The Hungarian capital of Budapest is high on the bucket list of any traveller in Europe. After all, where else can you spend the night in a ruin bar before nursing your hangover over a game of chess in a thermal spa? Not to mention the sublime architecture you’ll pass by from place to place that boasts everything from baroque to art nouveau.
Another bonus of travelling to Budapest is the cost of travel. It’s much lower than capitals in Western Europe, meaning your money will go much further. Including with your accommodation.
There are a ton of hostels and hotels in Budapest, but you might be surprised to learn that vacation rentals in Budapest such as those found on Airbnb, are just as affordable. Most hotels will charge you a city tax, which is included in the price of an Airbnb in Budapest, so you will end up paying around the same price but missing out on homely comforts.
As well as offering homely comforts, vacation rentals in Budapest are often in the most historic buildings in the city center that’s within walking distance of many key attractions.
It all sounds like a good idea, right? Well, you’re going to need some help whittling down the list of Airbnbs in Budapest because there is a ton of options. I’ve put together this list of the best Airbnbs in the city, including five of the best Airbnb Experiences, so you can plan what to do when you’re there.
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Budapest
Friendly Home in the Heart of Budapest
- > $
- > 3 Guests
- > Great location
- > Fully equipped kitchen
Cherry Tree Studio
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Private bathroom
- > Coffee machine, fridge and microwave
Central Harmony Penthouse
- > $$$$$$$$
- > 10 Guests
- > Rooftop hot tub
- > Terraces in ALL bedrooms
Cosy Historic Studio
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Top location
- > Access to kitchen
Entire Rental Unit W/ Central Location
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > Dedicated workspace
- > Top location
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Budapest
The short answer? A lot. As one of the cheapest capital cities in Europe, you can get an entire studio flat for the price you’d pay for a dorm bed in a hostel in Paris or London… if you know where to look, that is. If you’re backpacking Budapest on a budget, you’ll feel like you’re in paradise. With loads of flats, entire loft apartments, and penthouses in the historic centre, there’s an embarrassment of riches.
Which rentals Budapest you choose should depend on what you want to do when you’re there. The city is quite large! The castle is on the Buda side of the river; however, it might be more fun to stay in Pest, as there’s lots of nightlife and restaurants. That’s where the thermal spas are, too.
Many Budapest Airbnbs will see you dealing with a local host. However, in larger and pricier properties, you may go through a business instead.
A little more exclusive than an entire flat, loft apartments are always found above the first floor of the building. However, more often than not, they’ll be on the top floor.
Yes, I get it. You turned to Airbnb because you wanted to get away from the drab and mundane charms (or lack of) of a hotel. However, boutique hotels have only their name in common with the uninspiring budget hotels you find in every city.
My third top type of accommodation in Budapest is the entire flat. Though it’s probably the most common type of listing on Airbnb in general, don’t let that put you off. You can get some crazy places that you wouldn’t even think up in your wildest dreams!
The Top 15 Airbnbs in Budapest
Now, let’s get to the part you’ve been waiting for. Here is my hand-picked selection of the 15 best Airbnbs in Budapest. All you need to do is pick the one that suits you best!
Friendly Home in the Heart of Budapest | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Budapest
The central location of this Budapest Airbnb is just the start of what makes it so great. With room for three guests, it could suit a couple on a budget or even a very small group of friends. Hey, it’s so cheap that a solo backpacker could stretch to it. You’ve got a living room and a fully equipped kitchen with a washing machine, so if you fancy a night off from ruin bars, you’re sure not to be disappointed. If you want a place to stay in Budapest‘s city center with all the attractions within walking distance, I’ve found it for you.
Cherry Tree Studio | Best Budget Airbnb in Budapest
If you’re travelling on a budget, you’re lucky to have your pick of places in Budapest, the hostels are amazing… But you won’t find an Airbnb cheaper than the Cherry Tree Studio… at least, that you’d want to spend the night in! With room for two guests, it’s ideal for a solo traveller looking for a local experience or a couple on a shoestring. In your room, you can prepare simple meals with the use of a microwave and coffee machine.
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View on Osprey View on REICentral Harmony Penthouse | Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in Budapest
Budapest is lauded for being a cheap destination. But what happens when you have some money to throw around? Well, you get a rooftop jacuzzi, sauna, and terrace in a penthouse off Andrássy Street – often referred to as Budapest’s Champs-Elysées! If you want some privacy, there are terraces in all bedrooms, too. This extravagant apartment is perfect for gatherings of family and friends.
Cosy Historic Studio | Perfect Airbnb for Solo Travellers
A studio is a good option for a solo traveller as it provides enough space to move around and has all the amenities you would need, but at a fraction of the price. This gorgeous two-story studio is in a beautiful historic building and has been decorated with ornate features and furnishings.
As well as this, there are also stunning views of the Danube. The location of this studio could not be better, being in district 5, right on the riverfront. You can easily walk to many of the cities top attractions from this apartment including Central Market Hall, Hungarian National Museum and Liberty Statue.
Entire Rental Unit W/ Central Location | Perfect Airbnb for Digital Nomads
This cozy Budapest Airbnb is the perfect place for digital nomads to settle down for a while and catch up with some work. The work-life balance in Budapest is amazing – as is the low cost of living.
Of course, to be a functioning (let alone successful) digital nomad, you’ll need fast Wi-Fi and a dedicated workspace. You can check both off the list at this apartment – as well as your own living space, tons of natural light, a spacious living room, washing machine and it’s just a short walk to many of the city’s must-see attractions including Chain Bridge and The Parliament Building.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Budapest
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Budapest!
Blue 72 Central Apartment | Most Romantic Airbnb for Couples
Budapest is a very romantic city. Take your other half to the spas, go for a sunset walk along the Danube, or take a river cruise. For all these things, you’ll need a comfy and convenient base. That’s exactly what the Blue 72 Apartment is! Offering a king bed, plus a spacious living area, fully stocked kitchen with a washing machine, it’s the perfect place to come back to after a busy day and spend some alone time with your partner. Plus it’s located right in the city center so you are within walking distance of many of the top attractions.
Apartment at Oktogon/Central | Best Airbnb in Budapest for Families
Travelling to Budapest with the family? You’ll be pleased to know that it’s not all about studio flats and private rooms; you can easily find larger apartments too – such as this central apartment with three bedrooms. It offers room for up to eight guests, making it perfect for a family vacation. And thanks to the three bathrooms, there’ll never be a queue when you’re getting ready to go out!
Top Loft with 2 Panoramic Terraces | Best Loft in Budapest
I like lofts in Budapest, but this one has to be my favourite. From all the mod cons on show in the photos, it’s hard to believe this is located in a historic building. But this loft is full of surprises. It also boasts not one but two roof terraces, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or something a little stronger as you watch the sunset. Just make sure you actually set some time aside to get out and make the most of the city!
Boutique apartment by the Castle | Best Boutique Hotel in Budapest
One of the most breathtaking Airbnbs in Budapest, this boutique apartment is worth every forint.
This beautiful Modern, renovated apartment is literally steps away from the Unesco World Heritage-listed Buda Castle, the famous Chain Bridge and the Funicular. Walk on the cobblestones of Varkert Garden before sipping a fancy drink at the rooftop bar.
Design Studio at the Ruin Pubs | Best Entire Flat in Budapest
Looking to explore Budapest from your entire flat? Then look no further than this studio apartment. There’s space for up to four guests, but since one of the beds is a sofa, it might be better for a couple. As well as flexible check-in, you’ve got a fully equipped kitchen and dining area if you don’t want to spend money eating out for every meal. The exposed brickwork and low lighting are really atmospheric – great for pre-drinks before hitting the ruin bars!
Amazing Museum Like Industrial Space | Best Airbnb Plus in Budapest
Airbnb Plus properties are hand-picked according to their high review scores, attentive hosts, and a personal visit from an Airbnb staff member. Designed by an artist, this quirky apartment is pricier than most Budapest flats, but you do get a pinball machine – and there’s a trailer inside the house! Fun and entertaining, it’s a one of a kind Budapest Airbnb!
Studio Apartment with Balcony | Best Airbnb with a View in Budapest
If you’re looking for a Budapest Airbnb with a view, you will need to look hard. Fortunately, I have found the perfect vacation rental with a view of the gorgeous Toldy neogothic lyceum from its own private balcony. Here, you will find two chairs and a table where you can sit out and enjoy a morning coffee with a view of one of Budapest’s most beautiful buildings.
Located at the foot of Castle Hill, the chain bridge and Heroes Square are within walking distance of this modern apartment. As well as that view, you’ve also got an entire apartment to yourself, complete with a fully equipped kitchen, stylish living and bedroom space and a contemporary bathroom, all at a very low price!
Spirit of Budapest City Centre | Best Airbnb for a Weekend in Budapest
When spending a weekend in Budapest, location is the most important thing. But rather than settling for any old place in the city centre, make sure it’s comfortable and has a bit of character! Like this place. With room for up to four guests across two king beds, you have a cosy living space and fully equipped kitchen right in the heart of the historic centre.
Designer’s Loft in a Period Building | Most Beautiful Airbnb in Budapest
A tasteful combination of contemporary and classic, this Airbnb Plus loft apartment is sure to take your breath away. Sit back on the leather sofa and look up at the wooden beams as you breathe in the air made cleaner by the enormous house plants. There are lovely spots throughout the apartment for watching TV, reading, cooking, and eating. When you reluctantly leave, you can at least be consoled by the fact that there are loads of attractions right on your doorstep!
Bright and Spacious Central Home | Best Airbnb in Budapest for a Group of Friends
If you’re travelling with friends, it’s important to have a place where everyone can kick back and chill together. The large open plan living space here has an L-shaped sofa where you can chat or play games after a day of exploring the city. Eating out can be expensive, so make a group favourite in the fully equipped kitchen. No-one will end up on an air bed or a floor mattress either – only queen beds here!
Airbnb Experiences
Do you fancy a day trip to go with that nice little apartment?!
Airbnb Experiences is a feature offered by Airbnb that allows hosts to offer unique, curated activities to guests – or to anyone who’s interested in, even if they’re not staying at an Airbnb property. These experiences can range from cooking classes and guided tours to art workshops, outdoor adventures, and more.
Airbnb Experiences was created to offer travellers a deeper connection with a destination by offering truly unique experiences, all led by locals who are both knowledgeable and passionate about their city.
Some personal highlights of my Airbnb Experiences include a tapas bar-crawl in Granada, a Samurai workshop in Kyoto, and a graffiti spotting bike ride around Bogota.
What To Pack For Budapest
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Budapest Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Budapest Airbnbs
Well, there you have it. You’ve now seen the 15 best Airbnbs in Budapest and five awesome experiences you can do during your visit. Whether you want to be in a penthouse overlooking the Danube, a cute boutique hotel, or a cheap and cheerful studio, you’ll find your dream accommodation.
If you’re still struggling to decide where to stay, just go for my overall best value Airbnb in Budapest. That’s the Friendly Home in the Heart of the City. As well as a superb location, you get a lot of bang for your buck in a contemporary and relaxing space.I hope that wherever you choose to stay, you have an incredible vacation in Hungary. And to make sure you’re covered for any unprecedented events, don’t forget to take out a travel insurance policy with World Nomads.
- Check out our Backpacking Budapest guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Budapest guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in Budapest too.
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