Hungary hospitality sector faces significant decline despite high tourism

A recent analysis based on Eurostat and KSH data reveals a significant decline in Hungary’s hospitality sector, despite high tourism numbers. According to the ‘Lángos-csapda’ study by Raconteur Agency, the number of catering establishments in Hungary fell by 5.8% between 2021 and 2024, decreasing from 27,979 to 26,370. This represents the largest decline among 27 EU member states, whereas the EU median showed a 3.6% increase.

The trend is particularly acute in Budapest, where the number of restaurants and buffets dropped by 25% between 2013 and 2024, falling from 7,095 to 5,339. By the end of 2025, the number of commercial catering establishments was projected to reach 7,778. While neighboring countries such as Czechia, Greece, Croatia, and Poland have seen growth in their hospitality numbers, Hungary faces a unique domestic challenge in maintaining its service network for tourists.