Budapest is a city of extremes and fluctuations between seasons. There is always plenty to see and do based on what time of year you are visiting. Here are a few tips to help answer the question: what season should you visit Budapest in?
Spring: March – May
We think spring is one of the best times to visit Budapest. The weather begins to warm up and the fruit tree blossoms are out in full force. Parks, of course, have the best array of pastel blossoms for you to stroll through; but don’t miss the Japanese Garden on Margaret Island with its sakura trees. April is also when Budapest holds its largest, and one of the most important, festivals – the Budapest Spring Festival – with over 200 cultural events held to celebrate its heritage, food and arts scene.
Once May begins, it’s the perfect month to get outdoors in Budapest. Get your adrenaline pumping by hiking up Gellért Hill or embark on a more leisurely architecture-based walk around all the city’s Art Nouveau houses – the choice is yours!
Summer: June – August
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Be prepared for high temperatures, humidity and large crowds during the summer months in Budapest. Despite all this, travellers still enjoy making the most of the long days with August being the busiest month. Take a day-cruise to see Budapest’s iconic sights from the Danube, ride a bike around Margaret Island, and enjoy a Hungarian beer at a rooftop, or outdoor, restaurant. We particularly enjoy Night of the Museums in June. To mark summer solstice, many museums open their doors from 6pm until the early hours of the morning – a fun way to make the most of your time here!
Autumn: September – November
Autumn is when things begin to slow down after the summer rush, and the harvest season begins. Farmers markets are bulging at the seams with a wide range of delicious local specialties and produce – dairy, honey, sweets, nuts and fresh fruit and vegetables. Don’t miss the Szimpla or Élesztő markets which are held in ancient ruin pubs! There is also the Budapest Wine Festival in September where you can try all different varieties of Hungarian wine.
Even though the weather is more unpredictable in autumn, the temperatures are perfect for a mini day trip to nearby Szetendre. This artist town is just an hour away by direct train, full of winding streets and cute cafes along the Danube Bend. Visit the Hungarian Open Air Museum where you can learn about rural traditions and life.
Winter: December – February
Aside from Christmas markets, winters can be grey, cold and snowy. However, there are still plenty of fun, indoor activities to keep you busy. January is the peak season for opera and theatre, starting off with a bang with the New Year’s Day Gala Concert at Pesti Vigadó concert hall. There is the Mangalica Festival in February – a unique celebration of the Mangalica pig. It’s particularly tasty and the festival centres around Mangalica sausages and salami. Finally, Budapest has nine bath houses and 123 hot springs which are delightful during the cold winter months.
Whatever the season, Budapest is a marvellous city with offerings for just about anyone! Uncover the gems of this city on a Globus or Cosmos tour, or Avalon Waterways river cruise.
