Holiday Parking in Budapest: You Have to Pay Between Christmas and New Year Too

Update (October 27, 2026): We have updated the article for the 2026/2027 holiday season.

Since 2025, parking in Budapest has not been free on working days between Christmas and New Year. Since the Budapest General Assembly amended the regulations, using public parking spaces on these days has been subject to a fee, just like on any other working day.

Holiday Parking Rules in Budapest in 2026

• December 12 (Saturday): Under the current work schedule, this is a make-up working day, so parking fees apply in zones where parking is charged on working days (see below).
• December 24 (Thursday): A rest day; parking is free in zones where fees apply on working days.
• December 25–26: Public holidays; parking is free.
• December 28–31 (Monday–Thursday): Working days; the usual parking fees apply.
• January 1, 2027 (Friday): A public holiday; parking is free.

Please note: In early November, Parliament will vote on whether December 24 should become a public holiday in its own right (source: Portfolio). If the proposal is passed, the make-up workday on December 12 will be canceled, and parking will be free that day under the usual Saturday rules. We will update the article after the vote.

In some Budapest zones, parking fees apply specifically on weekends and public holidays (for example, in Zones 3127 and 3129 in District XII, where parking is free on weekdays), and privately operated car parks may also have different rules. You can find the charging hours for each zone on our Budapest parking page.

Why Did the Rules Change?

The change was prompted primarily by feedback from residents. Many Budapest residents said that free parking during the holiday season meant spaces stayed occupied for days, making it harder for local residents to find a parking spot.

BKK usually issues a separate notice before the holidays; we will update this article if necessary.

How Can You Pay?

Since July 1, 2026, parking in Budapest can only be paid for digitally. You can buy a parking ticket on our website or in our app in just a few clicks, without registering.

Last updated: 27. 10. 2026.