Hungary’s tourism sector experienced unprecedented success in 2024, setting new records in both domestic and international travel. Nearly 18 million tourists chose to stay in Hungarian accommodations, an 11% increase from 2023 and the highest number in the country’s tourism history.
According to Eurostat, Hungary aligned with the broader European travel trend, reporting a 150% rise in overnight stays during the first ten months of 2024. Meanwhile, a ForwardKeys report placed Budapest among the top global travel destinations, alongside Alicante, with a 22% increase in international arrivals.
International tourism powers Hungary’s travel surge
The Hungarian National Tourism Data Supply Centre reported strong growth in foreign tourist arrivals, which reached 8.7 million, representing a 17% increase compared to 2023. Overnight stays by international travelers exceeded 22 million, up by 10%.
Germany remained the top source market of foreign tourist arrivals, registering 11% growth, while neighboring Romania and Poland also recorded significant increases.
Heavy investment in airports and hotels
Budapest Airport is on track to operate its most extensive flight schedule in history this year, with 136 direct routes, an all-time high. New standout destinations include Mumbai, India, and Shymkent, Kazakhstan.
2024 also marked a dynamic year for Hungary’s hospitality sector. Notable openings included the Kimpton BEM Budapest Hotel, housed in a fully restored historic building and featuring 127 rooms and a panoramic rooftop bar, and the newly renovated Anna Grand Hotel in Balatonfüred, offering 105 rooms and a 1,200-square-meter wellness center.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Hungarian hotel landscape will be further enriched with the openings of the St. Regis Budapest (in the historic Klotild Palace), TRIBE Budapest Airport Hotel, and Le Primore Hotel & Spa in Hévíz.
