Lake Balaton accommodation prices in 2025: moderate price increase, but the high season may still bring surprises

By: Trademagazin Date: 2025. 05. 02. 11:37

As the long weekend and pre-season approach, more and more visitors are heading to Lake Balaton. According to a recent report by Pénzcentrum, accommodation prices are expected to rise only 3–5% on average compared to last year. However, further increases are possible during the high season—especially in the most popular resort towns.

Tamás Fekete, president of the Balaton Tourism Association, says pricing this year is again characterized by restraint. Despite inflationary pressures, rising wages, and overall economic conditions, many providers are making only modest price adjustments in an effort to retain guests and remain competitive.

Early Season Pricing and Money-Saving Tips

Booking directly with accommodation providers can still offer a strong bargaining position—especially for private rentals or longer stays. Choosing less frequented towns or properties farther from the lakefront can also help save money. Fortunately, Lake Balaton has excellent public transport, particularly on the southern shore.

Campsites: Still the Most Affordable Option

Here are typical campsite rates during the early season:

Adult (14+): HUF 2,080–2,600 per night
Child: HUF 2,200–2,300
Small tent (1–3 people): HUF 1,500–1,700
Large tent (4+ people): HUF 2,000–2,300
Caravan: HUF 4,200–4,500
Car: HUF 2,200–2,500

Mobile home prices range from HUF 25,000 to HUF 35,000 per night. During peak season, these rates may climb to around HUF 50,000.

Apartments and Holiday Homes: Wide Range of Prices

The average price for a room in a shared apartment is around HUF 35,000 in the pre-season, often with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. Entire holiday homes for two people can cost between HUF 25,000 and HUF 190,000 depending on location, amenities, and local events. A 20–25% increase is expected for the high season.

Hotels and Wellness Resorts: Higher Prices, More Package Deals

Four-star wellness hotels offer double rooms at HUF 40,000–60,000 per night during the pre-season. In summer, prices can increase by 20–25%, and bookings are often available only in multi-night packages.

Sample high season hotel rates:

Hotel Helikon (Keszthely): HUF 60,000–90,000
Sirius Hotel: HUF 78,000
Danubius Hotel Marina (Balatonfüred): HUF 70,000
Tópart Hotel (Balatonvilágos): similar range

Smaller guesthouses range from HUF 20,000 to HUF 40,000. A few single-room options are available for under HUF 20,000.

Last Minute Bookings on the Rise

According to Szallas.hu, last-minute bookings are becoming increasingly common. Many travelers make reservations just one month—or even less—before departure. This trend is expected to continue in 2025.

“Balaton Price Horror”? Not Quite—But Free Fried Fish Is a Thing of the Past

Experts say that prices at Lake Balaton are in line with other holiday destinations in Hungary. However, nostalgia for the cheap holidays of the socialist era still lingers in the public consciousness. These expectations are no longer realistic—quality comes at a price, just as it does at Lake Velence, Lake Tisza, or even in Budapest.

All signs point to a strong 2025 summer season at Lake Balaton, with steady demand, cautious price adjustments, a growing trend in last-minute bookings, and continued interest from both domestic and international visitors.