Spending winter in Budapest and looking to stay healthy while you’re here? We’ve got you covered. From nutritious eats to yoga, sound baths, and scenic hikes, here are five ways to recharge – body and soul – while indulging in delicious flavours and uplifting experiences.

Goli Restaurant

Goli, near the Basilica, burst onto the scene a year ago and has quickly made a name for itself. With a focus on Middle Eastern flavours and charcoal-grilled dishes, the restaurant is helmed by chef Harel Zakim, who also runs a vegan restaurant in Israel. While the menu is 90% plant-based, it also features exceptional meats that offer a delightful twist on familiar tastes. Their creamy, homemade labneh, made with soya milk, is a must-try, and the chicken and lamb(the latter being a high-quality ‘Île-de-France' breed) are sourced from small farms. Goli also caters to the growing number of conscious eaters by offering grass-fed steaks, including a matured onglet, known for its superior flavour and leaner profile. They complement their own creations with carefully selected ingredients: sourdough from Pipacs Bakery, authentic pita from Israel, and fresh produce from local farmers. It's no surprise they were awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand at the end of last year.

Napcsillag Yoga Studio

Napcsillag Yoga Studio, dreamed up by yoga instructor Anita Takács and essential oil consultant Dottera, is a special space where the harmony of body and soul is the focus of the classes. It's a truly cohesive community where everyone receives individual attention due to the limited number of participants. The classes are enhanced with the use of different essential oils to raise vibrations and strengthen the immune system, as well as promote deep reflection and relaxation. You can choose from more meditative yin yoga classes, spinal yoga, hatha yoga, hatha flow, more dynamic strengthening classes, and 108 sun salutations, among others. Everyone can find something to their liking here, as they believe that yoga is for everyone, regardless of age or gender, so complete beginners and advanced practitioners are welcome.

Their specialties include the 7 scents, 7 asanas, 7 intuitive instruments class, where aromatherapy, yoga exercises, and healing sounds work in perfect harmony to support physical and spiritual recharging, and sound baths, where Tibetan singing bowls, gong, and intuitive instruments vibrate to help you achieve deeper relaxation and inner peace. In addition to this, they also offer live music with handpan melodies during relaxation, sound baths, and yoga classes. They regularly organise yoga camps locally and abroad and offer discounts for students and seniors. In the harmonious and friendly atmosphere of the studio by the Danube, they offer a place to relax and rejuvenate after a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Centrál Café

Mindful eating often begins with breakfast, and at Centrál Café, you'll find a selection of dishes that are not only filling but also healthy and delicious. This classic, yet completely revamped coffee house offers a mix of Hungarian-inspired dishes and cakes alongside lighter options like the Quinoa Bowl, a protein-rich blend of cereals, pomegranate, avocado, carrot, roasted beetroot, arugula, orange, grapefruit, romaine lettuce, and a touch of orange sauce. The ever-popular avocado toast is another healthy choice, or perhaps you'd prefer a fresh selection of vegetables or the creamy, soft buffalo burrata served on a bed of salad – all excellent ways to start the day. For a lighter treat, the vegan mango chia pudding with crunchy coconut crisps is a must-try. To drink, alongside your classic coffee, consider a matcha latte, a soothing yoga tea, or a refreshing mint tea. At the Centrál, the classic café atmosphere meets modern cuisine, and these healthy dishes are not only beautiful to look at but also guarantee a perfect taste experience.

hummusbar

If you're craving something healthy, quick, and delicious, hummusbar, dotted around the city, is your go-to spot for a feel-good feast. Warm up a chilly day with a vibrant shakshuka, swimming in a spicy tomato sauce and packed with fresh veggies – it's a protein punch and vitamin boost all in one. Chickpeas are the star here, and for good reason. These little wonders are protein powerhouses, perfect for muscle recovery, and loaded with iron, folic acid, magnesium, and B vitamins. Their slow-release carbs keep you going for hours, and the fibre is a dream for your digestion. Plus, they won't send your blood sugar soaring. Bonus points for being plant-based, sustainable, and eco-friendly! Dive into crunchy falafel or creamy hummus. Grab some lavash (Armenian flatbread) on the side – it's yeast-free, lighter, and seriously tasty. And don't forget the fresh salads, perfect as a main or a vibrant addition to your meal. Feeling the winter blues? A hummusbar visit is the perfect pick-me-up!

+1: winter hikes

Embrace the outdoors with a refreshing winter hike! Budapest offers some fantastic options, from the Kecske Hill area to the classic Nagy-Hárs Hill Yellow Trail. Looking to venture further afield? The Börzsöny and Pilis mountains are calling, with spots like Kis and Nagy Csikóvár above Pomáz offering stunning views. We've got plenty more ideas for you here. For those who love a good panorama, there are both easy and more challenging routes to choose from. Educational trails are a great way to combine a walk with learning – check out the Jági Trail in Pilisszentiván, the Gyada Trail at the foot of Naszály, the Jane Goodall Trail in Budapest, or the super-easy Keresztúr Forest Trail. So, wrap up warm and get exploring!

(Cover photo: Norbert Hartyányi - We Love Budapest)

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