What to do in Budapest in November

Budapest is a charming city that shines in the fall. With fall foliage providing a colorful backdrop, cooler temperatures that are perfect for long walks and sightseeing, and fewer tourists than the peak summer months, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in all that this dynamic capital has to offer.

Soak in thermal Baths

Budapest is known for its famous thermal baths, and they are an absolute must-visit. Spend a relaxing morning or afternoon soaking in the warm mineral waters at Szechenyi Baths, Gellert Baths, Király Baths, or Rudas Baths. The cooler fall air makes the steamy waters even more enjoyable.
Read our previous post about the biggest thermal bath of Europe the Széchenyi Fürdő.

For detailed information, visit the official site of Budapest Baths&Spas.

St. Martin’s Day celebrations (Márton Nap)

The patron saint of beggars, renowned for his kindness, calm and modesty was born in Nothern-Hungary. His birthday November the 11th is traditionally celebrated by eating all kinds of goose specialities. According to an old saying: “One who does not eat goose on this day remains hungry throughout the year”.
The perfect accompaniment to the goose dishes is the “new wine” ready for November. Freshly fermented wines are called new wines, which wineries put on the market after the harvest, in the given year, at the beginning of November or even earlier. New wine can be white, rosé or red wine, but their common feature is that they are usually made from early-ripening grape varieties using a reductive process. They owe their light, fresh and fruity taste to the fact that they are bottled shortly after fermentation and are not aged for a long time.
Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge your taste buds, try one of these restaurants or visti the Hungarian Open Air Museum (Skanzen) in Szentendre (a picturesque small town 30 km from Budapest), where you can learn about St. Martin’s day folk customs and taste traditional dishes among the traditional folk buildings.

Christmas Markets

From mid-November through December, pedestrian-friendly Vörösmarty Square – in Budapest city center – transforms into a magical Christmas market and fair. Wooden chalets have local handcrafts, ornaments, and festive foods while concerts and activities entertain visitors. Sip mulled wine to warm up as you shop for unique souvenirs and enjoy the holiday spirit. The iconic Christmas fair is the perfect place to find authentic Hungarian seasonal gifts.

There are several other smaller markets throughout the city as well, like:

• St. Stephan’s Square
• Erzsébet Square
• behind Corvin Plaza
• on the Roof Terrace of the WestEnd Shopping Centre
• at the Castle Bazaar & Garden in Buda
• In Óbuda/distr. III

River cruises

Take in gorgeous views of both Buda and Pest along the Danube by booking a river cruise. You’ll glide under the iconic Chain Bridge and see architectural landmarks like the Parliament Building and Buda Castle from a unique vantage point on the water. Find the best offers HERE 

Renoir exhibiton at Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest

The exhibition of the iconic painter is called Renoir – The Painter and his Models  that explores Renoir’s relationship with the models who inspired his art through paintings, graphic works, and sculptures.

With its rich history, stunning architecture, rejuvenating thermal baths, vibrant arts, and cozy Christmas cheer, November is undoubtedly one of the best times to plan a trip to Budapest. Be sure to bundle up and wear comfortable walking shoes and some warm clothes to fully immerse yourself in all this amazing city has to offer. The memories you make will last a lifetime.