The festive season has officially begun in Budapest, as Advent Basilica and Vörösmarty Classic Xmas both open their gates on 13 November. Visitors can look forward to Hungarian handicrafts, festive food, spectacular decorations and plenty of Christmas magic until the beginning of 2027.
Budapest’s two biggest Christmas markets opened today
Budapest’s two best-known Christmas markets have officially opened today, 13 November, welcoming locals and tourists alike to enjoy the festive atmosphere in the heart of the Hungarian capital.
Located at St Stephen’s Basilica and Vörösmarty Square, the markets are among the city’s most popular winter attractions. Both will remain open over the Christmas period and New Year’s Eve, although their opening hours will vary on certain holidays.
Advent Basilica: Christmas magic in front of St Stephen’s Basilica
The award-winning Advent Basilica returns with nearly 100 Hungarian craft exhibitors, a wide selection of festive food and a spectacular Christmas setting.
Visitors can expect a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, illuminated decorations, a canopy of lights and the popular light projections on the façade of St Stephen’s Basilica. Further festive programmes will also take place throughout the event.
The market has been voted Europe’s most beautiful Christmas market four times, according to its organisers.
Opening dates: 13 November 2026 – 1 January 2027
General opening hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 11 am–10 pm
- Friday–Saturday: 11 am–11 pm
- Sunday: 11 am–10 pm
Special opening hours:
- 24 December: 11 am–3 pm
- 25–26 December: 11 am–8 pm
- 31 December: 11 am–3 am (New Year’s Day)
- 1 January: 11 am–6 pm
More information is available on the official Advent Basilica website.
Vörösmarty Classic Xmas: festive traditions in the heart of Budapest
The Vörösmarty Classic Xmas also opens today, transforming one of Budapest’s most beautiful central squares into a festive meeting point.
The market will feature craft exhibitors, traditional Christmas treats and a small railway, offering an extra attraction for families visiting with children.
Opening dates: 13 November 2026 – early January 2027
General opening hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 11 am–9 pm
- Friday–Saturday: 11 am–10 pm
- Sunday: 11 am–9 pm
Small railway opening hours:
- Monday–Friday: 2 pm–8 pm
- Saturday–Sunday: 11 am–8 pm
Special opening hours:
- 24 December: 10 am–2 pm
- 25–26 December: noon–6 pm
- 29–30 December: 11 am–9 pm
- 31 December: 11 am–3 am (New Year’s Day)
Please note that the craft exhibitors and small railway will operate for the last time on 28 December. The small railway will open at 2 pm on 26 December.
For further details, visit the official Vörösmarty Classic Xmas website.
Two Christmas markets, one festive Budapest experience
Whether you are looking for Hungarian handicrafts, traditional seasonal food, spectacular light displays or a family-friendly programme, both Christmas markets offer plenty of reasons to explore Budapest during the festive season.
The two locations are also within walking distance of each other, making it easy to visit both in one evening. For tourists and locals alike, they are a great starting point for discovering Budapest’s Christmas atmosphere.
