The 3 most beautiful Christmas markets in Budapest in 2025 – atmosphere, lights, and parking information

11. 11. 2025. 11. 11. 2025.
The 3 most beautiful Christmas markets in Budapest in 2025 – atmosphere, lights, and parking information

During the festive season, Budapest transforms into a truly magical city: the lights, scents, and Christmas music fill every street with a festive atmosphere. If you visit Budapest in 2025, don’t miss the capital’s largest and most enchanting Christmas markets! Here are the three most popular locations, which are favorites among locals and tourists year after year.

1. Christmas Market at Vörösmarty Square

Budapest’s most famous Christmas market is located in the heart of the city, at Vörösmarty Square. This is one of the country’s oldest and largest Advent markets, where visitors are transported into a true winter wonderland. The market offers a rich selection: handmade products, traditional Hungarian foods—such as lángos and chimney cake—as well as special hot drinks await guests.

Opening Hours

The Christmas market at Vörösmarty Square is open from November 14, 2025, until the dawn of the new year.
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 11:00–21:00, Friday and Saturday 11:00–22:00, Sunday 11:00–21:00.
The mini train operates Monday to Friday 14:00–20:00, weekends 11:00–20:00.
Holiday opening hours: December 24 10:00–14:00, December 25 12:00–18:00, New Year’s Eve 11:00–03:00.

Location

The square is located in the center of Budapest, just a few minutes’ walk from the Danube and the famous Váci Street. It is easily accessible, making it ideal for those who wish to combine sightseeing with the Christmas atmosphere.

Parking Zone: 0501

  • Parking hours: weekdays 08:00–22:00
  • Maximum waiting time: 3 hours
  • Fee: 600 Ft/hour

2. Christmas Market in front of the Basilica

The Advent market in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of Budapest’s most spectacular events. The huge Christmas tree, the string lights, and the intimate music create a special atmosphere in one of the city’s most beautiful squares. Visitors can skate on the ice rink, and in the evenings, a light show projected onto the Basilica’s facade dazzles the audience. The event is also recognized as one of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas markets.

Opening Hours

The Advent Basilica market welcomes visitors at St. Stephen’s Square from November 14, 2025, to January 1, 2026.
More than a hundred craft vendors, unique gastronomic experiences, and spectacular light installations await guests.
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 11:00–22:00, Friday and Saturday 11:00–23:00, Sunday 11:00–22:00.
Holiday opening hours: December 24 11:00–15:00, December 25–26 11:00–20:00, December 31 11:00–03:00, January 1 11:00–18:00.

Location

The market is located in downtown Budapest, at the Basilica. It is easily accessible on foot from Vörösmarty Square or Deák Ferenc Square.

Parking Zone: 0501

  • Parking hours: weekdays 08:00–22:00
  • Maximum waiting time: 3 hours
  • Fee: 600 Ft/hour

3. Óbuda Christmas Market

The Christmas market held at Óbuda Main Square is one of Budapest’s friendliest and most family-oriented Advent events. The cozy main square offers a variety of programs for visitors: for children, there is a petting zoo, craft activities, and stage performances, while adults can enjoy special mulled wines and delicious local delicacies. The market’s decorations are especially atmospheric every year, with the lights and ornaments creating a true Christmas idyll.

Opening Hours

The Óbuda Advent market can be visited from November 28 to December 23, 2025.

Location

The market is located at Óbuda Main Square, along Bécsi Road. Although it is a bit farther from the city center, it offers a calmer yet festive alternative compared to the central markets.

Parking Zone: 0302

  • Parking hours: weekdays 08:00–18:00
  • Maximum waiting time: 3 hours
  • Fee: 300 Ft/hour

The above information is for informational purposes only and may differ from the actual data in certain cases. To view the current daily parking fees, please click the link below!

Budapest parking zone information: 11-11-2025