FRAMED WITH WONDER

Robin Kory

Aspiring Photographer, Traveler at Heart

A Festive Escape to Budapest: Christmas Markets, Thermal Baths & Architectural Wonders

View of the Hungarian Parliament Building from across the Danube River, with soft golden sunlight reflecting off the water and autumn trees in the foreground.
View of Buda Castle and Elisabeth Bridge at golden hour in Budapest, Hungary.
Colorful historic buildings along the Buda side of the Danube River.
Art Nouveau façade of Gresham Palace in Budapest, with autumn trees and blue sky.
Empty cobblestone pedestrian street in Budapest lined with residential buildings and decorative planters.
Sculpture of a person gently cradling a goose, carved in a modern, stylized form.
Bronze statue of a man painting at an easel on the Pest riverside, with Buda Castle in the distance.
A view down the pedestrian walkway of the Széchenyi Chain Bridge with ornate ironwork and the Buda Castle Hill in the distance.
Bronze statue of a child wearing a crown, sitting on a railing beside the Danube.
Vintage street lamps in black and white, with classic architecture in the background.
Classic yellow tram 49 crossing Liberty Bridge on a foggy day in Budapest.
Neoclassical Hungarian National Museum with tall columns and colorful exhibition banners on a clear autumn day.
Decorative rooftop dome with pink and blue tiles and ornate windows, photographed in Budapest.
Close-up of a bronze teddy bear sculpture on a wall in Budapest surrounded by colorful heart-shaped stickers.
Stone statue of a crowned woman holding flowers, with a serene expression.
Overhead view of the Danube River with Margaret Bridge and the twin green towers of the Church of St. Anne in Budapest.
Ornate facade of Pesti Vigadó concert hall with large arched windows, statues, and a central fountain surrounded by manicured hedges.
View of the National Archives of Hungary with its colorful tiled roof, surrounded by rooftops and hills in Budapest.
Reformed Church of Szilágyi Dezső in Budapest with its patterned red Zsolnay tile roof and tall spire
View of the Széchenyi Chain Bridge with iron railings in the foreground and golden light hitting the stone towers.
The Budapest Ferris Wheel surrounded by autumn trees and a green park under a clear blue sky.
Yellow historic building with columns and statues - Anker Palace in Budapest.
Close-up view of the Hungarian Parliament Building with its iconic red dome and spires.
The green Liberty Bridge in Budapest spans the Danube River, with the grand Gellért Hotel and Baths rising behind it on a foggy morning.
Dramatic stone statue of a muscular figure supporting an overhang in Budapest.

Budapest wasn’t even on our list at first. It wasn’t until we moved to Europe that it caught our eye—but now we can’t believe we almost overlooked it. The Thanksgiving holiday gave us the perfect excuse to spend a long weekend exploring this captivating capital city.

Split by the Danube River, Budapest is actually two cities—Buda and Pest—that were officially unified in 1873. According to local legend, a prince from Buda and a princess from Pest fell in love, but the wide river and their feuding families kept them apart. Their tragic story is immortalized in a sculpture on Gellért Hill, where the two figures reach longingly for one another, but never quite touch. Though forever separated in legend, Buda and Pest are now bound together—Buda with its quiet hills and historic castle, Pest with its bustling cafés and vibrant boulevards—united as one unforgettable city full of beauty and history.

As the capital of Hungary—one of Europe’s oldest countries, with roots stretching back over a thousand years—Budapest has long stood at the crossroads of empires. From Roman settlements and Ottoman baths to Habsburg grandeur and 20th-century revolutions, its layered history is everywhere you look.

And somehow, it’s also wonderfully modern. Steaming thermal baths, a culinary tour full of bold flavors, glowing Christmas markets, and a moonlit river cruise—Budapest delivered one unforgettable moment after another.

Where We Stayed in Budapest: Bohem Art Hotel

Located just steps from the Danube and Liberty Bridge in the 5th district of Pest, the Bohem Art Hotel felt like the perfect blend of location and creativity. It had easy access to major sights and was just a short walk from several Christmas markets, cafés, and public transport stops. The modern art-themed rooms added a fun, stylish touch to our stay.

Lounge area with red lighting and modern artwork in a Budapest hotel.
The modern metallic sign of Art Hotel Budapest featuring a stylized “e” logo, mounted on a mesh background with classical buildings reflected behind it.

Soaking, Strolling & Christmas Cheer in Budapest

Széchenyi Thermal Bath

We began our Budapest adventure with a relaxing soak at Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest and most iconic thermal baths in Europe. We booked the “Dayspalm Lazy Days Chill & Cocktail” package, which included towel service, locker access, a welcome cocktail, and a few extra perks—perfect for kicking off the holiday weekend.

For something a bit more unusual, Széchenyi also offers a beer spa experience where you can soak in warm, hop-infused water while enjoying unlimited beer on tap (a special ticket is required). Getting there was easy by train, and it’s worth arriving early if you want to beat the crowds.

Steam rising from an outdoor thermal pool surrounded by a grand colonnaded building at Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
Neo-Baroque yellow bathhouse façade with statues and bright blue thermal water in front at Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Budapest
Exterior of a Baroque yellow bathhouse with tall columns, arched windows, and decorative balustrades
Misty spa walkway with elegant curved pool edge and yellow Baroque architecture at Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
Bronze fountain statue of Neptune with cherubs, backed by a colorful Art Nouveau tiled wall in an ornate interior at Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
Steamy thermal pool at Széchenyi Thermal Bath with classical statues and deep blue water.
Close-up of an arched colonnade at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath with classical detailing and checkerboard floors
Elaborate golden dome ceiling with mosaics and religious artwork inside Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
Arched yellow façade with a decorated Christmas tree on a balcony overlooking an outdoor thermal pool.

Christmas Markets and Fashion Street

After our soak, we strolled back through the city, catching our first glimpse of Budapest’s famous Christmas markets. We stopped by the bustling market on Vörösmarty Square before continuing along Fashion Street, which was beautifully lit for the holidays with twinkling lights and festive displays lining the upscale pedestrian zone. We browsed local crafts, sampled a few bites, and enjoyed the seasonal festivities.

A stone lion-head fountain with a wide basin set against green and red holiday backdrops in Budapest.
Cauldrons of mulled wine surrounded by festive garlands at a Budapest Christmas market stall.
Food stall at Budapest’s Christmas market serving grilled sausage and mulled wine.
Light-covered lion fountain and gift boxes at Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market in Budapest.
Flower-filled wooden stall at a Budapest Christmas market on a rainy evening.

Dinner at Hugo’s Mexican Bar & Kitchen

Living in Stuttgart, good Mexican food is hard to come by, so we couldn’t resist the cozy charm of Hugo’s. The setting was cheerful and relaxed, the flavors familiar, and it was just the fuel we needed for one last adventure that evening.

Exterior of Hugo’s Mexican Bar & Kitchen in Budapest decorated with lights and a gnome.
Colorful Day of the Dead mural and festive table setup inside Hugo’s restaurant.

Liberty Bridge, Cave Church & Gellért Hill Views

After dinner, we crossed the Liberty Bridge—one of Budapest’s most picturesque green bridges, built in the late 1800s and known for its Art Nouveau design. On the Buda side, we found ourselves at the foot of Gellért Hill, named after Saint Gellért, who was martyred on its slopes. The hill is home to the Citadel fortress and the Liberty Statue, which commemorates those who fought for Hungary’s freedom.

Front view of Hotel Gellért in Budapest with art deco-style dome statue in the foreground.
Liberty Bridge in Budapest spanning the Danube, with ornate green ironwork and eagle-topped spires
The Liberty Statue on Gellért Hill holding a palm leaf, with the Hungarian flag waving beside it.
Liberty Bridge in Budapest, a green metal structure with tram lines and decorative turuls.

At its base lies the Cave Church (Sziklatemplom), a fascinating chapel carved into the rock face. Once used by monks, the church was sealed off during Hungary’s Communist era but is now open to visitors once again. After stepping inside its quiet, peaceful interior, we continued our climb up Gellért Hill to take in sweeping night views over Budapest—a glowing panorama of bridges, rooftops, and the illuminated Parliament shining across the Danube.

Rocky hillside on Gellért Hill with a large cross above the entrance to the Cave Church.
Interior view of Gellért Hill Cave Chapel in Budapest with natural stone walls, wooden pews, and an iron gate featuring winged women.
tatue of the Virgin Mary surrounded by potted plants inside the rocky interior of Budapest’s Cave Church.
Stone interior of the Cave Church with an altar, crucifix, and red carpet.
Close-up of a dramatic wrought-iron gate featuring twin women figures and a crest inside the Gellért Hill Cave Church in Budapest.
Ornate niche in the Cave Church with early Christian symbols and floral decorations.
Simple interior of the Cave Church in Budapest, with stone walls, wooden benches, and potted plants.
Stone statue of St. Stephen and his horse overlooking the illuminated Liberty Bridge in Budapest at night.

A Culinary Walk, St. Stephen’s Basilica & a Night at the Opera

Budapest Culinary & Wine Walk

We kicked off the day with a food and wine walking tour booked via Trip Advisor, starting at the iconic Central Market Hall. We sampled savory Lángos (which looked like cheesy pizza), cured meats, pickled vegetables, and enjoyed our first taste of Unicum—Hungary’s signature herbal liqueur. Stops included:

Interior of a retro café with bold colors, patterned tiles, and red menus on the tables.
Exterior of Belvárosi Disznótoros, a Hungarian street food spot with a pig logo and wooden standing tables.
Carved wooden platter filled with slices of Hungarian salami and cured meats.
Three slices of Dobos Torte with shiny caramel tops and chocolate filling on a marble table.
A modern white-columned bakery storefront with Christmas decorations, including a snowman and evergreen plants.
Two slices of Esterházy Torte with nutty layers and white icing decorated in a chocolate swirl pattern.
Jars of pickled vegetables arranged in rows, decorated with whimsical faces and shapes like snowmen, ghosts, and bats.
Shelves of wine bottles under a glowing neon sign reading “Egészségedre” (To Your Health in Hungarian), surrounded by vintage frames.
Close-up of a Hungarian wine tasting flight with cheese pairings, set on a wooden table in a rustic cellar.
Long wooden table set with colorful tiles, surrounded by chairs and shelves of wine in a vaulted brick cellar.

St. Stephen’s Basilica & Christmas Market

After lunch, we wandered toward St. Stephen’s Basilica, one of the most important religious buildings in Hungary and named after the country’s first king. Inside, we marveled at its ornate interior and the preserved mummified hand of Saint Stephen himself—a national relic. We also climbed to the top of the dome for panoramic views over the city. Outside, the nearby Christmas market filled the square with music, lights, and holiday spirit.

Dome and tower of St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest at sunset, with a Ferris wheel and cityscape in the background.
St. Stephen’s Basilica with Christmas market stalls and a decorated tree in front.
Budapest Christmas market crowded with visitors, decorated with festive lights and a glowing red Christmas tree.

A Special Night at the Hungarian State Opera

That evening—November 29, 2024—we attended Turandot at the Hungarian State Opera House, a magnificent Neo-Renaissance building known for its gilded interiors and world-class acoustics. We hadn’t realized when we booked it, but the performance marked the 100th anniversary of the death of Giacomo Puccini, the celebrated Italian composer behind La Bohème, Madama Butterfly, and Tosca.

Turandot was Puccini’s final—and unfinished—opera, completed after his death by composer Franco Alfano. During the intermission, a ceremony was held to open a special exhibit in Puccini’s honor, and the audience observed a moment of silence in remembrance. It was a powerful and moving night—both artistically and historically—that we’ll never forget.

Ornate grand staircase inside the Hungarian State Opera House with chandeliers, red carpet, and painted ceilings.
Central view of the grand staircase at the Hungarian State Opera House, framed by marble, murals, and a large chandelier.
Man in a gray suit with a full beard standing inside the Hungarian State Opera House.
Woman in a long metallic dress posing on the red carpeted staircase inside the opera house.
View of the Hungarian State Opera House interior with red curtain and elaborate gold balconies.
Layered arches and balconies inside the richly decorated Hungarian State Opera House, with golden hues and classical columns.
Ornate staircase with red carpet and a vaulted ceiling decorated with gold and floral details.
The interior dome and balconies of the opera house, with a frescoed ceiling and grand chandelier.
Exterior of the Hungarian State Opera House at night, decorated with a lit Christmas tree.
Performer in a dramatic hooded costume with a face covering, part of the Puccini opera staging.
Curtain call at the opera with lead performers and full cast standing on stage.
Cast of the opera bowing in front of an open red curtain during final applause.
Sepia-toned portrait of Puccini from an exhibit titled “Puccini és a Magyarok.”

Buda Castle District & A Grand Night Out in Budapest

Castle Hill: Funicular Ride & Buda Castle

The next morning, we rode the charming Budapest Castle Hill Funicular—a historic cable railway that first opened in 1870—up to the Buda Castle District perched high above the Danube. At the top, we arrived at Buda Castle (also known as the Royal Palace), a sprawling Baroque complex that once housed Hungarian kings and now contains the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum.

Moored restaurant boat on the Danube with a clear view of Buda Castle and its dome rising above the cityscape.
A floating restaurant on the Pest side, with Buda Castle keeping watch across the river.

Even without going inside, the castle grounds offered spectacular views—not just over the Pest skyline and the Danube below, but also of the grand architecture of the castle itself. It was a stunning start to a day packed with history and unforgettable sites.

View of the Chain Bridge and the Budapest Castle Hill funicular in the background with autumn foliage.
Open-air photo exhibition in the Buda Castle District with historic buildings and Christmas market stalls.
Historic white building with a decorative roof and horse statue on the Buda side of Budapest.
Stone eagle statue perched above ornate gates at Buda Castle in Budapest.
Neo-Gothic façade of Hungary’s Ministry of Finance next to the ornate Holy Trinity Column in Budapest’s Castle District.
Equestrian statue of a horse trainer in front of the Royal Riding Hall in Budapest’s Castle District.
Yellow Baroque-style church with a green copper spire, surrounded by rooftops and city buildings.
Grand Baroque-style gate flanked by lion statues at the entrance to Buda Castle.
Mosaic of Hungary’s historic coat of arms flanked by angels on a brick wall, dated 1880.
Historic pastel-striped building with blue shutters and arched doorway in Budapest.
White stone statue of a female warrior holding a spear and shield with a castle emblem.
Aerial view of the Chain Bridge spanning the Danube, with St. Stephen’s Basilica and Pest in the background.

Fisherman’s Bastion & Matthias Church

After exploring Buda Castle, we made our way to Fisherman’s Bastion, a fairytale-like terrace with white stone turrets and panoramic views of the Danube and Parliament. A small Christmas market near the arches added to the charm of the setting.

View of Fisherman’s Bastion framed by tall evergreens and autumn trees in Budapest, Hungary.
Stone staircase and vintage lamppost along the curved walls of Fisherman’s Bastion.
Close-up of a turret lookout at Fisherman’s Bastion with light streaming through arched windows and a distant city view.
Grand central tower of Fisherman’s Bastion viewed from below, showing off its rounded terraces and pointed turrets.
Aerial view of Budapest’s Fisherman’s Bastion with the Danube River and Margaret Bridge in the distance.
Side view of Fisherman’s Bastion with its arched walkways and conical turrets under a clear blue sky.

From there, we continued to neighboring Matthias Church (The Church of Our Lady of Buda Castle), one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. A church has stood on this site since at least the 13th century, and today’s version dazzles with its colorful roof made of Zsolnay tiles—ceramic tiles known for their iridescent sheen and durability, crafted by the renowned Hungarian Zsolnay factory. Being among the first visitors inside gave us a rare, peaceful moment to admire the vibrant colors and richly detailed interior. Don’t miss the upper gallery or the tower climb. It’s easily one of the most beautiful and unique churches we’ve seen in Europe.

Side view of Matthias Church with its colorful Zsolnay tile roof, tall spire, and surrounding statue garden.
Baptistry of Matthias Church with a circular stained-glass window, murals, and a stone baptismal font.
Spire of Matthias Church rising against a clear blue sky, with birds in flight and tree branches in the foreground.
Ornate arch inside Matthias Church featuring gold-leaf murals, medieval figures, and patterned candle sticks.
Vibrant stained glass window with geometric floral and leaf patterns in bright reds, blues, greens, and yellows.
View of the interior nave of Matthias Church with glowing columns, gothic arches, and pews.
Copper statue of a knight with a spear standing on a column, set against colorful Zsolnay roof tiles and ironwork.
Close-up of a carved lion sculpture overlooking the altar of Matthias Church, with stained glass in the background.
Close-up of decorative wall painting in Matthias Church featuring floral and sunburst motifs in red, cream, and navy.
Wide view down the central aisle of Matthias Church showing vaulted ceilings, altar, and soaring stained glass.
Stained glass window featuring Saint Franciscus, surrounded by colorful floral and border designs.
Stone carving of a bat on the exterior of Matthias Church, blending gothic whimsy with architectural detail.
Interior of Matthias Church showing ornate painted columns, vaulted ceilings, and medieval-style décor.
Exterior of Matthias Church with its towering spire, Gothic façade, and Baroque Trinity Column in front.

More Sights on Castle Hill

We also climbed the nearby Buda Tower (St. Mary Magdalene’s Church Tower), a reconstructed medieval bell tower offering more dramatic views over the city.

Ruins of a tall brick and stone church tower with gothic-style arches in Budapest.
Aerial view of red-tiled rooftops and ornate Gothic buildings in Budapest’s Castle District with the Danube River in the distance.

Just a short walk away, we explored the Labirintus (Labyrinth), a network of interconnected caves and tunnels beneath Castle Hill. Once used as cellars, bomb shelters, and even a prison, it’s famously rumored to have held Vlad the Impaler—the historical figure who inspired the Dracula legend. The dimly lit passages and curious exhibits made for an eerie but intriguing visit.

Exterior entrance to the Labirintus attraction with a vintage arched doorway and sign above.
Stone arches inside the Labyrinth with sculptures on display in softly lit alcoves.
Staircase flanked by decorative wrought iron gates, leading up from a dim stone chamber.
Dim stone corridor in the Labyrinth with metal-barred doors and a locked gate at the far end.
Wax figures in elaborate period costumes posed in a dimly lit stone room of the Labyrinth.
Black-and-white photo of a classical statue in a stone corridor inside the Budapest's Labirintus.
Stone staircase leading down to a well enclosed with an iron grate in the Labyrinth.
Iron cage suspended in a dim chamber of Labirintus, surrounded by stone walls.
Stone stairway with wrought iron gates leading out of Stone stairway with wrought iron gates leading out of Budapest's Labirintus.

Lunch Break in Buda and the Széchenyi Chain Bridge

After walking down a quiet path from Castle Hill, we stopped for a late lunch at Vigadó Restaurant, a cozy spot tucked just off the riverfront. The food tasted like it was homemade—my tarragon chicken with green beans and rice was full of wonderful flavor, and my husband’s chicken paprikash was rich and tender, easily making it one of the best meals we had in Budapest. The friendly service and traditional setting made it the perfect break after a full morning of sightseeing.

Afterward, we made our way back across the iconic Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Budapest’s first permanent link between Buda and Pest. At each end of the bridge stand imposing stone lions—so realistic, according to legend, that the sculptor was ridiculed for forgetting to carve their tongues. Humiliated by the mistake, he’s said to have thrown himself into the Danube. In truth, the lions do have tongues—they’re just not visible from below—but the story lives on as part of the bridge’s enduring charm.

Entrance to Vigadó Restaurant, a traditional Hungarian restaurant with handwritten chalkboard menus and festive décor.
Close-up of one of the stone lion statues on Budapest’s Széchenyi Chain Bridge, with the bridge’s suspension cables and ornate stonework visible behind it on a clear day.

Budapest Grand Walk Tour

Later that afternoon, we joined a private Budapest Grand Walk tour we booked through TripAdvisor, which gave us deeper insight into the city’s history and hidden corners. Our guide shared stories about Sisi (Queen Elisabeth), led us through Heroes’ Square, pointed out symbolic details on the Hungarian Parliament, and introduced us to the whimsical world of Mihály Kolodko—a sculptor known for his tiny bronze statues hidden throughout the city. During our visit, we spotted Kermit the Frog, a rabbit with a telescope, and a tiny teddy bear, all delightfully unexpected and easy to miss if you’re not looking.

Millennium Monument in Heroes’ Square, Budapest, illuminated at night with statues of Hungarian leaders.
Bronze statue of a woman holding an parasol, with a blue sky and buildings in the background.
A festive passageway in Budapest, filled with hanging red ornaments, wrapped gift boxes, fairy lights, and glowing shop signs.
A small bronze frog statue with a coin underneath, resting on worn stone near a black iron fence.
Nighttime view of the Széchenyi Chain Bridge illuminated, with Buda Castle glowing in the background.
Illuminated statues and colonnade at Budapest’s Hero’s Square at night.
Ornately lit Hungarian Parliament Building at night, with neo-Gothic architecture and golden illumination.

One of the most moving stops was the Shoes on the Danube Promenade—a haunting row of iron shoes honoring the Jews who were executed along the river during World War II. It’s a simple yet powerful tribute that left a lasting impression.

Iron shoes lined along the edge of the Danube at night, with the illuminated Chain Bridge and Buda Castle in the distance.
Close-up of iron shoes with a flower placed inside, part of the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial in Budapest, with the Danube River and city lights in the background.

Budapest Sparkles: Evening River Cruise on the Danube

To end the night, we boarded a 1-hour river cruise with Legenda City Cruises and glided along the Danube as Budapest shimmered under the night sky. The illuminated Parliament, bridges, and castle district looked even more beautiful from the water. Our ticket included a glass of champagne, the perfect finish to an already unforgettable day.

The Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest illuminated at night, reflected in the dark waters of the Danube River.
The Hungarian Parliament aglow under the night sky—an unforgettable view from our evening Danube river cruise.

Budapest’s Historic Elegance and a Fond Farewell

Our final morning brought clear blue skies, so we took a stroll to the Párisi Udvar Hotel, a former shopping arcade turned luxury hotel with one of the most stunning interiors in Budapest. Its soaring glass ceilings, intricate tile mosaics, and ornately carved archways create the feeling of stepping into a palace. At Christmastime, the space was dressed in twinkling lights and holiday greenery, adding to its already enchanting atmosphere.

Exterior of the Párisi Udvar Hotel in Budapest, featuring arched windows, decorative stonework, and a modern glass entrance with festive holiday lights.
The ornate glass-domed interior of the Párisi Udvar Hotel in Budapest, with festive Christmas decorations, plush seating, and intricate architectural details.

The Centrál Grand Café & Bar was next on our list—a beloved literary café dating back to 1887. Once a gathering place for writers and artists, it now offers a cozy, elegant setting for breakfast. After a relaxed meal and one last coffee, it was—reluctantly—time to say goodbye to Budapest.

The facade of Centrál Grand Café & Bar in Budapest, with holiday flowers, warm lighting, and a mix of brick and stone architectural detail.
An elegant vintage bar with leather stools, champagne bottles, and art deco decor inside Budapest’s historic Central Café.

Final Thoughts

Budapest gave us a perfect mix of history, hearty food, and holiday warmth. From soaking in thermal waters to sipping wine in a hidden cellar, Christmas markets to river views, there’s something in this city for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fifth, Budapest feels both welcoming and full of surprises—a truly special place that leaves you wanting more. We can’t wait to return!

Small bronze rabbit statue with exaggerated ears overlooking the Danube and blurred view of the Parliament Building.
One of Budapest’s whimsical mini statues, adding a playful contrast to the grandeur of the Parliament across the river.

Arriving in Budapest: Flight, Shuttle & Public Transport

Located in the heart of Central Europe, Budapest is Hungary’s capital and largest city—easily accessible from Stuttgart and many other European hubs. Its position along the Danube River makes it an ideal and rewarding destination for a long weekend getaway.

Getting there from Stuttgart

We flew nonstop from Stuttgart to Budapest with Eurowings, landing at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). To reach the city center, we used the miniBUD Airport Shuttle, which we booked in advance through Get Your Guide. After landing, we followed the instructions provided for our arrival terminal and checked in at the miniBUD counter. There was a short wait in a designated area, but the process was smooth and straightforward. The shuttle dropped us off directly at our hotel, and the ride into the city took about 30–40 minutes.

Public Transport

Budapest offers a range of public transit ticket options—from single-use tickets to 72-hour travel cards and 120-hour Budapest Cards. Since we walked much of the time, we opted for a 24-hour travel pass, which came in handy on the couple of occasions we used public transport. The best choice depends on how long you’ll be staying and how often you plan to use buses, trams, or the metro. You can explore all ticket types and find instructions for using them on the official BKK website.

All transit tickets in Budapest—whether paper or digital—must be validated before or at the start of your journey. Failing to do so can result in a fine, so don’t skip this step. You can find up-to-date instructions here.

Keep in mind that above-ground and underground lines require separate single tickets, so a travel card or pass can simplify things significantly.

For convenience, you can also use the BudapestGO App to purchase and validate digital tickets by scanning barcodes near tram and bus doors or at the driver’s booth.

The Budapest Card includes unlimited public transportation, plus free or discounted entry to a number of attractions, museums, and guided tours—making it a good value for travelers planning to explore more of the city.

Christmas Markets & Other Budapest Highlights

There’s no way to see it all in one visit—Budapest is packed with history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re staying a bit longer or already planning your return, here are a few more places worth adding to your itinerary. For even more ideas, check out Budapest Info, the city’s official tourism website.

A Few Budapest Christmas Markets to Explore:

  • Vörösmarty Square & Fashion Street: The heart of Budapest’s holiday festivities, with artisan stalls, twinkling lights, live music, and traditional Hungarian food—plus elegant window displays along nearby Fashion Street.
  • St. Stephen’s Basilica Christmas Fair: A magical setting that comes alive at night with dazzling lights dancing across the basilica’s façade.
  • Fisherman’s Bastion: Smaller in size, but set against one of the city’s most stunning backdrops.
  • Gozsdu Udvar: A lively alley in the Jewish Quarter, perfect for an evening stroll.
  • Klauzál Square: Home to the Green Christmas Market, with a more local, eco-friendly vibe.

Tip: Try to visit during the day when it’s less crowded—markets can get very busy in the evenings, especially on weekends.

More Things to See and Do in Budapest

Hungarian Parliament
Dominating the Danube with its Neo-Gothic spires and massive dome, the Parliament is one of Budapest’s most iconic sights. Inside, guided tours reveal ornate chambers, colorful stained glass, and the Hungarian Crown Jewels housed in the central hall. Book tickets in advance—they sell out quickly.

Panoramic view of the Hungarian Parliament Building along the Danube River in Budapest.

Ruin Bars
Set inside abandoned buildings and courtyards, these eclectic bars offer a nightlife experience you won’t find anywhere else. A few favorites:

Dohány Street Synagogue
The largest synagogue in Europe (and third-largest in the world), this architectural gem includes a Jewish museum and moving Holocaust memorials in the garden. Take a guided tour to fully appreciate its significance.

Thermal Spas Beyond Széchenyi
Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, and while Széchenyi is the most iconic, several others are well worth a visit:

  • Gellért Thermal Bath – Housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building with stained glass windows and decorative tilework. Known for its beautiful pools and therapeutic thermal waters.
  • Rudas Thermal Bath – A 16th-century Turkish-style bath featuring a domed main pool, steam rooms, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views over the Danube.
  • Lukács Thermal Bath – A lesser-known, often quieter bath popular for its healing waters and relaxed atmosphere.

Margaret Island
A peaceful retreat in the middle of the Danube, ideal for walking, biking, or just relaxing. You’ll find landscaped gardens, a musical fountain, medieval ruins, and even thermal springs. Easily accessible by tram or footbridge.

Hospital in the Rock
A former WWII emergency hospital and Cold War nuclear bunker carved into the hillside. Now a museum, it highlights the human cost of conflict and the value of peace. English-language guided tours are offered every hour.

Have you been to Budapest or is it on your list? I’d love to hear your thoughts or tips in the comments below!

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2 responses to “A Festive Escape to Budapest: Christmas Markets, Thermal Baths & Architectural Wonders”

  1. mayakory Avatar
    mayakory

    Can’t wait to go myself!! Your trip looks amazing!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply
    1. Robin Avatar
      Robin

      Thank you Maya! It was a great trip! I can’t wait to hear about it when you go!

      Like

      Reply

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