Budapest in January [2024]: a complete guide
- things to dotravel tips
- January 2, 2024
Discover what to do in Budapest in January 2024 with our comprehensive guide. We’ll talk about activities you can do in the city, events for January, accommodation, local cuisine, weather, and much more – we’ve gathered all the practical information for your winter visit. Let’s dive into the essential details to make your Budapest experience memorable this January.
QUICK NAVIGATION LINKS
• Essentials for Budapest
• Budapest weather in January
• Things to do in Budapest in January 2024:
1. Budapest Christmas Market
2. Hungarian Parliament
3. Ice Skating
4. Thermal Baths
5. Buda Castle
6. Danube Promenade
7. Dohány Street Synagogue
8. Danube River Cruise
9. Hungarian Opera House
10. Budapest nightlife
• Budapest Events in January 2024
• Tips to visit Budapest in January
• Budapest in January – what to eat?
• Getting around Budapest in January
• Bottom line – is January a good time to go to Budapest?
Essentials for Budapest in January
- Language: Hungarian
- Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)
- Weather in January: 30.2°F (-1°C) to 26.6°F (-3°C), with some snow and rain
- Country code: +36
- Time Zone: GMT +1
- Power sockets: types C and F
Budapest weather in January
Budapest enjoys a comparatively milder winter in January, with an average temperature of around 30 degrees Fahrenheit – warmer than many other Eastern European locales.
However, it’s still cold, as Winter, Hungary’s coldest season, extends from December to March. Although the city can witness some snowfall, sometimes up to 15 inches in a single day (and some rain too), January offers a favorable time to experience Budapest. And despite the chilly weather, the city has a lot of activities – indoor and outdoor too!
Will it snow in Budapest in January?
Yes, Budapest typically experiences snowfall in January. It’s normal to have cool temperatures and occasional snowfall throughout the month, so you should pack your warmest clothes.
How should I dress for Budapest in January?
In Budapest’s January chill, it’s best to dress warmly and in layers. Consider a winter coat, a jumper, a hat, gloves, and a scarf to shield against the cold temperatures, which can range from freezing to a few degrees above. Comfortable, insulated footwear is essential for walking on potentially icy surfaces. Layering allows you to adjust to indoor heating.
What is the coldest month in Budapest?
January is typically the coldest month in Budapest. During this time, temperatures often hover around freezing or slightly below, making it the peak of winter in the Hungarian capital. If you plan to visit in January, be prepared for chilly weather and the possibility of snowfall.
Is Budapest rainy in January?
In January, Budapest weather is bitterly cold, with an average temperature of -30.2°F (-1°C) and lows reaching 26.6°F (-3°C). The city typically has around 11 rainy days throughout the month, with an average rainfall of 40mm. Also, high cloud coverage limits sunshine – therefore you should be prepared for the cold weather and the possibility of both rain and snow.
Things to do in Budapest in January 2024:
1. Experience Budapest Christmas market (last days)
This is something you can only do on the first day of the year, but still worth to note: experiencing the festive charm of Christmas markets in Budapest is a must during the winter season, and one of the best things to do in Budapest in January. The largest and most popular Christmas market unfolds in Vörösmarty Square, an lasts until the 1st of January. But this is not the only Christmas market open that day – in St. Stephen’s Basilica you’ll find the second most famous Advent in Budapest.
Location: Budapest, Vörösmarty tér, 1051
On the 1st of January, Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market will still be open from 11am to 5pm, while the one in front of the Basilica goes from 11am to 6pm.
2. Explore the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament
The Budapest Parliament, designed by Imre Steindl, stands as a prominent symbol in Budapest. Constructed in 1902, it ranks as the third largest parliament globally. This Neo-Gothic structure features a facade adorned with sculptures, statues, and details inspired by Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque styles. Both externally and internally symmetrical, the building encompasses a total of 691 rooms, with one parliamentary room on each side. While one hall remains dedicated to the sessions of the Hungarian National Assembly, the other serves for ceremonies, conferences, and tours.
Observing the Parliament from the outside is already an experience itself, due to the building’s magnificence. But alternatively, a 45-minute tour of the Hungarian Parliament is available, with tickets purchasable online or on-site.
Location: Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055
About the tours to the Parliament
The tour places a special focus on key areas such as the “Grand Hall” and the Upper House, while also covering other attractions. Additionally, participants have the option to choose between a tour guide or an audio guide for an enriched experience.
• EEA citizens: HUF 5,000 (HUF 2,500 for ages 6-24)
• Non-EEA citizens: HUF 10,000 (HUF 5,000 for ages 6-24)
• Tour duration: 45 minutes
• Opening hours in January: Monday to Sunday, from 8 am to 4 pm
3. Try ice skating in Budapest
Budapest in January is a great place for ice skating enthusiasts, with at least 6 places working every week. But the most famous and picturesque is probably the City Park Ice Rink, just very close to Heroes Square. It offers a magical experience, set against the fairytale backdrop of Vajdahunyad Castle and Városliget Café. This rink transforms from a boating lake in summer to a vast ice rink in winter, offering a unique and enchanting winter activity. Its amazin setting and size make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the charm of Budapest in winter.
Open on:
• Mondays to Fridays: from 9 am to 1 pm and from 5 to 9 pm
• Saturdays: from 10 am to 2 pm and from 4 to 9 pm
• Sundays: from 10 am to 2 pm and from 4 to 8 pm
Prices:
Entry on weekdays until noon on Friday: ~ €6
Entry on weekends: ~ €8,5
Skate rental: ~ €7,5
Website here.
4. Relax in Budapest thermal baths
The thermal baths in Budapest, a notable legacy from the Ottoman era, are an attraction in the city. These baths offer therapeutic waters and spaces for relaxation, drawing both locals and tourists.
Especially in January, Budapest thermal baths gain a special flavor – just imagine yourself under warm water in an outdoors pool, possibly while it’s snowing, watching a grandiou building around you. And there are several options. In each thermal bath you have numerous pools, saunas, and massages. Just make sure you check which ones are the best thermal baths in Budapest first, and pick your favorite.
Our top 2 thermal baths:
Szechényi, located in the City Park on the Pest side, is probably the most popular option. Constructed in neo-baroque style in 1913, its grandious building has 18 natural water pools and various saunas. The daily ticket for 1 person costs HUF 9400, but there’s other options.
→ Location here.
Gellért, another iconic option located on the Buda side, features multiple pools and saunas within its 19th-century establishment, now designed in the Art-Nouveau style. The price per person for the daily ticket also starts at HUF 9,400.
→ Location here.
5. Tour the Buda Castle
Buda Castle remains an attractive destination in January, despite Budapest’s cold winter months. Its majestic architecture and rich history provide a captivating indoor experience, sheltering visitors from the chill.
The castle’s interior, housing the Hungarian National Gallery, Budapest History Museum, and National Széchenyi Library, offers a diverse range of cultural and historical insights, ideal for those seeking indoor activities. Additionally, the winter scenery (possibly a white one) adds a unique charm to the castle’s panoramic views of the Danube and the city, making Budapest as picturesque as it gets.
Opening hours:
• Gardens and courtyard: Open every day, 24 hours a day. Ticket might be required during festivals.
• Palace: Can be visited according to the Gallery and Museum opening times.
• National Gallery: Open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10am and 6pm.
• National Széchényi Library: Open from 10 AM to 6 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and from 9 AM to 7 PM on Saturday and Friday, with the exception of being closed on Sundays and Mondays.
• Budapest History Museum: Open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10am and 6pm, but during autumn and winter months, the palace closes at 4pm.
6. Stroll along the Danube Promenade
The Danube Promenade in Budapest, stretching between the Chain Bridge and Elizabeth Bridge, is an inviting location for a riverside walk. It features stunning views and historical sites, including Pest’s oldest church (built in 1046), Marcius 15 Square with Roman remains, and a statue of poet Sándor Petőfi. Along the promenade, visitors can enjoy luxury hotels, terrace bars, quaint cafes, restaurants, and casinos. In the evening, the illuminated Danube transforms the area into a romantic setting, contributing to Budapest’s nickname as the “Paris of the East.
Location: Március 15. tér
7. Visit the Dohány Street Synagogue
The Dohány Street Synagogue, or The Great Synagogue, stands as the largest synagogue in Europe, capable of hosting over 3,000 people. Built between 1854 and 1859, its style marries Moorish and Neo-Moorish influences, and it has some notable features that include Corinthian columns, arches, colored stained glass, and a pipe organ. Additionally, the synagogue houses a memorial to Hungarian Jewish soldiers who served in World War I, the Hungarian Jewish Museum and the Raoul Wallenberg Holocaust Memorial Park.
Location: Budapest, Dohány u. 2, 1074 Hungary
Admission rates
• HUF 9,000 per adult
• HUF 7,100 for students
• HUF 3,300 for children aged 6-12
*alternatively, there are many tour companies selling packages that incorporate visits to the Synagogue as part of tours covering the entire Jewish Quarter.
8. Embark on a Danube River Cruise
Budapest, often called the “Paris of the East”, provides a captivating experience along the Danube with its river cruises. These boat tours range from themed celebrations of local traditions to night cruises under a starlit sky. The options are diverse: you have 1h cruises or longer ones, wine cruises, sightseeing cruises, some featuring folk dance performances, live music serenades or lively boat parties. Each offers a distinctive experience, and it’s good to do your own research before booking your cruise.
Prices depend on cruise duration, amenities, and package inclusions. Many options have affordable rates, starting at approximately 10-15 euros.
9. Tour the Hungarian State Opera House
The Budapest Opera House, inaugurated in 1884 and designed by architect Miklós Ybl, is one of Budapest’s most prestigious landmarks. This neo-Renaissance building, second largest stage in Europe, enchants visitors with its stunning facade and lavish interior. It offers not only captivating opera, ballet, and artistic performances but also guided tours of the facility.
Location: Budapest, Andrássy út 22, 1061 Hungary
Entry for the tours costs HUF 9,000 per person, with a group rate of HUF 5,000 per person. It takes about 60 minutes and starts daily at 1 pm, 3 pm and 4.30 pm in English (includes a 10 min. concert).
10. Explore Budapest nightlife in January
Budapest’s nightlife has a lot to offer, even during the coldest month of the year:
Ruin bars. One of the best things to do in Budapest will undoubtedly be the ruin pubs, nestled in old World War II buildings, offering a unique nightlife experience. Key spots include Szimpla Kert – the bustling hub in the Jewish Quarter – Instant & Fogas Ház or Morrison’s 2 for some dancing, or Mazel Tov, for great food.
Akvárium Klub. Centrally located in Budapest, this club stands out for its renowned DJs and live acts. Set in a sunken courtyard near the former main bus station, it features split-level bars and various indoor spaces suitable for both vibrant and intimate events. It’s perfect for diverse musical genres.
360 Bar. Perched atop a historic department store on Andrássy út, the 360 Bar offers stunning panoramic views of Budapest. And in January it’s all about cozy, heated igloos and warming drinks. The bar features DJs, prime snacks, and breathtaking vistas. Reservations are recommended, particularly for igloo bookings around Christmas.
The Jewish District. Also known as the heart of Budapest’s vibrant nightlife, it has lots of dining and entertainment options. Also, within this bustling “party district,” Gozsdu-Udvar is a lively hub, characterized by its corridor-like layout brimming with restaurants, bars, karaokes, and nightclubs. And the streets of Király and Kazinczy add more options to a have a fun time, with more ruin bars and clubs.
Discover the best ruin bars in Budapest to go in January.
Budapest in January 2024: events
• Concert at St. Stephen’s Basilica: consisting on an organ/string concert special concert, it’s scheduled for January 1st (and every Sunday) from 8 pm, for approximately 70 minutes. Location here.
• Classical music concert at Matthias Church: on January 3rd, 2024, at 19:00, Matthias Church, in Buda’s historic old town, will host a classical music concert featuring the Budapest Duna String Orchestra. The performance will include compositions by renowned composers such as Bach, Handel, Mozart, and Vivaldi. Location here.
• Exhibition ‘Renoir – The painter and his models’ is hosted by the Budapest Museum of Fine Arts until January 7, 2024, in collaboration with Musée d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie in Paris. It showcases the work of Pierre-Auguste Renoir, a celebrated Impressionist painter. The Museum is open on Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 am to 6 pm, and closes on Mondays. Location here.
• Exhibition ‘The Illusion of Time’, at Mai Manó House of Photography, until January 14, 2024, about Ruth Orkin (1921-1985), acclaimed as one of the finest photographers of her era and an award-winning photojournalist and filmmaker that was recognized in 1959 as one of the “Ten Best Women Photographers in the United States”. The Musem is open from 2-7 pm on weekdas, and from 11am – 7pm on weekends. Location here.
• Alternative music concerts: you can find several alternative smaller music events happening in January, including concerts in places like Akvarium Club, Telep or Szimpla Kert. Here’s an updated list.
• BudaFest 2024 dance festival is set for January 3-7 and promises an exhilarating dance experience at Hotel InterContinental Budapest. It features renowned West Coast Swing instructors, focused workshops, and new competition structures, blending learning and fun for a memorable dance extravaganza. Registration opened on August 15, 2023.
• The Nutcracker: on the 3rd, 5th and 6th of January you can visit the Hungarian State Opera and see the ballet show in this historical building. You can also find The Bat will also be on throughout January.
• ‘Onegin’ Ballet: Choreographer John Cranko revives Pushkin’s melancholic tale with Tchaikovsky’s music in a three-act ballet. The tickets can be bought on the Opera’s official website, and the show will be on during several days in January.
• Wedding Fair and Exhibition: on January 27-28, Budapest hosts a Wedding Fair and Exhibition at the Budapest Sports Arena. This event showcases an array of wedding dresses, accessories, décor, and various venues across Hungary, offering a splendid experience for those interested in wedding planning and trends. Location here.
Tips to visit Budapest in January
• Try to book your tickets in advance: secure your Budapest trip tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially since January is a quieter tourist season.
• Have some guided tours: you can get a tour to some of the main attractions of Budapest, like the Parliament, Castle District, or a city free-tour, for in-depth insights and a comprehensive understanding of each site.
• Wear comfortable footwear: Prepare for extensive walking in Budapest’s streets with suitable shoes.
• Pack your winter clothing: bring warm attire and essentials, as January in Budapest is notably cold.
• Try the Hungarian Cuisine: Sample traditional dishes like goulash, langós or chicken paprikash.
• Go for some Ice Skating in City Park: this is surely a must-do – but even if you’re not into sports, you’ll certainly enjoy the view of the rink in front of Vajdahunyad Castle.
• Avoid the excessive currency exchange fees: familiarize yourself with the Hungarian Forint and use a multi-currency card like Wise, thus paying just a minimum amount for money conversion (they have both physical and virtual card options).
• Learn a few Hungarian basics to enhance your interaction with locals, like ‘Szia’ (means “hello” and is pronounced exactly like “Seeya”); or ‘Köszönöm’ (means “thank you”, as sounds like “Kuh-suh-nam”).
Budapest in January - what to eat?
Exploring Budapest’s culinary landscape in January offers a delightful way to experience the city’s rich gastronomic traditions, even in the chill of winter. Hungarian cuisine, known for its robust flavors and heartwarming dishes, provides a perfect antidote to the cold weather, from classic soups and stews to unique street foods and sweet treats:
• Goulash: A quintessential Hungarian dish, Goulash is a hearty soup with tender beef chunks, potatoes, and carrots, simmered in a rich broth. It’s a nourishing and flavorful choice for Budapest’s winter.
• Halászlé: A spicy fisherman’s soup, traditionally made with river fish and a generous amount of paprika, perfect for warming up in January.
• Kürtőskalács: Also known as chimney cake, this sweet, spiral-shaped pastry is a popular street food, perfect for a dessert or snack while exploring the city.
• Hortobágyi Palacsinta: Savory pancakes filled with meat (usually veal or chicken) in a creamy paprika sauce, a delightful fusion of traditional flavors.
• Lángos: A popular street food, Lángos are deep-fried flatbreads topped traditionally with sour cream and cheese. Modern variations include a variety of toppings, making them a perfect snack to accompany drinks.
• Pörkölt: Similar to goulash but thicker, this stew is made with meat (often beef or pork), onions, and plenty of paprika, usually served with noodles or dumplings.
• Töltött Káposzta: A traditional Hungarian delight, these are cabbage leaves stuffed with a mix of onion, egg, rice, and seasoned minced pork. Laid over sauerkraut and topped with smoked bacon, this dish is both tasty and filling.
• Chicken Paprikash: A testament to Hungary’s love for paprika, this dish features chicken stewed in a thick, creamy paprika-infused sauce. Variations with different meats are also common.
• Rakott Krumpli: This layered potato dish is baked with sour cream and hard-boiled eggs, often accompanied by Hungarian Kolbasz sausage. It can be a standalone meal or a side dish, sometimes paired with pickles.
Discover the best restaurants in Budapest in January.
Getting around Budapest in January
Navigating Budapest in January is straightforward and efficient.
For those who enjoy walking, the city is quite pedestrian-friendly, though distances might be long and…it will be cold.
• The tramlines 2, 4, and 6, along with three subway lines, offer convenient access to most key areas of the city. To traverse the length of Andrassy Avenue, from Heroes Square to Deak Ferenc ter with a stop at the Opera, the historic line number 1 subway is your ideal choice.
• Additionally, buses and trolley buses operate across 13 routes in Pest, further expanding your transportation options in the city.
• Bolt (similar to Uber) ia a quick and economical option when it comes to taxis, especially during night hours when public transport is less frequent.
• The MOL Bubi public bike system, accessible via its own dedicated app, is an excellent choice for shorter distances. Just remember to dress warmly for bike rides in the chilly weather.
Check our article if you want to know how to get from Budapest airport to the city center.
Bottom line: is January a good time to go Budapest?
January is a great time to visit Budapest. While the first month of the year may not top the list for preferred travel time in Budapest, it actually has a unique appeal during the off-season. With the closure of Christmas Markets in the first week, the city experiences a tranquil lull, offering a quieter and less crowded atmosphere for those seeking a more relaxed exploration.
More Budapest monthly guides