Photos: Experience Europe’s most beautiful Advent tram in Miskolc, Lillafüred’s waterfall illuminated with light art

On the first Sunday of Advent, Miskolc unveiled one of its most cherished festive attractions: a tram crowned Europe’s most beautiful Advent tram no fewer than eight times. This year, it is adorned with Nutcracker-themed decorations and will run until 6 January 2026 through the city nestled in the Bükk Mountains. For the ninth time, it is competing for the European championship title. Welcoming around 100,000 visitors each year, this extraordinary tram operates on a regular schedule, carrying passengers across the city.

Step inside the Nutcracker’s world onboard this year’s Miskolc Advent Tram

This year, the tram’s interior transforms into a magical Nutcracker scene, shimmering in gold, red and green, with cosy armchairs and a warming fireplace to greet passengers. Anyone may board with a standard ticket, allowing local residents and visitors from afar to share this distinctive festive experience.

The rejuvenated Advent Tram sets off for its 14th season, more dazzling than ever. After last year’s hugely popular Sleeping Beauty Castle-themed tram was dismantled in late September, preparations for the 2025 decorations began six weeks ago. Nearly 400 metres of light tubes illuminate the exterior, while hundreds of baubles inside create a fairy-tale atmosphere.

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Miskolc Advent tram welcomes 100,000 passengers annually

Each year, a dedicated team of 15–20 experts brings the decorations to life, while MVK Ltd ensures flawless operation—coordinating drivers, ticket inspectors, dispatchers, vehicle managers and communications specialists.

The greatest challenge lies in creating a decoration scheme that remains beautiful, safe and stable on a moving vehicle. Judging by the finished result, Miskolc is once again a strong contender for the title of Europe’s Most Beautiful Advent Tram, to be announced soon in its ninth competition.

Lillafüred Waterfall dazzles with light art; light park in Miskolctapolca

Visitors to Miskolctapolca are welcomed by a light park featuring giant lotus flowers and sparkling installations that illuminate the waters and surroundings of the Boating Lake. Nearby, the Ellipsum Adventure Bath invites night-time bathers to enjoy a Santa Claus Party on 6 December and a New Year’s Eve celebration on 31 December.

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At Lillafüred’s Fairyland, professional actors bring the Grinch, Trolls characters and Santa Claus to life inside giant igloos, creating an unforgettable forest-themed Christmas adventure. Families may take the Diósgyőr Santa Train to the event until 14 December.

The Lillafüred Waterfall captivates visitors daily from 4pm with spectacular light projections, while the imposing Avasi Lookout casts a striking festive light show every Sunday during Advent from 4:45pm, illuminating the night sky.

The nearby Csanyik Valley’s Miskolc Zoo also offers a Santa-themed programme and a Christmas animal-feeding show—ideal for families with young children seeking charming and educational festive outings.

Hundreds of Christmas trees decorate Miskolc city centre

The city centre buzzes with an Advent market, ice-skating rink, light projections, concert series, winter playground, photo spots, small train, magical carousel, “Bake Your Own Chimney Cake,” and—thanks to the Miskolc Downtown Circle initiative—hundreds of small, decorated Christmas trees.

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Each week at the Hütte, a different restaurant showcases the rich culinary heritage that distinguishes Miskolc nationally. Highlights include the Michelin-recommended Végállomás Bistro & Wine, KARÁM Bor & Gasztro, Ciao Martin, Leves és Burger, Dolce Bolla Prosecco Bar and Borsod Burger.

Miskolc, the city of the Bükk, is a must-visit December destination for families, romantic travellers and lovers of festive atmosphere. With a broad range of experiences spanning several days, it proudly presents its unique treasures, natural beauty and warm hospitality. The full programme is available on the city council’s official website.