The Minister stated at the award ceremony that the National Tourism Concept has been created, which defines the main developmental goals of the tourism industry for the next 10 years. The Concept has been subject to public dialogue and will be discussed by the Government as well after its finalisation.

In his speech, the Minister stressed that tourism statistics are very promising, as between January and November 2013 the number of guests, the number of tourism nights and tourism turnover all exceeded the record high figures of last year. Between January-October 2013, according to the Central Statistical Office (KSH), the number of guests (7 665 949 persons) rose by 5.5 percent, while the number of guest nights (20 069 652 persons) by 4.4 percent, compared to the last year’s corresponding period.

In Hungary, thermal baths and wellness spots are still the most popular destinations, followed by major cities and ecotourism.

During the festive season, inland tourists usually visit spa towns, whereas foreign guests usually travel to Budapest and spend 4-5 days there. At this time of the year, it is nearly impossible to find accommodation in the capital.

Hungary’s Tourism Agency has released a new promotional video introducing Budapest, Lake Hévíz, Lake Balaton, the country’s thermal baths, its gastronomy as well as Hungarian inventions. It was aired at the World Travel Market (WTM), one of the largest events of the tourism sector.

Source: Ministry for National Economy