Gaily-coloured lights, festive decorations and those tantalizing holiday aromas all combine to make Budapest Christmas the best time of year.
There are so many beautiful things to do and choose from during Budapest’s Christmas holiday season. Here are just a few opportunities to enjoy the holiday season.
Fairs and Markets
Christmas Fairs and Markets abound this time of year. From Budapest’s historic Vörösmarty Tér to the joyous St. István’s Bazilika Fair to cozy Gozsdu Courtyard to Óbuda’s Advent Fair, there’s something for everyone. In addition to the holiday booths chock full of gifts and surprises for your friends and family, these traditional fairs also offer great Hungarian food and, of course, our favourite Forralt Bor (mulled wine).
Streetfood Vendors are scattered throughout the city to help shoppers and strollers ward off winter’s chill. More of that great mulled wine, naturally, plus roasted chestnuts, lángos and even some new and different tasty treats can be found on nearly every street corner.
Amazing Concerts
Concerts from the opera house to sidewalk cafes, from classical orchestras to impromptu sing-alongs in a pub, there’s music for everyone. Local online magazines and program sites will help you find the ones best suited for all tastes. And the more adventurous might even try their hand at karaoke!
Budapest Christmas – for Outdoorsy Types
Building snowmen is a favourite for children of all ages – providing the hills of Buda get some snow! But when there is snow, there are families taking advantage of the winter season to frolic in the hills around the city.
Winter sports for all, including football matches, rugby teams and, if the weather cooperates, maybe even a snowball fest or two. And don’t forget ice skating in Budapest’s city park.
For Shopping Enthusiasts
Shopping Malls offer the more comfort-minded shoppers a venue in which to indulge their every whim. Gifts for the family are available at international chain stores, which can be browsed without one’s nose turning red from the cold. And indoor fast food stands also offer meals which can be partaken in comfort.
Pub visits with family and friends also help ward off the icy touch of Old Man Winter’s freezing winds. Hot toddies, mulled wines, even cold beers chased by a pálinka or two, will bring roses to the cheeks of every patron of the many and varied pubs in the city. Your favourite is out there somewhere.