Budapest is one of the most mesmerizing cities of Europe. Majestic, yet welcoming, it invites its guests from all around the world to its beautiful fairs, which are included in top ten list of best fairs in Europe. If you ask me why, I’ll tell you that first of all it’s because of their authentic style. The fairs in Budapest display mostly traditional products and food, thus you can not only enjoy the spirit of holidays, but also discover the original, classics specific for Hungarians. Secondly, you’ll appreciate the high level of organization of the event, and thirdly, you’ll adore the joyful festive atmosphere created here. For me, Budapest always associates with the image of the city of lights and Christmas fairs, and this is confirmed by the millions of sparkling lights that adorn the entire city, creating that special magic which happens only in fairy tales.
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Taste the traditional food at the fair in Vörösmarty tér Square
The main, and the biggest, Christmas fair is located in Vörösmarty tér Square. Here, you’ll see dozens of wooden chalets imbued with alluring flavors of the traditional cuisine mixed with the sweet scent of hot mulled wine. This is the exact place where you can taste the authentic and delicious Hungarian food for a very acceptable price. I suggest that you try the Hungarian goulash soup, which is served in a bread bowl, along with the absolutely special Hungarian stuffed cabbages, home sausage made on the grill, and potato pies. Have I made you crave? Then let’s keep on with the desserts, and here something you must taste is the cake baked on a spit and generously sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar, walnuts or coconut, and don’t forget to savor the handmade sweets made of marzipan. This truly divine symphony of flavors should be relished with hot mulled wine. For the ones who want to experience some spicy impressions, I recommend trying the special Hungarian shot - pálinka.
Savor the delicious sweets in Café Gerbeaud
It is impossible to not spot the beautiful bright palace-like building on the Vörösmarty tér Square, which is decorated with thousands of lights. This is one of the most famous confectioneries not only in Budapest, but also in Europe - Café Gerbeaud. Having opened in 1858, it is considered one of the oldest classic cafes in Budapest. The luxurious interior with the chandeliers, precious wood wall cladding, and classic style furniture made in the spirit of the Gründerzeit transports you into another era. But the main thing, which makes this cafe so famous, is of course, the indescribably delicious and unique desserts. I should confess that the cafe is not a cheap one, but all those tasty goodies are worth it!
Take a stroll on the Fashion Street
If you want to combine visiting the Christmas fair with a fancy shopping spree, I suggest that you take a stroll on the Fashion Street. In addition to the picture perfect wooden chalets twinkling with fairy lights, you’ll discover that all along the street there are high-end brand shops, such as: Hugo Boss, Max Mara, Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger, Lloyd, Byblos, and many others. Moreover, you will be astonished by the beauty of sparkling decorations in the form of gifts, shoes, and umbrellas, which adorn the street. The lights seem to be flowing down from the buildings, creating a truly magical effect.
Find the best souvenirs at the fair near St. Stephen's Basilica
Another Christmas fair is located right near St. Stephen’s Basilica. A lot of people come here, and you’ll see many kids all around playing in the square. There’s also Christmas music playing from the old movies that we remember from our childhood, accompanying this joyful atmosphere. You will also find here some very nice handmade souvenirs, such as: toys made of twigs, wood, ceramics, festive tablecloths with napkins featuring the typical blue fabric with white printed patterns, and original bags, of course, made of leather and sheepskin. In the square there’s an ice rink, with a Christmas Tree in the center of it, which is richly adorned with lights.
Budapest Tour Guide
Tiberiu Condulescu
My name is Tiberiu(s), just like captain James Tiberius Kirk from Star Trek, or Tibi for short, and I am an IT Service Manager who found his passion in tour guiding over 5 years ago. Similarly to Captain Kirk, I will be your captain should you choose me as your guide.Every tour is a new experience for both of us, that’s why my aim is to make it both memorable and fun. I want to make memories fo... Read more
Tours by Tiberiu
Budapest Tour Guide
Ildiko Varga
I have been a certified guide for more than two decades now. I love my work, love to show my beloved city and country to my guests! I am interested of course in travelling, architecture, arts, cooking and reading.
Tours by Ildiko
Feel the spirit of Christmas all around the city!
The Christmas fairs are not the only place, where you can feel the spirit of holidays. Actually, the whole city is adorned with lights and decorations that create the impression of a real fairy tale, and all of these look as if they’ve been taken from a postcard. So don’t miss the chance to explore this thrilling destination, and experience your own Christmas fairy tale!
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