Festive Places to Check Out in Budapest This Holiday Season

St. Stephen’s Basilica, Christmas Market in Budapest, Hungary.
St. Stephen’s Basilica, Christmas Market in Budapest, Hungary. Photo by Liam McKay on Unsplash

Every European capital looks truly dazzling come Christmas time, and Budapest is no different. If you happen to be visiting the Hungarian capital for the holidays this year, you won’t be disappointed as it has several pretty magical, festive places to offer.

St. Stephen’s Basilica

If a visit to a Christmas market happens to be your ultimate bucket list item, the square in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica is the place to be. It’s home to Budapest’s annual Christmas Market, where you can find countless stalls selling everything from mulled wine and festive treats to arts and crafts.

Vajdahunyad Castle

Vajdahunyad Castle completely transforms come wintertime because Budapest’s City Park Ice Rink is located right in front of it. It’s been around for over 150 years, and it’s the best place to go on an ice-skating adventure with your friends and family this holiday season.

Fisherman’s Bastion

Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the top attractions on the city’s Buda side, and it’s one of Budapest’s dreamiest spots. The 19th-century fortress and its turreted lookout terraces look like a winter wonderland come Christmas times and the panoramic views it offers are more magical than ever.