Planning a trip to Hungary? Whether you’re heading to Budapest, Debrecen, Pécs, Szeged, or Lake Balaton, it’s good to know how the tourist tax in Hungary works. Unlike some Western European countries, Hungary keeps its visitor fees relatively low, but the rules still apply almost everywhere.
This guide covers:
- How much tourist tax you’ll pay
- Budapest rates and rules
- Other cities and local fees
- Who pays and who is exempt
- Latest updates for 2024–2025
- Tips to save money
- FAQs and final advice
What Is the Tourist Tax in Hungary?
Tourist tax in Hungary is called “IFA” (Idegenforgalmi Adó). It’s a small local fee charged to non-residents staying overnight in paid accommodation.
You don’t pay it separately — it’s added to your hotel, Airbnb, hostel, or guesthouse bill.
Tourist Tax in Budapest
Budapest charges 4% of your net room price per night. It’s not a flat fee, so what you pay depends on your accommodation cost.
✅ Budapest Tourist Tax Table
| Type of Stay | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| Hotels | 4% of net room price |
| Hostels | 4% |
| Airbnbs/Guesthouses | 4% |
| Apartments | 4% |
| Resorts/Spa Hotels | 4% |
Example:
If your hotel night costs €100 (before VAT), you’ll pay €4 in tourist tax.
This makes Budapest cheaper than Amsterdam, Barcelona, Paris, and Rome when it comes to tourist charges.
Tourist Tax in Other Hungarian Cities
Many cities charge a flat daily rate instead of a percentage. Here’s a quick overview:
| City/Region | Tourist Tax (per person/night) |
|---|---|
| Debrecen | ~€1.50 (600 HUF) |
| Szeged | ~€1.20 (500 HUF) |
| Pécs | ~€1.30 (550 HUF) |
| Eger | ~€1.50 (600 HUF) |
| Lake Balaton | €1 – €2 (400–800 HUF) |
| Sopron | ~€1.30 (550 HUF) |
Some small villages may skip it entirely or set very low amounts.
Who Has to Pay?
You usually pay tourist tax if:
- You’re not a registered resident
- You’re 18 or older (children often exempt)
- You stay in paid accommodation
- Your stay is leisure-based, not official business
✅ Common Exemptions
You usually do NOT pay if you are:
- Under 18 (most cases)
- A registered Hungarian resident in that city
- Staying for medical treatment in some towns
- A student in dorm housing
- Traveling for official government duty
Latest News & Updates (2024–2025)
Here’s what’s happening now:
- No national rate increase yet
- Some towns near Balaton raised fees in 2024
- Budapest kept its 4% rate for 2025
- Airbnbs now strictly monitored for tax compliance
- Talks about eco-tourist charges for nature zones
Hungary is still cheaper compared to Western Europe.
Tips to Lower Your Tourist Tax Costs
Here’s how travelers can reduce or avoid extra fees:
✅ 1. Stay Outside Budapest Districts I & V
Central stays cost more overall due to price, not tax.
✅ 2. Choose Budget Stays
Cheaper room = lower 4% fee.
✅ 3. Look at Guesthouses Over Hotels
Small family places often cost less per night.
✅ 4. Travel Off Season
Autumn, winter, and early spring have lower rates.
✅ 5. Avoid Lakeside Resorts in Peak Summer
Balaton and spa towns raise accommodation prices, which means higher tax.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Do I pay the tourist tax directly?
No, accommodations include it in your bill.
❓ Do children pay?
Usually not — under 18s are often exempt.
❓ Is Airbnb taxed?
Yes, hosts must charge and report it.
❓ How do I know if I’m charged?
It appears as “IFA,” “tourist tax,” or a city fee on your bill.
❓ Can I refuse to pay?
No — it’s mandatory for overnight visitors.
Final Thoughts
The tourist tax in Hungary is simple, low-cost, and easy to understand. In Budapest, it’s a 4% fee based on your accommodation price. In other cities, it’s a small flat rate—usually between €1 and €2 per night.
Compared to Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and France, Hungary remains budget-friendly. As long as you know what to expect, there won’t be any surprises when checking out.