You might check this website if your accomodations are not set in Hungary.

http://www.hotelonlinehungary.com/

I came across it yesterday when doing a search. I cannot vouch for the operator but it seems to have a number of hotels that include more than worldwide chains.

If you are going to do side trips you also might try Lake Balaton. That is the spot to be in the summer months. When we went to Hungary, we rented the apartment of my aunt's neighbors because they were at Balaton for the summer. The several hundred dollars we left them probably covered their rent for some time!

You might also check this auction.

http://www.skyauction.com/jsp/offer.jsp?OFFER_ID=690147

The accomodations are all outside of Budapest but might be easily had for $1 + $195 in taxes. $196 is not bad 7 night I don't think.

I hope you have a wonderful trip.

I agree with your assessment that prices are higher in Vienna.

FWIW, make sure you settle any bills in cafes with the waiter before leaving. It must be an American custom to leave $ on the table and walk out if you don't need change. They chased us down to settle the bill 3 times while we were in Budapest even though we had left plenty to cover the bill and tip. We finally caught on..