It is pleasant to enjoy Budapest at the end of the year, when the temperature is considerably low. In this period of dwindling temperatures and holiday celebrations the atmosphere of the city becomes rather bright and cheerful. Here, you will get to know more on what kind of weather prevails during these months so that this article is useful for you in making your travel plans.
Temperature
The winters in Budapest start from November and continue till December. November average temperature is between 3°C (37°F) and 9°C (48°F), while for December these averages drop to 0°C (32°F) to 6°C (43°F).
Regarding dresses, the weather can greatly differ within the month, therefore, apart from a formal outfit in case of a formal invitation, it is better to wear thin waterproof clothes that can be supplemented with warm clothes in case the temperature drops. Morning and evening are usually the coldest times of the day so besides a warm jacket and trousers a hat and gloves are needed.
Precipitation
November and December falls under the category of comparatively wet months in this city. It also rains during this time hence you should pack a small umbrella or a raincoat. November has an average of 40mm of rainfall and doubles up to 50mm in December.
Snow is also possible and becomes even more predictable towards the last ten days of December. Check the weather forecast occasionally and dress up for days with snow. Note that the addition of snow covers the city and may make your stay even more romantic.
Daylight Hours
This means that Budapest receives shorter daylight during the November and December because of winter. The daylight hours in December are approximately 8-9 and depend on the days of the week narrowing down the latter.
Coordinate your movements based on this and be extra sure to cover outdoor areas like Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, or Margaret Island in the early part of the day when the sun is up.
Festive Atmosphere
Definitely, one of the many advantages in comes to visiting Budapest in November and December is the fact that the city feels very festive indeed. During Christmas time, Budapest enters its fairytale look with adorable Christmas fairs, twinkling fairy lights and a plethora of Christmas related activities.
Even if you need to go the opposite direction, don’t fail to visit the Vörösmarty tér – this is where the oldest and the most popular Christmas fair in Budapest operates. Try chimney cake , hot wine, spices, sweets and purchase Hungarian souvenirs made by hand.
Tips for Dressing
Here are a few tips on what to pack for your trip to Budapest during this period:
Layers: Since it gets cold in the evenings, pack clothes that you can put on over other clothes as the day heats up.
Warm Jacket: Take a coat to cover your body since the tour is exposed to the weather.
Accessories: For those of you who are going during the cooler months, it might be a good idea to pack a hat, gloves and scarf.
Comfortable Shoes: Always wear comfortable shoes because most of the exploring in the city will possibly be done on foot.
Umbrella: Carry a small sized umbrella in case it rains occasionally.
Indoor Activities
When it comes to indoor sightseeing in Budapest, you will be spoiled for choice. Take beautiful architecture in Budapest if interested by visting Hungarian Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica or the Great Market Hall. You could also spend a lazy day at any of those famous thermal baths in Budapest; Széchenyi or Gellért.
As with other tourism attractions, museums and galleries are also perfect during this time to avoid the cold and to learn more about Hungarian art and history. You also should attend such attractions as the Museum of Fine Arts, the Hungarian National Museum, the Ludwig Modern Art Museum.
Conclusion
Generally, if one is planning for a tour to Hungary then visiting in November and December give the added bonus of Budapest being in festive mood. This is probably a good period to visit the city because, despite sometimes cold and humid climate, this period feels magical as there are many things to do outside and many attractions can be visited both outdoors and indoors.
Do not forget to bring warm clothes, layer them, and do not miss the Christmas fairs and other related events in Budapest. No matter you are strolling through the Christmas markets or getting to know the treasures of the city, Budapest in November and December are unforgettable.
