Budapest At Christmas: An Unforgettable Holiday
Spending Christmas in Budapest is not a very original idea. We know! Thousands of tourists come to the Hungarian capital at this time. So it is not an original trip, but it is the most entertaining because Budapest at Christmas shines in a special way thanks to the decoration, the traditions, the lighting or the markets. Find out for yourself!
Budapest at Christmas
It is well known by all that in the countries of Central Europe, perhaps because of the intense cold or because they have always lived the Advent season with emotion, Christmas is lived in a special way. Christmas markets are traditional in many places, as well as Christmas carols recitals or desserts and liquors typical of the time.
Well, there is all that in Budapest during the month of December. So, to the many charms that the Hungarian capital has throughout the year, add the magic of Christmas. Therefore, if you are one of those people who live these festivals with enthusiasm, Budapest is an ideal destination for you.
Budapest Christmas markets
A distinctive element of the time are the Christmas markets. In Budapest there are several scattered around the city, but we are going to strongly recommend two : the one that unfolds around the St. Stephen’s Basilica and the one in Vorosmarty Square. In fact, this second is the most charming of all.
What to buy there? You will be able to acquire endless decorative elements of the Hungarian artisan tradition. It will be difficult for you to choose. And it will also be difficult for you to choose a single sweet. The repertoire of Christmas cakes and sweets is spectacular, a delight for those with a sweet tooth.
St. Stephen’s basilica
In addition to the Christmas market that we have named you, a visit to the Basilica of San Esteban at this time is a must. The most believers should go to the Mass of the Rooster on Christmas Eve and the rest to marvel at a historic building that is completely transformed with the audiovisual show that year after is projected here throughout the afternoon and early evening.
Decorated trams to contemplate Budapest at Christmas
Getting on the old tram lines in Europe is always a recommendable experience, but doing it in Budapest at Christmas is a must. And the fact is that the Fenyvillamos line decorates its trains with endless lights, and on them the heart of the city and the banks of its wonderful Danube river are crossed.
A bath under the snow
If you are lucky enough to spend Christmas in Budapest and one day the snow falls, then the feeling is full. And it will be even more so if we go to the Széchenyi or Gellert baths and enter their spa facilities. It may sound crazy, but taking a dip in the outdoor pools watching the snow fall is unforgettable.
Go to the ballet
The musical tradition in Hungary is almost a religion. As in nearby Vienna, there are also musical events that are essential on these dates. One of the highlights is the performance of the classical ballet The Nutcracker at the Erkel Theater. Always spectacular!
Go to the circus
Likewise, in the Hungarian capital it is very common to take advantage of the Christmas holidays to go one day to the circus. But not just any circus, but the Great Circus of Budapest, which every year programs a special show for the time.
Ice skating
We have all heard or seen in the movies the small ice rink that is created in New York in the middle of Rockefeller Center. Well, in Budapest, in the City Park Ice Rink, right in front of the Vajdahunyad Castle, a much bigger rink is created. And it has been done since 1870. A track that is actually a lake that freezes when the thermometer drops.
The elegance of Budapest at Christmas
However, if you are more into shopping , you should go to the city center and its famous Andrassy Avenue. It is a must-see destination in Budapest all year round, but more so in December to enjoy its lighting and decoration. It is all a waste of imagination, light and magic, that is, what we identify with the most commercial aspect of Christmas, in Budapest and around the world.
