Budapest Christmas markets open with moderate prices and discounts for tourists today

The title mentions “moderate prices,” but this might hold true primarily for Western tourists visiting Budapest with more generous budgets. Hungarians, who typically earn much lower wages, may find these markets less affordable. The Budapest Christmas markets are not designed with the average Hungarian in mind; rather, they cater to the local upper-middle class and Western tourists. For those visitors, paying €16 for stuffed cabbage may seem reasonable. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect at one of the world’s top-rated Christmas markets, which open today in Hungary’s capital.  

Budapest Christmas markets are some of the world’s best

As we detailed it HERE, the Budapest Christmas markets officially open this afternoon.  Two main fairs—Advent Bazilika at St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Vörösmarty Square Christmas Fair—are widely regarded as must-visit destinations during the festive season. As we reported HERE, CNN recently named these markets among the best in the world, and the enchanting atmosphere they offer ensures a memorable experience. However, visitors should be prepared to pay prices comparable to those found in Western Europe for food, drinks, and souvenirs.

Szeretlek Magyarország went on a quest to check out the prices at Vörösmarty Square, which is located in the heart of the city, a stone’s throw away from the iconic Chain Bridge and Váci Street, the main shopping street of the Hungarian capital.

Goose leg with champagne cabbage costs an arm and a leg

The priciest dish available at Vörösmarty Square is fried, crispy duck or goose legs served with steak fries or champagne cabbage, for which you have to fork out €22.

Other popular options include:

– Catfish with potatoes: €17

– Stuffed cabbage with bread: €16

– Beef stew in a bread bowl: €16

Traditional Hungarian sausage served with bread and mustard is slightly cheaper at €13.50, while liverwurst and blood sausage cost €12. Vegetarians can choose between steamed or fried vegetables, priced between €8.60 and €13.50. For those seeking quintessential Hungarian street food, lángos (a deep-fried flatbread) starts at €5.70.