Where to find the best Christmas markets in Hungary

Sure, you may consider visiting Vienna in the Advent season. But hang on a sec until you see these marvellous Christmas markets in Hungary! We bet you’ll instantly change your mind. Here’s the undeniable proof that you don’t need to venture far to enjoy some mesmerising festive fairs. Christmas markets are many and merry in Hungary. If you still want to explore Vienna though, read more HERE.

Budapest

Naturally, the capital is the first option that comes to every one’s mind when conjuring up images of festive fun. It’s the biggest city of the country and has at least a dozen good Christmas fairs every year.
The three main Christmas markets are located on the Vörösmarty Square, around the St. Stephen’s Basilica and in the Buda Castle District. Get into the festive spirit by exploring one of these marvellous fairs, however, be aware of the high prices and the large flocks of tourists. If you have something more low-key in mind, you should venture out to Óbuda, a charming outer neighbourhood on the historic Buda side. On the Main Square, you’ll find a market that has it all: a fantastic ice skating rink, reasonable prices and lovely cafés. This Christmas market will most likely open on the 3rd of December.

Danube Bend

The Danube Bend is for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city without going too far away. There are quite a few wonderful towns that literally ooze Christmas spirit at this time of the year; Esztergom, Vác and Szentendre being a couple of them. Szentendre even boasts an actual Christmas shop just a couple streets down from the large Christmas tree the city’s municipality sets up every year. The Advent fun will kick off on the 25th of November here.

Szeged

Every year between the 1st and 24th of December, the city of Szeged launches the “Szeged Christmas Weeks”. During this time, the Dóm Square lights up and numerous stalls pop up everywhere offering to sell you goods and foods. Hot tip, if you’re not scared of heights: check out the recently opened Szeged Cathedral Dome or the nearby ferris wheel. Both offer magnificent views of the fair and are definitely worth a visit.

Pécs

Dubbed as the Mediterranean of Hungary, you wouldn’t expect this city to be on the list. However, leaving this gem out would be a huge mistake. The annual ‘Advent Fairy and Artisan Fair of Pécs’ is an unmissable event. There will be chimney cake, mulled wine and light painting. At the usual Christmas concerts, performers such as Jazzation and Zséda will entertain the crowd. The market will open it’s doors on the 1st of December and await visitors until the 24th.

Eger

One of Hungary’s most magical Christmas markets is to be found in Eger. The festive atmosphere is accentuated by the historical city sights. The winding cozy alleys that connect Dobó Square, Gárdonyi Square and Végvári Vitézek Square all light up once night falls. The breathtaking vistas are completed by the backdrop of the ancient castle. Who wouldn’t want to absorb the enchanting Christmas spirit that descends over Eger? You can enjoy the fair of Eger from the 25th of November up until Christmas night.

Székesfehérvár

The city of kings awaits visitors with a lovely nativity scene and special mini-concerts on every Advent Sunday. On the square in front of the City Hall a Christmas tree will be set up with a miniature train circling it. If you happen to be in Székesfehérvár on the weekdays, definitely drop by the fair to see the children of the city perform on stage. You can pay a visit from the 3rd to the 24th of December.

Siófok

The Hungarian sea can be enjoyed year round. Santa thinks so too, since he has traded in his sleigh for a boat to visit Siófok. At the “Winter Wonder in Siófok” you too can wander around the city dressed up in all of it’s Advent beauty. This magical market is open from the 3rd of December.

Szolnok

The Christmas spirit is present even in the middle of the Great Hungarian Plain. The city’s Christmas tree will take up it’s usual place at the heart of Szolnok, on Kossuth Square. There will be artisan goods and mulled wine galore for the adults, while the little ones can enjoy the stunning winter wonderland and delicious cups of hot cocoa. You can admire the Christmas fair from the end of November.

Read about more Hungarian Christmas markets HERE.