Hungarian tourism is that Hungary is a family-friendly country with safe streets and hospitable Hungarians that provide what you need for a family trip.