2024: A Record Year for Tourism in Hungary

Hungary experienced a record-breaking year in tourism in 2024, with a 6% increase in overnight stays, reaching 44.2 million, and an 11% rise in the number of visitors. The country remains an attractive international travel destination, with foreign tourists spending 10% more nights compared to the previous year. Domestic tourism also saw a boost, reflecting growing consumer confidence as Hungarian families spent more on leisure and travel.

According to data from the Central Statistical Office (KSH) and the National Tourism Data Supply Center (NTAK), 1.3 million visitors stayed in Hungary in December alone, an 11% increase from the previous year. The number of foreign visitors surged by over 20% to 715,000, with nearly 3 million overnight stays recorded—8.4% more than in December 2023. Of these, domestic tourists accounted for 1.2 million nights, while foreign visitors spent 1.7 million nights, marking a 15% rise.

Approximately 47% of all overnight stays in December occurred in the countryside, with the Balaton region remaining the most poplar destination. Meanwhile, Budapest saw a remarkable 20% increase in overnight stays by foreign tourists. This surge in tourism resulted in accommodation revenues nearing 90 billion HUF, a 22.3% rise from 2023. Hospitality revenues also grew by 10.4%, reaching 166.2 billion HUF.

These figures highlight Hungary’s growing appeal as a tourist destination, both for locals and international visitors, with a steadily expanding hospitality industry.