March, 2024 | Trip to Budapest

10 Mistakes to Avoid While Celebrating Easter in Budapest

Easter in Budapest is a vibrant and enchanting experience, filled with religious reverence, festive cheer, and cultural delights. Whether you’re seeking spiritual reflection, culinary delights, or lively entertainment, Budapest offers something for everyone to enjoy during the Easter holiday.

Here are 10 mistakes to avoid while celebrating Easter in Budapest:

1. Not booking accommodation in advance:

Easter is a busy time in Budapest, with many visitors flocking to the city. Make sure to book your accommodation well in advance to avoid last-minute hassle and potentially higher prices. Look for Airbnbs or hostels for the very best deals.

2. Underestimating crowds:

Easter attracts crowds to popular attractions and events in Budapest. Be prepared for longer queues and crowded spaces, especially at landmarks like Buda Castle District, Easter markets and the Hungarian Parliament. Also, please be prepared for pickpockets! Watch your belongings carefully.

3. Ignoring Easter markets:

Budapest hosts several Easter markets where you can experience Hungarian traditions, enjoy local delicacies, and shop for unique souvenirs. Don’t miss out on these cultural experiences by overlooking the markets. Our pick is at Városháza Park, just behind the yellowish Lutheran Church at Deák Ferenc tér. You can get here by M1, M2, M3 lines, or by trams 47, 49, buses 16 and 105. Experience the perfect blend of tradition and innovation at our artisanal marketplace. Discover a curated selection of timeless handmade crafts alongside cutting-edge designs from emerging talents. Delight your senses with Hungarian food offerings

4. Not Trying Traditional Easter Foods:

Easter in Hungary is a time for special dishes like ham, eggs, and sweet bread. But don’t limit yourself to just the familiar; embrace the opportunity to explore traditional Hungarian Easter cuisine. Just as Christmas has its own set of traditional dishes, Easter also offers a unique culinary experience that has been cherished for generations.

No Easter table is complete without the iconic Easter Ham, whether it’s smoked, boiled, or roasted. The recipe for boiled ham calls for careful preparation, including soaking it overnight to reduce its salt content and boiling it for as many hours as its weight.

Accompanying the ham is Easter Bread, a delightful addition whether savory or sweet. Crafting this bread, typically in a braided form for the occasion, involves starting with feeding the sourdough, resulting in a truly delicious treat.

And let’s not forget about Lamb, another staple of Hungarian Easter cuisine. Using fresh meat and generously seasoning it with garlic and freshly picked rosemary branches creates an irresistible flavor combination. For guided culinary programs, click here. Ok, grab something to eat before you carry on reading..:-)

5. Forgetting to respect religious customs:

Easter is a religious holiday for many Hungarians. Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially if you plan to visit churches or participate in religious events. Holy Week, also known as Passion Week, is a significant period in the Christian calendar that leads up to Easter Sunday. How Holy Week is celebrated differs by church and denomination.

Churches should expect a much higher turnout during Holy Week. St. Stephen’s Basilica will be open to visitors from 9 am to 5:45 pm on both Good Friday and Holy Saturday but will only be open to visitors from 1 pm to 5:45 pm on Sunday. There will be an English mass on Sunday starting at 4 pm. Matthias Church will be open from 9 am to 2 pm on Good Friday, closed to visitors on Holy Saturday, and open to visitors on Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm. If you speak Latin, you are welcome to join the Sunday service at 10 am.

6. Not Checking Opening Hours:

Many shops, restaurants, and attractions in Budapest have altered opening hours during Easter. Make sure to check ahead of time to avoid disappointment and plan your itinerary accordingly. On March 29th, Good Friday, stores will be closed. On March 30th, Saturday, stores will operate according to their regular opening hours. On March 31st and April 1st, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, stores will be closed. Please read our website blog “2024 Easter opening hours” for the detailed opening hours.

7. Overlooking Thermal Baths:

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, which offer a perfect way to relax after a day of a free walking tour. Don’t miss the opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate in one of the city’s historic thermal spas. All thermal baths will be open during Easter week and on Easter Monday, April 1st.

8. Neglecting to Use Public Transportation Tickets:

Budapest boasts an efficient public transportation system, encompassing trams, buses, and the metro. Opting for public transport during your visit can spare you the hassle of navigating through traffic and hunting for parking spaces. However, it’s crucial to remember to have a valid ticket or day pass when using public transportation. Tickets can be purchased at various locations throughout the city, including metro stations, tram stops, and street kiosks.

It’s worth noting that the same type of ticket can be used for all modes of public transport, but you must validate a new ticket for each journey. Travelers without a valid ticket or pass may be subject to fines by ticket inspectors, who may conduct sudden checks onboard. Please do not forget that while encountering ticket inspectors may seem intimidating, ensuring compliance with fare payment regulations helps maintain the integrity of Budapest’s public transportation system and supports its ongoing operation.

9. Underestimating the Weather:

Easter in Budapest can bring anything from rainy and cool to warm weather. As Mark Twain said: “In spring I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours.” Be sure to pack appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions. Check the forecast before your trip and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.

10. Exploring Beyond Budapest:

While Budapest’s city center is brimming with attractions, make sure to venture beyond its borders to discover other charming cities like Szentendre or Hollókő. These destinations offer a variety of experiences, including stage performances, interactive educational spaces, craft workshops, and opportunities to savor traditional cuisine.

One standout recommendation is the four-day-long Hollókő Easter Festival, taking place from March 29th to April 1st, 2024. This festival features rich folklore programs, Palóc gastronomy, folk customs such as the Easter sprinkling tradition, live concerts, and engaging activities for families and children. By exploring these nearby cities and attending such events, you’ll enrich your Easter trip to Budapest and immerse yourself in the diverse cultural offerings of Hungary.

Planning Your Easter Weekend in Budapest: What’s Open and What’s Closed in 2024

in Blog, Uncategorised

In 2024, Easter arrives on the final weekend of March, bringing with it a mix of closures and special openings across Budapest. For residents and visitors alike, this means navigating holiday hours to ensure a smooth and enjoyable weekend. Here’s what you need to know:

Public Holidays Overview:

Good Friday: March 29th
Holy Saturday: March 30th
Easter Sunday: March 31st
Easter Monday: April 1st

Banks and Government Offices:

Expect closures throughout the Easter weekend, with banks and government offices shuttered on all four days.

Museums and Cultural Attractions:

Many museums and galleries will welcome visitors over the Easter period, including Easter Monday. Exceptions include the National Museum and House of Terror, closed on Easter Monday. Special openings are planned for cultural attractions typically closed on Mondays, offering ample opportunities for exploration.

Public Transportation:

Trams, metro, and buses will maintain their usual weekend and public holiday schedules from Good Friday through Easter Monday.

Grocery Shopping and Markets:

Plan ahead for grocery shopping, as supermarkets will be closed on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday. However, Easter Saturday will see most shops and supermarkets open, along with the iconic Great Market Hall.

Thermal Baths:

Relax and rejuvenate at Budapest’s thermal baths, operating with weekend opening hours from March 29th to April 1st, 2024:

Széchenyi: 8am-8pm
Gellért: 9am-7pm
Lukács: 7am-7pm (sauna under renovation)
Rudas: 6am-8pm (Turkish baths available for coed use over Easter)

Religious Sites:

Explore Budapest’s rich religious heritage throughout the Easter weekend:

St. Stephen’s Basilica: Open to visitors from 9 am to 5:45 pm on Good Friday and Holy Saturday. On Easter Sunday, open from 1 pm to 5:45 pm, with an English mass at 4 pm.
Matthias Church: Open from 9 am to 2 pm on Good Friday, closed on Holy Saturday, and open to visitors on Easter Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm. Latin service available at 10 am on Sunday.
Dohany Street Grand Synagogue:
- March 29th: 10am-4pm
- March 30th: Closed
- March 31st – April 1st: 10am – 6pm.

Special Note:

Despite the holiday weekend, all of our free Budapest walking tours will proceed as scheduled. Join us to discover the city’s hidden gems and vibrant culture through the eyes of locals.

Whether you’re seeking cultural enrichment, relaxation, or culinary delights, Budapest offers something for everyone this Easter weekend. Plan ahead, embrace the holiday spirit, and make the most of your time in this enchanting city.

What to Expect on March 15th in Budapest: Useful Information for Travelers

in Blog

This day holds a special place in the hearts of Hungarians as it commemorates the historic Hungarian Revolution of 1848. March 15th in Budapest, the capital city, is marked with various events and celebrations. Hungarians proudly display their cockades. This tradition harks back to a significant moment in Hungarian history when leaders of the radical youth received cockades from their loved ones on the eve of the revolution. Unlike the French cockade, which was pinned on hats, the Hungarian cockade was worn closer to the heart, typically affixed to the jacket or coat as a circular ribbon in the national tricolor with small straps.

Whether you’re a visitor or a local, here’s what you can expect on this significant day:

Commemorative Ceremonies about the revolution on March 15th in Budapest:

On March 15th in Budapest, everybody comes alive with patriotic fervor. Expect to see Hungarian flags adorning the streets, and locals dressed in traditional attire. Throughout Budapest, ceremonies are held to honor the heroes of the 1848 Revolution. One of the focal points is often at Kossuth Square, where speeches are delivered, wreaths are laid, and moments of silence are observed to pay respects to those who fought for Hungarian independence. Traditionally, at 9:00 a.m., the flag of Hungary is raised at Kossuth Lajos Square, followed by a ceremonial hussar march to the Hungarian National Museum, where a formal ceremony begins at 10:30 a.m.

Additionally, an anti-government commemorative ceremony will take place at the section between Andrássy Avenue, Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Road, and the Opera House at 3:00 p.m.

Cultural Events:

In addition to the solemn ceremonies, Budapest offers a range of cultural events on March 15th. From 2:00 p.m. on March 15th, and then on the 16th and 17th, families are welcomed with programs related to the national holiday at the Hungarian National Museum.

As part of the Open Parliament program, visitors can freely view the Holy Crown in the Parliament Building from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on March 15th. Expect large crowds and potential queues.

On the national holiday, as well as on the 16th and 17th, from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., the facade of the Hungarian National Museum building will be adorned with light projections.

Opening Hours on this Day:

March 15th in Budapest is a bank holiday, meaning shops and malls are closed while restaurants and cafés are likely to be open. The Central Market Hall going to be closed as well!

Thermal Baths operate as on weekends, with the following hours:

Széchenyi Thermal Bath:: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (outdoor thermal pool is under renovation)
Gellért Thermal Bath: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Lukács Thermal Bath: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (drinking fountain will be closed)
Rudas Thermal Bath: 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (the Turkish bath will be coed bathing all day)

List of museums offering free entrance on this day, including:

Budapest Gallery
Budapest History Museum / Castle Museum
Goldberger Textile Industry Collection
Institute and Museum of Military History
Hercules Villa
Holocaust Memorial Center
Kassák Museum
Kiscelli Museum
Liszt Ferenc Memorial Museum and Research Center
Ludwig Museum
Hungarian Museum of Commerce and Catering (registration required)
Hungarian Agricultural Museum and Library
Hungarian Money Museum and Visitor Center (reservation required)
Hungarian Museum of Science, Technology and Transport
Hungarian National Gallery
Hungarian National Museum
Hungarian Natural History Museum
Hungarian Railway History Park
Museum of Ethnography
Óbuda Museum
Ráth György Villa
Róth Miksa Memorial House and Museum
Semmelweis Medical History Museum
Museum of Fine Arts
Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum (registration required)
House of Terror
Vasarely Museum

Dohany Street Synagogue Complex and Rumbach Street Synagogue will be closed on 15th March 2024.

All free tours are going as normal. Just show up at our meeting points for a priceless experience.

Budapest in March: 10 Unmissable Programs for Every Taste

in Blog, recommondation, sights, toplist

March in Budapest is a magical time, it brings a wealth of activities and experiences to the town. We finally see the sun more, the temperature gets slowly higher. The locals and visitors finally have a chance to enjoy some outdoor activities, besides the city’s plenty of special events at this time of the year. The other main advantage to visit Budapest in March, that it is not the high season yet, which translates to lower airfares and cheaper accommodation rates. More importantly, it means shorter queues at attractions and a chance to explore the city like a local. Here’s your guide to making the most of it:

1. The Best Historical Sites to Explore in Budapest in March

With the weather warming up, it’s the perfect time to delve into Budapest’s rich history and architectural wonders. Don’t miss iconic landmarks like Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and the Hungarian Parliament Building. Wander through historic neighborhoods and explore outdoor museums like the Aquincum Museum and Memento Park.

2. Relax in Thermal Baths

Escape the chill of March with a relaxing day at Budapest’s renowned thermal baths. Indulge in the warm, mineral-rich waters of Széchenyi, Gellért, or Rudas baths, complete with saunas, steam rooms, and massage services for the ultimate pampering experience.

3. Attend Cultural Events

Enjoy Budapest’s vibrant cultural scene with concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions. Check out venues like Müpa Budapest and the Hungarian State Opera House for a taste of the city’s artistic offerings. Between March 1-17th, Budapest Zoo’s Biodome lights up as a modern sight. Explore a stunning display of light art inspired by natural phenomena. Installations by local and foreign artists showcase their glow throughout this special architectural wonder. More details and ticket info here.

Chain Bridge - in St Patricks day - Budapest in March

Photo by Russell Skidmore

4. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

Locals are always looking for new excuses to party, so naturally we inherited happily a new tradition a couple of years ago. Join the festivities in Budapest in March, to be exact on the 17th of March, as Budapest comes alive with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations at Szabadság tér. From traditional Irish music to green-themed parties, there’s something for everyone to enjoy across the city’s bars, pubs, and restaurants.

5. Explore Outdoor Spaces

Embrace the arrival of spring by exploring Budapest’s picturesque parks and outdoor spaces. Take an easy stroll along the Danube River promenade, discover the green oasis of Margaret Island, or hike up Gellért Hill for stunning city views.

6. Indulge in Hungarian Cuisine

Treat your taste buds to the flavors of Hungary with traditional dishes like goulash, paprikash, and lángos. Don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with Hungarian pastries like chimney cake and strudel from local cafes and markets. Check out a culinary walk, if you want to experience the best Hungarian dishes and wines!

7. Experience a Danube River Cruise

See Budapest from a different perspective with a scenic cruise along the Danube River. Choose from daytime or evening cruises with Mahart, departing from Pier N.5 at Vigadó tér 5. Timetable: 4:15 PM, 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM. Price: 5000 HUF.

8. Attend a Wine Tasting at the Prestigious New York Palace

Join a Wine Tasting event on March 23rd at the historic New York Palace. Experience luxury while enjoying delicious pastries and coffee. Secure your spot in advance for an unlimited wine-tasting experience priced at 15,900 HUF. For further details, don’t hesitate to get in touch with badacsonynewyorkban@gmail.com.

9. Best Markets to visit in Budapest in March

Discover creativity and community at Budapest’s bustling markets. From the Women’s Day Women’s Market on March 8th to the Maker’s Market on March 17th, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy. Of course for culinary experiences the Central Market Hall is always available, but there will be another special food market in Budapest in March, called the Spring Fair of Hungarian Flavours. If you are looking for something truly homemade, every Sunday morning the Szimpla Kert ruin bar organizes a Farmer’s Market.

10. Enjoy Free Museums and Parliament Access on Hungarian National Day – March 15th

Celebrate Hungary’s National Day by visiting state-owned museums and the Hungarian Parliament for free. Experience flag-raising ceremonies, concerts, patriotic speeches, and more as Budapest commemorates its rich history and values. Be aware, banks and shops are closed that day!

Whether you’re seeking culture, relaxation, or culinary delights, Budapest has something for everyone to enjoy this March. And don’t forget to join our daily Free Budapest Walking Tours.