What to do in Budapest in winter: top activities, sights & tips

Winter in Budapest has its own charm. The city is full of lights, there’s a cozy atmosphere in the air, and even though it can get cold, it’s still a great time to explore.

From soaking in thermal baths to checking out Christmas markets or spending time in cafés, there are plenty of things to do indoors and outdoors. In this guide, we’ll go through the top activities for the colder months and share a few tips to make your trip easier.

Visit the famous thermal baths

Budapest is known as the “City of Spas,” thanks to its natural hot springs. Going to a thermal bath is part of everyday life for locals and one of the best things to do in winter. The pools are warm, the facilities are indoors or semi-covered, and it’s a great way to relax after walking around in the cold.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Located in City Park, Széchenyi is the largest bath complex in Budapest. It has indoor and outdoor pools, all heated by natural hot springs. In winter, the outdoor pools are open and popular — it’s a classic experience to enjoy the steam rising while it’s cold outside.

In 2025, tickets start at €33 for a full day, which includes access to the pools and a locker for your belongings. On the official website, you can also book extra spa services like massages, starting at around €30.

Gellért Thermal Bath

Inside the historic Gellért Hotel, this bath is famous for its Art Nouveau design, with colorful mosaics and stained-glass windows. It’s been a favorite for decades and often appears in travel photos of Budapest.

Update: Gellért Bath closed in October 2025 for a major renovation and is expected to reopen in 2028. You can’t visit the pools for now, but the building itself is still worth seeing from the outside.

Rudas Thermal Bath

Rudas dates back to the Ottoman period and has a unique octagonal pool under a domed ceiling. Besides the historic section, it also offers modern wellness areas and even a rooftop pool overlooking the Danube. It’s smaller than Széchenyi but offers a different, more local feel.

In 2025, tickets start at €18, and you can also book extra spa services such as massages from €24. An extra tip: on weekends, Rudas offers a night ticket from €34, which gives you access to the rooftop pool from 10pm — perfect if you want to enjoy city views while soaking in the hot water.

Visit the Christmas markets

Visiting the Budapest's Christmas Markets is one of the highlights of winter. They combine food, drinks, shopping, and a festive atmosphere that both locals and tourists enjoy.

Here's a quick overview of the main ones.

Christmas Market at St. Stephe'ns Basilica

Vörösmarty Square

The oldest and most traditional Christmas market in Budapest, right in the heart of the city at the end of Váci Street. Here you’ll find a wide range of food stalls (including lángos and chimney cake), local crafts, and a big Christmas tree.

Because it’s the most famous, it can also get crowded, especially in the evenings and weekends.

@budapestfortouristsThe Vörösmarty tér Christmas Market is one of the main holiday fairs in Budapest🎄 The stalls open every day from 11 AM to 9 PM, and on Fridays and weekends many of them (especially the drink ones) stay open even later. It’s such a fun place to visit: amazing food, classic mulled wine, and even a super cute little train that’s not just for kids… adults can ride too! 🚂✨♬ Christmas Jazz Jingle Bells - Dmitry Khlynin

St. Stephen’s Basilica

Known for the nightly light show projected onto the church’s façade, this market has a slightly more modern vibe.

It has a great selection of food, drinks, and gifts — plus the basilica itself makes for a beautiful backdrop in photos.

@budapestfortourists The Basilica Christmas Market is the main and biggest one in Budapest. One of the highlights are the Christmas projections on the façade of St. Stephen’s Basilica. They’re beautiful, they change throughout the night, and they play every 30 minutes starting at 5:30 PM. If you’re visiting, here are a few things you shouldn’t miss: 🍷 A cup of mulled wine (or hot chocolate if you prefer something non-alcoholic) 🥨 A chimney cake made over the charcoal 🍲 And if you want to try Hungarian food, go for a lángos or a warm bowl of goulash, perfect for the cold! For more details, check the full guide on the blog (link in bio)! 🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄 #creatorsearchinsights #budapest #christmasmarket #budapestchristmasmarket #budapestbasilica ♬ original sound - christmas sounds 🎄

Other markets

Beyond the two big names, there are several smaller markets worth exploring:

• Óbuda Christmas Fair: a more local atmosphere with concerts and family activities;
• Városháza Park: near Deák Ferenc tér, includes an ice-skating rink and kid-friendly programs;
• Neighborhood markets: smaller, community-style fairs with fewer stalls but a cozy atmosphere. One of our favorites is the Ferenc tér market in District IX, perfect for a less touristy experience.

@budapestfortourists If you’re looking for a more local Christmas Market in Budapest, this one is a great pick. The decoration is beautiful and the atmosphere feels very community-driven 🎄🎁 Just keep in mind: it gets just as crowded as the famous ones! Tip: go in the late afternoon if you want a slightly quieter time. 📍 Fő tér, III District To get there, just take any transport that goes to Szentlélek tér (tram, bus or HÉV). #budapest #christmasmarket #budapestchristmas #traveltips #budapestguide ♬ Holly Jolly Christmas - Sarah Reeves

Take a Danube river cruise

A river cruise is one of the best ways to see Budapest’s landmarks from a different angle. In winter, boats are heated and often provide blankets, so you can stay comfortable while enjoying the views.

The highlight is sailing past the Hungarian Parliament Building, which looks stunning when illuminated. In winter, the lights are turned on at sunset and switched off around 10 pm. This means it’s best to plan your cruise for early evening — that way, you either catch the moment the lights come on or enjoy the full view of the Parliament glowing in the dark.

Other sights along the way include Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the city’s famous bridges. Some cruises offer dinner or drinks on board, but even the shorter one-hour tours are enough to appreciate the skyline.

Discover Budapest’s cafés and ruin pubs

Szimpla Kert

Cafés are perfect for warming up during the day. Whether you choose a historic spot like New York Café or a smaller specialty coffee shop, it’s a nice way to take a break from the cold. Many cafés also serve cakes and pastries that pair perfectly with a hot drink.

At night, Budapest’s ruin pubs are still buzzing even in the winter. Don’t worry about the cold — they’re heated and just as lively as in the summer. The most famous one is Szimpla Kert, located in a converted old building filled with eclectic furniture and quirky decorations.

Even if you don’t drink alcohol or enjoy nightlife, ruin pubs are worth visiting. The atmosphere is unique, the spaces are full of character, and walking around inside feels like exploring an art project. It’s one of those “only in Budapest” experiences you shouldn’t miss!

Visit museums and indoor attractions

Winter is a good time to explore some of Budapest’s museums and indoor attractions. They’re warm, easy to reach, and give you something fun to do when the weather outside isn’t so inviting.

Here are a few options to consider:

• Hungarian National Museum: a classic choice if you want to learn about the country’s history.
• Museum of Fine Arts: home to works by masters like El Greco, Goya, and Rembrandt — and one of our favorites!
• Madame Tussauds Budapest: Opened in 2023, featuring international celebrities and Hungarian historical figures;
• Light Art Museum: A modern, immersive museum focused on light installations — great for photos;
• Museum of Illusions: Interactive and fun, especially for families or anyone who enjoys playful exhibits;
• St. Stephen’s Basilica (interior + tower): Not a museum, but the interior is impressive, and the tower offers city views even in winter;
• Hungarian Parliament Building (guided tours): Worth it if you want to see the grand halls and the Crown of St. Stephen inside.

@budapestfortourists You can’t truly get to know a country without getting to know its art. That’s why it’s worth saving a few hours of your visit to Buda Castle for the Hungarian National Gallery, a museum that showcases Hungarian art from the Middle Ages to today. 💰 Tickets can be bought on-site or online and cost 5,400 HUF (~ €13.50) #budapest #museum #budacastle #hungariannationalgallery #budapestguide ♬ Pieces of Redemption - Carlos Carty

Visit the Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall (Nagy Vásárcsarnok) deserves a stop on any winter itinerary. Built in the late 19th century, it’s the largest indoor market in Budapest and a mix of food, souvenirs, and everyday shopping for locals.

On the ground floor, you’ll find fruit, vegetables, meat, paprika, and other Hungarian staples. The upper level has souvenir shops and food stalls.

But here’s our honest advice: the food stalls are usually overpriced, and there’s no proper seating. You’ll likely end up eating while standing in a crowded corridor. Instead, it’s worth crossing the street to Fővám tér or walking a few minutes to Váci utca, where you’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafés with a more comfortable setting.

The Central Market Hall in Budapest is not just a tourist spot. Many locals still do their shopping there, which makes it an authentic place to visit. And since it’s all indoors, it’s a good break from the cold streets outside!

@budapestfortourists 📍 The Great Market Hall of Budapest is right on Fővám tér, at the end of Liberty Bridge. Pro tip: if you’re hungry, skip the upstairs stalls and check out the restaurants right across the street, on Váci utca. #creatorsearchinsights #budapest #travel #centralmarkethall #budapesthungary ♬ Hungarian Gypsy - Instrumental - Kiss Lajos

Go ice skating

If you want to add a bit of adventure to your winter days, ice skating in Budapest is a great option. It’s fun, seasonal, and a classic activity for both locals and visitors. The city has several rinks to choose from:

• City Park Ice Rink (Városligeti Műjégpálya): the biggest and most famous rink in Budapest, and one of the oldest in Europe. It’s located right behind Heroes’ Square and next to the Vajdahunyad Castle, which makes the setting really impressive. Skates can be rented on site, and it’s usually open from late November until the end of February, depending on the weather;
• Városháza Park: smaller and right in the city center, this rink is part of the Christmas market setup and is great for families with kids;
• Neighborhood rinks: some districts open smaller, temporary ice rinks during the winter, so it’s worth checking what’s available near where you’re staying.

Tip: weekends can get busy at City Park, so if you want a more relaxed experience, try going on a weekday afternoon.

Enjoy the views

Budapest is beautiful in every season, and winter is no exception. The city’s landmarks look even more impressive when they light up early in the evening.

• Fisherman’s Bastion: go around sunset for one of the best views of the Parliament. You’ll get to see the building light up!
• Rooftop bars: If you prefer to stay warm with a drink, some rooftops stay open in winter and offer heated areas. Two great options are Liz and Chain (at the Marriott hotel, with views over the Danube) and White Raven (next to Matthias Church in Buda).

Tip: rooftops can get busy even in the colder months, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance.

Learn how to make Chimney Cake

If you want to try something truly Hungarian during winter, chimney cake is a must. It is one of the most traditional desserts in the country and becomes even more popular in the colder months.

You’ll find it everywhere in the Christmas markets, freshly baked on the streets and filling the air with that warm cinnamon smell.

But you don’t need to stick only to the stalls. You can also learn how to make your own at a Chimney Cake Workshop. The class takes place indoors in the city center, just a short walk from St. Stephen’s Basilica, which makes it perfect for cold or rainy days.

@budapestfortourists Chimney Cake Workshop in Budapest! 😋 I booked this experience through @GetYourGuide and it was soooo fun! The class takes place right in the city center, close to the Basilica, and you also learn about the history of the dessert. If you want to join the workshop too, the link is in my bio! And if you’re using the app for the first time, you can use the code BUDAPESTFORTOURISTS5 for 5% off! @getyourguidecommunity 🌎✈️🌴 #creatorsearchinsights #budapest #chimneycake #getyourguide #getyourguidecommunity ♬ Bake & Shake - ZayZonic

Each participant prepares three chimney cakes from scratch while the instructor shares fun stories and background about the dessert’s history. And although it’s called chimney cake in English, it’s actually a sweet, hollowed bread, not a cake at all 😂

Once you’re done, you can enjoy your chimney cakes right away or take them home. It’s a cozy, hands-on experience and one of the most fun winter activities you can do in Budapest.

Take a day trip

If you’re spending a few days in Budapest, winter is a good time to explore what’s around the city. Here are some easy day trips to consider:

Normafa

When it snows, Normafa turns into a winter playground. Locals head there for sledding, snowball fights, and building snowmen. It’s in the Buda Hills and easy to reach by public transport. Even if there’s no snow, the area offers nice walks and views over the city.

Szentendre

A small, artsy town about 40 minutes from Budapest, Szentendre is especially cozy in winter. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, visit museums and galleries, and stop by the Christmas Shop (open year-round) for every type of decoration you can imagine. Don’t miss trying the Fantázia Lángos, one of the most popular spots for this Hungarian classic.

@budapestfortourists

Day trip from Budapest? Take the train to Szentendre! In 30 minutes you’re in a cute little town by the Danube, with Cafés, art, cobblestone streets and river breeze. Perfect for a slow afternoon escape! #creatorsearchinsights #hungarytravel #budapestbudapestdaytrip #szentendre

♬ Optymistyczny nastroj (Czterdziestolatek) - Jerzy 'Dudus' Matuszkiewicz

Gödöllő

Known for the Royal Palace of Gödöllő, this town makes for a cultural and historical day trip. The palace was once a favorite residence of Queen Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi) and is beautifully preserved. In winter, the interiors are warm and welcoming, offering a glimpse into 19th-century aristocratic life.

Try Hungarian winter food and drinks

Winter in Budapest is also about enjoying hearty food and warming drinks. Here are some traditional favorites and where to try them:

Gulyás (goulash)

A paprika-based soup with beef, potatoes, and vegetables. It’s one of Hungary’s most traditional dishes and especially comforting in cold weather.

Where to try: at Belvárosi Lugas (behind the Basilica) or Kisharang Étkezde (a small canteen-style in the City Center).

Goulahs at Kisharang Étkezde

Stuffed cabbage (töltött káposzta)

Cabbage leaves filled with rice and meat, usually served with sour cream. A common holiday dish in Hungary, especially around Christmas.

Where to try: you’ll find it in traditional restaurants and sometimes at winter festivals.

Lángos

A fried flatbread, often topped with sour cream and cheese. Perfect as street food and very filling.

Where to try: we recommend Retro Lángos (near Arany János metro), Lángos Pápi or simply choosing any stall that makes them fresh on the spot.

Lángos at Lángos Papi

Kürtőskalács (chimney cake)

Also known as chimney cake, the Kürtőskalács is a sweet, spiral-shaped pastry baked over coals and rolled in sugar or toppings like cinnamon or walnuts. Best enjoyed warm while walking around the city.

Where to try: at Kürtős Legenda, right next to the Basilica.

Mulled wine (forralt bor)

Spiced red wine served hot, often with cinnamon, cloves, and orange. Every stall has its own recipe.

Where to try: the best place to enjoy it is at the Christmas markets, where it’s part of the experience.

Pálinka

Hungary’s strong fruit brandy, usually made from plums, apricots, or pears. It’s intense but very traditional.

Where to try: you’ll find it in ruin pubs, local bars, and sometimes at market stalls.

Tips for winter in Budapest

Now that you know what to do in Budapest during the colder months, here are some practical tips to make your trip even better — and a lot more comfortable.

Winter in the city is beautiful, but it does come with short days, chilly nights, and the occasional snow. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready to enjoy it all without any stress:

• Dress in layers: temperatures often go below zero, so bring a warm coat, gloves, hat, and scarf. Layers are key because indoor places are usually well-heated;
• Footwear matters: streets can be wet or icy. Wear waterproof shoes or boots with good grip;
• Plan for shorter days: the sun sets around 4 pm in December. Do outdoor activities early and keep evenings for markets, restaurants, or indoor attractions;
• Public transport is reliable: buses, trams, and the metro run frequently even in winter. Just be prepared for a short wait in the cold at stops;
• Stay central if possible: choosing accommodation near the city center means you won’t need long walks or transfers late at night in the cold;
• Check opening hours: some attractions close earlier in winter, and Christmas and New Year holidays may affect schedules.

Conclusion

Budapest in winter has a lot to offer, from thermal baths and Christmas markets to cafés, museums, and even day trips just outside the city. Sure, the days are shorter and the air is cold, but that’s exactly what makes the experience different — the city feels cozy, festive, and full of things to do both indoors and outdoors.

If you prepare well and follow a few simple tips, your trip will be not only enjoyable but also comfortable. Take time to explore the highlights, try Hungarian winter food and drinks, and enjoy the atmosphere that makes this season special!