PHOTO REPORT: Budapest welcomes winter with ice rink and Christmas market in city centre

Mayor Gergely Karácsony has shared striking photographs of the autumnal Budapest, showcasing the Hungarian capital’s charm even as the leaves fall. Adding to the seasonal allure, the city’s iconic ice rink reopened yesterday and will remain open to visitors until 2 February.

City Hall Winter Park, ice skating ring and Christmas market open in Budapest

The City Hall Winter Park, complete with an ice skating rink and a festive Christmas market, officially opened on Friday in the heart of Budapest. Skaters can glide across the ice until early February, after which they can warm up with traditional Hungarian delicacies, creating a delightful winter experience in the city centre.

“I invite everyone to come along, whether for shopping, skating, or simply to be captivated by the lights and the atmosphere of City Hall Park.”, Gergely Karácsony, the mayor of Budapest, said on the Friday opening ceremony. Mayor Karácsony also announced that the first Advent candle would be lit here on 1 December, marking the beginning of the festive season.

Photo: MTI

The CEO of Budapest Brand Ltd, Csaba Faix, revealed that the rink includes a unique ice corridor, enhancing the skating experience. He also noted that Budapest’s much-loved “party tram” would commence operations at 5 p.m. on Saturday, adding to the festive fun.

On 6 December, Santa Claus himself will make an appearance at City Hall Park, delighting children and families alike. Visitors to the Christmas market at nearby Deák Ferenc Square can savour Hungarian treats such as chimney cake, lángos and mulled wine, while browsing for handmade gifts and souvenirs.

The opening of the new ice rink. Photo: MTI

Finally, the Mayor shared a series of breathtaking photographs of Budapest in autumn. The golden hues and atmospheric streets provide an irresistible invitation to experience the city’s unique charm at this time of year.

River Danube in Budapest in November. To the left, you may find the Hungarian Parliament. Photo: FB/Karácsony

Tram line nr 2, chosen as one of the most beautiful. Photo: FB/Karácsony

Beauty is simply beauty in Budapest. Photo: FB/Karácsony

Huge cranes rule the area around the Hungarian Parliament even in November. The former buildings of the Museum of Ethnography and the Ministry of Agriculture are being rebuilt. Photo: FB/Karácsony

The Elizabeth Bridge snapped from Buda. HERE you may read our article about the bridge. Photo: FB/Karácsony

A barge in front of the Hungarian Parliament. In the background, you can see the Margaret Bridge and the Margaret Island. Photo: FB/Karácsony

Read also:

• Living in Hungary: Insights from expats on what they enjoy and what they don’t – read more HERE
• Budapest Christmas markets open with moderate prices and discounts for tourists today