Budapest in May 2024: events, things to do and more
A complete visitor's guide to Budapest in May
- things to do
- April 17, 2024
May is a great month to visit Budapest: the city gets hot, the parks are green, and the sun is out. And there’s a lot happening, a lot that you can do, reason why we’ve decided to make this guide for you.
In this article, you’ll find the best tips to visit the city, what weather to expect, what are the best things to do in Budapest in May, what events are on, and much more.
Happy readings, and happy travels!
Budapest weather in May
First, so that you know what to count on – the weather. And Budapest in May is quite warm. The city starts to have higher temperatures, giving that feeling that summer is just around the corner. Some days might reach maximum temperature of around 30ºC (86ºF), or even more.
Is Budapest warm in May?
In Budapest, May is that month where you start feeling a progressive transition from spring to summer. With temperatures gradually warming up, daytime highs typically hover around 19-20°C (66-68°F), reaching around 23°C (73-74°F) towards the end of the month. However, don’t be surprised if you encounter a few exceptionally warm afternoons, especially as May draws to a close, soaring up to 30°C (86°F).
Is it rainy in Budapest in May?
Typically, Budapest sees in May a moderate amount of rainfall, though usually it’s not excessively rainy. But it’s still considered one of the rainiest months of the year, with an average of about 60-70 millimeters of rainfall throughout the month, spread over around 10-15 days (approximately).
Sunlight hours
In May, Budapest basks in increasing sunlight, around 14 to 15 hours of daylight on average. And as the month progresses, the days gradually lengthen – the sun sets at around 8:00 PM at the beginning of the month, and at 8:30 PM at the end.
What to wear in Budapest in May?
May is a great month to be in Budapest, but it adds to the warmer temperatures some chances of rain. So, make sure you pack t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and light sweaters or cardigans for layering; comfortable pants and shorts that accommodate fluctuating temperatures; a light jacket or a rain coat; and definitely make sure to bring sun protection.
Budapest essentials
- Language: Hungarian
- Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)
- Average temperatures: 9°C (48°F) to 23°C (74°F)
- Country code: +36
- Time Zone: GMT +1
- Power sockets: types C and F
Budapest events in May 2024
If you’re seeking music concerts, festivals, exhibitions or other events happening in Budapest in May 2024, have a look at our curated list, and make the most of your time in town.
➡️ Quick links to Budapest events in May 2024:
• Festivals on Labor’s Day (May 1st)
• Budapest100: Community festival of open houses
• Museum Festival
• EU run & Europe Day Festival
• Gourmet Festival in Buda
• Music concerts
• Budapest Opera
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Hungarian National Gallery
• Museum of Ethnography
• Szimpla Kert’s record fair
🎉 Festivals on May Day, the International Worker's Day
• When: May 1st, 2024
• Where: In multiple locations
There’s a number of festival happening on this lively day in Budapest, and many of them have free entrance. Here’s a list:
May Day Festival, in Városháza Park (City Hall Park), free entry, local food, concerts, activities for kids, etc.
Picnic in Budapest City Park – in Városliget, free entry, local food, concerts, activities for kids, etc.
Tabán Festival – in Tabán (District I), free entry, music concerts, from 3:30 to 8:30 PM.
🏠 Budapest100: Community festival of open houses
• Theme: “Buildings of the 70’s”
• When: May 9-12, 2024
• Where: In multiple locations
• Full program here
Budapest100 is an annual event celebrating the architectural and cultural heritage of Budapest through open houses. This year, the theme is the buildings of the 70’s. Expect talks (many of them in English), guided tours, exhibitions, and…open houses, of course.
The initiative invites residents and visitors to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, showcasing iconic buildings and hidden gems, and telling Budapest’s stories. Each year, a different theme highlights various aspects of Budapest’s history and architecture. The idea is to foster appreciation for the city’s cultural heritage while promoting community engagement. Everyone is invited to join!
🖼️ Museum festival - The 27th May Day of Museums
• When: May 25th, 26th 2024
• Where: Hungarian National Museum
At the National Museum in Budapest and its gardens, visitors have access to approximately 100 museums in one location. The two-day weekend festival features concerts, workshops, guided tours of museum exhibits, and lots of activities for children.
🏃 “20 yrs – 20 k” – EU run & Europe Day Festival
• May 12th, 2024 (10 AM – 2 PM)
• Szabadság Square
• Full program & registration here (free)
This yearly run celebrates, in 2024, the fact that Hungary has entered the European Union 20 years ago. You can participate in solo or in teams of two or three, but make sure to register in advance, as there’s a limit of 2000 individual participants and 700 teams. It’s free of charge!
And after the run, there’s a festival in Szabadság Square, with music concerts, events for children, and quizzes.
🍲 Gourmet Festival in Buda
• Theme: “Feminine Energies”
• When: May 24-26, 2024
• Where: Millenáris Park
• List of exhibitors: here
• Prices: 1 day – 6,500 HUF / 3 days – 12,900 HUF
From Friday to Sunday, you’ll have a gourmet festival, focused on local food (though international one is there too!). You’ll find stands from restaurants and bistros, street food, cake shops, bakeries, wine shops and pálinka breweries, etc. This year, you can see and try from more than 80 exhibitors. And the main theme will be the female chefs, confectioners, bakers and producers, who are taking on an growing role in this world.
🎸 Concerts in Budapest in May
• May program: here
There will be numerous concerts and Dj sets in Budapest in May. Here’s a list of our favorites:
• Barabás Lörinc – Budapest Jazz Club, May 1st
• Gold Panda – A38 Hajó, May 3rd
• Jolly Jackers – Dürer Kert, May 4th
• Kornél Esti – Budapest Park, May 9th
• Public Memory – A38 Hajó, May 15th
• Thirty Seconds to Mars – MVM Dome, May 16th
• Funk Tribu – Arzenál, May 17th
• Electro Deluxe – MOM Kulturális Központ, May 18th
• Palaye Royalae – Barba Negra, May 30th
🩰 Budapest Opera in May
• Complete May program: here
Here’s a list with the main events in Budapest Opera in May:
• La Fille du Régiment – MVM Operadventure (comic opera) – May 2, 4, 10, 12, 17, 22, 26
• Boris Godunov (opera) – May 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 15, 18
• Carmina Burana (scenic cantata) – May 4, 5, 8, 11
• Lisette Oropesa (concert) – May 12
• The Pygmalion Effect (ballet) – May 16, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 31
• Война и Мир (War and Peace) (opera) – May 22, 25, 28, 31
🖼️ Museum of Fine Arts in May
• Entire program here.
Temporary exhibitions in May:
• Kertész, Moholy-Nagy, Capa… / Hungarian Photographers in America (1914–1989) – exhibition with over 30 photographers, like André Kertész, László Moholy-Nagy, Martin Munkácsi, and Robert Capa, showcasing the Hungarian-American photo history. It features famous artists alongside lesser-known ones.
Some of their permanent exhibitions that you can see in May:
• Halls of the Museum of Fine Arts (Romanesque, Renaissance, Baroque)
• Ancient Egypt
• Variations on the Baroque – Art in Hungary (1600-1800)
• Classical Antiquity
• European Sculpture 1350-1800
• European Art 1250-1800
🖼️ Hungarian National Gallery in May
• Entire program here.
Temporary exhibitions in May:
• When Dolls Speak – Retrospective Exhibition of Margit Anna (1913–1991) – celebrating Margit Anna, a leading figure in Hungarian painting of the 20th century, the Museum displays 220 of her paintings and graphics.
Some of their permanent exhibitions:
• Variations on Realism – From Munkácsy to Mednyánszky – the art of Mihály Munkácsy, featuring collections from local and international sources, arranged into six thematic variations.
• Gothic Art in the Hungarian Kingdom, 1300–1500 – the biggest collection of winged altars, panel paintings, and wooden sculptures from the Kingdom of Hungary.
• Late Gothic Winged Altarpieces – wooden sculptures and panel paintings from the late Middle Ages.
• Nude Sculptures from the Turn of the Century – marble statues by Hungarian artists, embracing naturalism and art nouveau, from the turn of the last century to the 1920s.
• Art in the 19th Century – with 150 paintings, 40 sculptures, 40 medals, and 33 applied art objects, the museum shows Hungarian fine art from 1810 to 1900.
• Shifts – Updated! – the history of Hungarian art after 1945, showcasing interconnected generations, artist collectives, and individual trajectories.
• Modern Times – Hungarian Art Between 1896 and World War II – Hungarian art between 1896 and 1945
🖼️ Museum of Ethnography in May
Entire program here.
Temporary exhibitions in May:
• Yanomami. Spirits. Survivors – photo exhibition
Photo exhibition by Claudia Andujar, a Hungarian-origin photographer renowned for her work with Amazonian tribes. Exhibition in collaboration with São Paulo’s Vermelho Gallery.
• Together: Images of Inaktelke 2000-2002 – the life of a village in Kalotaszeg and the community relations that run the village.
Some of their permanent exhibitions:
• ZOOM: A Change in Perspectives
Collection of more than two hundred thousand artefacts, along with several hundred thousand photographs, drawings, manuscripts, audio recordings, and films.
• Ceramics Space: Ceramics of the World – exploration of over 35,000 ceramic objects from five continents ceramics. Divided into two parts akin to the hemispheres of the human brain.
• Drawn-Up Books III.: Tamás Füredi: Pentala – experimental space where contemporary artists draw on a black painted surface.
💿 Record Fair at Szimpla Kert
• Entire Szimpla’s program here
• May 4th, from 12 to 6 PM – record fair
Find the latest vinyl records or and the oldes treasures in this monthly event happening in the iconic ruin bar Szimpla kért.
Things to do in Budapest in May
As May arrives in Budapest and the weather begins to ask for t-shirt and shorts, it’s important to know that things you can do. You have historic sites to visit, local food to try, baths to soak in, night outs, river cruises, parks and so much more. But let’s have a look the main things to do in Budapest in May.
1. Go museum hopping
Budapest is a city full of history and museums, and May, with its pleasant temperatures, is a great month to do that. From exhibits spotlighting Hungarian artists to international showcases, and from glimpses into Hungary’s past to reflections on its tumultuous 20th-century, Budapest offers options to satisfy every curiosity. Whether you’re drawn to classical masterpieces, contemporary works, or interactive displays, there’s something to captivate every visitor.
Oh, and f you’re on a budget, you might want to know that in Budapest, museums have free admission on certain days. Have a look:
Free Museums
(on selected dates, for adults under 26 or children under 18 accompanied by two adult parents or caretakers)
Free on May 1st (Labor day):
• Hungarian National Museum
• The Museum of Ethnography
• Hungarian National Gallery
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Natural History Museum
• Hungarian Railway Museum
Free on May 5th (first Sunday of May):
• Natural History Museum
• House of Terror
Free on May 18th (third Saturday of May):
• Hungarian National Museum
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Hungarian National Gallery
• Hungarian Folk Museum
Free on May 25th (last Saturday of May):
• Budapest History Museum
• Aquincum Museum
• Hungarian Technical and Transport Museum
Additionally, this year you have the Museum Festival (May 25-26), making it possible to “visit” 100 museums for free in the Hungarian National Museum and its garden.
2. Marvel at the Hungarian Parliament
The Budapest Parliament, a symbol of the Hungarian history and cultural heritage, is one of the largest in the world, and – we dare to say – one of the most beautiful. It was built between 1885-1992 to commemorate the nation’s millennial anniversary.
The building blends Neo-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance, and Neo-Baroque elements. And with an impressive tally of 691 rooms, it’s the house of the Hungarian governance, the Hungarian Assembly and the Hungarian Holy Crown.
While a guided tour to its interior is definitely worth the money, a simple stroll through the Parliament gardens already offers a glimpse of its beauty. And for greater views over the building, head to Batthyány Square, Géllert Hill, or Margaret Bridge.
Exploring the Parliament
The Parliament’s exterior is quite amazing, but a guided tour will give you more of its history, architecture and riches.
About the tours:
• EEA citizen: HUF 6,000 (HUF 3,000 for ages between 6-24)
• Non-EEA citizen: HUF 12,000 (HUF 6,000 for ages between 6-24)
• Duration: Approx. 45 minutes
Opening hours in May: 8 AM to 6 PM
Location: Budapest, Kossuth Lajos tér 1-3, 1055
3. Relax in the thermal baths
In May, Budapest’s thermal baths are an ideal retreat and almost a mandatory experience for anyone spending a few days in town. And May can be a quite nice time to visit them, with mild weather and fewer crowds before peak tourist season.
Know for the mineral-rich waters and the beauty of its buildings, these baths will provide you a relaxed time and health benefits amidst stunning architectural backdrops.
If you don’t know which one to visit, then take note: Gellért Bath’s Art Nouveau charm and Széchenyi Thermal Bath’s outdoor pools are quite particular, and not by chance the two most famous. Bathing in these waters is a cultural experience deeply ingrained in Hungarian tradition, and a must-do for visitors of all ages.
• Read more about Széchenyi thermal baths
Location: Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 9-11, 1146
• Read more about the Gellért baths
Location: Budapest, Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118
4. Admire the Budapest Opera House
Exploring the Hungarian Opera House can be a splendid addition to your Budapest itinerary any time of the year, including in May.
In terms of architecture, Budapest Opera is a a neo-Renaissance masterpiece with opulent interiors that’s worth the visit, even if you don’t go in. But the guided tours provide a deeper understanding of its significance and history,
However, the real highlight can be the ballet and opera performances. May 2024 will have captivating world-class shows like Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana and Prokofiev’s War and Peace, promising unforgettable evenings.
Budapest Opera Tours:
• Individual ticket: HUF 9,000
(Groups: HUF 5,000 per person)
* Lasts 60 minutes and ends with a 10-minute concert interlude.
Location: Budapest, Andrássy út 22, 1061 Hungary
5. Try the local food
Here’s another thing you can do in Budapest in May: a food tour to discover the city’s vibrant culinary landscape. As the temperatures rise, you can wander through lively markets and quaint streets guided by locals that will help you unveil the secrets of Hungarian gastronomy.
But even if you don’t go on tours, do make sure to try classics like the goulash soup, lángos, or the dobos cake. For a refreshing twist, sample creamy cold fruit soups perfectly suited to the changing weather.
Additionally, May offers a splendid opportunity to explore Hungarian wines. Accompany your culinary journey with local varieties like Tokaji Furmint, Egri Bikavér, or Somlói Juhfark. Or, if you’re struggling with a hot afternoon, just have a glass of Fröccs (soda with white wine)…and that should solve your problems!
Looking for fooding tours? There are many options
Wether you want more intimate walking tours focused on street food, or more complete dining journeys, you can see some here.
Read more about our list of the best restaurants in Budapest.
6. Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica
In May, amidst the blossoming of spring, St. Stephen’s Basilica stands as a majestic emblem of neoclassical architecture, commanding attention in the heart of Budapest.
This cultural and spiritual landmark was built in 1905 to honor Hungary’s first king, and it holds great architectural and cultural importance. Its soaring dome, 96 meters tall, offers panoramic views of Budapest. However, it’s the interior that will truly amaze you: adorned with great detail and magnificent frescoes, the sight of the dome from within is simply breathtaking. Do pay a visit if you have time.
St. Stephen’s Basilica entry fees:
• Church: HUF 2,300
• Terrace & Treasury: HUF 4,300
• Church, Terrace & Treasury: HUF 6,000
*a discount applies to children 18, students and seniors (over 65, EEA citizens).
7. Go on a walking tour
Exploring Budapest on foot in May, with its mild temperatures, can be a great experience, during the day or once the night settles.
From the historic Castle District to the lively Jewish Quarter, each corner unveils new discoveries – and having a knowledgeable guide makes it all the more enriching.
Whether you’re drawn to the city’s landmarks, interested in the hidden gems, or intrigued by history, there’s always a walking tour in Budapest tailored to you. And it can be a budget-friendly way to learn more about the city too.
There are many options of free walking tours in Budapest:
GuruWalk, FreeTour, Trip to Budapest.
8. Admire the glowing bridges at night
Another way to explor Budapest is actually by checking the city at night, including the Buda Castle, the Parliament, and the main bridges of Budapest: the Chain Bridge, the Liberty Bridge, Elizabeth Bridge, and Margaret Bridge.
A 1 hour walk along the Danube between Margaret and Liberty bridges will give you stunning views of all fours bridges, and they all glow once the sun starts setting. It’s by far one of the best things to do in Budapest, so get your camera (or phone ready) to capture the essence of the also called “Paris of the East”.
Here’s a bit of info about the Chain Bridge, perhaps the most famous bridge in Budapest:
In case you do this walk at night – you’ll also find a glowing Parliament, not far from Margaret Bridge (the building, on Pest side, is better seen from the Buda side). And if you walk close to the Chain Bridge from Pest side, you’ll see a beautifully illuminated Buda Castle on the background.
9. Have fun in Budapest's nightlife
As May unfolds, Budapest’s nightlife scene gains momentum, drawing crowds to its bars, pubs, and clubs. Here are some recommendations for where to experience it:
Ruin Bars: These iconic establishments, housed in restored WWII-era buildings, are essential stops on any Budapest nightlife itinerary. Whether at Anker’t, Ellátó Kert, Instant-Fogás, or the renowned Szimpla Kert, expect an atmosphere brimming with charm, authenticity, and plenty of entertainment.
Gozsdu Udvar: Gozsdu is a vibrant courtyard in the Jewish Quarter, that transforms from a cultural hub by day to a bustling nightlife hotspot after dark, boasting lots of cafes, bars, and boutiques.
Bálna: Along the riverside lies Bálna, offering a picturesque setting for afternoon strolls or having a glass of wine. With its backdrop of Liberty Bridge and the city skyline, it’s the perfect place to catch the sunset and kickstart your evening.
Rooftop Bars: You can also elevate your experience at rooftop bars like the 360º or the High Note SkyBar. Ideal for those wanting to combine a drink or two with panoramic views of Budapest.
Related articles:
• Szimpla kert: full guide
• Best ruins bars in Budapest
• A guide to Budapest’s nightlife
10. Go for a stroll in Margaret Island
Exploring Margaret Island in Budapest during May is a great way to enjoy the spring. The island’s lush greenery and vibrant blossoms create an enchanting setting.
You can anticipate vast parks and picturesque views along the Danube River, meandering pathways, a musical fountain, perfect gardens, ruins, and much more.
Whether you’re looking for some peace and time in Nature, seeking a tranquil escape, or wanting to explore the island’s landmarks, this island, in the center of Budapest, has a lot to offer.
And as night falls, in case you’re still in the island, be sure to catch the view of the Parliament from beneath Margaret Bridge—it’s a sight not to be missed!
Margaret Island – attractions:
Margaret Island offers many attractions, suitable for all: picturesque pathways for romantic strolls, to ancient castle ruins ripe for exploration, a zoo, rose gardens, an outdoor theatre, a Japanese garden, a vibrant musical fountain, baths and pools, children playgrounds, sports facilities, restaurants and bars, and much more.
Location: Budapest, Jászai Mari tér 3, 1137
Tips to visit Budapest in May
• Get a Budapest Card for free museum entries, discounts, and inclusive public transportation or a Budapest Travel Card for the best public transportation deals.
• Book tickets in advance to skip long lines during the busy tourist season.
• Enjoy Budapest’s parks like Margaret Island and City Park for the spring blooms.
• Don’t miss the main attractions, like the Parliament, Castle District, or the Opera. Check our Budapest attractions map for that.
• Explore the city on foot for stunning views or try Mol Bubi bikes or scooters. Bring comfortable shoes for that.
• Experience Budapest’s night lights at places like Margaret Bridge and Gellért Hill.
• Save money with multi-currency cards like Wise or Revolut, when converting to the Hungarian Forint, the currency in Budapest.
• Bring light clothes but be prepared for some rain, perhaps with a rain coat.
• Learn basic Hungarian phrases like ‘Szia’ (hello) and ‘Köszönöm’ (thank you) to connect with locals.
What to eat in Budapest in May
Your visit to Budapest is also an opportunity to explore the city’s cuisine. Here are some local dishes that will probably please you during your stay in May:
• Hortobágyi palacsinta: Savory pancakes filled with seasoned meat and served with paprika sauce.
• Fisherman’s Soup (Halászlé): Spicy fish soup made with fish from the Danube, onions, and paprika.
• Goulash: If you’re into hearty soups, Goulash might is for you. It has beef, potatoes, carrots, and a flavorful paprika-infused broth.
• Dobos Torte: Hungarian dessert consisting of layers of sponge cake filled with chocolate buttercream and topped with caramel.
• Lángos: Crispy fried dough topped with garlic, sour cream, and grated cheese, or, sometimes, with other ingredients. You’ll find it a lot in markets or street food stalls.
• Somlói Galuska: This traditional Hungarian dessert features rum-soaked sponge cake layered with chocolate sauce, walnuts, and whipped cream.
• Kolbász: Hungarian sausage crafted from seasoned pork or a blend of meats, often smoked or cured for enhanced flavor.
And what to drink in Budapest in May?
Hungary offers a variety of refreshing drinks to beat the heat. Here are some popular options:
• Fröccs: This iconic Hungarian drink is a refreshing mix of wine and soda water. It comes in different ratios, such as házi (homemade) or kisfröccs (small spritzer) with more wine, and nagyfröccs (large spritzer) with more soda water. Perfect for hot sunny days.
• Palinka: This traditional Hungarian fruit brandy is enjoyed as a strong, aromatic shot. It comes in various fruit flavors like apricot (barack), plum (szilva), and pear (körte). Sipping on palinka is a great way to experience the flavors of Hungarian fruits during the summer months.
• Törkölypálinka: Similar to palinka, törkölypálinka is a spirit made from grape pomace, the skins, seeds, and stems left over from winemaking. It has a unique flavor profile and is often enjoyed as a digestif.
• Szörp: This fruit syrup is diluted with water to make a refreshing summer drink. Popular flavors include raspberry (málna), elderflower (hársfa), and sour cherry (meggy). Szörp is commonly served with ice.
• Limonádé: usually the Hungarian lemonade has more than the normal lemon juice. Often times it’s served with fruits like strawberry or orange. And it can be added ingredients like ginger or mint.
• Beers: Hungary has a growing craft beer scene, with brands like Mad Scientist or Horizont becoming popular. But if you go to a bar or restaurant, the classic local tap and bottled beers will be Soproni, Borsodi and Dreher.
• Túró Rudi Shake: Túró Rudi is a popular Hungarian chocolate bar filled with sweetened cottage cheese. In the warmer days, it’s sometimes blended with milk or ice cream.
Getting around Budapest in May
Navigating Budapest in May is fairly straightforward, and public transportation works pretty well:
• Tramlines 2, 4, and 6, as well as four metro lines, offer really convenient access to key areas in Budapest. Additionally, buses and trolleybuses are also very good.
• Consider using Bolt, similar to Uber, for taxi rides, especially during quieter times. City Taxi is another reliable option.
• The MOL Bubi public bike system can be accessed via an app, while scooter options like Lime offer another convenient way to use Budapest’s bike-friendly lanes.
• For travel to and from Budapest airport to the city center, the 100E Budapest Airport Bus remains a popular and reliable option. But you have alternatives like Bolt, Főtaxi, MiniBUD, private shuttles, and ShareNow car rental, which are also good choices too – just more expensive.
Bottom line: is May a good time to go Budapest?
May is the perfect time to explore Budapest, as the city comes to life after the winter season. You can enjoy great weather as the temperatures rise up by going for long walks along the Danube, discovering the historic Castle District, and making the most out of its green parks.
