Popular Sports to Play in Hungary

Published on May 16, 2026 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Hungary, a Central European country renowned for its thermal baths and rich cultural heritage, also offers an ideal playground for sports enthusiasts. Whether you are a newly arrived expatriate or a long-time resident, discover the most popular sports activities among Hungarians and how to practice them in your new adopted homeland.

Sports That Thrill Hungarians

Hungary has a rich and varied sports culture, with disciplines that have shaped its national identity and others that have gained popularity in recent years. Here is an overview of the most popular sports in the country:

1. Water Polo

A true institution in Hungary, water polo is considered the national sport. The Hungarian men’s team is the most decorated in Olympic history in this discipline, with no fewer than 9 gold medals. This passion for water polo is partly explained by the presence of numerous lakes and thermal springs in the country, which have fostered the development of swimming and water sports.

2. Football

As in many European countries, football holds a special place in the hearts of Hungarians. The national team had its golden age in the 1950s, with the famous “Golden Team” led by Ferenc Puskás. Today, the Hungarian league still attracts many spectators, and the country boasts several prestigious clubs such as Ferencváros TC and MOL Fehérvár FC.

3. Swimming

Hungary also excels in swimming, with Olympic champions like Katinka Hosszú and Kristóf Milák. The numerous pools and aquatic centers across the country reflect Hungarians’ enthusiasm for this discipline.

4. Handball

Handball is a very popular sport in Hungary, both at the professional and amateur levels. The men’s and women’s national teams regularly rank among the best in the world.

5. Tennis

Although less publicized than the previous sports, tennis has seen significant growth in Hungary in recent years, particularly thanks to the performances of players like Márton Fucsovics and Tímea Babos.

Where to Practice Your Favorite Sport in Hungary?

Hungary, and especially its capital Budapest, offers numerous modern and accessible sports facilities. Here are some options for practicing the most popular sports:

For Water Sports

Hungary has many Olympic-sized pools and high-quality aquatic centers. In Budapest, the Duna Aréna complex, built for the 2017 World Aquatics Championships, is a must-visit for swimmers and water polo players. For a more authentic experience, thermal baths like Széchenyi or Gellért also offer swimming pools.

For Football

Football enthusiasts will find what they are looking for in the many municipal fields and amateur clubs spread across the country. In Budapest, the recently renovated Ferenc Puskás Stadium hosts national team matches and is an iconic venue for soccer fans.

For Indoor Sports

Major Hungarian cities have numerous modern gyms and fitness centers, often open 24/7. International chains like McFit and Fitness World operate alongside local brands. For handball or basketball, many municipal gyms offer time slots for amateur practice.

For Tennis

Hungary has many tennis clubs, both indoor and outdoor. In Budapest, the National Tennis Center, located on Margaret Island, offers excellent facilities for players of all levels.

Sports Budget for an Expat in Hungary: How Much to Plan For?

The cost of playing sports in Hungary is generally more affordable than in Western Europe, but can vary depending on the discipline and chosen facilities. Here is an overview of average prices to expect for an expatriate looking to regularly practice their favorite sport:

Gym Membership

A monthly membership at a standard fitness center costs on average between 15,000 and 25,000 Hungarian forints (HUF), or about 40 to 65 euros. High-end gyms or those offering group classes can reach 35,000 to 45,000 HUF per month (90 to 115 euros).

Swimming and Water Sports

A pool entry typically costs between 2,000 and 3,500 HUF (5 to 9 euros). Monthly passes are often available for rates ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 HUF (50 to 75 euros).

Amateur Football

Renting a football field for one hour ranges from 10,000 to 20,000 HUF (25 to 50 euros), to be split among players. Joining an amateur club typically costs between 5,000 and 10,000 HUF per month (13 to 26 euros).

Tennis

Renting a tennis court for one hour ranges from 3,000 to 6,000 HUF (8 to 15 euros) outdoors, and can reach 8,000 to 12,000 HUF (20 to 30 euros) indoors. Packages are often offered at more advantageous rates.

Private Lessons

For those looking to improve quickly, private lessons are available in most disciplines. Expect to pay between 5,000 and 10,000 HUF (13 to 26 euros) for an hour of individual instruction, depending on the sport and the teacher’s level.

In conclusion, Hungary provides a favorable environment for sports, with quality facilities and generally affordable rates. Whether you are a fan of water sports, football, or more niche disciplines, you will undoubtedly find a way to satisfy your sporting passion in this Central European country.