Eu Student Discounts In Budapest: What You Need To Know

Budapest, Hungary's enchanting capital city, is a popular destination for students due to its rich history, culture, and budget-friendly attractions. The city offers a range of discounts for students, including those from EU universities, making it an affordable place to visit and explore. From culinary delights to historical sites and vibrant nightlife, there is something for every student to enjoy on a budget.

Transport discounts

Budapest has an excellent and affordable transport network, with buses, trams, trolleybuses, suburban trains, boats, and even a cogwheel railway. The city is a major budget-air destination and an important rail hub.

Tickets and Passes

The best way to buy tickets and access timetables is via the BudapestGO app, available for Android and iOS. It works as a Trip Planner, allows you to save your favourite destinations, consult timetables, and even check the availability of bicycles around the city. There are still paper tickets, too, distributed via machines at metro stations, tram, and bus stops. These machines are English-friendly and take cards and Hungarian forints in cash.

A single ticket is for any one-way, uninterrupted ride on any bus, tram, trolleybus, or metro line from one end of the line to the other. There are also transfer and time-based tickets. A ticket purchased on board from the bus or tram driver costs 450 forints.

Discounted tickets are available for students but only for those holding an EU university student card. Monthly, quarterly, and semester passes are also available. You will need to have photo ID when you purchase – a student or ISIC card are also good. Lost passes cannot be replaced. Most Hungarians carry their pass in the back of their mobile case.

The Monthly Budapest-pass for students is available for EU citizens with an EU student ID. It entitles you to unlimited travel within its validity period. The pass must be used together with a valid student ID (Hungarian or international) issued for students in higher education attending full-time or evening courses. In the case of using an international student ID, EU, EEA, or Swiss nationality is required. In the case of holding a Hungarian student ID, there is no requirement of nationality.

Museum discounts

Budapest is a city steeped in history and culture, with many museums and attractions to visit. The good news for EU university students is that there are plenty of discounts to take advantage of during your stay.

When visiting museums, always be sure to bring your student ID, as many museums offer discounted rates for students. The Budapest Card also offers free entry to certain museums and is worth considering if you plan to visit a lot of museums and use public transportation.

Public Transportation

Budapest's public transportation system is budget-friendly, and students can purchase a Monthly Budapest-pass with an EU student ID. This pass offers unlimited travel within the administrative boundaries of Budapest on almost all BKK services, including buses, trams, trolleybuses, and the metro. It is also valid on suburban trains and buses for trips within the city limits.

Food and Attractions

When exploring Budapest's culinary scene, head to local markets like the Great Market Hall for inexpensive Hungarian street food. Dining in local eateries in District VII can also provide affordable meals. For attractions, there are many free or low-cost options, such as visiting Buda Castle, strolling across the Chain Bridge, or exploring the Fisherman's Bastion and the Danube Promenade.

Events and Nightlife

In the evenings, Budapest comes alive with live music events and vibrant nightlife. Many venues in District VII, such as the Ruin Bars, offer student discounts, so you can enjoy the city's nightlife without breaking your budget.

So, embrace the culture, take advantage of the discounts, and create unforgettable memories during your time in Budapest!

Food and drink discounts

Budapest has a lot to offer for students looking to eat and drink on a budget. Here are some tips to help you make the most of the city's culinary scene without breaking the bank:

• Head to local markets like the Great Market Hall, where you can find inexpensive yet delicious Hungarian street food. Be sure to try lángos (deep-fried flatbread) and chimney cake.
• Dine at local eateries in District VII, which offer hearty meals at student-friendly prices.
• Explore the ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter for a unique dining experience with local cuisine.
• Visit the Central Market Hall (Nagycsarnok) near the Liberty Bridge. Here, you'll find an array of traditional Hungarian foods, including fresh produce, meats, and cheeses at affordable prices.
• Check out the street food options along the Danube Promenade, where you can enjoy stunning views of the river while savouring local specialties.
• Keep an eye out for student-oriented events, such as cultural festivals and student nights, which often offer discounts or free entry.
• Take advantage of student discounts at various restaurants and pubs. Remember to carry your student ID to avail these offers.
• Buy groceries from discount supermarkets like Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market, which offer budget-friendly options for cooking at home.
• Look for "menza" restaurants near universities, which are subsidised by the government and offer affordable meals for students.
• Join Facebook groups or other online communities for students in Budapest, where you can find recommendations and deals specifically tailored for students.

Events and nightlife discounts

Budapest is a city with a vibrant nightlife and a wide range of events to suit all tastes. As a student, you can make the most of your time in the city by taking advantage of the various student discounts on offer.

Nightlife

Budapest has a lively nightlife scene, with many venues offering student discounts. One of the most famous areas for nightlife is District VII, known for its ruin bars. These unique bars, set in abandoned buildings, offer a great atmosphere and often have student-friendly prices. The Jewish Quarter is also worth exploring for its local cuisine and lively bars.

If you're looking for a more energetic night out, head to the Ruin Bars of District VII, where you can dance the night away. For live music, check out venues like A38 Ship, which regularly host concerts and events.

Events

Budapest also hosts a variety of events that cater to students, including cultural festivals and student nights. These events often offer discounts or free entry, so keep an eye out for them. The city's vibrant energy and diverse nightlife options ensure that you can experience its after-dark allure without breaking the bank.

Transport

To get around the city, consider purchasing a Budapest Card, which offers unlimited travel on buses, trams, and the metro, as well as free entry to certain museums. Alternatively, you can opt for a monthly, quarterly, or semester pass at a discounted student rate. The BudapestGO app is a useful tool for buying tickets and accessing timetables.

Attractions

Budapest also offers a range of free and low-cost attractions. You can visit Buda Castle for panoramic views, stroll across the Chain Bridge, or explore the historic Fisherman's Bastion and the Danube Promenade. Many museums also offer discounted student rates, so don't forget to bring your student ID.

In conclusion, Budapest has a lot to offer students in terms of events and nightlife. By taking advantage of student discounts and seeking out budget-friendly options, you can fully embrace the city's culture and create lasting memories during your university years.

University application discounts

University can be expensive, but thankfully, there are a few ways to save some money on your application fees. Here are some tips for getting a discount on your university application:

Early Bird Discounts:

Some universities, like Budapest Metropolitan University, offer discounts for students who submit their applications early. Their Super Early Bird discount gives you 15% off your first year's tuition fee if you apply by their Spring or Fall deadline. They also have an Early Bird discount of 10% if you apply by the following deadlines. Check with your university to see if they offer similar discounts and take advantage of them to save some money!

Referral Programs:

Budapest Metropolitan University also has a referral program where you can get a 15% discount on a semester's tuition fee if you recommend the university to a friend, and they enrol. The more students you refer, the more discounts you can earn, up to a maximum of 5 recommendations. This is a great way to save money and help the university grow its student body.

Sibling Discounts:

If you have a sibling who is also studying at the same university, you may be eligible for a sibling discount. At Budapest Metropolitan University, siblings can receive a 5% discount on their tuition fees for the entire duration of their studies. Be sure to inquire about this discount if you and your sibling are enrolled at the same university.

Alumni Discounts:

If you are a graduate of the university you are applying to, you may be eligible for an alumni discount. Budapest Metropolitan University offers a €500 discount for EU students and a €1000 discount for non-EU students who are alumni of the university and are applying for a master's program. This is a great way to give back to your alma mater and encourage graduates to continue their studies.

International Student Discounts:

If you are an international student, you may be eligible for discounts on your application fees. Some universities offer lower application fees for international students to encourage diversity and cultural exchange. Be sure to inquire about any international student discounts that may be available.

Remember to always review the requirements and eligibility criteria for any discounts you plan to apply for. By taking advantage of these discounts, you can save money on your university application and have more financial freedom during your studies.

Frequently asked questions