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.