Christmas markets in Budapest
Hungary’s stunning capital city is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations for Christmas markets in Europe. With its fine architecture, rich culture, and affordable prices, there are so many reasons to choose Budapest for your winter holiday.
In fact, Budapest’s Christmas markets are renowned for their handmade crafts, local delicacies, and gorgeous ambiance. You can spend the day relaxing in a famous thermal bath or touring the city’s important historical sites, then wander through a winter wonderland at night. Consider Budapest for your next Christmas getaway!
The Christmas Market in Vorosmarty Square is the oldest in Budapest.
Budapest was voted the most affordable Christmas market destination by British Daily Mail.
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Top Christmas Markets and Attractions in Budapest
Christmas Fair Vorosmarty Square: Running from 15 November to 31 December 2025, the Christmas Fair at Vörösmarty Square is Budapest’s best-known and most internationally recognized winter market. With more than 100 stalls, it offers an endless array of handmade gifts, decorations, and crafts, all set in the city’s central square outside the Gerbeaud Coffee House. Live performances, a playhouse for children, and even a chance to meet Santa Claus make this market a festive highlight of the season.
Christmas Market by Basilica: From 15 November 2025 to 1 January 2026, the spacious square in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica transforms into one of Budapest’s most atmospheric Christmas markets. The basilica’s grand facade provides a spectacular backdrop for stalls filled with traditional crafts, ornaments, and festive treats. A free open-air ice rink for children adds to the charm, and every evening the basilica is illuminated with a dazzling light show projected across its facade.
Erzsébet Square Christmas Market: Usually open from late November through December, the Erzsébet Square Christmas Market may be smaller than Budapest’s headline events, but it is every bit as charming. Quaint wooden huts sell everything from fur hats to pancakes and donuts, and it’s one of the best places to try kürtőskalács (chimney cake), a beloved Hungarian pastry baked on a spit. Its quieter atmosphere makes it a welcome retreat from the crowds at Vörösmarty and Basilica.
Christmas Market on Fashion Street: Fashion Street cuts through Vorosmarty Square, so you can easily visOpen from mid-November through December 2025, Fashion Street offers a festive extension of the main market at Vörösmarty Square, located just steps away. Here, visitors can admire the giant Christmas tree outside the Hotel Kempinski Corvinus while browsing food stalls selling strudel, oven-baked flatbreads, chimney cakes, and more. Its stylish setting makes it a perfect stop while exploring Budapest’s city centre.