Amazing! Budapest among the world’s best Christmas destinations
Budapest has once again proven that it is one of Europe’s most captivating cities, even during the winter season.
Budapest once again proved that it’s mesmerising in every season
According to a newly published data-driven ranking by PrivacyJournal, the Hungarian capital has been named the 7th best Christmas destination in the world for 2025. The list was compiled using data from Tripadvisor and Kayak, assessing more than one hundred cities worldwide.
Lelépő writes the research evaluated four key factors: the number and average price of Christmas-themed tours, the range of languages available for these programmes, and accommodation costs in December. With these criteria, Budapest found itself in the same league as major destinations such as London, Vienna and Québec City – a clear sign of its growing international appeal.
The Hungarian capital’s unique atmosphere lifts it among the very best
According to PrivacyJournal, Budapest’s real strength lies in its ability to combine the classic European Advent atmosphere with unique winter experiences that are characteristic of the city.
From Vörösmarty Square to the festive fair in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica, Christmas markets line both sides of the Danube, illuminated by twinkling lights and offering handmade goods, street food and cultural events. Hungarian Advent markets have repeatedly been recognised as some of the most beautiful in Europe, continuing to attract large numbers of international visitors.
Summer activities can be relaxing even in the winter
The study highlights a feature that makes Budapest truly stand out: the exceptional combination of Christmas markets and thermal baths. The city’s iconic bathhouses – including the Széchenyi and Gellért – welcome guests throughout the winter, and several guided tours now link the festive market locations with steamy outdoor pools. Bathing in warm thermal water as snowflakes fall is considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and one that few major cities can offer.
An interesting detail from the top 10 list is that nine of the ten places were claimed by European cities, underscoring the enduring popularity of Christmas traditions across the continent. Even in this strong field, Budapest performed remarkably well, overtaking cities such as Prague, Madrid and Berlin.
This latest accolade further confirms that Budapest is a standout tourist destination in winter. Its combination of traditional Advent charm, rich cultural offerings and world-renowned thermal baths attracts more visitors year after year – and 2025 appears to be no exception.