5-Day Magical Christmas Holiday Itinerary in Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, Hungary
5 days
About Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, the enchanting capital of Hungary, is a fusion of history, culture, and natural beauty. Divided by the serene Danube River, it boasts two distinct sides: Buda, the historic district, and Pest, the bustling business hub. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, Buda Castle, for a panoramic view of the city, or soak in the world-famous thermal baths for a unique relaxation experience. Discover the city's rich history at the Holocaust Memorial Center and House of Terror. Savor traditional Hungarian cuisine, especially the iconic goulash, in the city's numerous eateries. Budapest's vibrant nightlife, with its ruin pubs and wine bars, is not to be missed. With its stunning architecture, fascinating museums, and welcoming locals, Budapest offers an unforgettable travel experience.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
St. Stephen's Basilica and Hungarian Parliament Building
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the St. Stephen's Basilica, a significant religious site and a stunning example of neoclassical architecture.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the Basilica.
Afternoon
Take a guided tour of the Hungarian Parliament Building, one of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local restaurant in the city center.
Evening
Visit the Szechenyi Thermal Bath, the largest medicinal bath in Europe, for a relaxing soak.
Day 3
Buda Castle and Castle District
Morning
Visit the Buda Castle, a historical castle and palace complex of the Hungarian kings. Enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the castle hill.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant in the Castle District.
Afternoon
Explore the Matthias Church and the Fisherman's Bastion, two of the most popular attractions in the Castle District.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in the Castle District.
Evening
Take a Danube River Cruise to enjoy the stunning night view of Budapest.
Day 4
Great Market Hall and City Park
Morning
Visit the Great Market Hall, the largest and oldest indoor market in Budapest, where you can buy traditional Hungarian products.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant in the city center.
Afternoon
Explore the Heroes' Square and the City Park, where you can see the Vajdahunyad Castle and the Budapest Zoo.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in the city center.
Evening
Attend a classical music concert at the Hungarian State Opera House.
Day 5
Dohány Street Synagogue and Andrássy Avenue
Morning
Visit the Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the Synagogue.
Afternoon
Explore the Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its outstanding architectural buildings.
Dinner
Have your farewell dinner at a local restaurant in the city center.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Budapest Eye, a giant Ferris wheel in the city center, offering a panoramic view of the city.
Attractions in Itinerary (18)
1Budapest Christmas Market
The Budapest Christmas Market is a vibrant and festive event that showcases a variety of local crafts, food, and entertainment. It's a must-visit for anyone in Budapest during the holiday season.
2Hungarian National Museum
The largest museum in Hungary, showcasing the history and culture of the region from prehistoric times to the present.
3St. Stephen's Basilica
St. Stephen's Basilica is a Roman Catholic basilica in Budapest. It is named in honour of Stephen, the first King of Hungary, and is the third largest church building in Hungary.
4Hungarian Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building, also known as the Parliament of Budapest, is one of the most iconic structures in Hungary. It is the seat of the National Assembly of Hungary and a popular tourist attraction due to its stunning neo-Gothic architecture.
5Szechenyi Thermal Bath
Szechenyi Thermal Bath, located in Budapest, is one of the largest spa complexes in Europe. It's a perfect place to relax and experience the city's thermal bath culture.
6Buda Castle
A historical castle and palace complex of the Hungarian kings, Buda Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning views of the city.
7Matthias Church
A Roman Catholic church located in the heart of Buda's Castle District, Matthias Church is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Budapest.
8Fisherman's Bastion
Located in the Buda Castle district, the Fisherman's Bastion is a neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque style terrace that offers panoramic views of the city.
9Danube River Cruise
A cruise on the Danube River offers stunning views of Budapest's landmarks, including the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge. It's a must-do activity for any visitor.
10Great Market Hall
The largest and oldest indoor market in Budapest, where, in addition to regular market goods like fruits, vegetables, dairy products and meat, one can find Hungarian specialities, handicrafts, clothing and souvenirs.
11Heroes' Square
Heroes' Square is one of the major squares in Budapest, noted for its iconic statue complex featuring the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars.
12City Park
A large public park in Budapest, home to the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, the Budapest Zoo, and Vajdahunyad Castle.
13Vajdahunyad Castle
A castle in the City Park of Budapest, built as part of the Millennial Exhibition which celebrated the 1,000 years of Hungary.
14Budapest Zoo
One of the oldest zoos in the world, it features a wide range of species.
15Hungarian State Opera House
A neo-Renaissance opera house located in central Budapest, it's considered to be among the best opera houses in the world in terms of its acoustics.
16Dohány Street Synagogue
The Dohány Street Synagogue, also known as the Great Synagogue, is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world. It is a center of Neolog Judaism and a major tourist attraction.
17Andrássy Avenue
A boulevard in Budapest, lined with spectacular Neo-renaissance mansions and townhouses featuring fine facades and interiors.
18Budapest Eye
Budapest Eye, a giant Ferris wheel located in the heart of the city, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Budapest. It's a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Gulyás
A hearty soup made from beef, vegetables, and a lot of paprika. It's one of the most traditional dishes in Hungary and a must-try when in Budapest.
Lángos
A deep-fried flatbread topped with sour cream and grated cheese. It's a popular street food in Budapest.
Pörkölt
A thick stew made from meat, onions, and paprika. It's a staple dish in Hungarian cuisine and commonly eaten in Budapest.
Töltött Káposzta
Cabbage leaves stuffed with meat and rice, then slow-cooked in a tangy sauce. It's a traditional Hungarian dish often enjoyed during winter in Budapest.
Kürtőskalács
Also known as chimney cake, it's a sweet spiral-shaped pastry that is baked over an open fire. It's a popular dessert in Budapest.
Palacsinta
Hungarian pancakes filled with jam, sweet cottage cheese, or chocolate. They are a common dessert in Budapest.
Halászlé
A spicy fish soup made from river fish and a lot of paprika. It's a traditional dish often eaten during Christmas in Budapest.
Somlói Galuska
A trifle made from sponge cake, chocolate cream, whipped cream, and rum. It's a beloved dessert in Budapest.
Csirke Paprikás
Chicken in a creamy paprika sauce, often served with dumplings. It's a classic Hungarian dish that is popular in Budapest.
Tokaji Aszú
A sweet dessert wine from the Tokaj region. It's one of the most famous Hungarian wines and a must-try when in Budapest.
Unicum
A herbal liqueur made from more than 40 different herbs and spices. It's a traditional Hungarian drink often enjoyed as a digestif in Budapest.
Pálinka
A traditional fruit brandy that is very popular in Budapest. It's often enjoyed as a shot.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Budapest, Hungary is during the spring (March to May) and the fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant and the city is less crowded with tourists. The summer months can also be a good time if you don't mind the heat and a higher number of tourists. Budapest is known for its summer festivals, which can offer a unique cultural experience. However, if you enjoy winter sports or the festive atmosphere of Christmas markets, the winter months could also be an attractive option.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
March 15 | Fri | 1848 Revolution Memorial Day |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 20 | Mon | Whit Monday |
August 20 | Tue | Hungary National Day |
October 23 | Wed | 1956 Revolution Memorial Day |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Second Day of Christmas |
How to get around
Public Transportation
Budapest has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. It includes the Budapest Metro, trams, buses, trolleybuses, and suburban railway lines. Tickets can be purchased at metro stations, newsstands, and ticket machines. Remember to validate your ticket before boarding.
Taxi
Taxis are widely available in Budapest. They are yellow and display a taxi sign on the roof. All taxis operate at the same rate, which is regulated by the city government. You can hail a taxi on the street, call a taxi company, or use a taxi app.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Bolt are available in Budapest. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone. It's a convenient way to get around, especially if you're unfamiliar with the city or don't speak the language.
Bicycle
Budapest is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and bike-sharing system called Bubi. You can rent a bike from one of the many Bubi stations around the city. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace.
Boat
Boats and ferries operate on the Danube River, offering a unique way to see the city. Some services are part of the public transportation system, while others are private tour operators. It's a scenic and relaxing way to travel, especially in the warmer months.
Foot
Many of Budapest's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center. Walking is a great way to explore the city, take in the sights, and discover hidden gems. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes!
Car Rental
Renting a car is an option, but it's not recommended for visitors due to the heavy traffic and difficulty finding parking in the city center. However, it could be useful if you plan to explore the countryside or other parts of Hungary.
Airport Transfer
There are several options for getting to and from Budapest Airport. These include taxis, airport shuttle services, and public transportation. The airport is about 16 km from the city center.
Important information
CurrencyFt HUF
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112
Drinking waterYes, in the major cities
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Budapest, Hungary as a first time visitor
1
Hungary's official currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF), not the Euro. However, many places also accept Euros.
2
Budapest is divided into two parts: Buda and Pest, separated by the Danube River.
3
Hungarian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.
4
Budapest is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
5
Public transportation is reliable and extensive. Consider getting a Budapest Card for unlimited travel and other discounts.
6
Tipping is customary in Hungary. It's typical to tip 10-15% at restaurants, cafes, and taxis.
7
Hungary is part of the Schengen Agreement, so EU citizens can enter with an ID card. Non-EU citizens generally need a passport.
8
The tap water in Budapest is safe to drink.
9
Smoking is banned in public places, including bars and restaurants.
10
Budapest has a continental climate. Summers (June-August) can be hot, with temperatures ranging from 70-85°F (21-29°C). Winters (December-February) can be cold, with temperatures from 28-37°F (-2-3°C).
11
Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments.
12
Budapest is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).
13
Pharmacies are widely available for any medical needs. Look for the green cross sign.
14
Hungary has a 27% Value Added Tax (VAT) which is included in most prices. Non-EU tourists can claim a VAT refund on certain goods.
15
Public restrooms may charge a small fee, so it's a good idea to keep some coins on hand.
16
Hungary has a 112 emergency number for police, fire, and medical services.
17
Budapest is a city of thermal baths. Don't forget to pack a swimsuit.
18
Hungarians are known for their hospitality, but they also appreciate politeness. Learn a few basic Hungarian phrases.
19
Hungary uses type F power sockets. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
20
Budapest has a vibrant nightlife. However, it's important to respect local residents and keep noise to a minimum, especially in residential areas.
Basic Hungarian to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Szia | See-ya | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Viszlát | Vee-slaht | Leaving or saying goodbye to someone |
Please | Kérem | Kay-rem | When asking for something |
Thank you | Köszönöm | Ko-suh-noom | After receiving something or someone's help |
Yes | Igen | Ee-gen | Agreeing with someone |
No | Nem | Nem | Disagreeing with someone |
Excuse me | Elnézést | El-nay-zayst | Getting someone's attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | Nem értem | Nem air-tem | When you don't understand what was said |
Do you speak English? | Beszélsz angolul? | Bes-zayls angolul | When you need to speak in English |
I'm sorry | Sajnálom | Sigh-na-lom | Apologizing |
Where is the bathroom? | Hol van a WC? | Hol van a vay-tsay | When you need to use the bathroom |
How much does it cost? | Mennyibe kerül? | Men-yee-be ker-ool | When you want to know the price of something |
I would like... | Szeretnék... | Ser-et-nayk | When ordering or asking for something |
Help | Segítség | She-geet-sayg | When you need assistance |
Good morning | Jó reggelt | Yo reg-gelt | Greeting someone in the morning |
Good afternoon | Jó napot | Yo na-pot | Greeting someone in the afternoon |
Good evening | Jó estét | Yo esh-tayt | Greeting someone in the evening |
Good night | Jó éjszakát | Yo ay-sa-kat | Saying goodbye in the evening or before bed |
Cheers | Egészségedre | Eh-gey-she-ge-dre | When toasting drinks |
Water | Víz | Veez | When you want to order water |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear (5 pairs)
Socks (5 pairs)
T-shirts (5)
Long-sleeve shirts (2)
Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)
Shorts (1 pair)
Sweater or hoodie (1)
Lightweight jacket (1)
Pajamas (1 set)
Swimsuit (1)
Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)
Sandals or flip-flops (1 pair)
Hat or cap (1)
Sunglasses (1 pair)
Scarf, gloves, and warm hat (if traveling in winter)
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Hand sanitizer
Travel-size first aid kit
Prescription medications
Contact lenses and solution (if needed)
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Guidebook or map
Phrasebook or language app
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones or earbuds
Camera
Charger for camera
Universal power adapter
Portable power bank
Laptop or tablet (optional)
Charger for laptop or tablet (if bringing)
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Books or e-reader
Travel-size laundry detergent
Plastic bags for dirty clothes
Umbrella or rain poncho
Travel journal and pen
Playing cards or small games
Weather Conditions
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, experiences a continental climate, which means it has hot summers and cold winters. If you're planning to visit in the summer, from June to August, expect average temperatures to range from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). It's the perfect time for outdoor activities like visiting the Buda Castle or strolling along the Danube River. However, summer is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. Don't forget to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are also great times to visit. The weather is milder, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 70°F (7°C to 21°C), and the city is less crowded. You might want to bring a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. Winter in Budapest, from December to February, can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping to 20°F to 30°F (-6°C to -1°C). It's a magical time to visit, especially during the Christmas season when the city is beautifully decorated and Christmas markets are in full swing. Make sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and hats. Regardless of when you visit, keep in mind that Budapest's weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Also, don't forget to pack an umbrella or raincoat, as rain can occur in any season. Enjoy your trip to Budapest!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 4° / -2° | January is the coldest month in Budapest, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or want to experience the city's thermal baths. |
February | 6° / -1° | February is still quite cold, but the city begins to thaw out. It's a quieter time to visit, perfect for exploring indoor attractions like museums and galleries. |
March | 12° / 2° | March sees the start of spring, with temperatures slowly rising. It's a good time to visit for outdoor activities, as the city's parks and gardens start to bloom. |
April | 18° / 6° | April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city on foot, with many outdoor festivals and events taking place. |
May | 23° / 11° | May is one of the best months to visit Budapest, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's perfect for sightseeing, picnicking in the parks, and enjoying the city's outdoor cafes. |
June | 26° / 14° | June is the start of the summer season, with long, sunny days. It's a great time to visit for outdoor activities, such as swimming in the city's thermal baths or cruising on the Danube River. |
July | 28° / 16° | July is the hottest month in Budapest, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife. |
August | 28° / 16° | August is another hot month, perfect for enjoying the city's outdoor attractions. It's also when the famous Sziget Festival takes place, attracting music lovers from around the world. |
September | 24° / 12° | September marks the start of autumn, with temperatures starting to cool down. It's a great time to visit for sightseeing, as the city's parks and gardens are beautifully colored. |
October | 17° / 7° | October is a cooler month, with temperatures dropping and the leaves changing color. It's a great time to visit for those who enjoy autumn scenery and fewer crowds. |
November | 11° / 3° | November is a chilly month, with temperatures dropping further. It's a quieter time to visit, perfect for exploring the city's indoor attractions and Christmas markets. |
December | 6° / 0° | December is a festive month in Budapest, with Christmas markets and lights illuminating the city. It's a magical time to visit, despite the cold temperatures. |
Did you know?
Places near by Budapest, Hungary
Esztergom Basilica
The largest church in Hungary, offering panoramic views of the Danube River.
Visegrád Castle
A historical fortress with panoramic views of the Danube Bend.
Szentendre
A charming town known for its well-preserved Baroque architecture, art galleries, and museums.
Veszprém
A city with a rich history, home to the Veszprém Zoo and the Veszprém Castle.
Lake Balaton
The largest lake in Central Europe, popular for swimming, sailing, and fishing.
Gödöllő Palace
A beautiful Baroque palace, once the favorite summer residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria.
Eger
A city known for its castle, thermal baths, and the best Hungarian red wines.
Holloko
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this village is a living example of rural life before the agricultural revolution of the 20th century.
Pécs
A city rich in Roman and Turkish architecture, and home to the UNESCO-listed Early Christian Necropolis.
Aggtelek National Park
Home to the largest stalactite cave in Europe, the Baradla Cave.
