Hungary Sees Record Growth in Israeli Tourism, With Rising Popularity Linked to Strong Support for Israel and Safe, Welcoming Environment

Published on December 1, 2025

Hungary has seen a significant increase in Israeli tourists, rising to the forefront of travel destinations for visitors from Israel. This surge is primarily linked to two major factors: Hungary’s steadfast political support for Israel and its commitment to creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for Israeli travelers. Amid the growing security concerns in other parts of Europe, particularly in countries where antisemitism has surged, Hungary’s position as a staunch ally of Israel and its zero-tolerance policy toward antisemitism have made it a top choice for Israelis. The Hungarian government’s consistent diplomatic backing for Israel, including vetoing anti-Israel resolutions in international forums and maintaining a friendly political relationship, has resonated deeply with Israeli tourists. Additionally, Hungary’s proactive stance in banning pro-Palestinian demonstrations and prioritizing public safety has further enhanced its appeal, ensuring that Israeli visitors feel secure and supported. As a result, Hungary is witnessing a record number of Israeli tourists, solidifying its reputation as both a politically aligned and safe destination for travelers from Israel.

In a significant shift in travel trends, Hungary has risen to second place in the rankings of top destinations for Israeli tourists, climbing from sixth place in previous years. This jump is largely attributed to the Hungarian government’s strong pro-Israel stance and the country’s reputation for safety, making it an increasingly attractive option for Israeli travelers. With the holiday season fast approaching, Hungary is set to experience a record influx of Israeli visitors, potentially reaching unprecedented numbers.

Eastern Europe Takes the Lead as Western Europe Declines

Recent travel data indicates a notable shift in Israeli tourism preferences, with Eastern European countries gaining significant ground while traditional Western European destinations fall behind. According to recent reports, there has been a marked rise in travel to Eastern Europe, with Israeli tourists flocking to destinations known for their diplomatic ties to Israel and stable public safety.

Thailand, long a favorite of Israeli travelers, has overtaken the United Arab Emirates as the top destination, a change brought about by the disruptions caused by the October 2023 conflict. The UAE, which had previously held the top spot, has now fallen to fifth place. Meanwhile, the United States has climbed from eighth to third place, and the Czech Republic has moved up to fourth, benefiting from their consistent support for Israel on the international stage.

On the other hand, Western European countries, which have historically drawn large numbers of Israeli visitors, are experiencing a sharp decline in tourism rankings. France, once a holiday hotspot known for its Christmas markets and ski resorts, has dropped from fourth to eighth place. The United Kingdom has fallen out of the top ten entirely, while Germany, famous for its holiday markets, is no longer listed among the preferred destinations. This decline is largely attributed to increasing anti-Israel demonstrations and rising antisemitic incidents in these countries.

Spain, which had already been in a lower position, has been entirely omitted from the rankings due to increasingly vocal anti-Israel sentiment among government officials. Italy, though still a popular destination, has seen a slight decline, slipping from fifth to sixth place, while Austria has maintained its position at seventh thanks to its renowned Alpine resorts. Argentina and Greece round out the top ten, both benefiting from their governments’ friendly relations with Israel.

Hungary’s Diplomatic Stance and Commitment to Safety

Hungary’s rise in popularity is directly linked to its government’s unwavering support for Israel and its proactive stance on ensuring the safety of Israeli visitors. Hungary has repeatedly demonstrated its political solidarity with Israel, refusing to enforce international arrest warrants against Israeli leaders and consistently vetoing resolutions that criticize or condemn Israel in international forums.

The safety of Israeli tourists has become a major concern in recent years, particularly in Western Europe, where incidents of antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment have been on the rise. In contrast, Hungary has implemented a strict zero-tolerance policy toward antisemitism, including any form of anti-Zionism or anti-Israel activism. Following the October 2023 conflict, Hungary took additional measures to ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors by banning pro-Palestinian demonstrations, sending a clear message that the country stands firm in its support for Israel.

A 2024 study highlighted Hungary as the only European country where antisemitism did not increase following the Gaza conflict. In fact, the study revealed a growing sense of sympathy toward Jews in Hungary since the terrorist attacks in October, further cementing the country’s status as a safe haven for Israeli travelers.

Tourism Booms as Israelis Opt for Longer Stays

The surge in Israeli travel abroad is reflected in the increase in overall tourist numbers, with Israeli tourists planning trips abroad this winter expected to be 20 percent higher than in 2022, the pre-conflict record. Additionally, the trend toward longer vacations is also evident, with a significant rise in trips lasting more than 21 days compared to the previous year. This extended stay trend suggests that more Israeli tourists are choosing destinations where they feel safe and welcome, like Hungary.

Hungary has seen a record surge in Israeli tourism, driven by its strong political support for Israel and its commitment to providing a safe, welcoming environment for Israeli travelers amid growing security concerns in other parts of Europe.

As Hungary continues to benefit from its diplomatic alignment with Israel and its strict safety measures, it is likely to remain a top European destination for Israeli travelers. With the upcoming holiday season, more Israeli tourists will likely choose Hungary for its peaceful atmosphere, political support for Israel, and welcoming environment.