Budapest is a city for all seasons. These winter ideas will warm the body and soul, even if it’s freezing cold in the Hungarian capital and the “Budapest Winter Invitation” promotion help you to make the most of your winter escape.
Thermal baths
Budapest is the spa capital of Europe, so it is easier to stay warm here than anywhere else. Relax in one of the 16th century Turkish bath’s steaming waters – Rudas Bath, Király Bath or Veli Bej Bath, or take a dip in the hot water in Gellért Bath or even play chess in the hot, outdoor pools of the Széchenyi Bath, both were opened in the early 20th century.
Traditional Food and Wine
Hungarian food is famous for its spiciness and as many traditional dishes can be quite hearty, winter is the perfect time to taste them. Order a hot bowl of Fishermen’s Soup or Goulash Soup and try Stuffed Cabbage, our traditional Christmas meal.
Cafe Houses
There is nothing more comforting than a hot beverage when it’s chilly, and one thing Budapest does not lack is beautiful and interesting cafes. You can treat yourself to a traditional one, in the New York Cafe or the Gerbeaud House or even in the Lukács Cafe, but you can also hide away from cold with a good book in the Lotz Hall hidden on Andrássy Avenue above the Alexandra bookstore.
Museums
There is no better time to get into Budapest’s cultural scene than in the cooler months. During the day Budapest offers a plenty of museums to discover. Visit the Rembrandt exhibition until 15th February at the Museum of Fine Arts or learn about Hungarian art at Hungarian National Gallery`s current exhibition on Rippl-Rónai and Maillol.
Opera, theatre, concerts
For a magical evening browse the program of the Hungarian State Opera, the Operetta or book a ticket for a classical concert in the Liszt Academy. If you are into something more contemporary, visit the Palace of Arts or the Budapest Music Centre.
Hungarian Parliament
The Hungarian Parliament is rightly considered among the most beautiful parliament buildings in the world. During your visit you can discover the building of legislation and the Hungarian Holy Crown.
Danube cruise at night
One of Budapest’s most beautiful views is from the river at night. See Budapest’s famous buildings and bridges lit up, whilst enjoying a Danube cruise with a traditional Hungarian dinner and music.
Food Festivals
Budapest has a wide range of festivals during the winter months. Try some tasty Hungarian specialties at the Mangalica Festival (6-8th February) or the Fish Festival (19-22nd February).
The Carnival Season
It`s called “Farsang” in Hungarian. It is marked as loud and colourful celebrations that take place between January 6th and Ash Wednesday.
City Park Ice Rink
An active option to embrace the cold and warm up on the ice. One of the most beautiful places in Budapest in winter is the City Park Ice Rink. Grab a pair of skates and head down behind the Heroes’ Square and the Vajdahunyad Castle.
For city breaks to Budapest, Silver Travel Advisor recommends Kirker Holidays.
