Downtown Christmas markets are known for being pricey, and many of them clearly cater to tourists in both offer and cost. Still, it’s worth heading to the Basilica, as the atmosphere is truly unique – and if you know where to look, you can definitely find good food and drinks as well.
More affordable mulled wine and quality coffee
Mulled wine is a staple at any festive market – and at the Basilica, you’ll find it at nearly every stall. Prices, however, vary. Smaller stands usually offer a 3 dl cup of red or white for HUF 1500 , and if you’re after something a bit more refined, DiVino’s booths pour the same HUF 1500 classic alongside vermut- and quality wine–based warm drinks for HUF 2150 . They’re pleasantly sweet, gently spiced, and perfect for keeping your hands warm on a chilly evening (tip: ask for a double cup so you don’t burn yourself).
What can be misleading is the punch: the base price is also HUF1500 for 3 dl, but adding alcohol significantly increases the cost – whether you choose rum or tequila. Since this isn’t always clearly displayed, make sure to ask or carefully check the menu before ordering, so your drink doesn’t unexpectedly jump from HUF1500 to HUF 4500.
For those craving a hot coffee instead, there’s no need to settle for vending-machine quality this year. For the first time, %Arabica has set up a stand at the market – the globally popular coffee chain that’s especially well-known across Asia. Their specialty brews are known for their distinct flavour profiles, and the beans are roasted at their Király Street location in Budapest.
Fish and chips instead of pörkölt
The eye-catching food stalls return each year with almost identical offerings: hearty Hungarian classics that look great but don’t always deliver in flavour. Instead of sticking to goulash or pörkölt, it’s worth trying something a bit more exciting, like the salmon soup (HUF 4,950) or the fish and chips (HUF 5,990) at British Corner. It’s not exactly cheap, but considering that a grilled sausage in a giant baguette costs HUF 5,500 and a cheese-and-sour-cream lángos goes for over HUF 3,000, the prices don’t feel quite as extreme. Every vendor is also required to offer at least one budget-friendly dish for HUF 1,600.
The Trusty Kürtőskalács (Chimney cake)
On the sweet side, the selection is truly impressive. From fluffy császármorzsa to show-stopping marzipan creations, you’ll find just about every winter treat imaginable. Királyi Marcipán stands out with its unique marzipan made from an exceptional 67% almond content—quite a rarity on the market—while several award-winning chocolatiers and artisan bonbon makers also appear among the stalls.
For a classic you can always count on, stick with kürtőskalács: Vitéz Kürtős delivers its signature combination of soft, warm dough and a perfectly caramelised, crunchy crust. They even prepare gluten-, dairy- and egg-free versions every Tuesday and Wednesday. Traditional flavours start at HUF 2800, while the more extravagant or filled varieties go up to HUF 4500.
Small counter, big delights
Overall, it’s safe to say that at the Advent Basilica, you’ll get the best value if you browse and taste your way through the smaller, familiar stalls. The whole market is compact and easy to walk through, so after a quick loop it’s no trouble to return to the vendors that caught your eye. The first mulled wine, sandwich or soup you see isn’t always the best choice, and when it comes to handmade ornaments or gifts, you’ll likely find higher-quality pieces at one of the many design fairs happening around the city.
(Cover photo: Advent Bazilika)
Legyetek ott első városi piknikünkön!
Gyertek, és töltsünk el egy vidám napsütéses tavaszi napot együtt a városligeti fák lombjai között május 1-jén, ahol day-time piknik, workshopok, sok szuper food truck és dizájnvásár is vár mindenkit.
Ünnepeljük együtt a tavaszt, a találkozásokat és azt a pezsgést, amiért annyira szeretjük Budapestet!
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