Bright lights of Budapest: Europe's hidden gem during the winter

If you love thermal baths, Christmas scenes and beautiful architecture, then Budapest is the place for you this winter. Known for its rich history and charming atmosphere Budapest has a plethora of tourist attractions for you to explore.

Navigating the Christmas scene in Budapest:

The city of baths transforms to the city of lights, its illuminating lights during the holiday season are an attraction within itself. Budapest is perfect for winter tourism with an array of Christmas activities, markets and festive munchies to explore. The Christmas markets run from mid November -  Late December but the winter scene is still alive all the way through January and February, a great time of year to visit.

The ice rink in city park is a must visit, even if you aren't going to skate, the scene itself is idyllic and merry, surrounded by historic buildings, castles and towers. As one of Budapest's main winter activities it attracts a crowd, but there is no need to pre-book due to its sheer size, known as Europe's largest artificial outdoor ice rink, there is plenty of room. This seasonal attraction is worth checking out!

Budapest City Park ice rink - Captured by Giorgia Tambascia

There are two main Christmas markets in Budapest, one located in Vörösmarty Square Market, this market is the oldest and most popular and is easily navigated with its central location and wide range of stalls.

Vörösmarty Square Market - Adobe Stock Image

The second Christmas market is located in front of St Stephan's Basilica, an attraction in itself, the beautiful architecture sets the scene. At night it is illuminated with projections creating the perfect ambiance for a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate. The market is adorned with stalls, so don't forget to pack your purse!

St Stephan's Basilica market captured by Krisztian Tabori on Unsplash

Budapest is most beautiful at night, you can't travel to Budapest without seeing the iconic parliament building, I recommend doing a night time river cruise to see it in all its glory, illuminated and breathtaking. Another attraction that isn't seasonal but a must see is the Ferris wheel, located in Elizabeth square. Allowing you to see the city's lights and architecture from a different point of view. I highly recommend doing it at night for the magical scenery of glowing lights and the bustling streets.

Hungarian Parliament - Captured by Giorgia Tambascia

Ferris Wheel of Budapest - Captured by Giorgia Tambascia

Hungarian Parliament - Captured by Giorgia Tambasia

Budapest's Baths:

Known as ‘the city of baths’ Budapest has a wide range of spas for you to visit and enjoy. Perfect in the winter season, with low crowd levels and a lovely break from the cold, you can enjoy the stunning architecture from the comfort of a jacuzzi.  

Széchenyi Thermal Bath, the main Spa is a crowd favourite and rightly so, with 18 pools, multiple steam rooms and saunas, the natural hot spring offers you a relaxing break from city touring. 

Széchenyi Thermal Bath - Captured by Giorgia Tambascia

Tickets are reasonably priced and available online or in person, whether it's planned or spontaneous, the thermal bath is something you won't regret. The locker system keeps your valuables safe and dry allowing you to fully relax. I advise you to bring a thick towel to combat the chilling cold getting in and out of the baths, as well as sliders/flipflops which are mandatory (the spa does not offer rentals, only towel and flip flop purchasing).

Check out my Wanderlog itinerary on Budapest @giorgiat05 for more recommendations.