Budapest at Christmas is like a setting from a fairy tale: illuminated bridges, steam coming from the hot springs and snow-covered squares that make the city look more romantic than ever. Wherever you go, you feel like you're living in a Christmas postcard that just... actually exists! It's a must-do trip, especially this time of year.
Naturally, before starting your journey you must make the necessary preparations. And the most basic is to get the currency of the country, Hungarian forints. If you want to do it easily, quickly and without stress, come in here and place your order online at Capital Exchange.
The Christmas markets: the "warm heart" of the city
The experience begins at the famous Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. The entire square turns into a winter village full of scents of kürtőskalács (chimney cake), mulled wine with spices and Hungarian soups that literally hug you. The wooden benches, local produce and handmade ornaments make the walk so bright and warm, where you will feel surrounded by the "Christmas spirit".
A little further, at the Basilica Christmas Market, the atmosphere becomes even more magical. The facade of the Basilica of Saint Stephen is illuminated with 3D projections, music can be heard throughout the square and the market is spread out around an ice rink which makes the whole experience truly cinematic.
A city illuminated from end to end
Η Andrássy Avenue, in the winter, it is not played. Trees illuminated, ornate storefronts and a sense of luxury reminiscent of European metropolises of yesteryear. If you want something more... fairytale, walk down Váci Street: Yes, it is very crowded, but the decoration and energy of the area is exactly what you expect from Christmas in the heart of Europe.
And of course, το highlight: the Parliament and the Chain Bridge illuminated over the Danube. The view is one of those that make you think "yes, it was worth every minute". Get out your cell phone and get ready to take lots of pictures!
Bathing in the cold? The most special Christmas experience
One of the best things to do in winter in Budapest is to step into the legendary thermal baths. The Széchenyi Baths, in the cold of December, with steam rising from the hot springs, gives you an experience like no other. The contrast of the warm water with the cold air is a Christmas highlight in itself. You've never had an experience like this before!
Attractions that become even more atmospheric
The Buda Castle, Heroes' Square, the Fisherman’s Bastion…everything takes on another character in winter. Bastion especially, when it has a light layer of snow and you see Pesti lit up from the opposite side, you feel like you're living in a fairytale world that's hard to describe. If you climb Gellért Hill at sunset, you'll see the city transform like a scene from a Christmas movie.
Don't forget that Budapest in December is beautiful but also cold. VERY cold!
So what should you absolutely have with you?
- Gloves,
- waterproof shoes,
- a really warm coat (not something "light for comfort")
Excursion to nearby villages for extra Christmas Mood!
If you want to escape the rhythm of the city, a short excursion to nearby villages of Budapest is what,what you need for a real winter mood. Szentendre, just 30 minutes by train, it is the ultimate Christmas village: stone streets, colorful houses, small cafes that smell like chocolate and local shops that look like they came out of an old fairy tale. A little further, Visegrád offers more "medieval" vibes with a castle and panoramic views of the Danube, ideal if you want photos that look fake. And if you have a day to spare, Esztergom with its huge cathedral illuminated in the December fog is an experience that is hard to forget. These small escapes give another, a calmer dimension to Christmas, where Hungary shows its most authentic and warm self.
Make sure to do your exchange before your excursions, as it seems that in many places cash may be the only way to transact. That's why, find one of the Capital Exchange stores here and get forints instantly and without stress, so you can enjoy your ride in the moment.
The moments that last
Christmas in Budapest is not all lanterns and markets. It's the mulled wine you drink to warm up, the view from Fisherman's Bastion, the walks by the Danube, laughter and relaxation in the thermal baths, the cozy feeling of walking into a warm pub after the cold.
It is a city that acquires another soul in winter and gives you everything,what you need for a Christmas trip to remember. If you are planning a trip, pack a suitcase, take a few forints and let Budapest enchant you.
