Event Dates
From: Sunday, November 17, 2024
To: Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Budapest Christmas Markets 2024
The most beautiful, oldest and internationally acclaimed Budapest Christmas fair is the Christmas Market on Vorosmarty Square.
Budapest Christmas Markets 2024
Budapest is home to several Christmas markets, which open around mid November and close at the end of December (December 31) each year.
- Stay close to the main Christmas Market on Vorosmarty Square with over 80 hotels nearby. The Noble Boutique Hotel – Adults Only has a hip design with lots of personality, great staff and is 600m from the market.
A Traditional Market Experience
Budapest Christmas markets focus on preserving authentic Hungarian folk art and traditions offering quality handcrafts made with passion and love, rather than commercialized kitschy Christmas gifts.
- Christmas fairs in Budapest offer visitors one of the most authentic market experiences in Europe.
- Shop for traditional handmade gifts, drink mulled wine, nibble Hungarian pastries such as the famous chimney shaped cylindrical ‘Kurtos kalacs’, eat delicious street foods (sausages, snacks, roast chestnuts), and experience charming pop-up concerts and choirs.
Christmas Market on Vorosmarty Square
- Sunday November 17th – Tuesday December 31st 2024 – The most beautiful, oldest and internationally acclaimed Budapest Christmas fair is the Christmas Market on Vorosmarty Square in the heart of the city (since 1998).
- The market is famous for its authentic craft stalls and food vendors. Craft items range from the traditional to the contemporary, great for finding unique gifts for the person who has everything. Vorosmarty Square also hosts several free concerts each day with festive tunes by local Hungarian bands.
- Opening Times: Monday-Thursday: 11:00 to 21:00, Friday-Saturday: 11:00 to 22:00. December 24th: 10:00 to 15:00, 25th and 26th December: 10:00 to 18:00.
- Check out the top hotels closest to the main Christmas market.
Advent Bazilika – The Advent Fair by St Stephen’s Basilica
- Sunday November 17th 2024 – Wednesday January 1st 2025 – Although smaller than the market on Vorosmarty Square, the Advent fair is one of our favourites with the beautiful St Stephen’s Basilica providing the perfect backdrop to festivities. The market comes complete with an ice skating rink and a beautiful christmas tree.
- The video mapping show on the facade of St Stephens is a must-see! They even have a 3d version, just don’t forget to purchase your 3D specs from any of the vendors beforehand. Make sure you try the mulled wine at the Divino wine stand, its great quality and worth the queue.
- After visiting the market, head to Deák Ferenc Street, also known as ‘Fashion Street’ for some great shopping and an impressive 500 m long display of Christmas lights.
- Opening Times: Monday-Thursday: 11h00-21h00. Friday-Saturday: 11:00 to 23:00. Sunday: 11:00 to 21:00. December 24th: 11:00 to 15:00. 25th and 26th: 11h00-20h00. December 31st: 11h00-22h00 (till 03h00 for food/drinks stands)
- There are some excellent hotels close to the Basilica, The Aria Hotel is a stunning 5 star with amazing facilities and a epic rooftop bar, worth a visit even if you don’t plan on staying overnight. The hotel is 100m from the markets.
- Meanwhile, The Roombach Hotel is a charming 3 star with a funky design, great breakfast options and just 500m from the market. It has great rates and private parking.
Óbuda Christmas Markets
- Awaiting dates – Óbuda is one of the most popular markets with local residents. Old Buda is in found in the north of the Buda side and comes complete with a charming old town with a chocolate box style beautiful town hall.
- The Óbuda Christmas market starts four weeks before Christmas and ends on the 23rd of December.
Take the Budapest Christmas Market Tour with Basilica Entry & Mulled Wine.
- Get into the holiday spirit with this 2.5-hour walking tour of Budapest Christmas markets. Follow a guide through the city streets to see Andrássy Avenue, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Hungarian State Opera House.
- Afterward, head to the Christmas markets to peruse handmade mementos and Hungarian delicacies. You’ll be treated to a cup of mulled wine at the end of your tour.
Other Activities
- Enjoy a great cruise on the river Danube at Christmas. Budapest winter sights are even more beautiful during night boat tours.
- The Budapest Nutcracker Ballet is the regular winter show in the Hungarian State Opera House, also the home of the National Ballet Institute. Enjoy Christmas with an enchanting tale.
- The Varosligeti Ice Rink in Budapest City Park is a must for winter sports lovers in Budapest. Rent a pair of skates to glide around the Ice Rink Palace and Vajdahunyad Castle. Fun and romantic.
The Christmas Streetcar Ride
- Every year from early December, you can enjoy the special Christmas Streetcar ride in Budapest in some of the scenic routes in the city.
- You can travel on the tram every day until January 6th (with the exception of December 24th and 31st) from 4 pm to 9:30 pm. All you need is a valid ticket or monthly pass to get on the UV tram and enjoy the ride.
Where to Stay in Budapest?
- This “Paris of the East” has long been known as a gay center of Eastern Europe. Budapest is made up of two parts – Buda and Pest – the Danube river separates the two. Pest is considered the buzzing side of the city, while Buda is a lot calmer and more residential. Pest is the go-to place for nightlife!
- Most gay-popular bars and clubs can be found in Pest in the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 9th districts, many within walking distance of one another. Stay in the Casati Budapest Hotel with differently styled rooms, in a quite location yet close to the buzz of the city.
Gay Budapest at Christmas – Popular Venues
- Gay Districts: The Jewish Quarter is the heart of Budapest’s nightlife and the epicenter of the gay scene. Known for its ruin bars, cool cafes, and eclectic vibe.
- Why Not Café & Bar: A cozy, intimate bar ideal for conversations and meeting new people. Offers a variety of events, including quiz nights and karaoke.
- Habroló Bisztró: Popular with a mixed crowd, known for its friendly staff and fun atmosphere. Regular drag shows and themed parties.
- AlterEGO: One of the most well-known gay clubs in Budapest, with multiple dance floors. Hosts various shows including drag queen performances and DJ sets.
- CoXx Men’s Bar: A cruise club with a more adventurous vibe. Themed nights like Bear and Fetish parties.
- Magnum Sauna: The largest and most popular gay sauna in Budapest. Facilities include a steam room, sauna, jacuzzi, cabins, and a maze.
- ÉS Bisztró: A chic spot offering Hungarian and Viennese cuisine. Great for brunch or a sophisticated dinner.
- Café Eklektika: Known for its artistic vibe and excellent coffee. Also serves as a gallery and performance space.
Recommended Budapest Hotels
Here are our editors top choices for hotels in the city. These venues will keep you close to all gay bars and clubs, and a short trip to the best Christmas markets.
Four Seasons Hotel, Hotel Palazzo Zichy, Three Corners Hotel, House Beletage.
Recommended Hotels
Where to stay close to all the gay bars.
Our top 4 selections with the best rates.
Where we stay!
The Hotel Moments is our preferred hotel
with stunning rooms and great breakfast
Official Website
For further information and advice on
Budapest Christmas Markets Website
Map of Budapest
This “Paris of the East” has long been known as a gay center of Eastern Europe, but things have really taken off since reintegration with the West. There is no single gay neighborhood, but most gay-popular bars and clubs can be found in Pest in the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 9th districts, many within walking distance of one another. Defining lines aren’t drawn as sharply here as in the West – except at men’s saunas or cruise bars – and people mix more.
Széchenyi István tér 5, 1051 Hungary
All rooms and spacious suites offer iPod Docking Station, satellite TV, wired and wireless internet connection and marble-covered bathrooms with a spacious bath or a shower cabin. Most of the suites are provided with a further guest bathroom and some of the rooms also feature a step-out balcony with panoramic views of the Danube River and the Castle Hill.
Continental Hotel Budapest, 42-44, Dohány utca, Erzsébetváros, Budapest,
The 4-star-superior Continental Hotel Budapest opened in 2010 at the former site of Hungaria Bath, a protected Art Nouveau building. Each room category boasts Art Deco style and comes with free WiFi, soundproofed windows and air conditioning. Equipment includes an LCD satellite TV with an info guide to Budapest’s main attractions. The bathrooms have a hairdryer, free toiletries, shower or bathtub. A minibar, coffee and tea-making facilities, newspapers and a laptop-size safe are also at the guests disposal.
Lőrinc pap tér 2, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
Located in the historic Palace Quarter in Budapest’s centre, Hotel Palazzo Zichy Budapest offers a free sauna and a free fitness centre. This neo-Baroque palace dating from 1899 also has free Wi-Fi access.
All rooms at Hotel Palazzo Zichy Budapest come air conditioned and have a flat-screen TV, a laptop-size safe and a work . The private bathroom comprises a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Királyi Pál utca 12, 1053 Budapest, Hungary
This 3-star hotel, renovated in 2019, is located on a pedestrian street, next to the Kalvin Square metro, bus and tram stop, only 200 m from the National Museum. One apartment is located a 2-minute walk from the Three Corners Hotel Art Superior. WiFi internet and sauna are available for free.
All rooms feature flat-screen TVs and free WiFi. Apartments feature 1 or 2 bedrooms, and a living room.
Budapest, Váci u. 44, 1056 Hungary
The air-conditioned apartment features a balcony and cable TV. There is a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave and an oven. Featuring a bath tub, private bathrooms also come with a hairdryer and bathrobes. Sleeps 4 Guests
Budapest, Március 15. tér, Hungary
The apartment has 1 bedroom, a living room with a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a microwave, a fridge, a washing machine. Close to bars and restaurants, sleeps 4
Budapest, Kossuth Lajos u. 2, 1053 Hungary
Luxury apartment features 3 bedrooms, a living room with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a shower. Sleeps up to 10 Guests
Budapest, Kígyó u. 4-6, 1052 Hungary
The apartment has 1 bedroom, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, a washing machine, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Free WiFi, and air conditioning. Sleeps 3 Guests
Csepreghy utca 2, Budapest 1085
● A spacious gay bathhouse featuring a lounge area, steam room, sauna, whirlpool, and cruising labyrinth.
● Offers cabins for privacy and sport/relax massages by professional masseurs.
● Clean, modern environment catering to mixed ages.
Monday-Thursday 13:00 – 24:00; Friday 13:00 – 04:00; Saturday 13:00 – 07:00; Sunday 13:00 – 24:00
Angyal utca 2, Budapest 1094
● A welcoming gay sauna that includes a bar, whirlpool, cabins, and various massage services.
● Admission is affordable, with discounts for younger visitors.
Monday-Friday 14:00 – 24:00; Saturday 14:00 – 04:00; Sunday 14:00 – 24:00
Dessewffy utca 26/B, Budapest 1066
● A cozy café by day, transforming into a vibrant bar by night.
● Welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQ+ community.
● Perfect spot for coffee lovers and night owls alike.
Monday-Saturday 09:00 – 22:00
Katona József utca 41, Budapest 1137
● A charming resto-bar with a lovely street terrace overlooking the Danube.
● Offers a diverse menu including omelettes, burgers, salads, and cocktails.
● A friendly vibe that's perfect for casual dining or a night out.
Monday-Thursday: 12:00 – 23:00 Friday: 12:00 – 24:00
Saturday: 10:00 – 24:00 Sunday: 10:00 – 23:00
Üllői út 61 Budapest 1091
LGBT Club with three distinct zones.
Featuring theme parties and drag shows at weekends.
Tuesday-Thursday 11am till 23:00; Friday, Saturday 11am till 04:00
● An inviting café-bar located right by the Danube embankment.
● Often features exciting drag shows for entertainment.
● A great spot to relax with friends or enjoy a lively evening out
● Monday-Friday: 11:00 – 03:00 Saturday: 10:00 – 03:00
Sunday: 10:00 – 24:00
Rökk Szilárd utca 14, Budapest 1085
● A vibrant café-bar that hosts parties and drag shows.
● Previously known as Rainbow – The Coffee & The Club.
● Perfect spot for a fun night out with friends.
Thursday-Saturday 20:00 – 24:00
Síp utca 5, Budapest 1075
● Recently reopened at a new location, delivering a fresh vibe.
● A great place to unwind and socialize in a friendly setting.
Daily 18:00 – 02:00
Budapest Park, Soroksári út 60, Budapest 1095
● An open-air summer party welcoming LGBTs and friends.
● Admission: 3000-4000 HUF.
Summer: Friday 22:00/23:00 – 04:00 [31 May – September]
Dessewffy utca 33, Budapest 1066
● A lively weekend club with two dancefloors and a variety of bars.
● Features a midnight drag show by Hungarian artists.
● Admission: 2500 HUF (2000 HUF before 24:00).
Friday 22:00 – 05:00; Saturday 22:00 – 06:00
Dohány utca 38, Budapest 1072
● A vibrant gay cruising club featuring a variety of amenities including lockers, a bar, cabins, a car, and a sling room.
● Enjoy a lively atmosphere with a minimum consumption of 1500 HUF.
Daily 21:00 – 04:00; Friday and Saturday till 05:00
Recommended Hotels in Budapest By Booking
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Budapest that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars
Four Seasons Hotel
5 Star, Luxury
- 5-star, Chain Bridge view, infinity-edge pool.
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars.
- iPod docking, marble bathrooms.
- Unmatched luxury, stunning bridge views, extensive amenities.
Hotel Palazzo Zichy
4 Star, Readers Choice
- 4-star, historic Palace Quarter, free sauna.
- Close to the gay district.
- Air-conditioned, flat-screen TV.
- Classic elegance in historic center, modern amenities.
Continental Hotel
4 Star, Location
- 4-star-superior, Art Nouveau style, free WiFi.
- A short walk to the gay bars.
- Art Deco style, soundproofed.
- Blend of history and modern luxury, convenient location.
The Three Corners Hotel
3 Star, Great Value
- 3-star, recently renovated, near metro.
- Close to the gay district.
- Flat-screen TVs, free WiFi.
- Affordable comfort, central location, ideal for city exploration.
Video Of Budapest Christmas Markets
Christmas fair in Budapest
Top Gay Neighbourhoods in Budapest
Budapest’s LGBTQ+ scene includes various social spaces, bars, clubs, and events that cater to the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. The annual Budapest Pride is a significant event that brings together people to celebrate diversity and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. The first Budapest Pride took place in 1997, and the event has grown in visibility and participation over the years.
District 7 (Erzsébetváros) | Close to the city centre
Photo: District 7 is home to some of Budapest’s most popular gay bars
- This district, also known as the Jewish Quarter, is one of the most vibrant and diverse areas in Budapest.
- It has a number of LGBTQ+-friendly bars, cafes, and clubs.
- Király Street and Kazinczy Street are particularly popular for their nightlife.
- Discover the best things to see and do in Budapest
District 5
This is the heart of Budapest, known for its historic & architectural charm. It’s close to many major attractions.
District 1
If you’re looking for a more historic & charming atmosphere, the Castle District offers stunning views.
District 6
Characterized by its elegant boulevards, luxury shops, & beautiful architecture.
Margaret Island
Margaret Island is a tranquil refuge on the Danube, offering gardens, a musical fountain, & cultural attractions.
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