Best Christmas Markets in Budapest: How to Plan a Trip

In December Budapest comes alive when its award-winning Christmas Markets open for business. The city is dotted with festive food, craft booths, decorations, and music. This is a guide to see the best Christmas Markets in Budapest.

You’ll learn when to visit, what to expect, where to go, where to stay and so much more. Feel free to skip ahead if you’re looking for something specific.

When to visit Budapest for Christmas Markets?

The Christmas markets take place in the 4 weeks leading up to Christmas. The best time to visit will be the first 2 weeks in December. By then the markets are open and the vibe is in full swing.

If you can only visit after Christmas due to school vacations, this may not be as amazing as you’re hoping for since some of the markets will close after Christmas. But, you’ll still have a few market options after Christmas!

Why are Budapest’s Christmas Markets so special?

Budapest takes great pride in its Christmas Markets. Their markets are consistently at the top of the list for “best Christmas markets in Europe”. It’s not unusual for Budapest to take the number 1 spot. So, with a reputation like that, I knew I wanted to check it out.

The markets in Budapest are located in some of the more historical parts of the city; directly in front of St Stephen’s Basilica, for example. The backdrop of the beautiful buildings makes the markets even more special.

Note: The markets here were a little smaller in 2023 after the pandemic. But, they’ll rebound and they were still incredible. Experiencing something that people put so much effort into is really special.

What to expect at Christmas Markets?

Honestly, every market is a little different; market to market, city to city, and country to country.

Expect to find handmade crafts like ornaments, journals, photos, pottery, jewelry, and more.

There will be an abundance of food: Fried potatoes, fried foods, sausages, and more.

Large Christmas trees and lights everywhere you look!

Mulled wine and cider are a highlight of the Christmas Markets. It’s often served in reusable cups and comes hot enough to thoroughly warm you up as you walk around the markets.

Things I wish I had known about the mulled wine experience

There are mulled wine stands sprinkled throughout the city and in every Christmas market. There is a whole system the locals are very familiar with that took me a couple of tries to figure out.

First, your mulled wine will likely be served to you in a festive reusable cup. There are no plastic cup options. So, when you see prices listed you’ll typically see a price for the wine and for the cup. That’s because you’ll pay for both and then you can return the cup to get your cup “deposit” back.

Pay for your wine and let it warm your hands as you hold it. It’s so satisfying.

Then, walk around the market sipping on your drink or find one of the standing-height tables if you want to stay in on spot. Take your time; no one is in a rush for you to finish.

Finally, take your empty cup back to the same stand you purchased it from. You give it back to them and they’ll give you the money back for the cup.

It’s simple but if you don’t know what’s going on you could end up with a lot of cups you don’t want.

The Best Christmas Markets in Budapest

There are way more than four Christmas markets in Budapest but it’s impossible to see them all in a few days. But, these four were the best Christmas markets in Budapest (in my opinion).

Vörösmarty Square

This is the largest of the Christmas Markets in the middle of the main square in Budapest. Start by walking down Fashion Street to see the lights hanging over the pedestrian path. They are so much fun! Then you can spend time looking at the craft and food stalls in the square. This is where I found my favorite gifts from Budapest.

There is also a fair amount of shopping in this part of the city so you can go to a brick-and-mortar store if you get cold!

Days and Hours

Open November 18- January 1
Generally, open from 11:00 am until 9:00 or 10:00 pm

Check the hours before you go if you’re there on or around Christmas.

St. Stephen’s Basilica

This is probably the best market in Budapest. It’s in the square directly outside of St. Stephen’s Basilica. The church as the backdrop makes this market very special.

You’ll find tons of little booths crammed in this space. And enough people to match. Be prepared for the crowd but it’s worth it. There are food, drink, and craft stalls here.

The best part of this market is that there are scheduled sound and light shows on the front of the basilica. Join the other market-goers and watch the pictures dance around on church. It’s unique; I didn’t see it in any other market.

If you’re into music, there are organ and quartet concerts in the basilica. The concerts happen regularly but there are extra shows around the Advent season. Tickets are reasonable (around $20 USD) and it is a special way to see the basilica.

Days and Hours

Also open November 18-January 1
Open from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm (11:00 pm on weekends)
Hours change for the Christmas holiday – be sure to check before you go

City Park

The market in City Park was my favorite of the ones we visited but not because of the market. There is a huge ice skating rink in the park and Vajdahunyad Castle is the backdrop. If you’re bold enough go ice skating for a bit and take in the spectacle. You’ll be there with tourists and locals for an unforgettable experience.

After ice skating, you can go to the market in the park. Even though it seems like the stalls blend together after a few markets you won’t get tired of it. You’ll find something unique and different in every market.

The castle is also open late for you to walk through the grounds. It doesn’t take long and it’s worth a quick walk-through.

Days and Hours

This is the most consistent of the markets and is open from 9:00 am until 9:00 pm from November 18 until January 1.

Óbuda

Óbuda is a small neighborhood up the river a bit on the Buda side. This market is open on weekends and caters to locals, which makes it very special to be a part of. Find it in Fo Square.

Sip hot chocolate (even vegan hot chocolate) and listen to local artists perform on the stage. We watched a woman lead kids in songs and dances. I was mesmerized even though I couldn’t understand anything.

There is a smaller ice skating rink here if that’s your style. There were lots of food booths at the market in Óbuda but the craft booths were there too.

Óbuda was the most memorable and unexpected market in Budapest.

Days and Hours

Open from late November until December 23 this market schedule is for the locals. During the week it will be open from 2:00 pm – 9:00 pm. On weekends it’s open from 10:00 am until 10:00 pm. As always, check the hours before heading out there just in case they’ve changed.

What to Buy at Christmas Markets

If you plan to buy souvenirs or gifts in the markets it’s a good idea to go in with a plan. You’ll see so many options as you walk around the markets. At the very least, know who you want to buy a gift for or what you’re interested in for yourself. Otherwise wandering aimlessly and buying all of the things will be stressful and take away from the experience.

• Try the local food. In Budapest, be on the lookout for chimney cakes. If you’re gluten-free (like me) you’ll have to take your friends’ word for it (like I did). But, you can also find potato chips in some places if you’re in need of a snack.
• Ornaments. If you love ornaments you’ll have plenty of options to pick from at the markets. Look around at the options before making your choices. I found my favorites from a stall at the market in Vörösmarty Square.
• Souvenirs/Keepsakes. You can find handmade journals and jewelry, fun decorations, t-shirts, and so much more. Have fun exploring and see what you find!

What to do in Buadapest other than Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets open in the afternoon but are prettiest when the sun goes down. So, you’ll still have plenty of time to visit the rest of Budapest when you aren’t walking through a market drinking mulled wine. Some of what you see will depend on how much time you have.

Visiting some Christmas markets puts you in some of the main sites in the city: City Park, Vörösmarty Square, and St. Stephen’s Basilica to name a few.

Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, & Buda Castle

The 3 things listed are the three best sites on Buda Hills and should be at the top of your list when you aren’t at the markets.

Fisherman’s Bastion provides some of the best views of the city. Much of it is free to access but if you want to go to the top of the walls tickets are 1,000 Hungarian Forints (Ft) ($2.75 USD). It’s open from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm. There are a few market booths in the square here but nothing too large; just enough to make it festive! The lights are pretty amazing too.

Matthias Church is in the same plaza as Fisherman’s Bastion. This is one of the most ornate churches you’ll see. It’s beautiful on the outside and the inside is spectacular. Tickets are 2,500 Ft ($6.83 USD) and very worth it! The church is open from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm during the week but has shorter hours on the weekend.

Check the times before you visit; especially during Advent since it wouldn’t be unusual for there to be more services than normal at the church.

Buda Castle is a 15-minute walk from the other two sites on the hill. The castle is now a museum that you probably won’t go inside to visit. But, the castle area has some pretty amazing views; including some with Chain Bridge and Parliament. It’s worth walking down to see. There is another small market here but again nothing too large but the decorations do make it feel festive.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath (or Gellért Baths)

Thermal baths are one of the most unique things you can visit in Budapest. Be sure to visit one. Don’t be afraid to visit more than one if you really enjoy it!

Széchenyi Thermal Bath is out near City Park. It is the most popular of the baths. The bright yellow color is iconic. The baths are open from 7:00 am until 7:00 pm during the week. Saturday and Sunday they are open from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm.

This is one of the most popular things to do and it does get busy; even in winter. Plan to go early in the day. By 11:00 am the baths are quite full even.

Rent a cabin to store your things and have a place to change clothes. You’ll be dressing in warm clothes to experience Budapest in winter so it’s nice to have a place to peel off all of the layers.

There are three pools outside; each at different temperatures. These pools are the best because of the steam that rises up from the warm pool in the cold air. But, you can also venture inside and try out the various pools there, too.

Just know, if you’re visiting in December, the ground and the air are going to be cold when you get out of the pool. It’s worth it because it’s amazing but it is quite chilly to change pools!

You can spend a couple of hours or the better part of a day at the pools; it depends on how much you’re enjoying it.

Hungarian Parliament and Shoes on the Danube

The Hungarian Parliament building is one of the most iconic structures in the city. The imposing structure sits on the bank of the Danube and it is iconic.

There are some festive nativity and tree displays outside of the parliament building. Be sure to walk around it so you see it all. Be sure to see the building lit up at night!

The inside of the building is beautiful too. You can tour the inside of the parliament building if you prepare before your trip. You have to book guided tours through the parliament ticket office. There are different languages at certain times each day. The tours sell out so plan early.

I ended up on a French language tour because English wasn’t an option. I can understand French so it was fine but it wasn’t as good a tour in my native language.

There is a tour office for day-of tickets but I didn’t see anyone having any luck with it.

After you finish at Parliament, or when your tour is over, head down to the Danube and walk along the water to the Shoes on the Danube Memorial. This is a memorial for victims of World War II. There are 60 iron pairs of shoes lined up on the river. It’s eerily beautiful and touching. It’s worth a stop.

Central Market Hall

I know you’ll be spending a crazy amount of time at the Christmas markets. Central Market Hall is still worth it!

This is the largest traditional market in Budapest. The 1st level is mostly food; some snacks, paprika, and fruits/veggies/meat for locals. The 2nd level is souvenir central. This is where you’ll find the souvenirs that aren’t Christmas-related (and some that are). Look for t-shirts, bags, trinkets, or anything really.

There are a few restaurants on the 2nd tier as well if you’re interested in some Hungarian food in a fun environment!

Go on a River Cruise

Cruising on the Danube is the perfect way to see the city lit up. It’s truly magical from the water. You’ll likely be indoors on the boat and can still see quite well.

But, there are some really wonderful photo opportunities on the ride if you’re willing to brave the cold for a few minutes.

Getting Around Budapest

Budapest is very easy to navigate. The public transportation system is extensive and efficient. Since it’s cold and the markets are spread out all over the city it’s best to plan to transit around the city.

When you are in a specific area you can wander as you’d like. But, when getting from one location to another it’s nice to have some reprieve from the cold for a few minutes!

Use google maps to help you use the transit options efficiently. It makes it so easy; you’ll seem like you know what you’re doing even though you’re just following directions.

Travel card

Since you’ll be taking some transit options to get around efficiently and to stay warm you should consider the travel card. They are super reasonable and you can use any form of public transportation in Budapest. You can just scan your card and go; which is way better than standing at ticket machines when you’re already cold and your bus is coming!

• 24 Hr- 2,500 Ft ($6.50 USD)
• 72 hr- 5,500 Ft ($14.50 USD)
• 7 days- 6,500 Ft ($17 USD)

The easiest place to your ticket is at the BKK counter at the airport or from the kiosks/ticket windows at the metro stations.

Where to Stay in Budapest for Christmas Markets

Staying in Buda

Stay at the Hilton Budapest for the best views of the river, fisherman’s bastion, and Matthias Church.

I loved walking by Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion at night or in the early morning; I had the whole place to myself and it was so special. Buda has an incredible combination of incredible views while still feeling quite residential at night.

But, staying in Buda pretty much guarantees you’ll be on the 16 or 16A bus at least a few times during the day. With a travel card, it doesn’t really matter though.

If I were visiting again during Christmas time, I’d stay here all over again. It was the perfect choice for what I wanted.

Staying in Pest

Accommodations in Pest would give you the most walkable experience in Budapest. You could be quite near some of the largest Christmas markets. Plus, it wouldn’t be hard to get back to your hotel and warm up if you worry about being cold.

But there are lots of hotel options in Pest: well-rated options, serviced apartment options, and even super well-rated and affordable options.

The best gluten-free restaurants in Budapest are on the Pest side of the river.

How many days do you need to visit the Best Christmas Markets in Budapest?

You can fill 4 days in Budapest easily; especially if you add in Christmas markets in the evening. You can probably see much of the city in 2 or 3 days. 1 day is better than nothing but that means you’ll be moving quickly and will have to choose between Budapest attractions and Christmas Markets.

Tips to Stay Warm

It is cold in Budapest in December. I hate being cold. This is how I attempted to manage the cold.

What to Pack

Wear layers. On the coldest days, I had on fleece-lined leggings under my jeans and long sleeve shirts under my sweater. But, if it was too warm walking around I could adjust. Fashion comes second; warmth comes first.

Warm gloves and a hat are a must.

I crocheted my hat but I like this one too! I also seriously debated buying earmuffs but didn’t.

Have a good coat. I loved that mine is long and has a hood. Game changer. I bought mine a few seasons ago but this one is similar to the one I took.

Wear warm socks. Seriously, my feet got cold through my shoes with warm socks on.

Comfortable warm shoes like these boots are a game changer. Just be sure to test them out before you travel since you’ll walk a lot.

Take a warm scarf. This is similar to the one I took. It’s pricey but it was so worth it to have it.

Bring a good daypack so you can shed layers (or carry extras).

General Tips

• Drink lots of mulled wine or the kids’ cider.
• Ride on the metro if you need a break from the cold for a few minutes. It’s amazing how a quick ride can recharge you.
• Take your time at meals; it’s the perfect opportunity to thaw out.
• Spend time in your hotel room if you’re cold. It’s okay to head back even if you just want a few minutes where you don’t feel like a scene out of A Christmas Story.

The best Christmas Markets in Budapest

Budapest is a beautiful city to visit any time of year, but it’s especially magical in the winter. With its festive decorations and delicious food Budapest is the perfect place to visit Christmas Markets.

If you go, let me know what your favorite markets were!