Budapest Christmas markets are one of my favorite things about winter in the Hungarian capital. Christmas markets were the star of my European daydreams before I moved abroad. It sounded beautiful to shop through stalls in historic town squares, sipping hot spiced wine and munching steaming traditional foods. It’s even better in reality!
If you want to fill up on Christmas cheer, don’t worry–there are plenty of Budapest Christmas markets to choose from! Even apart from the main markets, it’s easy to stumble across little streets with pop up stalls and decorations. But if you don’t have a lot of time, or you’re just not sure where to start, you can’t go wrong following the “Christmas market triangle”.
Deák Ferenc Square is right in the city center and has not one, but two Christmas markets to explore. Once you’ve picked up your first mug of forralt bor you can wander down the glitzy Fashion Street and arrive at the recently renovated Vörösmarty Square. If you’re in a hurry, you can cut through the city to reach the next market in the triangle, but I think it’s lovely to walk further down to the Danube and see it all lit up. If you follow the river for 10 minutes or so, eventually you’ll be able to turn down an avenue that takes to to St. Stephen’s Basilica. This market is often a family favorite because of the light show and mini-ice rink. It was also just voted to be the “Most Beautiful Christmas Market in Europe” for 2020!
And far outside of the triangle but still charming is the Christmas market setup at Heroes’ Square, nestled beneath Vajdahunyad Castle. Definitely make time to see it! You can even go ice skating at the park’s outdoor ice rink afterwards!
Check out my vlog below for a glimpse of the cosy Budapest Christmas markets!
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