As winter arrives in Budapest, the city sparkles with holiday magic. Mulled wine steams at Christmas markets, festive music echoes through cobblestone streets, and thousands of lights adorn historic landmarks. From glowing trams to baroque palaces aglow, unwrap the Hungarian capital’s most treasured seasonal delights.
Advent Bazilika
One of Europe’s favorite Christmas markets, Advent Bazilika, returns to St. Stephen’s Square from November 14 through January 1! Expect a towering Christmas tree beneath a magical light canopy, nearly 100 artisan vendors showcasing ceramics, leather goods & jewelry, plus authentic Hungarian treats and culinary adventures. Marvel at the nativity scene and monumental advent wreath, then catch the stunning basilica light show daily at 5:30 PM, often paired with live concerts.
1051 Budapest, Szent István tér | Website
Koripark, Budapest Park
Glide into winter at Koripark! Opening on November 28 at Budapest’s largest outdoor concert venue, this ice skating paradise spans over 2,000 square meters of pure frozen fun. Grab your skates (or just rent a pair on the spot), feel the crisp air, and experience Budapest’s coolest seasonal hangout! Need a break? Warm up in the cozy hütte with a hot drink between skating sessions. Whether you’re perfecting your pirouettes or just wobbling around with friends, Koripark is your place to be this winter.
1095 Budapest, Fábián Juli tér 1. | Website
Budapest Classical Nights
Discover Budapest’s festive glow through music! Budapest Classical Nights presents three enchanting evenings of Vivaldi, Mozart & timeless masters in MagNet Ház’s elegant courtyard. Advent Melodies on December 8th, Winter Harmonies on December 12th, and Christmas Sounds on December 20th – each night a unique seasonal journey. And the best part: every guest receives a complimentary glass of champagne! A stunning string quartet paired with bubbly – what better way to embrace the holiday spirit?
1062 Budapest, Andrássy út 98. | Website
Story of Lights, Gödöllő
Through February 1, the gardens of Hungary’s largest baroque manor and Queen Elisabeth’s beloved summer retreat host the spectacular Story of Lights installation, awaiting visitors with more than 130 installations, including light sculptures and illuminated tunnels, just a short train ride away. Special highlights include the tunnel-like illuminated baroque tree-lined avenue, and a 30-meter-tall Ferris wheel offering bird’s-eye views of the illuminated palace and park.
2100 Gödöllő, Grassalkovich-kastély 5852. | Website
Light Fleet
Budapest’s festive Light Fleet is back to spread holiday magic across the city! Mark your calendars: November 28 at sunset, illuminated trams roll out from the Hungária depot – and this year, they’re all hitting the Grand Boulevard at once. Spot the legendary UV tram, sleek Combino, iconic ICS & more glowing beauties. Want more? Take the twinkling cogwheel railway up the hills or float along the Danube on the enchanted light ship throughout the holiday season.
Happy Wonderland
Happy Wonderland, Hungary’s only advent amusement park, transforms City Park into a festive playground against the breathtaking backdrop of Vajdahunyad Castle and the iconic Ice Rink. Experience the nostalgia of classic fairground thrills with the adrenaline-pumping Voodoo-Jumper, soar above the land on the towering Colossus Ferris wheel, race through twists and turns on the Wilde Maus roller coaster, or bump into holiday fun on the beloved dodgems.
1146 Budapest, Vajdahunyad sétány | Website
