Check out Sophie Budapest’s festive specials
Just a stone's throw from the Opera, Sophie Budapest is a serene oasis. Known for its authentic Italian cuisine, the restaurant recently unveiled a delightful autumn/winter menu. Indulge in creamy mushroom soup, tenderloin with paprika cream, or pumpkin-ricotta-nut ravioli. For a sweet ending, savour the mini vanilla cream bun with pumpkin, poppy seeds, and mascarpone. Sophie also offers a selection of Italian and Hungarian wines, cocktails, and warm drinks. Whether you're seeking a cosy dinner for two or a private event for up to 30 people, Sophie's secluded gallery and private lounge provide the perfect setting.
VakVarjú: Hot drinks and warming snacks
Warm up this autumn and winter with VakVarjú's delicious drinks. The non-alcoholic warm apple and ginger lemonade and the plum and clove lemonade are perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. For something a bit stronger, try the Winterberry Punch (with forest-fruit Tatratea spirit) or the Ginger Punch (with ginger brandy steamed with apple juice). Indulge in the frothy vanilla matcha frappuccino or the comforting coconut coffee. And don't forget to grab a VakVarjú mug to take home. VakVarjú Boat House and VakVarjú Újlipót offer heated terraces for outdoor enjoyment, while VakVarjú Buda provides a stunning natural setting. To satisfy your hunger, savour the hearty beef consommé with Swabian dumplings or the rich stuffed cabbage. And for a sweet ending, indulge in the classic, homemade peach Kaiserschmarrn (a lightly sweetened shredded pancake), pan-fried and served warm.
Port de Budapest: Chalet vibes in the heart of Budapest
Port de Budapest is shaking things up this winter! With a fresh interior design featuring festive decorations and prints, it's the perfect place to cosy up. Despite its summery reputation, Port's winter makeover is not to be missed. Enjoy the warmth of their heated indoor and outdoor seating areas while savouring winter-inspired dishes like crispy potato snacks with garlic dip, hearty meat soup, and classic German treats such as Austrian cheese dumplings, boiled Munich white sausage with pretzels, crispy pork knuckle with cholent (bean ragout) or the inevitable stuffed steamed dumplings. Make sure you try their hot cocktails, including the indulgent Chocorange Grog or the festive Christmas Grog. Book your table here.
Get the holiday spirit in the Városháza Park and Deák tér
Városháza (City Hall) Park is bringing a festive wonderland to the heart of the city. Until February 2nd, you can glide across the ice rink in Városháza Park, right next to Deák tér. The rink has been expanded with an ice passage, and tickets are just HUF 2,500. With your Tourist Pass, Budapest Card or e-XPLORER Pass you can enjoy a 20 % discount at the Budapest Ice Park's ice rink!
Join in on December 1st for the candle lighting of the first Sunday of Advent! And on December 6th, Santa Claus will be visiting to spread some holiday cheer. Children can take photos with him and create lasting memories. Both Városháza Park and Deák tér will be filled with the aroma of seasonal delicacies. You'll also find unique handmade gifts from local artisans on Deák tér. And let's not forget about the Hungarian Baptist Aid's shoebox campaign. You can drop off your gifts in Városháza Park until December 18th. For more details, check here.
Hummusbar: Lavash for all!
Lavash, a traditional Armenian flatbread, has been recognised as a world heritage food for a decade. It's named after its unique preparation process: the dough is rolled out, stretched super thin, and baked to perfection. Since October, you can enjoy this delicious flatbread at hummusbars (except for the Október 6. utca location, where you can still get the oven-baked laffa). Swap your regular pita for lavash in any hummus platter or sandwich. You can even pair it with fries and a drink for a quick and tasty meal. Before your main course, warm up with a bowl of hearty soup. The North African couscous soup with sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and spices is a great choice. Or, if you prefer something more filling, try the Moroccan charira, a lentil and barley soup packed with flavour. When the weather gets chilly, there's nothing better than a hot bowl of shakshuka. The perfectly spiced tomato sauce, soft-boiled eggs, and warm pita or lavash will chase away the cold.
Light Art Museum: Light is an antidote to darkness and cold
A winter's day, with its chilly weather and gloomy atmosphere, is the perfect time to indulge in a bit of introspection. As the year winds down, our minds, like our bodies, crave a moment of quiet contemplation. The Light Art Museum's current exhibition, Phantom Vision offers just that. This immersive experience delves into the deeper layers of perception, exploring meditative states, brain function, and altered states of consciousness. In the converted stalls of a former downtown market, you'll encounter ever-changing interactive artworks and projections that will transport you to the world of dreams and hallucinations. Join nearly 40 international and Hungarian artists in this extraordinary journey that transcends the boundaries of everyday perception. Discover new worlds behind closed eyes and immerse yourself in a truly unique museum experience. Learn more about the exhibition here.
Celebrate at the Crowne Plaza Budapest
Get ready to celebrate the festive season with a magical Christmas concert at Crowne Plaza Budapest. Join the talented Réka Farkasházi and her virtuoso band, as they perform cheerful and heartwarming Christmas tunes for children. The evening will be even more special with the guest star, Zoltán Bereczki. Before the concerts, indulge in a delicious buffet breakfast, featuring avocado toast with poached eggs, berries, homemade granola, and a variety of healthy snacks. The hotel's gleeful decorations will create a magical atmosphere, perfect for the whole family. While you enjoy the music, the little ones can have fun with face painting, glitter tattoos, Christmas colouring, and board games. It's a festive event for all ages! Book your tickets here.
ÉS Bistro: A fabulous Winter Terrace in the festive downtown
This winter, immerse yourself in the magical world of ÉS Bistro's Winter Terrace. Located in the heart of Fashion Street, just steps away from the bustling Vörösmarty tér, it's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the festive season. From November 29th to January 1st, cosy up in the winter lodge, sip on delicious mulled wine, and savour mouthwatering delicacies. Whether you're seeking an intimate moment or a family gathering, ÉS Bistro's Winter Terrace is the ideal spot. Please note that the Winter Terrace is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. It's open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3 pm to 9 pm, Fridays and Saturdays from 12 pm to 10 pm, and Sundays from 12 pm to 8 pm until January 1st. You can also plan a special Sunday lunch or festive dinner at ÉS Bistro. Check here for available dates.
Fermento: A touch of Naples
Fermento, the Italian restaurant on Csalogány utca, has a brand-new autumn/winter menu, packed with seasonal pizzas and warming drinks. The new wine list is sure to create a cosy atmosphere, even on the chilliest of winter evenings. Fermento will host Neapolitan evenings, featuring special menus and authentic Neapolitan vibes. Don't miss out on their pizza frittatas, a unique pizza experience, and the iconic Neapolitan dessert, the baba. At Törzsasztal (‘Regulars') events, you can hear from invited guests about their experiences in Naples. Meanwhile, Team Fermento Hungary is preparing for the World Pizza Champion Games in Rimini, where they placed 7th as the best non-Italian team last year. They're also sharing their expertise through the Fermento Academy, offering workshops with both national and international pizza masters. So, this winter, stop by, learn, and enjoy the authentic taste of Naples at Fermento. Kids and dogs are welcome!
Cat Museum: A Purrfect Escape
Need a 90-minute break from the holiday hustle and bustle? The Cat Museum in downtown Budapest is the purrfect place to go. Mingle with adorable cats like Candy, Anubis, Leonardo, and Pirate, and discover fascinating facts about the feline world while enjoying a warm drink. On winter weekends, join in the fun with painting workshops or mineral bracelet-making events. These are great gifts for yourself or others. You can also meet kittens temporarily rehomed from an animal shelter, looking for their new owners. The admission ticket comes with a free hot drink and there's even a shop selling kitten souvenirs. Remember to book your visit in advance, as the museum is only open to visitors aged 8 and over.
Winter Warm-Up: Estonian Rap and Faithless Live
Live Nation has a hot line-up of shows for December. Kicking off the winter season on December 1st, Estonian rapper TOMM¥ €A$H will be bringing his unique blend of hip-hop to Turbina. From suburban riding sessions in sweatshirts to collaborations with fashion icons like Rick Owens, TOMM¥ €A$H's wild imagination and millions of views on his bizarre music videos have made him a global sensation. Then, on December 6th, legendary electronic act Faithless will return to the Barba Negra stage after a 14-year hiatus. They'll be performing tracks from their new album, Champion Sound, a collection of catchy, danceable tunes that will have you moving all night long.
Hungarian wine for every occasion
A perfect winter's day calls for a glass of Hungarian wine. Whether you're cosying up at your Airbnb or dining out, a good Hungarian wine can enhance any occasion. If you're not sure where to start, the Wines of Hungary agency has some expert tips. For an intimate evening, Egri Bikavér is the perfect choice. This full-bodied red wine offers depth, power, and passion. If you're looking to celebrate a special occasion, champagne is the classic choice. Its elegance and sophistication make it the ideal drink for special occasions. For a traditional Christmas meal, pair a glass of Szekszárd Kadarka with a classic fish chowder. This full-bodied, spicy red wine is a traditional Hungarian pairing. And for a sweet treat, Tokaji Aszú, a renowned Hungarian dessert wine, is the perfect match for delicacies like peach and cream cakes or the popular Hungarian sweet curd-based delicacy, Rákóczi túrós. It can also be enjoyed on its own.
Christmas concert: A festive experience for the whole family
Join the Budafok Dohnányi Orchestra for a special Christmas concert, 'Igazából Karácsony' (Christmas Actually), at the MVM Dome on December 28th. This enchanting concert features a selection of popular international Christmas tunes from classical, jazz, and pop genres. Led by music director Gábor Hollerung, the orchestra, along with aerialists, dancers, and a 150-voice choir, will create a truly magical experience. The concert will also feature special guest performances by Palya Bea, Krisztián Oláh, and Swing à la Django. Don't miss this opportunity to make your Christmas truly special. Tickets are available here.
Vapiano: A Festive Italian Feast
Vapiano's two-storey restaurant on Vörösmarty tér is all dressed up for Christmas, sparkling with festive lights and decorations. It's the perfect spot for a cosy lunch or dinner, especially after a winter stroll. Indulge in a wide range of delicious pasta dishes, creamy risottos, and creative pizzas. This winter, they've also introduced some seasonal specials, including creamy pumpkin soup, pumpkin pasta, and a spicy pumpkin pizza. Warm up with a hot tea or chocolate, or treat yourself to a festive cocktail or glass of wine. And for dessert, choose from a delectable selection of tiramisu, panna cotta, homemade chocolate cake, or cheesecake. While you dine, you can admire the Christmas market through the restaurant's large windows. It's the perfect way to soak up the festive atmosphere.
Royal Guard and Riding Hall: Classic Hungarian flavours in a modern guise
The Royal Guard and Riding Hall, nestled within the historic Buda Castle, offers a truly unique winter experience. The centuries-old walls and majestic views create an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for escaping the winter chill. Indulge in their new winter menu, featuring classic Kaiserschmarrn with five different jams, and a delightful hot apple with honey walnuts. Pair your meal with a warming spiced mulled wine or a special hot syrup. Whether you're gathering with friends, having a family lunch, or enjoying a romantic winter walk, the Royal Guard and Riding Hall is the perfect place to soak up the festive atmosphere. Book your table here.
Spoon: A magical Budapest experience
Enjoy a delightful weekend family lunch and a free boat cruise with Spoon the Boat. Every Saturday and Sunday, you can board the boat at 2:45 pm, right next to the restaurant. Cruise along the Danube River, taking in stunning panoramic views of Budapest's World Heritage sites, including the Parliament, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge. You can hop on and off at various stops, such as Margaret Island, to explore the city at your own pace. With delicious food and breathtaking views, this is the perfect way to experience Budapest. Book your table here.
HelloBuda: Thanksgiving specials and festive activities
Hello Buda, on the slopes of the Buda Hills, is the perfect place to spend a winter day. The food court, located next to the Rózsadomb Shopping Centre, transforms into a magical winter wonderland. From November 23rd, kids can enjoy ice skating, while parents can relax with a glass of mulled wine at the cosy lodge. The covered and heated terrace remains open year-round, offering a variety of dining options. Indulge in Lajos Bíró's famous Buja Disznó(k) delicacies, Cafat's pulled pork and BBQ, Salve's Neapolitan pizzas, or Tom Yum's authentic Asian flavours. And don't forget to try VAJ's delicious pastries and cookies. On Sundays, enjoy live music from noon. HelloBuda is also available for private and corporate events. Check their Facebook page for the latest updates and events.
DiVino: The mulled wine haven
DiVino Wine Bar, nestled near St Stephen's Basilica, has become a beloved tradition at the Advent Basilica Christmas Market. Each year, they enchant visitors with their unique and high-quality hot drinks. This year, DiVino will be present at three locations throughout the market. And when the fair closes, you can continue your festive cheer at the DiVino Wine Terrace. Sample their signature DiVino Winter Blend, a delicious concoction of quality red or white wine, spices, and a whole lot of love. Alternatively, you can also create your own custom mulled wine by adding your favourite shots. For non-alcoholic options, there's punch, hot tea, and hot cinnamon apple juice. Throughout the season, you are invited to collect stamps with each DiVino Winter Blend purchase and redeem them for a free drink. So, make sure to visit DiVino often this season.
KIOSK: Thanksgiving specials and festive activities
KIOSK's new autumn/winter menu is packed with delicious dishes, perfect for the colder months. Indulge in crispy duck legs, rich chocolate soufflés, creamy pumpkin mash, and hearty pumpkin risotto. Don't miss their special mákos guba, a Hungarian classic featuring poppy seed and custard. As the festive season approaches, KIOSK will be offering Thanksgiving specials, including pre-order baby turkeys and on-site dining options for larger groups. Every Sunday at lunchtime, there's a special children's corner, and on December 8th, Santa Claus will be making a visit. Follow KIOSK's Facebook page for the latest updates and festive events. Book your table here.
Stifler House: Party all week long
In the heart of the party district, the Stifler House hosts cocktail parties every day, as well as several dance floors, covered terraces, and live concerts. In winter, doors open at 5:00 pm and the party goes on until 6:00 am, with free admission all night long. Karaoke nights on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays let you belt out your favourite tunes. Challenge your friends to a game of pool, pinball, or foosball, or gather with fellow sports fans to watch live games on the giant LED wall or in private viewing boxes. And if you're feeling peckish, you'll find Beer & Burger in-house, with a selection of burgers and bar snacks to go with your beer. Click here for a detailed programme and book your table in advance.
(Cover photo: Koncz Márton – We Love Budapest)
