Erasmus in Budapest
Information and tips for Erasmus students in Budapest
| Private rooms Budapest | 997 | 414/month |
| Residences Budapest | 1 | 650/month |
| Studios Budapest | 31 | 691/month |
| Apartments Budapest | 1048 | 1128/month |
Hungary's capital is one of the most popular cities for international students. Budapest combines history, culture and a lively nightlife, making it ideal for those looking for a complete experience. With a large Erasmus student community, it's easy to meet people from all over the world as you explore its iconic buildings, thermal baths and traditional markets. Plus, the cost of living is lower than in many other European capitals, allowing you to enjoy the city without spending too much.
The city is home to renowned Universities such as the Eótvös Loránd University (ELTE), the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) and the Corvinus University. The city's academic offer and international atmosphere mean that many students choose this city for their Erasmus studies every year.
Want to know more about the city? We'll tell you all about it below!
Cost of Living in Budapest, Hungary
The cost of living in Budapest is affordable compared to other European capitals.
- Accommodation: single rooms in shared flats usually cost HUF 79,600 to HUF 199,000 (approx. €200-€500) per month, depending on the area. University halls of residence can cost HUF 91,540 to HUF 139,300 (approx. €230-€350) per month.
- Transport: Budapest has an excellent public transport system. A monthly student travel pass costs around HUF 3,980 (approx. €10), and includes metro, tram and buses.
As a student, you can live on a budget of HUF 199,000 to HUF 278,600 (approx. €500-€700) per month, including accommodation, food, transport and leisure.
Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Budapest, Hungary
There’s a lot of partying in Budapest! No matter your age or style of music you prefer, you'll find the perfect place.
The city is separated in two by the Danube River. One part is Buda, where the quieter, residential areas are located, and the other is Pest, where life is a bit more chaotic with a great variety of places to party. Pest is home to many young people and students (including Erasmus students).
Universities often organise parties for their exchange students, but you can also go out to bars and discos. Young people usually meet in a bar for a drink before going out to party. One meeting place is the Szimpla Kert, one of the city's most famous ruin bars.
Some of the best places to party in the city are Club Heaven Budapest, Ötkert or Peaches And Cream Club.
For those who prefer quiet activities, the city offers numerous plans such as boat trips on the Danube, picnics on Margaret Island (Margit-sziget) or visits to thermal baths such as Széchenyi or Gellért.
Culture and gastronomy in Budapest, Hungary
If there's one thing you'll enjoy about this city, it’s its culture and history. It's full of life, colours, museums and galleries!
If you're interested in history, visit the Parliament of Budapest (Országház), one of the city's most iconic buildings, with its impressive neo-Gothic architecture on the banks of the Danube. You can also visit the Buda Castle (Budavári Palota), a historic fortress that houses museums and offers a spectacular view of the city. Finally, visit the famous Fisherman's Bastion (Halászbástya) and the beautiful Church of Our Lady of Buda (Budavári Nagyboldogasszony-templom), which offer panoramic views of the city and the Danube River.
If you go on Erasmus to Budapest you can also enjoy its traditional festivities and celebrations. For example, the 15th of March is the Independence Day in Budapest, a very important day all over Hungary. Another incredible and well-known event is the Spring Festival, which takes place during the month of April. These are just a few examples, but you'll experience many more during your Erasmus!
As for the city's gastronomy, be prepared to enjoy its traditional dishes at very affordable prices. One of the most typical recipes you'll find in any restaurant is the 'goulash', a type of soup, perfect for cold days. Other popular dishes are: 'langos' (crispy fried dough served with sour cream, grated cheese and garlic), 'palacsinta' (Hungarian crepe filled with jam, chocolate or sweet curd cheese) and 'kürtöskalács' (a cylindrical cake made of sweet dough baked and covered with sugar and cinnamon).
You can try these dishes at Retro Lángos Budapest, Kisharang Étkezde or Gozsdu Lángos Bistro.
Advantages and disadvantages of an Erasmus in Budapest
Advantages
- See two cities in one. Being separated by the river, it gives the feeling that on each side of the Danube there’s a different city (Buda and Pest). Discover the differences and beauties of each.
- It has a very active and multicultural student atmosphere.
- Attend a large number of cultural events, such as its festivals, which are held in many parts of the city.
- Live the Erasmus experience to the fullest for a very affordable price.
- Enjoy a city with lots of nightlife, history and culture.
- Its location is ideal for easy travel to other Central European countries.
Disadvantages
- The Hungarian language is complicated and can make it difficult to communicate with the locals. In fact, it’s said to be one of the most difficult languages in the world.
- Winters are cold and long, which can affect those who are not used to it.
- The bureaucracy for administrative procedures is sometimes slow and confusing for foreign students.
Cheap student accommodation in Budapest, Hungary
Are you looking for accommodation in Budapest, but don't know how to find it? In the Erasmus Play search engine you can compare many offers of student flats, rooms and residences in Budapest quickly and easily. And for your added security, all the flats listed are fully verified so you can book them 100% online.
FAQ about doing Erasmus in Budapest
How much does it cost to live in Budapest as a student?
A student in Budapest can spend, on average, between HUF 199,000 and HUF 278,600 (approx. €500-€700) per month. This amount includes accommodation, food and possible leisure activities. However, this also depends on your lifestyle.
What’s student life like in Budapest?
It’s a city where most students live close to each other. There are a lot of young people and therefore the student atmosphere and the party atmosphere are perfect for an Erasmus student.
How much does student accommodation cost in Budapest?
A room in a shared flat costs HUF 79,600 to HUF 199,000 (approx. €200-€500 per month, while residences can be between HUF 91,540 to HUF 139,300 (approx. €230-€350).
Erasmus in Budapest, flat or residence?
The preferred option for Erasmus students in Budapest is usually to rent a room in a shared flat. It’s usually cheaper than a residence and you can look for a room in the location of your choice.
How much is the Erasmus scholarship to study in Budapest?
The amount of the Erasmus scholarship varies according to your home country and the policies of your University. We recommend you to check with your institution.
Which are the best areas to live in Budapest?
Budapest is a city divided into districts. District V is where the centre is located and where students usually look for accommodation. Universities are usually located in Buda, although young people tend to live in Pest. Public transport in the city is very good, so don't worry if you have to get around every day.
