Sustainable Travel: Barcelona vs. Budapest

In 2025, two vibrant European cities are at the forefront of sustainable tourism – Barcelona and Budapest. We compare their eco-friendliness, affordability, and local experiences to help you decide which one is the best fit for your next trip.

Eco-Friendly Practices

Barcelona, with its 1.6 million inhabitants and an average temperature of 27°C, is committed to reducing its carbon footprint through recycling programs, public transport initiatives, and the promotion of green spaces. The city has a bike-sharing program called "Bicing" that offers over 500 stations throughout Barcelona.

Meanwhile, Budapest, home to 1.7 million residents and hosting 4.2 million tourists annually, is famous for its thermal baths, which are a sustainable attraction due to their natural geothermal origins. The city also promotes electric vehicles through subsidies, and offers numerous bike rental options for exploring.

Affordability

Accommodation in Barcelona varies from luxury hotels like the Hotel Ritz (tariff: starting at 1000€ per night) to budget-friendly options such as Airbnb (average price: 150€ per night) and hostels like Generator Hostel (from 25€ per night in a dormitory).

Budapest offers a wide range of affordable accommodations, including the luxurious Hotel Gellért (tariff: starting at 180€ per night) and budget-friendly options like Airbnb (average price: 50€ per night) and hostels such as the Wombats City Hostel (from 23€ per night in a dormitory).

Local Experiences

Barcelona offers popular attractions like the Sagrada Familia (ticket: 16€) and Park Güell (ticket: 10€). The city is also known for its delicious tapas, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches.

Budapest attracts tourists with its iconic Budapest Eye Ferris Wheel (ticket: 8.50€), the historic Buda Castle, and the Danube River cruise (ticket: 12€). The city is also famous for its thermal baths, delicious Hungarian cuisine, and historic architecture.

Best Time to Visit

Barcelona is best visited during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when temperatures are mild and there are fewer tourists.

Budapest is best explored from April to June, when the weather is warm but not too hot, and from September to October, when the autumn foliage is at its peak.

Discover Sustainable Travel: Barcelona vs. Budapest ...

When planning your eco-friendly and affordable travel in 2025, consider Barcelona and Budapest. Both cities offer unique experiences, local cuisine, and sustainable attractions that will make for an unforgettable vacation.