Have you just moved to Budapest? Or have you fallen into the usual trap of being in a rush at the year-end and don’t know what to get for your loved ones? We have good news then; there are places that both entertain and where you can certainly find unique gift ideas.
There are many magical Christmas markets in Budapest from the well-known ones to other more hidden locations where locals tend to go.
Budapest Christmas Markets #1: The Iconic
The iconic Budapest Advent and Christmas Fair in Vörösmarty Square is listed amongst Europe’s prettiest festive-season markets. You will find quality hand-made gifts made by talented artists and of course, a huge food stand in the middle of the square.
In the evenings, Cafe Gerbeaud’s facade is bathed in light. The Christmas light display on the Cafe’s building is magical, taking the more romantically inclined into a fairytale world.
Where? 1051 Budapest, Vörösmarty tér
Budapest Christmas Markets #2: The Spectacular
It goes without saying that Szent István Bazilika (St. Stephen’s Basilica) is one of the most amazing festive locations in Budapest. This Christmas market is located on St Stephen’s Square, 5-10 minutes’ walk from Vörösmarty Square. Just enter the giant Advent gate, browse among the hundred or so handcrafts stalls, or try out the skating rink in the middle of the square.
Every half an hour, every day between 4.30 pm and 8 pm there’s an amazing Christmas laser projection on the Basilica’s facade.
Where? 1051 Budapest, Szent István tér 1.
Budapest Christmas Markets #3: The Lesser Known
If you prefer less touristy places then this is the festive market to try. The Advent Fair in Óbuda (Old Buda) is not so well known as the others but no less gorgeous for that. The Christmas Market takes place in Main Square (Fő tér) in Óbuda, and it’s just a short distance from the city centre.
Visitors will enjoy a range of folk, jazz and world music concerts, beautiful festive market stalls with hand crafted presents, and of course lots of tasty food.
Where? 1033 Budapest, Fő tér
Budapest Christmas Markets #4: The Artistic
At the end of the year Gozsdu Courtyard turns into a festive grotto. A 5-metre tall Christmas tree enchants the visitors and this location (perhaps the only holiday market to do so) also hosts Hanukkah celebrations between 6th and 14th December.
Be sure not to miss the craft food and gift stands with many, many good quality presents on offer.
Where? 1075 Budapest, Király utca 13.
Budapest Christmas Markets #5: The Majestic
The real wow-factor market takes place at the 5-star Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace. Its theme is, naturally, the classical Christmas ballet, the Nutcracker. The luxurious festive feeling is 100% heart-warming. Christmas melodies and exclusive Nutcracker-inspired decoration will hopefully melt even the coldest heart. The collection of gift items is certainly more on the exclusive side so expect to find gift ideas that you would not find elsewhere.
Where? 1051 Budapest, Széchenyi István tér 5-6.