This autumn, Budapest is presenting a vibrant cultural scene: savour chimney cakes at the Zoo, explore Frida Kahlo’s photos at Mai Manó House, shop local designs at the Budaro fair, and catch top international films at the BIFF festival.
Point of View Budapest
If you're into design, POV Budapest – Hungary's very first design conference – is a must! On September 19-20th, the event will transform the city into the ultimate hotspot for visual design. The National Dance Theatre will be packed with an epic lineup of industry powerhouses – from graphic designers and architects to filmmakers and visual artists – sharing their insights through talks and workshops. And that's not all – you can also join performances, design walks, and other side events happening across Budapest.
Snag your ticket here.
Have a lazy brunch at one of Budapest's best breakfast spots
Brioche buns, Eggs Benedicts, generously filled croissants, fancy porridges, or a full-on Vietnamese brunch? Whether you're looking for a cosy villa in the Buda Hills, a design-led breakfast spot in the city centre, or a hidden gem in the 7th district's less frequented corner, Budapest has some of the best breakfasts around.
See our top selection here.
World Press Photo Exhibition 2024
An exhibition for those appreciating the world of photography and journalism. The annual World Press Photo travelling exhibition revisits the biggest news of the past year by portraying the many milestones through striking photojournalism. The collection will be on view between September 20th and October 27th at a very special location: the Zoo's magnificent Biodome.
Details here.
Cultural Heritage Days 2024
Discover what lies behind the doors of historical buildings, typically closed to prying eyes. During Cultural Heritage Days from September 21st to 22nd, you can peek inside such places as the ELTE University Library, Postal Savings Bank, or the Hild Villa. Moreover, you can participate in English-friendly events such as workshops and guided tours for free. You need to sign up for some of them.
Details here.
Divas & Icons exhibition
Get a close-up look at the stunning stage costumes of icons like Rihanna, Björk, Whitney Houston, Tina Turner, Marilyn Monroe, and Billie Eilish at the House of Music Hungary. Lucky for you, the Divas & Iconsexhibition, which travelled all the way from London's Victoria and Albert Museum, has just been extended, meaning you can check out these impressive outfits until September 29th. Explore what it means to be a 'diva' – not just in music, but as a force for change.
Details and tickets here.
Budapest International Book Festival
Immerse yourself in international literature and meet Iceland's most prominent author! The 29th Budapest International Book Festival returns to Millenáris from September 26-29th. It is a tradition at the festival to showcase the culture, literature, and publishing of a particular country or region. This year, special attention will be given to France and contemporary French literature, while the guest of honour will be Icelandic author Jón Kalman Stefánsson.
Details here.
Chimney Cake Festival
From October 11-13th, the Chimney Cake Festival will return to the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden. Taste a wide variety of chimney cakes, with 13 stalls to choose from. Between enjoying two delicious treats, multiple stages will offer children's performances, concerts, craft workshops, and other exciting programs.
Details here.
Hop on the chairlift!
Riding the chairlift is special in every season, but let's be honest, autumn is the true chairlift season. Combine it with a long walk or hike in the Buda Hills on sunny days, as travelling through the colourful foliage and admiring the panorama is an experience that even locals don't take for granted.
Details here.
Frida Kahlo – Her Photos
Mai Manó House, celebrating its 130th anniversary this year, will end 2024 with a major exhibition. Opening in the second half of October, the exhibition titled Frida Kahlo – Her Photos will showcase over 200 photographs depicting various stages of the famous Mexican artist's life, featuring works by renowned names such as Brassaï, Lola Álvarez Bravo, Gisèle Freund, Nickolas Muray, Man Ray, and Edward Weston.
Details here.
Budaro Designers' Market
Bartók Béla út and its surroundings are a vibrant neighbourhood worth exploring. Now even more, as in September, a new designer fair series kicked off, called Budaro. The upcoming one will be held at Hadik Café + Szatyor Bar and Gallery (October 13th), and the soon-to-open Művház (formerly Zipernowsky Studio). The uniqueness of the fair lies in the fact that only creators, designers, and brands from the local area or connected to the 11th district will participate.
Follow the events here.
Budapest International Film Festival 2024
Budapest International Film Festival 2024 (BIFF) is coming to Corvin Cinema from October 29th to November 3rd, presenting a rich and diverse programme. They will be screening twenty international films over six days, featuring award-winning new films by renowned directors, works from the most exciting emerging creators, experimental films, and a retrospective selection. Among the highlights will be the latest cult film from Ireland and an Iranian social drama that won the Cannes Grand Prix. While we are waiting on more details, make sure to mark your calendar if you are a film enthusiast.
Details coming here.
(Cover photo: Tamás Kőrösi - We Love Budapest)
