What’s open and closed in Hungary at Christmas – A 2025 guide for expats and visitors

Spending Christmas in Hungary can be a magical experience, with festive lights, Advent markets, and holiday foods at every corner. But for foreigners, expats, and tourists, one question always comes up: what is actually open during the holiday season?

Hungarian shops, transport, and services often follow different schedules than what many visitors are used to in the UK or US, especially around Christmas Eve (24 December), Christmas Day (25 December), and Boxing Day (26 December). Here’s a practical guide to help you plan your festive days.

Shops and shopping centres

24 December – Christmas Eve
Most supermarkets, grocery stores, and shopping centres close early, usually between 12:00 and 14:00, depending on location. Smaller local shops may close even earlier. This is the last chance to buy groceries, gifts, or household supplies, so plan ahead if you’re preparing for Christmas dinner.

25–26 December – Christmas Days
Virtually all shops and malls remain closed. Only a few convenience stores, petrol stations, or bakery chains may open for limited hours, but expect minimal availability.

Tip for visitors: If you need last-minute items, check for local petrol station shops or small “ABC” convenience stores: these are your safest bets.

Restaurants and cafés

Many restaurants close for the main Christmas holidays, but larger hotels and cafés in tourist areas often remain open, especially for hotel guests.

Christmas Eve is typically the quietest night, as locals stay home for family dinners. Reservations are highly recommended for anyone wanting to eat out. On Christmas Day, most traditional Hungarian restaurants close, but some hotel restaurants may serve special holiday menus.

• Looking for cheaper Advent markets in Budapest and Hungary? Here’s where to go!

Public transport

Public transport in Budapest and other cities runs on a reduced schedule from 24 December onwards.

• Trains and buses: Only a few lines operate on a Sunday/holiday timetable.
• Metro lines in Budapest: Usually maintain regular service, but with reduced frequency in the evening.
• Taxis and ride-hailing apps: Remain operational, but bookings may be in higher demand than usual.

Tip: Check official schedules online or in advance to avoid being stranded.

Post offices and banks

Post offices and banks follow very limited schedules around Christmas.

• Christmas Eve: Some branches may close as early as 12:00.
• Christmas Day and Boxing Day: Almost all are closed.
• Between 27–31 December: Normal opening hours resume, though many offices may still operate with reduced staff.

For tourists needing to send postcards or withdraw cash, it is safest to plan ahead or rely on ATMs and online banking.

Tourist attractions and museums

Many museums, galleries, and tourist attractions close on 25 and 26 December, but some may offer holiday hours, especially in Budapest. Famous Christmas markets, such as Vörösmarty Square and the Castle District, typically remain open throughout December, closing only on Christmas Day itself in some cases.

Tip: Check official websites for each venue before visiting, as opening times can vary yearly.

Pharmacies and medical services

A limited number of 24-hour pharmacies are available, often rotating locations for the holiday period. Hospital emergency services operate normally.

For non-urgent medical needs, plan ahead: pharmacies outside major cities may close entirely, and small-town clinics usually do not operate on 25–26 December.

Summary: Planning is key

For visitors and expats in Hungary, the key to a smooth Christmas is early preparation. Stock up on groceries and essentials before 24 December, make restaurant bookings in advance, and double-check transport schedules. While the quiet streets may seem inconvenient at first, they are part of Hungary’s intimate, family-focused festive atmosphere.

With some planning, you can enjoy the magic of Hungarian Christmas markets, lights, and traditional food without last-minute stress, and fully experience how locals celebrate this special season.