Budapest’s two main Christmas markets opened on 13 November, offering everything from traditional Hungarian dishes to eye-catching international street food. While some prices are steep, visitors can also find budget-friendly options, including children’s meals for under HUF 1,000 (EUR 2.7).
The Advent Basilica market in front of St Stephen’s Basilica and the Vörösmarty Classic Xmas market in the city centre are once again attracting large numbers of international visitors. The Basilica market has been named Europe’s best Christmas market for the fourth time this year, and was recently voted the best ever in a public ranking.
As HVG reported after visiting the opening day, the organisers have introduced several new attractions. At the Basilica, visitors can warm up in a free, heated family tent, while a spectacular illuminated arch has been installed along Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Road. The traditional three-minute light shows projected onto the Basilica will also return every half hour from 5.30 pm.
What can you eat – and how much does it cost?
Food prices are among the biggest talking points. According to HVG, visitors can choose from nearly 300 dishes, including goulash, chicken paprikash, salmon, smash burgers and slow-cooked pork knuckle.
Some prices are certainly not for every budget. At the Basilica market, a pulled beef burger costs HUF 7,500 (around EUR 20.5), while roasted salmon and sous-vide pork knuckle are priced at HUF 6,900 each. A cup of Lindt hot chocolate costs HUF 2,700.
However, cheaper options are available. Both markets offer a special Budapest Menu for HUF 1,600, featuring dishes such as sausage stew or traditional cabbage dishes. During themed food weeks, selected main courses are available for HUF 2,500. There is also a new children’s menu, with options such as Bolognese spaghetti, fried cheese and chicken nuggets with chips for less than HUF 1,000.
Pénzcentrum also looked at prices at the Vörösmarty Square market, noting that the organisers’ budget menu remains available and that prices have barely increased compared with last year.
Our article from the opening day: Budapest’s two biggest Christmas markets open today – here are the dates, opening hours and what to expect
A growing attraction for foreign tourists
The markets are increasingly becoming a reason to visit Budapest in their own right. HVG reported hearing relatively little Hungarian on opening day, with one cheese seller estimating that around 90% of his customers are foreign tourists.
Some visitors had travelled specifically for the opening weekend, including a group from Chicago keen to sample traditional Hungarian food. Others came across the markets while exploring the city.
Live music will also feature prominently this year, with performances scheduled five times a week at the Basilica and three times a week at Vörösmarty Square.
Despite the high prices of some dishes, visitors can still enjoy the festive atmosphere without spending a fortune – provided they look beyond the most expensive stalls.
