The Christmas markets in Budapest
For a long time, Christmas markets, also known as winter markets, have been a tradition in Europe’s major cities.
These events take place outdoors in the most iconic locations of the cities, such as large squares or near historic and symbolic monuments. These spaces are filled with festive attractions, craft stalls, and stands selling local food and drinks.
Budapest parliament (1)
Budapest (274)
In Budapest, the city’s most famous Christmas market is held annually in Vörösmarty Square, while another market takes place at St. Stephen’s Basilica, considered one of the best in Europe. Christmas markets are also organized in Deák Ferenc Square and at the Városliget Lake market. During this period, besides visiting the Christmas fairs, it is possible to explore the city, which is rich in architectural and historical heritage. Key attractions include the Roman ruins of Aquincum, Buda Castle, the famous city baths, the Parliament building, and numerous museums and churches.
Budapest is the capital of Hungary and the combination of two cities, Buda and Pest, separated by the Danube River. The city is full of tourist attractions, charm, and beauty. I chose to visit Budapest in December, when the weather is colder, but at this time the city acquires a different atmosphere thanks to the Christmas lights and decorations, and the markets offer delicious treats and unique gifts.
Vörösmarty Square, considered the largest, longest, and oldest Christmas market in Budapest, hosts craft stalls and traditional Hungarian foods. Visitors can also enjoy puppet shows. This market is located in one of the city’s most emblematic areas. The market at St. Stephen’s Basilica, on the other hand, has been recognized for the second time as the best market in Europe and is very famous in the city. During the evenings of the market, religious scenes are projected onto the basilica’s facade, accompanied by Christmas music and lighting effects. Numerous wooden stalls sell handicrafts, traditional Hungarian sweets, and regional beverages.
Piazza Vörösmarty (2)
Piazza Vörösmarty (3)
Piazza Vörösmarty (4)
Piazza Vörösmarty (1)
No less important, there are two other places in Budapest where Christmas markets are held: the market in Deák Square, smaller but cozy, and the one at Városliget Lake, located in the city park, where the atmosphere is very festive. During my stay in Budapest, I stayed in two floating hotels anchored along the banks of the Danube River: the Fortuna and the Grand Jules, both located just a few minutes from the city center and close to public transportation.
The Fortuna Hotel Boat is a 3-star hotel built in 1967 in Hungary under the name Szocialista Forradalom 50. It now bears the name Fortuna and is anchored on the Buda side, between the Margaret and Árpád Bridges. It stands out as a cozy vessel and consists of 42 rooms, 14 of which are single rooms intended for students and solo travelers. The hotel rooms are comfortable and welcoming. The hotel features a restaurant called Lord Nelson, where breakfast is served to guests, and on the upper floor, there is a conference room and a large terrace from which it is possible to admire the entire city, the Danube, and Margaret Island. The Grand Jules Hotel Boat is also located on the Buda side of the Danube. Built in 1961, also in Hungary, it operated cruises on the Volga River until 1990, after which it was transferred to the Bulgarian city of Vidin, where it sailed between Vidin and Belgrade. In 2000, it was purchased by its current owners and converted into a floating hotel. The Grand Jules is anchored on the Buda side, near the Margaret Bridge, with views of the Hungarian Parliament. It has 37 non-smoking rooms equipped with all comforts to ensure a pleasant stay for guests. However, the hotel does not offer a bar or dinner service, nor room service.
Staying in these two floating hotels was a pleasant surprise, both for their location and for the service on board and the atmosphere. From the upper decks of both vessels, one can admire the sunset or have breakfast while watching the city of Budapest. The rooms are small but very cozy, ideal for one or two nights. Staying in these two floating hotels offers a unique experience, boarding two classic ships built in the 1960s, with public areas and cabin interiors designed in a classic style.
vajdahunyad castle (2)
vajdahunyad castle (1)
memorial Shoes on the Danube Promenade (1)
Margaret Bridge
Budapest for visitors is not just about Christmas markets. The city offers fantastic experiences, both gastronomic and cultural, including iconic monuments and unique activities such as Danube cruises, with daytime options to admire the city in sunlight or nighttime cruises to enjoy illuminated buildings, as well as opera performances. Visitors can explore the Parliament, Buda Castle, relax in the city’s famous thermal baths, and attend organ concerts at St. Stephen’s Basilica. They can also stroll through streets and squares, particularly Vörösmarty Square and Óbuda Square. In the afternoon, one can enjoy a drink in one of the many bars set in the city’s ruins, offering a unique atmosphere even during the day, although many come alive mainly at night. The city is famous for these bars, often located in abandoned buildings, featuring psychedelic styles and a wide variety of drinks. Their architecture and decoration are unique, with improvised furnishings and street art.
Visitors in Budapest can also enjoy traditional Hungarian cuisine in various restaurants across the city. A wide variety of typical dishes are available, including goulash, lángos (similar to a small pizza), halászlé (fish soup), pörkölt, and paprikás csirke. A gastronomic tour is an excellent opportunity to sample local cuisine in different locations, such as markets, Christmas fairs, and restaurants scattered throughout the city.
Budapest (50)
Budapest (93)
Budapest (155)
Budapest (163)
Admiring Budapest from a Danube cruise is also one of the best ways to see the city, offering breathtaking views of illuminated monuments at night or detailed architecture during the day. Another excellent viewpoint is the Fisherman’s Bastion, ideal for enjoying a panoramic view of the Danube and Pest, including the Hungarian Parliament. For the best experience, visiting at sunset is recommended, allowing you to see the Parliament beautifully lit. The structure, with its seven towers, is a neo-Gothic lookout offering a unique perspective of the city. Another exceptional viewpoint is Gellért Hill, perfect for an incredible view of Budapest, especially the Danube and the city. It is also possible to climb the dome of St. Stephen’s Basilica, which offers a 360-degree view.
In conclusion, Budapest in December is not just about Christmas markets: it is a city that combines history, culture, gastronomy, and breathtaking panoramas, providing unforgettable experiences for all visitors.
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