Enjoy a winter treat and visit the Budapest Christmas Market. Take your staff on a weekend break or go with a group of friends and discover the magical experience of being at one of the great Christmas markets that happen in European cities from mid-November to the end of December each year.

Christmas markets started in the late Middle Ages and Vienna’s December market is thought to be the oldest (the first being held around 1924). The markets are a place of great festivity with mulled wine, local foods and produce, choirs, ice skating, live entertainment, and the perfect place to buy gifts for loved ones.

There are multiple markets around the city. The largest and most popular is the Vorosmarty Square Christmas Market which is set under a million sparkling fairy lights with Hungarian food and 100 craft stalls.

St Stephens Basilica Christmas Market is one of our favourites. It’s a smaller market in a wonderful location in historic Pest, in front of St Stephen’s Basilica and close to the Hungarian Parliament, one of the most incredible sights in the city. In 2020, it was voted the Best Christmas Market in Europe by the European Best Destinations portal and is also one of the most affordable. With an ice rink at the center of the market, it has live performances, 100 vendors selling authentic handicrafts and the largest 3D laser show at night. Food-wise, you can enjoy paprika-spiced goulash, chicken paprika, to quick and easy street food like langos or kürtőskalács (sweet chimney cake) and let’s not forget the warm mulled wine called Forralt Bor.

Other must-do experiences to add to your winter Budapest visit:

• Swim in the hot thermal waters at Szechenyi Baths with 2 open-air thermal pools and 15 indoor pools. Open daily till 7pm, it’s even open on Xmas day or join its famous New Years’ Bath Party BUT be sure to book your tickets in advance.
• Enjoy a dinner cruise on the River Danube, as the winter sights along the river are more beautiful during night time tours.
• Take a private tour to Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion overlooking the Danube below. Tip: Visit the Garden of Philosophers.
• Go sledding at Nomafa. This is popular amongst locals with lovely views and strudel vendors and finish with a shot of the traditional alcoholic drink, Palinka.
• Ride one of the famous Christmas streetcars while you shop for bargains in the city – but wrap up warm as there’s no heating on the tram.
• Witness the massive fireworks display over the Danube River on New Years Eve after a night out enjoying the bars in the lively Ruin Bar District.

To plan your magical group winter getaway to Budapest, contact the local Hungarian travel experts Motivation Global Travel.