1. Indulge in contemporary art at the Art and Antique Budapest
From 6th to 9th February, Budapest will host its biggest-ever classical and contemporary art fair. The Art and Antique Budapest 2025 will bring together 40 galleries showcasing thousands of artworks in the stylish Bálna, a real hub for culture, food, and shopping. Think everything from paintings and sculptures to exquisite furniture, sparkling jewellery, historic weapons, rare books, and stunning carpets – all available to buy.
Details here

2. Catch a horse race at the Trotting Carnival
On 8th February, you can celebrate the approaching carnival season in a unique way: at a race course. Kincsem Park, one of Eastern Europe's most beautiful ones, is about to host a free Trotting Carnival, where you can root for horses at nine exciting races. And don't forget to dress up – the first 500 guests arriving in costume will receive a cup of free tea or mulled wine. Live music will add to the festive atmosphere, and if you're feeling lucky, you might even go home with valuable prizes from the raffle at the end of the day!
Details here

3. Hunt for vintage treasures
If you're a vintage lover and enjoy discovering a city through its thrift shops, we've got you covered. Plus, we're all for buying second-hand – it's more ethical, environmentally friendly, and budget-conscious. So, if you're up for the thrill of the hunt and the prospect of scoring unique, one-of-a-kind items, check out our list of the best second-hand and vintage stores in Budapest.
Details here

4. Watch The Brutalist at an art cinema
The Brutalist has just hit cinemas, and trust us – you should watch it. We might be a little biased, but not just because it was mainly filmed in Hungary. The film features a Hungarian Jewish architect as its main character, and the Hungarian designer behind it was even nominated for an Oscar. The story follows this architect as he moves to America after World War II to pursue his dreams. Catch the film in its original language at art cinemas like Művész or Puskin.
Details here
5. Shop vinyl at one of the world's best record stores
The renowned Financial Times had compiled a list of the best record stores in the world, and among them, Kalóz Records made the cut. It's a cosy store in Budapest's Palace Quarter, tucked behind the National Museum, with a vast selection of vinyl – including rare gems – alongside cassettes and CDs. So if that's something that floats your boat, don't miss out on this gem of a store.
Details here

6. Get your hands on unique gifts at the Makers' Market Budapest
Stock up on handmade pieces at the upcoming Makers' Market. The design market will pop up at Villányi út Conference Centre (Villányi út 11-13) near Móricz Zsigmond körtér on 16th February, to spoil us with a pre-selected array of locally made goodies from over seventy talented designers. Browse jewellery, ceramics, clothes and accessories, graphics, home accessories, packaged delicacies, and gifts! Makers' Market Budapest is all about embracing contemporary design. While you browse, a DJ spins the disk, creating a great atmosphere.
Details here.

7. Breathe fashion at the Budapest Central European Fashion Week
Budapest Central European Fashion Week is ready to showcase the 2025-2026 autumn-winter collections, featuring established Hungarian and regional brands as well as the new generation of designers. Awareness-raising programs, a three-day fashion weekend and several exciting side events are popping up: you can join the Fashion Hub during the weekend to attend free events in Hungarian and English. That entails creative workshops and fashion roundtable discussions, not to mention cherry-picking a wide range of products from Hungarian beauty brands.
Details here

8. Sample one of the world's 100 best dishes in Budapest
TasteAtlas, 'an encyclopedia of flavours, traditional dishes, and authentic restaurants', knows a thing or two about food. And they unveiled their top grubs for 2024/2025, based on 367,847 valid ratings across 11,258 dishes in their database. Hungarian meat soup – or húsleves as it's called locally – snatched the 77th spot, earning praise for its hearty, comforting flavours. It's a must-try when visiting Budapest – trust us, you'll be thankful for its rich, warming goodness on a chilly February day.
Check out where to try it here.

9. Enjoy live music at the Winter Night of Choirs
On 22nd February, you can get a taste of a heartwarming tradition: the Night of Choirs. Organised several times throughout the year, this winter event will fill the air with beautiful music at the House of Music Hungary. Choirs from all over the world will take the stage, and whether you want to join in or simply listen, is up to you. The event usually ends with the final song, sung together by all, creating an unforgettable moment.
Get tickets here

10. Try one of the top experiences in the world in Budapest
Tripadvisor has revealed its 2025 Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Awards. Its first category is 'Top Experiences in the World', where the Budapest Danube Cruise with Buffet Dinner, Performances and Music claimed 8th place. It's relaxation and sightseeing all in one: you can float on the Danube while soaking up Budapest's illuminated skyline. Fine wines and delicious meals accompany the journey, all set to the backdrop of live music.
Details here

(Cover photo: Norbert Juhász - We Love Budapest)