Christmas in Budapest – the best programmes you should definitely try

Budapest is particularly beautiful during the winter. You can find thermal baths, the castle on the hill, the basilica, cafes, baroque buildings and the fabulous view on both sides of the river Danube all covered in white just like in a fairy tale. According to The Telegraph, at Christmas the atmosphere of the city is simply magical with the squares filled with people, the smell of cinnamon in the air and the colourful lights illumining the Christmas market – meanwhile, you can run across the sinuous streets of the city on the special trams shining in multiple colours.

The fairy tale would not be complete without the Hungarian cuisine, quality handcrafts, traditions and folk arts.  Besides, the Christmas experience visitors can choose from many entertaining activities. For instance, you can try ice skating in Bálna, on one of the largest ice rinks of the city, surrounded by maybe the most beautiful panorama of the world with some mulled wine in your hand. Skating on the rink of Városliget (which is the biggest outdoor rink of Europe) is a similarly enchanting experience – you can find yourselves in a uniquely romantic atmosphere in the park around Vajdahunyad castle nearby.

Another delightful programme is to discover the city’s oldest and world-famous historical cafes like Gerbaud or New-Your Cafe. One of the programmes for the night is to visit the ruin pubs with a unique atmosphere. Do not miss the gourmet experience either – you can find six Michelin-starred restaurants, e.g. Onyx, that provides a shining example of old-school European fine dining in the city centre. After long days full of various programmes, you should return to the publicly recognised and world-famous Hilton Budapest or the Atrium Fashion Hotel etc.  Thanks to the high number of natural hot springs under the city, the spas of Budapest can take care of your health and nervous system by providing an excellent opportunity to relax and enjoy rejuvenation (e.g. at Széchenyi Thermal Bath or Gellért Bath).  By going back to Vörösmarty Square, you can see one of the most beautiful and famous Christmas markets with family programmes, puppet shows, craft activities and concerts, just steps away from the Danube.  

Along with the “forralt bor” (mulled wine), it is a must to try the similarly traditional “kürtős kalács” (chimney cake) with many flavours, e.g. cinnamon, chocolate, vanilla etc. “Lángos” (fried dough) is also a well-known traditional Hungarian street food with garlic, sour cream and cheese. “Beigli” is a very special delicacy, stuffed with poppy seed or nut, that no Hungarian family can miss from the table at Christmas Eve just like szaloncukor (sweet) which is an eternal, delicious decoration of Christmas trees, in a colourful package, filled with jellies, creams, marzipan, walnut, chocolate etc.  You can read about the comparison of the Christmas markets of Budapest and Vienna in terms of price here. See you in December! Enjoy your stay! 

Sources : telegraph.co.uk & dailynewshungary.com