Who wouldn’t wish to visit Budapest, the capital city of Hungary; especially around December period with its magical atmosphere? The town is awash with lights and other decorations and people have significant things to do on this occasion. In this blog post, you will know how Budapest looks like at this winter month and what are the places and events you can visit.
ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL NAME FOR‘THE WINTER WONDERLAND OF LIGHTS.’
It so wonderful to behold that Budapest enhances its beauty with beautiful winter lights and decorations during December. In general, the main streets like Andrassy, and Vaci streets look like they came from a fairy tale – they turn into winter streets. On outside walls, lights twinkle, and gigantic trees are placed in squares with step-pyramids.
Opinions regard dearest is Vörösmarty Square, in which Budapest Christmas Fair situated annually. Here there are timber built shops, which offer Hungarian souvenirs and trinkets, food and wines as well as other gifts. A smell of mulled wine and chimney cake baked to the music can be felt and heard adding to the holiday spirit.
Ice Skating and Thermal Baths
Ice-skating and thermal baths: As an ultimate plan of every winter trip to Budapest could be established. Although it is situated quite closer to the Heroes’ Square, the City Park Ice Rink has the Vajdahunyad Castle as a beautiful view for those skating. For those who have never tried it or those who skate well – sliding across the ice is a wonderful way to enjoy the winter.
When the program is ice-skating you might consider following it up with a dip in Budapest’s beautiful thermal baths. The most famous danube baths are the Széchenyi Thermal Bath which offers several indoor and outdoor swimming pool. The water is said to be warm and having a mineral content that tops the list for spas that offer this luxury that is taken amid snowy scenery.
Gastronomic Delights
Hungary, specifically Budapest can provide a variety of traditional gourmet meals because Hungary cuisines are greatly known to be delicious especially during the winter season. Taste traditional dishes, which are goulash, a stew based on beef and served with pasta, potatoes, or rice, or langos, a deep fried potato bread topped with savoury toppings, but can also be sweet.
To complete the dinner, head to one of Budapest-eye’s Christmas markets for that special dinner experience. As for the sweets and souvenirs, local Poles also have diverse fast foods, which are sausages, roasted chestnut, and the chimney cake.
Celebrations and Christmas Bazaars
During December the capital city of Hungary offers several festivities and Christmas fairs all over the town. Tourist and citizens especially do love the St. Stephen’s Basilica Christmas Market. Attend a concert, and take a free trip on the Ferris wheel, besides being enthralled by an artistic performance on the basilica with the help of lights.
The next significant market is the Christmas Fair taking place at Budapest Castle. Taking place behind the photogenic backdrop of Buda Castle, this fair is also a shopping delight with many handicrafts, local souvenirs, jewels and paintings.
Some Advice When Planning a December Trip to Budapest
Please wear warm cloths and comfortable shoes to visit different attractions of the city.
Be also aware of museums and attractions’ opening hours, as they can find themselves adjusting to the holiday timetable.
Make sure to book your accommodation and attraction tickets in advance in order not to miss out.
It is suggested to use public transportation and so the Budapest Card is rather useful as it includes free transportation and numerous what and discounts.
Conclusion
Christmas and New Year in Budapest really makes the city beautiful with its gorgeous lights, different celebrations and delicious food. If nothing less than wonder, the winter in the city will have you walking on lighted streets, visiting Christmas Market, or relaxing in the Thermal Baths. Unfortunately, I would be remiss if I didn’t remind you NOT to miss Budapest in December!