Hungary’s tourism sector had a remarkable year in 2022, achieving or even surpassing the record year of 2019, according to Zoltán Guller, the head of the Hungarian Tourism Agency (MTÜ).
In 2023, Hungary welcomed nearly 16 million tourists, with 7.1 million of them being foreign visitors, representing an 18 per cent increase compared to 2022. The tourism industry also recorded 41 million nights spent in 2023, generating €2.2 billion (HUF 860 billion) from accommodation, a 23 per cent increase compared to 2022.
Looking ahead, Guller anticipates continued growth in the sector this year, with guest nights potentially reaching 43 million. The MTÜ aims for 20 million guests and 50 million guest nights annually by 2030, with the tourism sector contributing at least 16 per cent to the GDP.
During the summer season of 2023, Hungary saw even more success, surpassing 2019 levels. The country welcomed over 6.2 million visitors between June and August 2023, exceeding 2019 levels by six per cent. During this period, tourism also saw a three per cent rise in accommodation, recording a total of 17 million nights spent.
MTÜ also noted that the number of tourists from Czechia, Poland, and Romania increased during the summer season. Revenues marked a 27 per cent increase, reaching €805 million (HUF 312 billion).
In addition to the increase in tourism, Budapest Airport experienced a significant rise in passenger traffic, with 14.7 million travelers passing through Ferenc Liszt International Airport of Budapest in 2023, reaching 91 per cent of 2019 levels. The airport also transported nearly 50 per cent more cargo than in 2019 and was awarded the Best Airport in Europe by the Airport Council International (ACI).
Overall, Hungary’s tourism sector has shown incredible resilience and growth, setting the stage for a promising future in the industry.
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