From 17th of November 2024 to 1st of January 2025, the Advent Celebration at the Basilica is waiting for you!
Budapest, Hungary’s vibrant capital, is an easily accessible destination from major European cities. Whether traveling by bus, train, or air, it’s well connected, making it a popular choice for visitors across Europe. One of the key advantages for tourists is the weak euro-to-forint exchange rate, which makes Budapest more affordable than many other European capitals. Accommodations, dining, and attractions offer excellent value for money, appealing to a range of budgets.
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Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and thermal baths, Budapest also boasts lively cultural and nightlife scenes. Iconic sights such as the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge are must-see attractions. Whether you’re strolling along the Danube, relaxing in one of the city’s famous baths, or enjoying local cuisine, Budapest offers a unique and enjoyable experience at a budget-friendly price.
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Budapest hosts several enchanting Advent and Christmas fairs, which are popular for their festive atmosphere, unique gifts, and delicious seasonal treats. Here are the key Christmas markets in Budapest:
14 TIPS, WHAT TO DO IN BUDAPEST AT ADVENT! LEARN MORE
1. Christmas Fair at Vörösmarty Square:
- Location: Vörösmarty tér, in the heart of Budapest.
- Overview: One of the most famous and largest Christmas markets in the city, featuring beautifully decorated stalls with a variety of handcrafted goods, traditional Hungarian Christmas foods, and mulled wine.
- Attractions: Enjoy live music, performances, and a festive ambiance. The market is known for its high-quality artisans and unique gifts.
- 1051 Budapest, Vörösmarty tér 1051 Budapest, Szent István tér (metro lines: M1, M2, M3 , buses: 7, 9, 105, trams: 2, 2B, 23, 47,49, trolley 72)
2. Advent Fair at St. Stephen’s Basilica:
- Location: In front of St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István Bazilika).
- Overview: This market offers a stunning setting with the basilica beautifully lit up. It features a variety of Christmas stalls selling handcrafted items, festive food, and drinks.
- Attractions: Ice skating rink and various entertainment programs, including live performances and holiday-themed activities.
- 1051 Budapest, Szent István tér (metro lines: M1, M2, M3 , buses: 7, 9, 105, trams: 2, 2B, 23, 47,49, trolley 72)
3. Christmas Market at the Basilica (Erzsébet tér)
- Location: Around the St. Stephen’s Basilica.
- Overview: A smaller but charming market with a focus on local crafts, gourmet foods, and seasonal beverages. It offers a more intimate Christmas experience.
- Attractions: Festive lighting and decorations, along with a cozy atmosphere.
- 1051 Budapest, Szent István tér (metro lines: M1, M2, M3 , buses: 7, 9, 105, trams: 2, 2B, 23, 47,49, trolley 72)
4. Advent Fair at the Óbuda Christmas Market:
- Location: Fő tér, Óbuda (a historic district of Budapest).
- Overview: A less crowded market compared to Vörösmarty Square and the Basilica, known for its authentic, community feel and traditional products.
- Attractions: Offers a range of local crafts, food stalls, and live entertainment.
- 1033 Budapest,Fő tér (buses 34, 106, trams 1, 1A,)
5. Christmas Fair at the Palace of Arts (Müpa):
- Location: Near the Palace of Arts (Müpa), in the 9th district.
- Overview: Known for its artistic and cultural focus, this market features high-quality crafts, gourmet foods, and performances.
- Attractions: Enjoy a blend of traditional and contemporary Christmas products, along with cultural events and concerts.
- 1095 Komor Marcell utca 1. (buses 54, 55, 179, 223E, 224, 224E, 255E, 106, trams 1,2, Suburban railway H7)
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Tips for Visitors:
- Timing: The markets typically start in late November and run until the end of December. Opening hours may vary, so check specific dates before visiting.
- Weather: Dress warmly, as the weather can be cold and possibly snowy during the Christmas season.
- Local Specialties: Don’t miss trying traditional Hungarian treats such as chimney cake (kürtőskalács), roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine (forralt bor).
- Transportation: The markets are centrally located and accessible by public transport, including metro and trams.
DO YOU HAVE TO TRY THESE HUNGARIAN FOODS
Lángos is a typical Hungarian food in the past it was made of the last bits of the bread-dough and baked at the front of a brick or clay oven, to be served hot as the breakfast of the bread-baking day.
Lapcsánka is a potato pancakes are shallow-fried pancakes of ground potato, flour and a egg, often flavored with garlic or onion and herbs. They may be topped with a variety of condiments, sour cream and chees.
Artisans offer their wares at the fair. Visitors can familiarize themselves with traditional Hungarian works of art. You will also find a large selection of Christmas tree decorations, which you can only get here.
There are 22 wine regions in Hungary. Many are famous worldwide for their wines. You’ve probably already heard about Tokaji Aszú wines or Egri Bikavér. You have the opportunity to taste these wines and take them home as gifts.
Great programs for every day
Children’s smiles and loud laughter are the most beautiful part of the Christmas holiday, and the children’s look favorite skating rink, which can be visited free of charge every day from 5:00 p.m., will ensure this joy for children under the age of 12. Skates can be rented on site.
The selfie point and the spectacular workshop of blacksmiths, or the VR sleigh, which combines today’s modern technology with the wonder of Christmas, promise great fun for everyone.
And finally, the eternal favorite: every afternoon from 5:30 p.m., the audience will be dazzled by a wonderful light painting on the facade of the basilica, before which visitors to the square can see a high-quality musical concert from 5:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, Fridays and weekends.
General opening time:
Monday-Thursday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Friday-Saturday: 11 AM – 11 PM
Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
