Aldi opened 10 new stores in Hungary this year, as in the previous years, and wants to continue expanding at this rate in the country, the local unit of the German supermarket chain said on Friday, on the occasion of the opening of the 182nd Aldi store in the country.
The company’s latest store, in Budapest’s District XI, is also the one with the largest sales area. With its sales area of over 1,800sqms, it’s almost twice as big as an average Aldi. The company spent HUF 19.5 billion on investments in Hungary in 2024. It had a headcount of close to 6,500 at year-end and around 270 Hungarian suppliers who supply 60 % of the products sold by the chain. Aldi had revenue of more than HUF 490 billion last year, company records show.
Starting 20 December, the Megyeri Bridge will transform into Hungary’s tallest Christmas tree for the fourth consecutive year. This beloved holiday tradition, orchestrated by Magyar Közút Nonprofit Plc., will run through 26 December, with the bridge’s festive illumination visible each evening after dark.
Using special green film, the bridge’s lighting fixtures—including all light sources except the streetlights—will turn its towering 100-meter-high pylons into glimmering holiday trees, Magyar Közút reported on Tuesday. Adding to the magic, robot-controlled lights will crown both the Buda and Pest sides of the pylons with shining star toppers. Building on the success of previous years, this year’s display will also feature decorative lighting on the glass sections of the pylons, creating a truly festive spectacle.
The holiday illumination is best enjoyed from safe vantage points. Magyar Közút urges viewers not to stop on the hard shoulder along the M0 motorway near the bridge, as it is reserved strictly for emergencies. Drivers are advised to maintain safe following distances and remain mindful of fellow road users when crossing the bridge. Digital displays along the roadway will remind motorists of these safety precautions, and Magyar Közút’s Dunakeszi team will monitor traffic flow and shoulder use through regular patrols and cameras.
For those who wish to capture the festive display up close, the bridge can be accessed safely from the 2nd Main Road, Economx writes. Visitors can park nearby and make their way to the Pest-side bridgehead on foot or by bicycle, ensuring a secure viewing and photo opportunity.
Hungary’s tallest holiday attraction
Spanning 35 stories in height, the illuminated Megyeri Bridge is a symbol of the holiday season and one of the country’s most unique festive attractions. Its shimmering green lights and radiant star-topped pylons create a stunning centrepiece visible to travellers in the area between Dunakeszi and Budakalász.
Magyar Közút’s festive efforts aim to bring holiday cheer to all who pass by, whether commuting or pausing to marvel at this remarkable display. The organization extends warm holiday wishes to all road users and encourages everyone to enjoy the breathtaking display responsibly.
The Budapest Assembly on Wednesday approved the capital’s budget for next year, setting the total revenue and expenditure at HUF 434,694,876,000.
The proposal, submitted by Mayor Gergely Karácsony, was adopted with 20 votes in favour and 10 against from Fidesz-KDNP representatives. The three members of the Hungarian Two-Tailed Dog Party left the chamber before voting commenced.
The approved budget sets the municipality’s revenue at HUF 422,544,893,000 (EUR 1 022,561,600) and expenditures at HUF 426,269,012,000 (EUR 1,031,564,190), resulting in a deficit of HUF 3,724,119,000 (EUR 9,012,300). This shortfall will be covered using leftover funds from previous years. An additional HUF 7,466,009,000 (EUR 18,067,622) has been allocated for loan repayments.
The budget also assumes that Budapest will only pay as much of the solidarity contribution next year as it receives from the state in support for its municipal responsibilities.
A Democratic Coalition (DK) member of the Budapest city assembly has said his party will vote to approve the capital’s 2025 budget, adding that whoever failed to green-light the city’s financing would back “Fidesz’s interest in sowing chaos”.
Without next year’s budget, Budapest’s public services, its transport system and theatres would cease to function, while the city’s 27,000 employees would not get a wage rise from Jan 1, Sándor Szaniszló, the leader of DK’s group in the assembly, told a press conference before the Budapest plenary on Wednesday, noting that an agreement between the trade unions and the capital on wages has been reached.
The meeting of the Budapest Assembly on 18 December. Photo: MTI/Kocsis Zoltán
Meanwhile, DK will vote to reject the central government’s plan to recategorise Budapest’s four big railway stations to the benefit of “a circle of friends” of the national ruling Fidesz party, which he called a “real estate scam”. Instead, 89 hectares of the land surrounding the stations should be set aside to build affordable rental apartments for young people, while the rest should be devoted to creating green spaces, he added.
Opposition Tisza Party representatives also expressed support for the budget on condition that the assembly adopted an amendment proposal by the party. The group said it disagreed with “several points” of the budget, but added that they were “aware of the historic responsibility” attached to its passage, if their amendment “aimed at facilitating an early review of the budget” were also passed.
According to Tisza, ruling Fidesz and the government were about to “betray” Budapest “and all Hungarians”, while Fidesz group leader Alexandra Szentkiralyi and Prime Minister Viktor Orban were “preparing to steal tens of billions of forints from the people of Budapest; they want to steal our railway stations and airport.” In its statement, Tisza accused the government of “systematically making the life of two million people in Budapest impossible for years”.
The government’s insistence that Budapest pay the full solidarity tax to the central budget in 2025 would leave no money in the city’s coffers to finance city services, it added. “If the city gave in to the blackmail of Viktor Orban and Alexandra Szentkiralyi, public transport would come to a halt, theatres would shut down, and welfare institutions and municipal companies would not be able to pay their staff,” the statement said.
Szentkirályi: Budapest assembly planning to adopt ‘unlawful bankruptcy budget’
Budapest city assembly “is planning to cap the year with an unlawful bankruptcy budget”, Alexandra Szentkirályi, the leader of the Fidesz-Christian-Democrat group, said in the assembly on Wednesday.
Referring to her previous tenure as a deputy mayor of Budapest, Szentkirályi said in her speech before the commencement of the assembly’s business that she had been confronted by how little anything had changed for the better in the past five years. At that point the city was “developing, much cleaner and far more orderly”, she insisted, and the capital had reserves of more than 200 billion forints. Now, the city continues to lack deputy mayors and “operates unlawfully”, she added.
“And now, if I’m not mistaken and I’m interpreting how things are going correctly, [assembly members] want to cap the year with an unlawful bankruptcy budget,” she said. Szentkirályi said Budapest should be allowed to function properly and lawfully. Fidesz, she added, was “working to solve the housing crisis”.
She noted Fidesz lobbying for a “student city” and a Healthy Budapest Programme, and she mentioned numerous developments thanks to the central government. Referring to the left-liberal majority in Budapest, she said the city’s leadership had presided over a financing curve that had started with 200 billion forints in reserves and sunk to a budget shortfall of 50 billion.
She appealed to members of the assembly to consider what was more important, “politics, deals, pacts, future elections, or managing Budapest residents’ lives and affairs smoothly. For us it’s certainly the latter.”
The prospect of a new airport shuttle route from the Buda side of Budapest has sparked significant interest, driven by a proposal from the Urban and Suburban Transit Association (VEKE). While the idea could improve convenience for travellers and boost revenue for the Budapest Transport Center (BKK), city officials remain cautious due to financial and logistical challenges.
Why start in Buda?
According to a Facebook post, VEKE suggests launching the new airport bus route from Móricz Zsigmond körtér, a hub for public transportation on the Buda side. This location is ideal as it has an established bus terminal, allowing for smooth operation and turnarounds. Proposed stops along the route include Petőfi Bridge (Buda side), Boráros Square, Corvin-negyed, and Népliget Metro Station. These stations are strategically chosen to serve densely populated areas and popular transit points.
Currently, the 100E bus, which connects Deák Ferenc Square to Liszt Ferenc International Airport, bypasses some potential stops, such as Népliget and Corvin-negyed, due to high passenger volumes. The proposed Buda-originating service would not only address this gap but also cater to the increasing demand for direct airport access on the city’s western side.
Feasibility and frequency
VEKE envisions the new service starting with buses running every 30 minutes, gradually increasing frequency based on demand, Index reports. The operational metrics—distance, travel time, and vehicle turnover—are expected to mirror the successful 100E line. Importantly, this route would complement existing airport services without causing congestion, as there are still available slots between the 10-minute intervals of the 100E buses at the airport.
Additionally, VEKE hints at the potential for future routes from other major hubs on the Buda side, such as Széll Kálmán Square, further expanding the network.
A financially sound proposal
One of the standout aspects of the 100E bus service is its profitability. With a ticket price of HUF 2,200 (approximately EUR 5.30), the route generates substantial revenue for the BKK. Even after accounting for airport fees (roughly HUF 500 [EUR 1.20] per passenger) and additional staffing costs, the service brings in HUF hundreds of millions annually. The new route from Buda is expected to replicate this financial success, offering a win-win for passengers and the transport authority alike.
However, the Budapest City Council is considering a proposal to allow travellers with valid national or Budapest public transport passes to ride the 100E bus for an additional HUF 450 (EUR 1.10). While this move could make the service more accessible, VEKE warns it might reduce profitability.
Challenges and concerns
Despite the potential benefits, city officials have expressed reservations about implementing the new route. They highlight ongoing staffing shortages and the financial strain of maintaining current public transportation services. The city’s precarious budget, exacerbated by reduced funding from the central government, further complicates the matter.
Moreover, according to BKK data, 80% of 100E passengers are tourists heading to or from the Pest side, raising questions about the demand for a Buda-originating service. Officials caution that the new route’s profitability might not match expectations, especially given the city’s current financial constraints.
What’s next?
The Budapest City Council is set to discuss the city’s 2024 budget in its upcoming meeting. This decision-making process will heavily influence whether the Buda-side airport shuttle project moves forward. In the meantime, VEKE continues to advocate for innovative solutions that enhance service quality while increasing revenue, emphasising the long-term benefits of expanding the airport transit network.
Danube Startup Summit is an event for young people to hear valuable insights from successful people.
Innovation in Eastern Europe is undoubtedly struggling. Think of the brands changing our lives: huge businesses such as Apple, Meta, Windows, and Nvidia are all based in the United States, with little to none of this caliber based in Eastern Europe. A particularly startling statistic shows this economic discrepancy between unicorn companies per population in the U.S. as opposed to Europe and Eastern Europe. The term “unicorn company” refers to a privately owned startup valued at over US$1 billion, and currently, there are 712 based in the United States for a population of almost 350 million, while in the entirety of Europe, there are 202 for a population of nearly 750 million. Therefore, there are more than ten times as many unicorn companies per capita in the United States than there are in Europe, and even more staggeringly, for a population of nearly 300 million, there are only approximately 15 in Eastern Europe, almost 100 times less. Think of all the innovation, economic growth, and quality of life we miss out on due to stumped business growth and development.
We believe that the root of this cause can be majorly attributed to culture. The mere existence of places such as Silicon Valley or New York prove the effort and resources nations such as America put into developing startups, locating new ideas, and providing investment, something sorely needed in Hungary and Eastern Europe alike. Jared Schrieber, co-founder of an American Unicorn tech startup from which he made a successful exit, Hungarian superangel, and a speaker at our upcoming event, said it best: “If I had started my business in Hungary, I would have failed right out the gate.” He expands by saying that in order for a Startup to grow into a unicorn, a symbiotic dance of dozens of key components must work in harmony. Great lawyers, investors, and partners are essential, just to name a few. The Danube Summit aims to help create this very ecosystem, specifically addressing the capture and mentorship of young talent, catapulting Eastern Europe into a competitive, valuable startup landmark.
On January 18th, 2025 our first event will take place at Engame Academy, featuring speakers such as Jared Schrieber, a Californian tech entrepreneur; Nagy György, one of the wealthiest Hungarian entrepreneurs and founder of the Wallis group; and Daniel Balla, CPO and co-founder of Bitrise, Hungary’s very own unicorn company. Our amazing speakers give direct opportunities for mentorship and general advice and will share their difficulties and experiences in regards to successful entrepreneurship. Our attendees will also get the chance to meet amazing like-minded young entrepreneurs and build connections. If that weren’t enough, the event is free and is exclusive for anyone aged 21 and under, and we welcome all attendees with complimentary drinks and food. Let’s make our dreams into reality, and let’s help each other do so.
The Danube Startup Summit is funded by George Mason University and partnered with the Global Young Entrepreneur Society (GYES) and Daily News Hungary. Our founders are Ferenc Deli Szilágyi (fs*******@da**********.org) (18), Dániel Gerlei (dg*****@da**********.org) (17) and Filip Cerny (18) (fc****@da**********.org).
VENUE: Engame Academy – Budapest, Maros utca 12, 1122,
Semmelweis University is set to undergo a transformative journey, combining the preservation of its historic city-centre buildings with state-of-the-art infrastructure to support education, research and healthcare. This ambitious project respects the architectural heritage of iconic sites while integrating cutting-edge facilities, ensuring that tradition becomes the foundation for future innovation.
Semmelweis University: modernisation strategy
According to Magyar Építők, the development of the two iconic city centre blocks of Semmelweis University will serve education, research and healthcare. The project aims to preserve the urban significance of the Semmelweis University buildings while providing modern infrastructure and the designers have paid particular attention to preserving the historic facades and restoring their original appearance, including the restoration of their colour scheme. The development is part of the Hőgyes-Schöpf-Merei Medical Research Centre, which has now received planning permission and is part of Semmelweis University’s overall modernisation strategy.
Source: Facebook / TSPC Group
New possibilities and reconstruction
The renovations are not just about improving the condition of the buildings, but also bringing new functions to life. The increased capacity of the Faculty of Pharmacy will enable the University to meet its own infusion needs and thus contribute more directly to health services. For both blocks, the investment will improve the conditions for teaching and research activities, as well as expanding pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
Due to the densely built-up inner-city environment, the project required particularly careful preparation. The WHB Group’s design team emphasised that the focus of the refurbishment was mainly on the reconstruction of existing buildings. Neglected properties of lesser value will be demolished and replaced by new, modern buildings. The conversion will increase the total floor area of the site to 20,679 square metres and the gross floor area to 26,745 square metres.
One of the priority sites is the block on Endre Hőgyes Street, which is already a training centre for pharmacists. Two additional storeys will be added to the building, allowing the designers to create a uniform cornice height on the street frontage. The interior of the building will also be renovated to provide modern teaching facilities and research laboratories.
The second site is the historic palace and courtyard building located near Bakats Square. The property has served many health and social functions throughout its long history, but is currently in a state of neglect. It will be completely renovated and returned to the health sector. In addition to the restoration of the original façade elements and decorations, the building will also feature a reconstruction of the clock tower in the rear wing, which will be restored to its original tower and form.
The exterior of the new parts of the building will have a brick red textured render to match the historic buildings. The facades will be enhanced by plastic plaster ornamentation and modern glazing, while unique shading elements will provide contemporary functionality. The facades of the original buildings will retain their patina and be restored to their original colours, paying homage to the past.
The Semmelweis development: tradition meets innovation
The project will be carried out in several phases. The first phase will involve the renovation of the Bakats Square block, followed by the reconstruction of other buildings and the integration of the whole area. The aim is to provide a world-class infrastructure for the full spectrum of Semmelweis University’s teaching, research and pharmaceutical manufacturing activities, while opening up future opportunities for innovation.
The development of Semmelweis University is an exemplary project that combines the preservation of historical values with the creation of modern functions. The modernisation of the city centre blocks will not only contribute to the development of university education and research but will also enrich the urban landscape. This type of investment shows how respect for the values of the past can become the basis for innovation in the future.
Thanks to the great popularity of the tram, the LEGO tram will stay in the centre of Budapest until 6 January, dressed up for Christmas.
The holidays are the busiest and busiest time of the year for most Hungarian families, so the BKV, BKK, Budapest Brand and LEGO team decided to keep the LEGO tram on Deák Ferenc Square for the entire festive period, until the Epiphany.
As we wrote earlier, LEGO Vili, the life-size toy tram is the world’s largest LEGO construction moving on a knitted track, and now everyone can decorate it with their own bricks. With LEGO Vili, the organisers want to raise awareness of the importance of play as a key learning tool and an important part of children’s development, alongside public transport. With its colourful appearance and friendly character, the unusual tram immediately captured the hearts of not only the people of Budapest, but also tourists, who quickly spread the word about this unique Budapest attraction around the world.
read also: Special LEGO Mercedes cars placed at Budapest’s Fashion Street – PHOTOS, VIDEO
Gránit Asset Management successfully closed the acquisition of the historical Exchange Palace (Tőzsdepalota in Hungarian) building in the heart of Budapest, Hungary, from private investors, for an undisclosed sum, in an asset deal. With this new venture, the long-vacant building can undergo a transformation and once again become a shining example of Budapest’s architectural heritage.
History of Exchange Palace
Exchange Palace is a monumental Beaux Arts building, completed in 1905, designed by the renowned architect Ignác Alpár, with ca. 50,000sqm total floor area. The building is located on the west side of Freedom Square (Szabadság tér in Hungarian) in the historical centre of District V in Budapest, only two blocks from the Hungarian Parliament, and just the opposite side of the square to the US Embassy. Since its completion it served as home to the Budapest Stock and Commodities Exchange, until World War II. Following the war, it became the headquarters of the Hungarian State Television until 2009. Exchange Palace is a listed historical monument under the protection of the National Heritage Authority.
New chapter for the landmark building
A private equity fund, managed by Gránit Asset Management, and the company owning the Exchange Palace building, represented by Andrea Suriano, senior manager of Futura Investment Management and Futura Funds SICAV- Kappa Fund and Canadian investor Michael D. Tippin, Founder of Tippin Corporation, successfully closed the transaction on December 12. The sale marks the beginning of a new chapter for the landmark building situated in the heart of Budapest, Hungary, on the famous Liberty Square. Gránit intends to redevelop Exchange Palace for a function and purpose which highlights its iconic architectural status, while preserving its historic characteristics.
“The successful sale of Exchange Palace marks an exciting milestone for all parties involved in the process. After overcoming numerous challenges to ensure the successful sale and reuse of Exchange Palace in the best interest of our limited partners and the City of Budapest, we are pleased to welcome Gránit Asset Management as our buyer, whose shared vision, experience in the local real asset markets and confidence in the project have been instrumental in bringing this transaction to fruition and finally, to completion” mentioned Alberto Matta and Andrea Suriano representatives of Cougar Real Estate SA, the majority shareholder of the Exchange Palace.
“Exchange Palace is in good hands with an esteemed Hungarian investor as its rightful new owner. I am confident Gránit will design and develop this truly extraordinary building to its fullest potential. Since 2006, Tippin Corporation, together with Futura Funds (2013), have been proud custodians of this famous Hungarian landmark. While not our original plan, the building became the set of many Hollywood feature films and promoted beautiful Budapest to the world. I’m delighted that our goal for Exchange Palace to be restored and returned to the Hungarian people will be realized,” said Michael D. Tippin.
“We always kept an eyeon Exchange Palace waiting for the right time to quickly move and acquire this historic building in this excellent location. I am glad this moment finally came, and we were able to form a truly collaborative environment with the sellers. For Gránit Asset Management, investing in projects that offer long-term value to our investors has always been a primary objective, and this transaction aligns perfectly with that goal. One might think this transaction is a great achievement in light of its past, which is definitely true, however, for us, this is just the first step, and in fact the real journey is yet to come with creating a completely new design for Exchange Palace and executing its full restoration” added Álmos Mikesy, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Gránit Asset Management, representing the buyer. He continued: “The revitalization of this long-vacant building and its transformation into a commercially viable space will have a positive impact on the entire downtown area, boosting not only its architectural appeal but also its economic and tourism prospects.”
Throughout the due diligence and sales process, Gránit was advised by DLA Piper and Sentient. The sellers were represented by CMS Cameron McKenna, CBB law, CBRE and Cushman & Wakefield.
The long-awaited renovation of the Flórián Square overpasses, connecting Szentendrei Road and Árpád Bridge, is set to begin in the first quarter of 2025. Budapest Transport Centre (BKK) and KM Építő Ltd. signed a construction agreement on 16 December 2024, marking a significant step forward for the project.
Key details of the project
The renovation will be carried out by KM Építő Ltd. for a net cost of HUF 2.1 billion (EUR 5.1 million), with the total project budget, including VAT, contingency reserves, design fees, technical supervision, and other expenses, expected to reach approximately HUF 3 billion (EUR 7.3 million). Plans for the project were prepared by FŐMTERV Mérnöki Tervező Plc., with technical oversight to be handled by Budapest Közút Plc, Magyar Építő reports.
The reconstruction will address significant deterioration in the overpasses—built over 40 years ago—due to decades of wear and tear. The work is expected to continue through the spring of 2026.
Scope of the renovation
The Flórián Square overpass in Budapest. Photo: BKK
According to BKK, the project includes a comprehensive modernisation of the two parallel overpass structures, which serve as vital links between Budapest and its surrounding areas, accommodating over 50,000 vehicles daily. Key tasks include:
Replacement of the road surface;
Repair of reinforced concrete structural damage;
Full-width waterproofing to prevent further water damage to the pillars;
Construction of new reinforced concrete edges with improved safety barriers;
Installation of new expansion joints and bearings at both ends of the bridges;
Improvements to the drainage system and repairs to retaining walls, bridge abutments, and pillars;
Preservation of archaeological findings uncovered during construction.
The renovation will proceed in two phases to minimise disruption. Traffic heading from Szentendrei Road to Pest will be maintained on separate levels throughout the construction, while traffic from Pest will alternate between the overpass and the surface level, depending on the phase.
Traffic and public transportation adjustments
The BKK is advising commuters from the surrounding agglomerations to use public transportation wherever possible during the construction period to alleviate traffic congestion. Specific details about closures, detours, and alternate routes will be announced closer to the project’s start date.
A short period is anticipated when tram service on Line 1 under the overpass will be suspended. During this time, replacement bus services will be provided.
Funding secured through legal resolution
The project is funded by the Budapest Municipality, with a significant portion of the budget sourced from a settlement reached in a protracted legal dispute. In 2021, the BKK initiated legal proceedings against Scheidt & Bachmann over a breach of contract related to the city’s electronic ticketing system. The International Court of Arbitration ruled in favour of the BKK, resulting in a substantial financial settlement from the German company. This funding will now be utilised for the Flórián Square renovation, marking an important milestone for Budapest’s infrastructure development.
The Budapest municipality has been operating unlawfully for months and has failed to elect a deputy mayor, even though the government office of Budapest has demanded that it do so, Botond Sára, the government commissioner for Budapest, said on Tuesday, adding that the office is turning to the courts over the matter.
“If the mayor and the assembly fail in such a simple objective,” then the budget issue would be even more problematic, Sára said in a video on Facebook. Should it be adopted in its current form on Wednesday, the budget would also be unlawful, he said.
Sára said that Gergely Karácsony, the city’s mayor, had admitted that Budapest was close to insolvency and its operations were at risk.
“Regarding the budget, we’ll see what the city assembly decides on Wednesday. We will take every necessary step to avoid putting the functionality of the city at risk, because the safety and comfort of Budapest citizens is our priority,” Sára said.
As we wrote earlier, Budapest City Assembly postpones the deputy mayor vote amid political tensions; details are HERE.
A few days ago, a tram and a bus collided in an accident in the XIV District of the capital. The collision left many people injured, including the bus driver, who was ejected from the vehicle. Now, a harrowing video of the incident has emerged.
As previously reported by Daily News Hungary, a serious accident occurred at the intersection of Nagy Lajos király útja and Telepes utca in Budapest. The collision caused the tram to derail and the bus to crash into a lamp post. Several passengers sustained injuries, including the bus driver, who was seriously hurt. Six people were transported to hospital by ambulance after the accident, some in life-threatening condition. Traffic in the area was paralysed for hours, and authorities are still investigating which driver was at fault.
A video capturing the violent crash was also recorded at the scene:
Last year’s New Year’s Eve in Budapest highlighted the dangers of uncontrolled fireworks, with chaotic scenes at Vörösmarty Square leading to injuries and public outcry. In response, District 5 has introduced a strict ban on pyrotechnic devices in high-traffic areas, aiming to ensure safer celebrations this year.
Last year’s dangerous celebrations
As we have reported HERE, last year’s New Year’s Eve in Budapest turned dangerous as uncontrolled fireworks in Vörösmarty Square caused chaos and injuries among the celebrating crowds. Footage aired by RTLshowed fireworks launched in a cordoned-off area without oversight, leading to accidents where fireworks landed in the crowd. One woman suffered burns to her hand and had her coat catch fire. The lack of regulation and authority control over pyrotechnic use has raised serious safety concerns, prompting Alex Gábor Kovács, leader of Tiéd a Belváros, to call for stricter rules on the sale and use of fireworks to prevent such incidents in the future.
A safer New Year’s Eve in Budapest
As HVG reports, Budapest’s District 5 has introduced a strict ban on pyrotechnic devices in high-traffic areas for New Year’s Eve, with fines of up to HUF 200,000 (EUR 488.77) for violators. Key locations such as Vörösmarty Square, Erzsébet Square, and St. Stephen’s Square in front of the Basilica will be firework-free zones. The decree, passed unanimously by the district’s representative body, also extends to other busy areas in the city centre, aiming to ensure safety during the festive period.
The decision comes after last year’s New Year’s Eve celebrations saw fireworks dangerously exploding among crowds in downtown Budapest, prompting public outcry. The ban, initially proposed by opposition leader Alex Gábor Kovács, was formalised by the district’s Fidesz mayor, Péter Szentgyörgyvölgyi. The new rules prohibit the use of fireworks in categories 1, 2, and 3 within the designated areas from 6 PM on 28 December to 6 AM on 1 January, with stricter enforcement planned in collaboration with the Budapest Police Headquarters. Here is a map of the affected areas:
Photo: Nemzeti Jogszabálytár
Firecrackers remain prohibited
While the ban only applies to District 5, firecrackers are still permitted in other parts of Hungary under existing national laws. Firecrackers remain prohibited nationwide year-round, with penalties reaching HUF 150,000 (EUR 366.58) for violations. Unused or defective third-category fireworks must be returned to distributors within five days after New Year’s Eve. These measures aim to balance festive celebrations with public safety, marking a significant change in the celebration of New Year’s Eve in Budapest.
“From beautiful copper fronts to world-famous brands and the best views of Budapest, you can find everything on Fashion Street”, the introduction on the street’s website reads. On 6 December, a new attraction arrived on the street with some unique LEGO Mercedes cars and a Mercedes-Benz G class. Check out some photos and a video about the exhibition below!
Exceptional LEGO tram in Budapest’s heart
We wrote about the magical life-sized LEGOtram of the Deák Ferenc Square in THIS article before. The LEGO tram was built with nearly 1.8 million colourful bricks, an extraordinary masterpiece of fusion of creativity, playfulness, and engineering that’s lighting up the Hungarian capital. It not only represents Budapest’s rich tram traditions but also the everyday magic that LEGO products can give us.
The LEGO tram is also exceptional because there is no other Lego block building in the world that is this big and even moves. The life-size Lego vehicles we know so far have been made using Lego Technic flexible elements. This tram, on the other hand, is built using only classic Lego blocks, which is a particular challenge when it comes to moving it. You may check out some photos and more details about the magical structure displayed on the Deák Ferenc Square available for everyone to visit in THISarticle.
Photo: BKK
Fashion Street connects Vörösmarty Christmas market with the LEGO tram
The Fashion Street of Budapestconnects Deák Ferenc Square with one of Budapest’s most beautiful Christmas markets on Vörösmarty Square. When you walk on the street, window-shopping in some leading fashionbrands, you should not miss a new spectacle born from the cooperation of Mercedes and LEGO.
Brick Galaxy, one of the oldest Hungarian LEGO fan groups, created an installation there and inaugurated it on 6 December with the help of Zoltán Szujó and Santa Claus. Santa arrives in Hungary on 6 December, bringing mostly candies to kids. On 24 December, Baby Jesus brings presents for children in Hungary.
Photo: FB/Pappas Auto
Unique LEGO Mercedes cars on Fashion Street
As Kreatív Online points out, there is a Mercedes-Benz model under a glass trellis, which you can compare to a realistic LEGO twin built by the group. On the car’s bonnet, there is also a LEGO® Technic™ Mercedes-Benz G 500 PROFESSIONAL Line model.
Photo: FB/Pappas Auto
Péter Oláh, the marketing director of LEGO Hungária Ltd, told Kreatív Online that the exhibition not only celebrates the encounter of two great brands but also shows the unlimited power and infinite creativity of LEGO bricks. He added that trustworthiness and quality were crucial characteristics of LEGO and Mercedes alike.
The Human Telex Advertising & Event team highlighted that they installed the glass trellis on Budapest’s Fashion Street for the third time. They added it was fantastic to see that the idea could take shape and was realised in such a short time.
Photo: FB/Pappas Auto
Read also:
LEGO is one of the most expensive in Hungary – read more HERE
Build the Hungarian Holy Crown from LEGO – instructions in our article HERE
Budapest is set to overhaul its bulky waste collection system, replacing street dumping with controlled collection points across the city. The initiative aims to enhance urban cleanliness, support recycling, and promote sustainable waste management practices.
Revamped bulky waste collection system
As Indexreports, Budapest is set to modernise its bulky waste collection system, aligning with European cities adopting environmentally sustainable practices. Mohu Budapest emphasises that the current system, where household waste is left on the streets, causes public disorder, disrupts daily life, and harms the urban aesthetic. The city will introduce a controlled collection point system to address this, offering up to 10 supervised locations in each district. These collection points, typically within 800 to 1,000 metres of residents’ homes, will operate for three days at a time. Door-to-door services will remain available for free on a needs basis, alongside a year-round paid option.
This change is designed to ensure cleaner streets and smoother operations during waste collection, reducing the disruption to residents’ lives. The approach mirrors successful systems in other EU cities and large Hungarian towns like Zalaegerszeg and Nyíregyháza. The initiative supports Hungary’s circular waste economy and sustainable urban management goals by promoting cleaner waste fractions for recycling and proper hazardous waste disposal. Ultimately, the revamped bulky waste collection process will enhance Budapest’s cityscape, making it more appealing for both residents and tourists.
Safer waste disposal
Mohu Budapest stresses that the current bulky waste collection system allows hazardous and miscellaneous waste, including electronics, paint, and clothing, to be irresponsibly dumped on streets, undermining recycling efforts and Hungary’s landfill reduction commitments. The unregulated system also sees unauthorised companies adding to the problem, resulting in waste piles that block pavements, damage greenery, and tarnish Budapest’s urban image, which negatively impacts tourism and public safety. The new system addresses these issues by introducing secure collection points within 800-1,000 metres of residents’ homes, ensuring environmentally responsible waste disposal while supporting sustainability and maintaining a clean, orderly cityscape.
What can you bring to the collection points?
Mohu Budapest asserts that the new bulky waste collection system is both environmentally and economically sustainable, promoting cleaner waste fractions that can be effectively recycled. The controlled collection points will enable residents to dispose of wood, metal, plastic, glass, textiles, electronics, and hazardous materials responsibly, ensuring public spaces remain clean and orderly. While the system involves additional costs for infrastructure, staffing, and security, these measures are essential to eliminate the public disorder and unsightly waste piles associated with the current street-based collection, creating a more sustainable and visually appealing urban environment.
Christmas gift arrived early for Dua Lipa fans: the British-Albanian singer who already bagged three Grammies and won the love of tens of millions of people arrived in Budapest to stay until January. Here’s how you can meet her.
Dua Lipa is in Budapest
“Our Christmas gift arrived early: you asked, and we made it happen! Until the end of January, you can meet Dua Lipa’s figure in the attraction. One of your favourite singers flew straight from Amsterdam to us so you can party to her greatest hits together”, Madame Tussauds Budapest wrote in a Facebook post.
One of the most popular contemporary singer’s wax “alter ego” will remain in the Hungarian capital for a couple of weeks.
The superstar herself participated actively in the creation of her lifelike wax doppelganger since the artists needed her to remain still for hours to record her biological data. In Budapest, she’s wearing an extravagant satin dress that she wore in 2018, Turizmus Online wrote.
Dua Lipa in the Madame Tussauds Budapest. Photo: FB/Madame Tussauds Budapest
“If I wasn’t a singer, I’d probably be a fairy tale princess,” Dua Lipa once said. She is still below 30, but her career resembles a fairy tale already. Born to a family of Albanian origins in London, Dua Lipa moved back to London alone when she was only 15 to make her dreams come true. Now, she has three Grammies, the unquestionable love of tens of millions of people and four Madame Tussauds figures. Dua Lipa is currently one of the most valuable brands.
The singer’s wax figure came from Amsterdam and will stay at the Dorottya Street in Budapest until the end of January. Interestingly, she inaugurated her wax figure in Amsterdam in 2019. Here are some photos:
Some of the tattoos are also visible
Dua Lipa is a fan of discrete tattoos. She currently has 18 and some can be seen even on her wax figure in Budapest. For example, the inscription “Patience” on her left hand that reminds her to remain calm and patient. Other tattoos designed by the world-famous graffiti artist Keith Haring are also visible on the figure’s fingers.
Dua Lipa’s tattoos remind the singer of her past and the road that led her to where she is. Among others, her tattoos feature her family and even the annual Sunny Hill festival, which she organises with her father in Kosovo. The name is derived from a district in Pristina.
Photo: FB/Madame Tussauds Amsterdam
The figure wears a satin dress designed by Alessandra Rich. Millions of fans were able to see the loose, bold outfit at the 2018 Billboard Awards.
Dua Lipa performed twice at the Sziget Festival in Budapest. Furthermore, this summer, she visited Hungary in complete secrecy to record a video for her song “Falling Forever”. Unfortunately, her 2025 World Tour will not include Budapest, but her wax figure will stay in Budapest for more than a month.
Read also:
Madame Tussauds Budapest is very Hungarian – Photo gallery and details HERE
Madame Tussauds Budapest awaits visitors with special Halloween programmes – read more and check out some more photos HERE
The Balatoni Hajózási Ltd. reported that passengers can cross Lake Balaton by the famous and astonishing light ferry daily. Furthermore, in Budapest, a decorated cogwheel railway serves passengers during Advent to make everyone’s Christmas happier and brighter.
New ferries, Balaton light ferry in operation during the Advent and Christmas period
According to turizmus.com, the company wrote on their official Facebook page that Lake Balaton’s light ferry carries passengers daily. In the morning, you may travel with the beautifully decorated light ferry between 7 AM and 8.15 AM. In the afternoon, you may take the ferry for a ride between 4 PM and 5.15 PM.
We wrote HEREthat the state-owned Balaton Shipping Company (Bahart) received brand-new ferries and catamarans in 2023 built at the Komárom shipyard. The EUR 5 billion investment was made possible by the state’s capital increase of more than EUR 6 billion in Bahart in 2019.
First and foremost, the boats improved the transportation options for people living around Lake Balaton. Additionally, tourists can now have a better experience, and the crossing between the shores of the lake is also faster. Moreover, the vessels can transport more bicycles than the previous boats. The development could also reduce car traffic around Lake Balaton. Finally, one of the boats could be decorated for the Advent season to provide a unique experience for all passengers on board.
Decorated cogwheel railway in service
According to the Budapest Transport Centre(BKK), the Budapest cogwheel railway’s interior and exterior have been dressed in decorative lighting. The LED lighting contains 11,412 LED bulbs and is 500 metres long. The cabin is decorated with light nets and neatly placed artificial pine.
Check out the operating days and routes of the illuminated tram fleet of the BKK below:
Photo: BKK
Read also:
Advent light trains, buses, and HÉV trains carry passengers from today! – PHOTOS and details HERE
Advent light tram sets off in Miskolc with stunning illuminations – Look inside and out here
The buttress of the Western Gardens at the astonishing Buda Castle has been renewed and is shining in its original beauty. Check out the details and some photos in our article below.
According to the Facebook page of the National Hauszmann Programme, the Palota Street connecting the Dózsa György Square and the Buda Castle was created following the plans of Miklós Ybl in the 1880s. The aim was to substitute the steep road from the Tabán.
The serpentine crawling to Castle Hill with sharp bends is supported by several buttresses to stabilise its weight.
According to their Facebook post, the renovation project contains the renewal of the Western Gardens beneath the Palace of Archduke Joseph. Based on the plans, the garden will be open to the public. Furthermore, they will create a third underground garage, expanding the number of available parking places in the district.
They have finished the structural construction of Palota Street’s Eastern buttress, which received a new surface of Süttő limestone. Moreover, they placed the cast iron handrail resembling the style of the Ybl handrail of Palota Street.
As a result, the buttresses and the handrails are shining in their original, 19th-century beauty.
Photo: FB/National Hauszmann Programme
Read also:
Historical Budapest palace close to Chain Bridge can be sold in no time – read more HERE
Unique artefacts unearthedat Buda Castle during restoration efforts
