Best Cheap Budapest Cruises – Day & Night

The Most Budget-Friendly River Excursions

We compiled and reviewed the best cheap Budapest cruises available in 2023 to save you the work and money.

Nestled on the banks of the magnificent Danube River, the Hungarian capital offers a plethora of options for travelers seeking affordable yet memorable cruising experiences.

Several companies run sightseeing boat tours with a wide range in

  • Schedule,
  • Duration, and
  • Inclusions.
a large, white sightseeing boat on the Danube at Buda castle

Selecting the most suitable one isn’t easy. We’ve researched and reviewed 5 of the most inexpensive, good quality Danube tours and made this guide to help you choose.

Let’s dive into the world of budget-friendly Budapest cruises, discovering top choices and useful tips to make the most of your cruise while keeping costs in check.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

People drinking cocktails

Happy Hour -60 minute Cruise

🍹🍸1 cocktail of your choice

Departures: 11:00 / 13:00 / 15:00 / 16:30 / 18:00 / 19:30 / 21:00

Duration: 60 min. – Price €19

Understanding Cheap Budapest Cruises

Cheap Budapest cruises refer to river tours along the Danube that provide excellent value for money without compromising on the experience.

These programs are designed to cater to budget-conscious travelers who want to enjoy the scenic beauty of Budapest and its symbolic landmarks, such as the

  • Parliament Building,
  • Buda Castle, and the
  • Chain Bridge, without breaking the bank.

Factors to Consider When Looking For Budget-Friendly Cruises

Before searching for the best cheap Budapest cruises, it’s essential to consider a few factors that can help you make an informed decision.

Here are some key considerations:

1. Duration and Itinerary

When looking for budget-friendly cruises, consider the duration of the cruise and the attractions covered in the itinerary. Opting for shorter cruises or those that focus on specific highlights can often be more cost-effective. Most of these cheap Budapest cruises are 60- 70 minutes long.

2. Daytime or Nighttime Cruise?

River tours in the evening and late at night – departing at 21.00 or later – cost usually a bit more than daytime tours even if the itinerary and the inclusions are the same.

Budapest is captivating both during the day and at night when the decorative lighting makes the city scape even more wondrous. It really depends on your preferences which departure time you pick, both options have pros and cons.

TIP: For example, it’s much hotter during the day than after sunset in summer, so go on a cruise where there is AC on the boat.

3. Onboard Facilities and Services

While searching for affordable cruises, ensure that the ships offer important amenities and services, such as

  • Comfortable seating,
  • Large windows,
  • Informative commentary, and
  • Access to restrooms.

These amenities can greatly enhance your cruising experience.

4. Time of Travel

The time of year and day of the week can impact cruise prices. Consider traveling during the off-peak season or booking midweek cruises, as they tend to be more budget-friendly compared to peak times and weekends.

TIP: Daytime cruises – till 18.00/19.00 – cost less then late evening and nighttime boat tours.

Now, let’s explore some of the top budget-friendly Budapest cruises that offer exceptional value for money:

#1. BEST VALUE: Daytime/Evening Cruise / 60 minutes

From €10, By Silverline Cruises

Departure: 11:00/13:00/15:00/16:30 Duration: 60 min.

Summary – Highlights

This is one of the cheapest and shortest river tours available several times every day during summer. The 60-minute cruise costs only 10 EUR.

You can buy drinks from the bar.

Sip a pint of cold beer, a nice glass of wine, prosecco or a glass of cool refreshing lemonade while taking in the captivating panorama on the gently gliding boat.

About The Cruise Boat

The modern catamaran cruise ships have two levels with plenty of space for all guests.

The upper, open deck is a perfect spot for taking photos and enjoying the sights.

In case of unfavorable wether you will have a excellent view of the sights you’ll pass, through the large panorama windows inside the covered hall.

They were designed for safety and stability and are equipped with all necessary amenities and safety features, including life jackets and life buoys.

Is There Air-Conditioning On The Boat?

The closed hall on Wiking Cruise Boat has air-conditiononing, the Margitsziget Ship – departs at 18.00/6pm – doesn’t have AC.

Both ships have an open upper deck.

Drink Selection

  • Beer – 1 pint
  • Wine – 1 glass
  • Sparkling wine – 1 glass
  • Coca Cola/Fanta/Sprite etc. soda drinks
  • Fruit juices
  • Lemonade – 1 glass
  • Still and sparkling water
  • Coffee drinks (alcohol free)
  • Tea
The white and purple, two tier cruise ship of Silver Line on the Danube during the day
Affordable Daytime Cruise On the Danube
Interior of the catamaran cruise boat: purple upholstered wood sofa and seat bench
On Board The Margisziget Cruise Ship
Rows of seats - whiet plastic chairs and purple tables - on the partially open upper deck of the Wiking sightseeing boat
Upper Deck Of The Wiking Boat
My son and I sitting on the purple upholstered sofa bench onboard the Margitsziget cruise boat in Budapest
My Son & I On The Margitsziget Budget Cruise Boat

Note: Additional drinks, snacks are available from the bar on board the ship.

a small catamaran cruise ship on the Danube near the Chain bridge in Budapest during the day
Budget Cruise on The Danube
3 young women clinking glasses of prosecco on a cruise ship in Budapest during the day. The Parliament building can be seen in the background.
Enjoy a Glass of Chilled Prosecco!

Sights, Attractions You’ll See

  • Elizabeth Bridge – you’ll start your trip from the pier next to the graceful, white suspension bridge.
  • Chain Bridge – the symbolic, renewed connection between Pest and Buda comes next.
  • Parliament – you’ll sail right in front of the imposing building, allowing you to take plenty of photos.
  • Margaret Bridge then Margaret Island
  • Buda Castle witht the Royal Palace, Fishermen’s bastion and Matthias Church
  • Gellért Hill with the Citadell Fortress on top
  • Gellért Thermal Bath
  • Liberty Bridge
  • Great Market Hall
  • National Theatre and,
  • Palace of Arts (MüPa)

Cruise Details

  • Company/Cruise Organiser: Silver Line Cruises
  • Ship size: Modern 2-level safe and stable catamaran cruise ships with all necessary equipments (life jackets, life buoys) and amenities
  • Schedule: Every day at 11:00/13:00/15:00/16:30
  • Duration: 60 minutes
  • Boarding time: 30 minutes before departure time
  • Inclusions: 60-minute sightseeing cruise on the Danube and 1 drink of your choice (see list of drinks above)
  • Itinerary: Elizabeth Bridge – Chain- Bridge (Pest end) – Parliament – Margaret Bridge (Pest end) – Margaret Island – Margaret Bridge (Buda end) – Church of St. Anne – Chain Bridge (Buda end)- Buda Castle – Elizabeth Bridge – Gellért Hill – Liberty Bridge – Gellért Bath – Petőfi Bridge – National Theatre – Palace of Arts: then back on the same route to the pier at Elizabeth Bridge.
  • Guiding: No
  • Air-Conditioning: Yes, on the Wiking Boat; On all Cruises except for the cruise at 18.00/6pm. No AC on the Margitsziget Boat only on the Cruises at 18.00
  • WiFi: Yes
  • Wheelchair accessability: No

Meeting Point/Getting There

  • Jane Haining Rakpart, Dock 11., Budapest 1052, on the Danube Promenade next to Elizabeth bridge (See on Google Maps)
  • Getting there: Trams 2, 2B, 23 Vigadó tér or Március 15. tér stops, M1, M2, M3 metro at Deák F. tér station (10-15 min walk), M3 metro (blue line) Ferenciek tere station (5-min walk)

Conclusion – Why Go/Not Go?

This cruise is recommended for those who are visiting Budapest on a tight budget but don’t want to miss a scenic sightseeing river tour.

During the 70-minute ride you’ll see all the important landmarks and the famous UNESCO World Heritage listed Budapest panorama while enjoying a glass of beverage.

All for only 10 EUR! This is really a fantastic, unbeatable price!

TIP: The cruise is also ideal for families with kids, little ones usually endure shorter tours better. Another advantage is that it is free for kids under the age of 6.

FREE Cancellation Up Unitl 48 Hours, No Risk – If something comes up and you won’t be able to attend the cruise you can cancel it until 48 hours before the booked time and you will get a full refund.

#2. – 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Welcome Drink

€12.5 – By Portum Lines Cruising

Departure:

  • Summer Season (01. Apr – 31. Oct):
    • Mon- Thurs: 18:15/19:30/20.45/22.00
    • Fri-Sat-Sun: 18.00/19.15/20.30/21.45
  • Winter Season (01. Nov – 31. March):
    • Mon- Thurs: 18:00/19:20/20.40
    • Fri-Sat-Sun: 17.00/18.20/19.40/21.00
  • Duration 60 min. –
  • Price:   €12.5 for everyone, no discount for students, children, retirees

Summary – Highlights

This another good-value, concise river excursion with welcome drink and for only 11 EUR.

It departs at least 4 times every day in summer.

The first departure is at 18.00/6 pm when it’s still plenty of daylight but the temperature starts to go down allowing you to see Budapest blanketed in warm colours at sunset.

If you prefer even cooler temperatures then go on the late night cruise starting at 22.00/10 pm and admire the sights in convenience.

a white cruise boat named Neptun moored in the dock on the Danube in Budapest at sunset
At Sunset
photo taken from the front of a cruise ship on a cloudy day, the Parliament can be see further down on the riverbank
Dramatic View Before A Summer Storm
View of the lit up Buda Castle buildings at night as seen from a boat on the Danube
Night Cruise & Welcome Drink
photo taken from the front of a cruise ship on a cloudy day, the Parliament can be see further down on the riverbank
On the Danube During The Day

Itinerary – Sights, Attractions You’ll See

Note: The route of this 1-hour cruise is considerably shorter compared to that of the others’ listed in this post. The boat departs near Margaret Bridge sails down till Gellért Hill when it turns around and cruises back to Dock 42 near Margaret Bridge.

Top Budapest landmarks you’ll miss are Liberty Bridge, the National Theater, the Palace of Arts complex, and the new Athletic Stadium.

  • Margaret Bridge
  • Parliament
  • Chain bridge
  • Buda Castle with its historic buildings
  • Castle Bazaar & Garden
  • Elizabeth Bridge
  • Rudas Bath
  • Gellért Hill

Cruise Details

  • Company/Cruise Organiser: Portum Lines Cruising
  • Ship size: Ms. Neptun boat: has space for 245 passangers, two decks, two spacious halls (180 sqm each) with large panorama windows
  • Schedule In Summer (01. Apr – 31. Oct):
    • Mon- Thurs: 18:15/19:30/20.45/22.00
    • Fri-Sat-Sun: 18.00/19.15/20.30/21.45
  • Schedule In Winter:
    • Mon- Thurs: 18:00/19:20/20.40
    • Fri-Sat-Sun: 17.00/18.20/19.40/21.00
  • Duration: 60 minutes
  • Boarding time: 10-15 minutes before departure time
  • Inclusions: 60-minute sightseeing cruise on the Danube (between Margaret bridge and Gellért Hill) and 1 welcome drink, free WiFi
  • Itinerary: Margaret Bridge – Parliament – Chain Bridge – Buda Castle – Castle Garden & Bazaar – Elizabeth Bridge – Gellért Hill – Margaret Bridge
  • Guiding: no
  • Air-Conditioning: No
  • WiFi: Yes
  • Wheelchair accessability: no

Meeting Point/Getting There

  • Dock 42 port, Szent István park, Budapest 1138, cc. 800 m north of Margaret Bridge (See on Google Map)
  • Getting there: trams 2, 2B, 23, trams 4, 6 get off at Jászai Mari tér, then walk cc. 10 min (900m)

Conclusion – Why Go/Not Go?

The 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Welcome Drink is the most popular of all Budapest river cruises on GetYourGuide, booked nearly 12,000 times with 4.4/5 rating.

Although it covers a short route – only the strict downtown section of the city – during the 60-minute trip you’ll get a feel of the beauty of Budapest.

The basic, no-frills ship with uncomfortable plastic chairs and no air-conditioning definietly take away from the overall experience.

If you feel like having more drinks or some snacks you can buy them from the bar on the ship.

Drink Prices In The On-Board Bar:

  • Beer on tap: 1 100 – 1 400 HUF,
  • A glass of house wine (0.1L): 600 HUF,
  • Cocktails: 2 500 – 3 000 HUF,
  • Espresso & coffee drinks: 600 – 800 HUF

Still 12, 000 people can’t be too wrong: it’s a low-cost river tour with welcome drink where you get what you pay for.

A slight downside is that the departure point – is not as easily accessible as in case of the other tours reviewed in this post.

Interior of the Ms Neptun sightseeing boat
Interior of the Cruise Boat
two young boys with binoculars sitting at a table on the open deck of the cruise boat on the Danube in Budapest
Kid-Friendly Cruise

FREE Cancellation, No Risk – If something comes up and you won’t be able to attend the cruise you can cancel it until

#3. – Evening/Nighttime Cruise 70-Minute (No Drink Incl.)

 €14, By Silverline Cruises

Departure: 18:00/19:30/21:00 Duration: 60 min.

Summary – Highlights

This late evening/nighttime cruise without drinks (you can buy as much as you want from the bar on the ship) will take you a 60-minute tour on the Danube – a fitting choice if you want a budget, no-frills, just-cruising experience.

The itinerary is the same as the #1 Daytime cruise reviewed above. so you will see all the major attractions depending on your depature time during the magical blue hour or at their nighttime beauty highlighted by decorative lighting.

You will travel on the same comfortable, state-of-the-art catamaran ships, equipped with all modern conveniences.

The closed interior is air-conditioned in summer (heated in cold weather).

If you’ll get peckish or would like to have a drink, the bar offers light snacks, cakes and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at reasonable price.

As you can see you can seat comfortably at tables nursing a drink from the bar, while enjoying the marvelous panorama trhough to the large, clean windows

You can enjoy the cool summer breeze and the scenic vista on the open deck.

view of the Danube and the bridges in Budapest at the blue hour
Budapest At The Blue Hour
Interior of the closed hall of the Wiking cruise boat, red tables with grey upholseterd chairs
Interior Of The Wiking Catamaran Boat

a small catamaran excursion boat on the Danube in Budapest at night, the illuminated Parliament in the background
The Parliament – As You’ll See It On a Night cruise
Cheap Budapest Cruises: Wiking catamaran cruise boat on the Danube near the Chain bridge at night.
Buda Castle At Night

Cruise Details

  • Company/Cruise Organiser: Silver Line Cruises
  • Ship size: Modern 2-level safe and stable catamaran cruise ships with all necessary equipments (life jackets, life buoys) and amenities
  • Schedule: Every day at 18:00/19:30/21:00
  • Duration: 60 minutes
  • Boarding time: 30 minutes before departure time
  • Inclusions: 60-minute sightseeing cruise on the Danube and 1 drink of your choice (see list of drinks above)
  • Itinerary: Elizabeth Bridge – Chain- Bridge (Pest end) – Parliament – Margaret Bridge (Pest end) – Margaret Island – Margaret Bridge (Buda end) – Church of St. Anne – Chain Bridge (Buda end)- Buda Castle – Elizabeth Bridge – Gellért Hill – Liberty Bridge – Gellért Bath – Petőfi Bridge – National Theatre – Palace of Arts: then back on the same route to the pier at Elizabeth Bridge.
  • Guiding: No
  • Air-Conditioning: Yes on the Wiking Boat On Cruises at 20.00 and 21.30, No AC on the Margitsziget Boat on Cruises at 21.00
  • WiFi: Yes
  • Wheelchair accessability: No

Meeting Point/Getting There

  • Jane Haining Rakpart, Dock 11., Budapest 1052, on the Danube Promenade next to Elizabeth bridge (See on Google Maps)
  • Getting there: Trams 2, 2B, 23 Vigadó tér or Március 15. tér stops, M1, M2, M3 metro at Deák F. tér station (10-15 min walk), M3 metro (blue line) Ferenciek tere station (5-min walk)

Conclusion – Why Go?

This is the perfect cheap night cruise with just the right duration an affpordable price – for only 12 EUR . We did our research and couldn’t find a better bufget night boat tour option.

So, go ahead and book your place. Tickets sell out quickly during summer!

FREE Cancellation Up Until 48 Hours, No Risk – If something comes up and you won’t be able to attend the cruise you can cancel it until 48 hours before the booked time and you will get a full refund.

#4. – Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise, 2 Drinks, 70-Min.

€15,(discount prices are available) By Legenda

Departure: From 10.15AM to 19:15PM in every 45 minutes Duration: 70 min.

Summary – Highlights

Legenda Cruises are trusted and well-known cruise oprators in Budapest with favorable reviews and high ratings at GetYourGuide (4.6/5 by more than 2,000 reviewers) and other booking sites.

Plenty of river tours are available during the day by Legenda: they run every 45 minutes between 10.15 AM till 19.15 PM.

The company have been running river cruises for many years now so they have plenty of experience and you cannot go wrong with them.

On the daytime cruises you can listen to audio guiding – available in 30 languages.

If you’re lucky it will be well timed to the sights you pass by.

Otherwise, I think you can skip guiding – it won’t take away from the experience.

For me, at least, it was a bit confusing and distracting. Concentrate on the wonderful view and enjoy your drinks instead of fumbling with the audio!

a sightseeing boat sailing on the Danube in front of the Parliament building at daytime
clinking with two glasses of lemonade on a boa, with the Parliament in the background

TIP: The boat even stops at Margaret Island, the popular leisure park of Budapest, so you can get off the boat there and explore the island.

You’ll have 45 minutes to do that until the next boat ride comes and you can return on it to the city centre. You’ll receive a complimentary map of Margaret Island with recommended activities and top attractions.

a young couple drinking sparkling wine on a daytime Budapest cruise
Relaxing Cruise With Drinks
A man taking photos of the Parliament building, from the open deck of a cruise boat during the day.
On the Open Deck of Legenda’s Cruise Ship

For the 15 EUR – discounted price is available for students and children – you’ll get 2 gratis drinks on the 70-minute boat cruise:

  • A welcome beverage of your choice (wine, beer, Prosecco, soda drink, mineral water) and a
  • Glass of lemonade.

Prices

  • Full Price: 15 EUR
  • Students: 13.20 EUR
  • Children (ages (10 – 14): 9.90 EUR
  • FREE for children under 9 years of age

Cruise Details

  • Company/Cruise Organiser: Legenda Cruises
  • Ship size: 2-deck ship 150 – 250 guests, with 360° panorama windows (removable in good weather), open-air in summer, heated in winter
  • Schedule: every 45 minutes between 10.15 am and 19.15 am (every day)
  • Duration: 70 minutes
  • Boarding time: 30 minutes before departure time
  • Inclusions: 70-minute sightseeing cruise on the Danube and 2 drinks, audio guiding stop-over with gratis map at Margaret Island.
  • Itinerary: Elizabeth Bridge – Chain- Bridge (Pest end) – Parliament – Margaret Bridge (Pest end) – Margaret Island – Margaret Bridge (Buda end) – Church of St. Anne – Chain Bridge (Buda end)- Buda Castle – Elizabeth Bridge – Gellért Hill – Liberty Bridge – Gellért Bath – Petőfi Bridge – National Theatre – Palace of Arts: then back on the same route till Margaret Island then back to the pier at Elizabeth Bridge
  • Guiding: Audio Guide in 30 languages.
  • Air-Conditioning: Yes
  • WiFi: Yes
  • Wheelchair accessability: except for the restrooms the ship is asscessible for people in wheelchair or with baby stroller

Meeting Point/Getting There

  • Dock 7 pier Jane Haining rakpart, Budapest 1052, next to Elizabeth Bridge and Március 15. Square (See On Google Map)
  • Getting there: tram 2, 2B 23 get off at Március 15 tér stop, you’ll see the charateristic Legenda Boats in the pier.

Conclusion – Why Go?

Danube cruises by Legenda are a favorite among travellers visiting Budapest and rightly so. They offer very good value for the price:

  • 70-minute full circle Danube excursion that includes all the requisite attarctions
  • Optional stop at Margaret Island with complimentary map and discount coupons for activities,
  • Two gratis drinks,
  • Audio guidin in 30 languages,
  • Discount price for children aged 10 -14 yrs, FREE for children under 9
Legenda cruise ship sailing past the Technical University in Budapest
Legenda’s Distinctive Boat With Lots of Windows

TIP: Recommended for anyone visiting the city on a shoestring or just doesn’t want to spend on a mediocre dinner cruise.

Ideal also for families with kids because of the discounts for ages 10-14 and the free ride for younger ones under 9.

FREE Cancellation Up Until 24 Hours, No Risk – If something comes up and you won’t be able to attend the cruise you can cancel it until 48 hours before the booked time and you will get a full refund.

#5. – Day or Evening Cruise with Tokaj Premium Frizzante – 60 Min

From €17.50, By Duna Cruises

Departure:

  • Citadella Elegant Contemporary Cruise Boat: 12:30/14.00/15:30
  • Kisfaludy Historic Steam Boat: 16:00/17:30

Summary – Highlights

Although this 60-minute tour is a bit more expensive than the others listed in this post but it offers extra experiences for the cost.

You’ll glide by Budapest’s downtown and its iconic landmarks, while sipping a a glass of premium quality Tokaj Frizzante wine or orange juice.

TIP: The Tokaj Frizzante is a crisp, white, fruity sparkling wine produced in the Tokaj wine region known worldwide for its dessert wine, the aszú.

QR codes provide essential information about the sights during the journey as you take in the exquisite views from the open deck or comfortable indoor seating.

Whether you choose to stay inside or breathe in the fresh air up on the open terrace, you’ll be surrounded by an elegant, fully refurbished sightseeing ship with a modern yet classic touch.

budapest cruise tokaj frizzante wine02
two young ladies and a men doing the cruise with premium Tokaj frizzante cruise on the Danube in Budapest. They are sitting on the open deck with glass of wine in hand, the white Elizabeth Bridge can be seen in the background
Having a great time on he open deck with a glass of excellent Tokaj sparkling wine
Passengers sitting on the upper opne deck of the Kisfaludy historic paddle steam boat. The Parliament in the background.
Cruising on the historic paddle steam boat: Kisfaludy

Two Boats – One Is A Vintage Steam Paddle

The Tokaj Frizzante river tours run on two ships.

The Citadel – a larger contemporary cruise ship with spacious open deck area furnished with upholstered , comfortbale benches.

The Kisfaludy is a charming, historic steam boat with paddles.

You’ll be transported back to the 19. century on board this ship though rest assured it’s a nicely renovated absolutely fabulous looking vehicle with lots of wood paneling and flooring.

It even has a small exhibition about the historry of shipping and the greatest Hungarian Count István Széchenyi.

Both ships follow the same route, passing through the most beautiful section of the Danube riverbank, touching upon Budapest’s most stunning attractions.

The city tour includes the strikingly beautiful stretch between Margit Bridge and Rákóczi Bridge in the downtown area.

What’s Included?

  • Welcome drink (a glass of Tokaj Premium Frizzante or orange juice)
  • 1-hour sightseeing cruise in downtown Budapest
  • Guaranteed seats – not assigned
  • Online readable guide
the black, vintage steam boat, Kisfaludy cruising on the Danube near the Whale building.
The Beautiful Steam Paddler: Kisfaludy
map of the 1-hour cruise with Tokaj Frizzante's route
Cruise Itinerary

Cruise Details

  • Company/Cruise Organiser: Duna Cruises
  • Ship size: Kisfaludy historic steam boat: cc. 30m x 10m, has space for 150 passengers Citadella contemporary ship:
  • Schedule: every 45 minutes between 10.15 am and 19.15 am (every day)
  • Duration: 60 minutes
  • Boarding time: 30 minutes before departure time
  • Inclusions: 60-minute river tour taking a full circuit between Margaret Bridge and Rákóczi bridge, a glass of quality wine form the famous Tokaj region, online guiding availability
  • Itinerary: Elizabeth Bridge – Chain- Bridge (Pest end) – Parliament – Margaret Bridge (Pest end) – Margaret Island – Margaret Bridge (Buda end) – Church of St. Anne – Chain Bridge (Buda end)- Buda Castle – Elizabeth Bridge – Gellért Hill – Liberty Bridge – Gellért Bath – Petőfi Bridge – National Theatre – Palace of Arts: then back on the same route till Margaret Island then back to the pier at Elizabeth Bridge
  • Guiding: onlide guide accessible through QR codes.
  • Air-Conditioning: Yes in the closed hall
  • WiFi: Yes
  • Wheelchair accessability: except for the restrooms the ship is asscessible for people in wheelchair or with baby stroller

Meeting Point/Getting There

  • Dock 10, Március 15. tér, Budapest, right next to the white Elizabeth Bridge
  • Getting there: trams 2, 2B, 23 – get off at Március 15. tér look for Duna Cruises

Conclusion – Why Go?

You’ll still spend under 20 EUR if you go on this Danube excursion in daytime (this same cruise is 25 EUR in the evening and at night) and you’ll be rewarded with a

Note: The 1-Hour Cruise with Tokaj Frizzante Wine is also available in the evening and at night for 25 EUR. It departs at 18:30/19:00/20:00/20:30/21:30 and 22:00, takes the same route. You can book it here.

TIP: See also our comparison and review of the 5 best-value dinner cruises in Budapest operating in 2023.

Why Go On A Cheap Budapest Cruise?

Choosing a cheap Budapest cruise comes with several benefits, ensuring you have a remarkable experience without breaking your budget.

Here are some advantages to consider:

Affordable Way to See Budapest’s Attractions

  • Cheap Budapest cruises offer an affordable and convenient way to explore the city’s iconic attractions. Cruise along the Danube River, witnessing the stunning panorama of Budapest’s skyline and famous landmarks while enjoying a relaxing atmosphere.
my husband shooting photos of the Parliament from a terrace of a sightseing boat on the Danube on a sunny summer afternoon
A Perfect Spot For Taking Photos Of The Parliament

Enjoying Amazing Views from the Danube

  • The Danube River provides a unique vantage point to admire the architectural wonders of Budapest. This part of the city is protected by the UNESCO World Heritage program due to its historical and cultural richness and the captivating city scape. From the comfort of your cruise ship, you can take in the panoramic views of the Buda Castle, the Chain Bridge, and the majestic Parliament Building, capturing memorable photographs along the way.

Immersive Cultural Experience

  • Going on a low-cost boat tour allows you to easily soak up the rich culture and history of the city. Learn about Budapest’s past, traditions, and architectural marvels through informative commentary provided on some of the cruises – like this 70-minute daytime tour – enhancing your overall understanding and appreciation of the city.

Access to Onboard Facilities and Services

  • Despite being budget-friendly, these cruises often offer access to all the necessary onboard facilities and services. Enjoy comfortable seating, informative audio guides, and the convenience of onboard amenities, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable cruising experience.

Tips for Booking Affordable Budapest Cruises

To make the most of your budget and find the best deals for sightseeing cruises, consider the following tips:

Plan and Book in Advance

  • Booking your Budapest cruise in advance can often lead to significant savings. Take the time to research different river tour operators, compare prices, and secure your spot early to enjoy discounted rates.

Look for Discounts and Deals

  • Keep an eye out for special discounts and deals offered by cruise companies. Check their websites, subscribe to newsletters, and follow them on social media to stay informed about any exclusive promotions or limited-time offers.

Opt for Midweek Cruises

  • Choosing to cruise on weekdays instead of weekends can result in more affordable prices. Midweek cruises tend to have lower demand, making them a cost-effective option without compromising on the experience.

Consider Shorter Duration Cruises

  • If you’re on a tight budget, consider opting for shorter duration cruises. The 60-minute and 70-minute cruises reviewed above cover the essential attractions and offer a condensed but valuable experience at a more budget-friendly price.

Conclusion

To sum up, exploring Budapest’s enchanting beauty through a budget-friendly cruise along the Danube River is an excellent choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience without straining their finances.

It’s a perfect choice if you have only a day or two in our city and want to see and do as much as possible

By considering factors such as

  • Duration,
  • What’s included
  • Onboard facilities (AC6heating, restrooms, drink & snack bar), and
  • Travel timing,

you will definitely find a a river tour that suits your preferences and budget. See the recommended options above!

Also Worth The Price: Street Food Cruise With Unlimited Drinks

We had a really great time on this new Budapest street food cruise with lángos or pizza and drinks (beer, soda beverages, tea, coffee). Available 4 times a day: in the afternoon/early evening: 16.00/18.00 (costs 32 EUR) and at night: 20.00/22.00 (costs 37 EUR)

Pizza and Beer Cruise

Pizza & Beer Cruise

Departures: 17:00 / 19:00 / 21:00

Duration: 80 min. – Price from €41.9

FAQ

Q:  Are cheap Budapest cruises of good quality?

A: Despite the lower price, budget river cruises (around 15 EUR or less) still offer high-quality experience, so don’t hesitate to book one!

We highly recommend every cruise discussed above. They all offer great value for the price.

Q: Is it necessary to pre-book cheap Budapest cruises?

A: While it’s not always necessary to pre-book cheap Budapest cruises, it is highly recommended, especially in the summer season when and around big holidays like Chistmas and New Year places sell out at no time.

Pre-booking ensures that you secure your spot and can often lead to discounted rates. It also allows you to plan your itinerary better and have peace of mind knowing that your cruise is confirmed.

A budget-friendly boat tour is a fantastic way to discover the city’s charm and beauty without straining your wallet.

Enjoy the picturesque views, learn about the city’s culture and history while nursing a drink, and create unforgettable memories as you sail along the Danube River.

Q: Are midweek cruises less crowded?

A: Yes, midweek cruises tend to be less crowded compared to weekends.

If you prefer a more serene and relaxed experience, opting for a cruise on a weekday (Mon-Thurs) can be a great choice. You can enjoy the attractions without the large crowds and potentially find better deals.

Q: What is the duration of budget-friendly Budapest cruises?

The duration of inexpensive Budapest cruises is between 60 – 70 minutes. The route usually includes the most notable landmarks, except for one Dinner cruises tend to be longer, ranging from 80 minutes to full two hours, but their price begins around 50 – 60 EUR.

Related

Evening Cruise with Hungarian Dinner & Folk Show – Buffet dinner on a 2-hour sightseeing tour enriched with dazzling folk music and dance performances.

Hungarian Wine Tasting Cruise – Avaiable in the evening at 19:00/7pm and at night at 22.00/10pm

Budapest In 3 Days – A guide to help you how to plan you three-day visit!