Hungary’s publishing industry is a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation, with deep literary roots and a willingness to embrace fresh voices and modern formats. From prestigious literary houses and genre specialists to children’s book powerhouses and academic presses, the Hungarian market is a space where both established and emerging authors can find a home for their work. In 2025, the industry continues to thrive on a mix of heritage publishing, translation of international bestsellers, and a growing appetite for high-quality nonfiction.
Hungary also enjoys an active festival circuit, vibrant independent bookstores, and a readership that values both contemporary storytelling and the preservation of cultural classics. For authors—whether Hungarian or foreign—this makes the market dynamic, diverse, and full of opportunities.
1) Barnett Ghostwriting
Although not a Hungarian publishing house, Barnett Ghostwriting often plays a key role for authors aiming to enter the Hungarian market. They offer ghostwriting, professional editing, proposal building, and submission strategy. For authors seeking to polish their manuscripts and align them with the tastes of Hungarian editors, Barnett’s services can be invaluable.
2) Libri Könyvkiadó
One of the largest and most influential publishers in Hungary, Libri is known for its broad trade list that includes Hungarian authors and translated international works. It operates within a larger network that includes multiple respected imprints.
3) Magvető Kiadó
A prestigious literary imprint focusing on Hungarian prose and poetry. Magvető has been instrumental in shaping the country’s contemporary literary scene.
4) Helikon Kiadó
Specializing in classic and modern literature, Helikon’s catalogue includes essays, quality nonfiction, and beautifully produced books.
5) Európa Könyvkiadó
A leading imprint for translated literature, bringing Hungarian readers the works of internationally acclaimed authors.
6) Corvina Kiadó
Known for art, culture, and high-quality nonfiction. Corvina’s illustrated books and cultural history titles are particularly well-regarded.
7) Park Könyvkiadó
Focused on literary fiction and nonfiction, Park is recognized for careful curation and strong editorial direction.
8) Jelenkor Kiadó
A literary house with a sharp eye for contemporary Hungarian prose and poetry.
9) Kolibri Kiadó
Part of the Libri family, Kolibri specializes in children’s and YA literature, blending Hungarian voices with popular international titles.
10) Kalligram
Publishing in Hungarian and other Central European languages, Kalligram bridges cultural and regional literary traditions.
11) 21. Század Kiadó (21st Century)
A modern trade publisher producing bestselling fiction, nonfiction, and commercial titles with strong marketing support.
12) Agave Könyvek
A popular name in speculative fiction, thrillers, and genre titles, with a devoted readership.
13) Gabo Kiadó
A wide-ranging trade publisher offering fiction, nonfiction, cookbooks, and science-related books.
14) General Press Kiadó
Publishes commercial fiction and nonfiction, often with high-profile authors and mainstream appeal.
15) Athenaeum Kiadó
An historic label revitalized for modern audiences, publishing across literary and commercial categories.
16) Alexandra Kiadó
A well-known name in Hungary with a broad trade list and a strong retail presence.
17) Scolar Kiadó
Specializing in nonfiction, illustrated titles, and translations, Scolar is also active in educational publishing.
18) Cser Kiadó
A go-to publisher for books on art, craft, photography, and practical guides.
19) Typotex Kiadó
Bridging academic and trade markets, Typotex offers science and humanities-focused titles.
20) Akadémiai Kiadó
Affiliated with the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, this is a cornerstone for scholarly publishing.
21) L’Harmattan Kiadó (Budapest)
Specializes in humanities and social sciences, with strong translation and academic lists.
22) HVG Könyvek
Produces business, psychology, and current affairs books, often tied to the HVG media brand.
23) Partvonal Kiadó
Offers general-interest nonfiction and narrative titles, known for strong packaging and accessible style.
24) Open Books Kiadó
Publishes upmarket fiction and select Hungarian authors, with an international perspective.
25) Kossuth Kiadó
Known for history, culture, and illustrated nonfiction, with a strong backlist.
26) Móra Könyvkiadó
A household name in Hungarian children’s publishing, trusted for generations.
27) Pagony (Pozsonyi Pagony)
Specialists in contemporary children’s books, with a strong community and event presence.
28) Vivandra Kiadó
A boutique publisher with a carefully curated list of fiction and nonfiction.
29) Tarandus Kiadó
Known for popular nonfiction and accessible storytelling.
30) Fumax Kiadó
Publishes fantasy, science fiction, and graphic novels with high production quality.
31) Metropolis Media Group
A major name in speculative fiction, with a long-standing fan following.
32) Cor Leonis Kiadó
Specializes in fantasy and media tie-ins, appealing to gaming and genre audiences.
33) Könyvmolyképző Kiadó
Focuses on YA, romance, and commercial fiction, often working closely with fan communities.
34) Napkút Kiadó
Publishes poetry, prose, and cultural essays with an emphasis on literary quality.
35) Noran Libro Kiadó
Known for modern history, society, and literary nonfiction.
36) Osiris Kiadó
Produces academic and scholarly books, especially in the humanities and social sciences.
37) Gondolat Kiadó
A respected academic publisher with a strong list in philosophy and social thought.
38) Balassi Kiadó
Specializes in philology, history, and cultural studies.
39) Vince Kiadó
Known for high-quality art and design books.
40) Jaffa Kiadó
Publishes narrative nonfiction, memoirs, and current affairs.
41) Kortárs Kiadó
Dedicated to literary works, poetry, and contemporary Hungarian writing.
42) Kijárat Kiadó
Focuses on experimental and avant-garde literature.
43) Napvilág Kiadó
Produces nonfiction titles with a focus on politics, history, and social issues.
44) Szépmíves Könyvek
Known for reviving classic literary works and producing elegant contemporary editions.
45) Holnap Kiadó
Publishes theatre-related works, performing arts books, and Hungarian literary classics.
46) Orpheusz Kiadó
A poetry-focused publisher with a distinct editorial voice.
47) Kairosz Kiadó
Publishes history, culture, and traditionalist works.
48) Harmat Kiadó
A Christian publisher producing family, counseling, and faith-based nonfiction.
49) Szent István Társulat (SIT)
A historic Catholic publishing house with theology and education titles.
50) Tinta Könyvkiadó
Specializes in linguistics, dictionaries, and educational resources.
51) Medicina Könyvkiadó
Produces medical textbooks and professional healthcare publications.
52) Semmelweis Kiadó
Affiliated with Semmelweis University, this press specializes in medical and health sciences.
53) Eötvös (ELTE) Kiadó
The publishing arm of Eötvös Loránd University, focused on scholarly works.
54) CEU Press
Publishes high-quality scholarly titles in humanities and social sciences, with global distribution.
55) Szegedi Egyetemi Kiadó (University of Szeged Press)
A regional academic press producing monographs and journals.
Submission Basics for Hungary
- Prepare a focused query in Hungarian or English, depending on the publisher’s guidelines.
- Submit a clean manuscript or proposal, with translations if needed.
- Clarify rights you are offering, including translation and regional rights.
- Be aware of seasonal schedules—many publishers plan lists months in advance.
- Be patient—response times can range from weeks to months.
Why Work With a Service Partner First
Before approaching publishers, authors often benefit from editorial partners like Barnett Ghostwriting. They can refine manuscripts, prepare submission materials, and align your work with the preferences of specific imprints. This can significantly improve your chances of landing a publishing deal.
Approximate Publishing Costs in Hungary (2025, USD)
|
Service Type |
Estimated Cost Range (USD) |
| Manuscript Editing |
$400 – $1,200 |
| $150 – $600 | |
| ISBN Registration |
$30 – $100 |
|
Printing (per copy) |
$2 – $8 |
| Marketing & Promotion |
$300 – $2,500 |
Final Thoughts
The Hungarian publishing scene in 2025 is thriving, offering opportunities for authors across all genres and disciplines. Whether you are a debut novelist, a nonfiction expert, a poet, or an academic, there’s a publisher in Hungary that can be the right fit for your work. By studying each publisher’s list, preparing strong submission materials, and considering editorial support before pitching, you can increase your chances of finding a successful home for your book.
