5+1 things to do in Budapest in winter

Winter is here and Budapest offers numerous opportunities for those who aim to make the most of this season. From tasting traditional Hungarian winter snacks to discovering the capital’s most panoramic ice rinks, Budapest awaits you with many fun things to do.

Nothing beats ice skating in winter

Ice skating is always a good idea in winter. Fortunately, there are many ice skating spots in Budapest where winter sports enthusiasts can indulge in their favorite hobby. Here are 5 cozy ice skating spots: Budapest Park, Westend Winter Wonderland, Csepel Ice Park, Újpest Ice Rink and Hello Buda Winterland. In addition to ice skating, you can also enjoy a hot cup of tea or mulled wine while watching the ice skaters spin and jump on the rink.

• Read also: PHOTOS: Beautiful Hungary wrapped in a white snow blanket

Visit the Budapest Christmas markets

The two most famous Christmas markets in Budapest can be found in Vörösmarty Square and in front of Saint Stephen’s Basilica. Budapest’s Advent Basilica has won the online title of ‘Europe’s best Christmas fair’ with a record-breaking number of votes, so it is worth paying a visit to this market. However, you should prepare for horror prices! The prices of the main courses range between HUF 4,500 (EUR 11,10) and HUF 8,500 (EUR 20,96).

Soak your worries away in a hot thermal bath

Escape the cold weather and treat yourself to a warm bath in one of Budapest’s famous spas! Have a visit to the historical Széchenyi, Gellért or Rudas thermal baths and pick your favourite at the end. In the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Gellért Thermal Bath, tickets cost HUF 7,100 (EUR 17,02) on weekdays, and HUF 8,200 (EUR 19,65) on Fridays and weekends. In Rudas Spa, a regular weekday ticket costs HUF 6,500 (EUR 15,58), while the bath charges visitors HUF 9,200 (EUR 22,05) on Fridays and weekends.