Budapest in September: Events, Things To Do, and Best Tips
A complete guide to visit Budapest in September 2024
- things to dotravel tips
- August 26, 2024
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If you’re spending part of September in Budapest, and are looking for things to do, please do read on. Whether you’re into sightseeing, the best events in September, or just enjoying the early autumn vibes, you’ll find a bit of everything here. Plus, we’ll share some helpful tips to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.
In Budapest this September?
Make the most of it.
• Find the cheapest flights with Kiwi.com
• Stay in Budapest with Booking.com
• Get a miniBUD transfer to the city center
• Get an Airalo eSim to use your phone
• Find the best tours in Budapest with GetYourGuide and Viator
• Get a Budapest Card for free public transport and entry to the best attractions
Budapest weather in September
Let’s get into what September’s weather looks like in Budapest. With the city’s continental climate, you can expect things to start cooling down after the summer heat, but it’s still pleasantly warm.
Is Budapest warm in September?
Budapest in September isn’t too hot. It’s actually quite mild and comfortable, with average highs reaching about 24°C (75ºF) and lows dropping to around 14ºC (57ºF). It’s a great time for outdoor activities in Budapest, with temperatures that are just right for walking and exploring the city.
And is it rainy?
You shouldn’t expect September to be a very rainy month in Budapest, though it usually brings a bit more water than the summer months. There should be around 5 to 10 rainy days, with an average of 40-50mm of rainfall. It’s a good idea to keep an umbrella handy, just in case.
Daylight in September
As summer fades, the days start getting shorter in Budapest. At the beginning of September, the sun sets around 7:30 pm, and by the end of the month, it’s dipping below the horizon closer to 6:30 pm.
What to pack for Budapest in September?
Budapest in September can still get somewhat hot, but the weather should start to cool down. Pack light layers to adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day. T-shirts and light sweaters should be enough, but don’t forget a jacket for the evenings. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially because Budapest is a perfect city for walking.
Budapest essentials
- Language: Hungarian
- Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF)
- Average temperatures: 24°C (75ºF) to 14ºC (57ºF)
- Country code: +36
- Time Zone: GMT +1
- Power sockets: types C and F
Budapest events in September 2024
Budapest has a lot of events happening in September 2024. And if you like city festivals with music and local drinks and food, this might just be the month for you to be around.
🥂 Downtown Wine and Champagne Festival
• When: August 27 – September 1, 2024
• Where: Liberty square (Szabadság tér)
• Free entry
As summer winds down, Budapest’s Liberty Square becomes the stage for the Downtown Wine & Champagne Festival. Happening in the city’s heart, this festival transforms the square into a haven for wine and champagne lovers. From August 27th to September 1st, sample a diverse range of Hungarian wines and sparkling delights while enjoying gourmet street food from local vendors. With free entry, all you need to buy is a festival glass, in case you want to try the local wines and champagne. The picturesque setting, just by the Danube, combined with the festival’s vibes, makes it the perfect way to toast to the season’s end.
🍺 Downtown Beer Festival
• When: September 3-8
• Where: Liberty square (Szabadság tér)
Tuesday – Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Thursday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM
Sunday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Kicking off September, Budapest’s Liberty Square hosts another festival: the Downtown Beer Festival, a six-day celebration of Hungarian brews and hearty street food. From Tuesday to Sunday, this vibrant festival invites you to sample over 250 beers from local breweries, Hungarian specialties like lángos or stuffed cabbage, and enjoy some live music from local bands.
The festival is free to enter, but to taste the beers, you’ll need to purchase a festival glass for about 2,800 HUF (around 7-8 EUR). The festival runs from 11:30 AM daily, with extended hours on weekends.
Set in the heart of Budapest, between the Parliament and St. Stephen’s Basilica, Liberty Square is easy to reach by tram or metro.
🍷 Wine Festival in Buda Castle
• When: September 12-15, 2024
• Where: Buda Castle
• Online tickets on the website
Get ready to raise your glass at the Budapest Wine Festival 2024, happening at the iconic Buda Castle. This annual event is a must for wine lovers, offering a unique opportunity to explore Hungary’s finest wines in a stunning historical setting.
With VIP terraces, gourmet food, and a special focus on Georgian wine, this festival blends tradition with luxury. Early bird tickets come with great perks, like a festival glass and free tastings, but you can only get these until August 26!
🎨 Budapest Contemporary Exhibition
When: September 26-29
Where: Bálna (Fővám tér 11-12)
The inaugural Budapest Contemporary modern art fair is set to take place this September at the Bálna Event Centre. Building on the success of previous events like the Art and Antique Classic and Contemporary Exhibition, this new fair promises to offer an extensive showcase of contemporary art from leading galleries.
Spread across thousands of square meters, it will feature works from both emerging and established artists, creating a dynamic space for collectors, art enthusiasts, and gallery owners to connect and explore. With a rich history of organizing art fairs, the event’s organizers aim to make this a must-see event in Budapest’s cultural calendar. Visitors can also look forward to a series of related events, making it an enriching experience for anyone with an interest in modern art.
📕International Book Festival
When: September 26-29
Where: Millenáris, Budapest
The 29th International Book Festival Budapest will take place at Millenáris, featuring Icelandic author Jón Kalman Stefánsson as the guest of honour. Known for his evocative, deeply psychological novels, Stefánsson’s work has garnered international acclaim, including nominations for the Man Booker International Prize and wins like the Icelandic Literary Prize.
Alongside Stefánsson, this year’s festival will highlight France as the guest of honour country, bringing a diverse array of French literature to Budapest. With over 140 exhibitors and more than 40 international authors, the festival promises a rich array of readings, book signings, and discussions, continuing its tradition as a key cultural event in the region. The event also features a dedicated children’s section and the European Writers’ Meeting, making it a must-visit for literature enthusiasts.
🎉 Margitsziget Summer Festival 2024
When: Until September 3
Where: Margaret Island
This festival has started in March, and the beginning of September will see the last events happenings in Margaret Island. The big one will be a gypsy music concert held on the last day, September 3rd.
The Budapest Bar always gives an unforgettable and joyful experience, known for its gypsy-style renditions of both heart-wrenching and joyful songs. Over the past 15 years, the band has become one of Hungary’s most popular acts, blending jazz, pop, rock, and klezmer with the rich musical traditions of 1920s and 30s Budapest cafés. Founded by Róbert Farkas, what started as a one-time project has grown into a beloved, multi-generational phenomenon.
🎸 Concerts in Budapest in September
• September program here
Here are some of the most famous concerts and DJ sets in Budapest in September:
• Brussels Jazz Orchestra – Müpa Budapest, Sep 16
• Carson Coma – Budapest Park, Sep 20
• Russ – Akvárium Klub, Sep 13
• Trace Bundy – A38 Hajó, Sep 15
• Punnany Massif – Budapest Park, Sep 28
• Bambi Thug – Akvárium Klub, Sep 29
• Jon Cowherd (Brian Blade & the Fellowship Band) – Müpa Budapest, Sep 26
• TaxiWars – Müpa Budapest, Sep 22
• Sosa – Buda Bay, Sep 7
• The True Mayhem (40 Years of Pure Fucking Chaos) – Barba Negra, Sep 4
🩰 Budapest Opera in September
• Buy tickets for September here.
Events in September:
• The taming of the Shrew (Ballet / Shakespeare) – Sep 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15
• Bastien und Bastienne / The Telephone (Opera / Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart/Gian Carlo Menotti) – Sep 7
• 6th Éva Marton International Singing Competition / Gala Concert – Sep 8
• Carmen (Opera / Georges Bizet) – Sep 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 27, 28
• Swan Lake – (Ballet / Rudi van Dantzig – Toer van Schayk/Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky) – Sep 19, 21, 22, 29
• Der fliegende Holländer (The Flying Dutchman, Opera / Richard Wagner) – Sep 26, 28
• OPERA140 (Concert: Franz Liszt – Ferenc Erkel – Ernő Dohnányi – Béla Bartók – Zoltán Kodály) – Sep 27
🖼️ Banksy exhibition - "The Street is a Canvas"
• When: May 3 – Sep 29
• Where: Király utca 26 (behind the KOMPLEX building)
The exhibition showcases over 100 works by the famous artist Banksy, drawing over 2 million visitors worldwide in cities like Barcelona, Milan, Paris, Prague, Brussels, Lisbon, and Dubai. Since May, Budapest has been hosting this acclaimed exhibition, and it will stay in the city until September 29.
🖼️ Museum of Fine Arts in September
• Entire program here.
• Included in the Budapest Card
Temporary exhibitions in September:
• Lipchitz. A Cubist Sculptor (until September 1st) – an exhibition about Jacques Lipchitz (1891-1973), a sculptor that was born in Lithuania that became famous in Paris. Lipchitz’s early Cubist works are on display, as well as other sculptures and prints.
• To Be Continued (until September 15th) – the concept of serial art across the 16th and 20th centuries, with prints from artists like Dürer and Riley. It examines serialism in printmaking, from thematic variations to industrial influences.
• The Museum of Fine Arts’ Collection of Plaster Casts in the Star Fortress in Komárom – The newly restored Star Fortress in Komárom now hosts a major exhibition of plaster casts from the Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest. This unique display, featuring around 300 replicas of iconic sculptures from ancient Greece to the Renaissance, is one of the largest and most significant of its kind in Central Europe.
Permanent exhibitions in September:
• Classical Antiquity
• European Sculpture 1350-1800
• European Art 1250-1800
• Variations on the Baroque – Art in Hungary (1600-1800)
• Halls of the Museum of Fine Arts (Romanesque, Renaissance, Baroque)
• Ancient Egypt
🖼️ Hungarian National Gallery in September
• Entire program here.
• Included in the Budapest Card
Temporary exhibitions in September:
• The Painter and his Patron (until September 15th) – commissioned by Archbishop János László Pyrker, the paintings by Josef Danhauser’s paintings illustrate his epic poem “Rudolf von Habsburg”.
• Sean Scully: UNINSIDEOUT – (until September 1st) – displaying Sean Scully’s works, an Irish artist who got famous for the large-scale abstract paintings.
• My Story. Early Memory of the Holocaust in the Works of Eyewitness Artists (whole September) – this exhibition is dedicated to the Holocaust: you’ll see drawings, prints, and albums representing the tragic period in Hungary and in Budapest.
• When Dolls Speak – Retrospective Exhibition of Margit Anna (1913–1991) (Until September 1st) – 220 paintings by Margit Anna, a leading figure in Hungarian painting of the 20th century.
Permanent exhibitions:
• Variations on Realism – From Munkácsy to Mednyánszky – collections from local and international sources of Mihály Munkácsy’s art.
• Gothic Art in the Hungarian Kingdom, 1300–1500 – collection of winged altars, panel paintings, and wooden sculptures from the Kingdom of Hungary, between the years 1300 and 1500.
• Late Gothic Winged Altarpieces – wooden sculptures and panel paintings from the Middle Ages.
• Nude Sculptures from the Turn of the Century – naturalist and art noveau marble statues (by Hungarian artists), from the first twenty years of the last century.
• Art in the 19th Century – Hungarian fine art since the 19th century, showcasing 150 paintings, 40 sculptures, 40 medals, and 33 applied art objects.
• Shifts – Updated! – the history of Hungarian Art after 1945, with a focus on certain local artists.
• Modern Times – Hungarian Art Between 1896 and World War II
🖼️ Museum of Ethnography in September
Entire program here.
Temporary exhibitions in September:
• Shipibo-Konibo. Portraits of my blood (until Jan 2025) – Black and white photos from David Díaz, a photographer from a Shipibo-Konibo, an indigenous community in Peru.
• Together: Images of Inaktelke 2000-2002 – the life of a village in Kalotaszeg and its community.
Some of the permanent exhibitions:
• Ceramics Space: Ceramics of the World – more than 35,000 ceramic objects from all over the world.
• ZOOM: A Change in Perspectives – a sensory exploration of 2000+ artefacts and multimedia items, and a playful, interpretation-free experience where visitors engage physically with objects, images, and scripts.
💿 Szimpla Kert's Events
The oldest and most famous ruin pub in Budapest, Szimpla Kert, is also more than that. It’s also a place where the local community engage in events, like this one. On September 7 (every first Saturday of the month), from 12 to 6 PM, there will be a record fair.
Things to do in Budapest in September
Now that we’ve checked the events for September, let’s see what other activities are there to do, and what landmarks you should visit this month.
1. Tour the Budapest Parliament
If you’re visiting Budapest in September, don’t miss the chance to take a tour to the Hungarian Parliament. You can also just admire it from the outside, taking in its façade in Neo-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance, and Neo-Baroque styles, and strolling in its garden. But the tour will reveal you much more—it’s an hour well spent, exploring the stunning interiors of an architectural masterpiece. Constructed in 1902, the Budapest Parliament is among the largest in the world, with 691 rooms. It’s not just the seat of the Hungarian Assembly but also home to the Hungarian Holy Crown.
Location: Kossuth Lajos tér 1
2. Go sightseeing on a night cruise
For a unique way to see Budapest, hop on a night cruise along the Danube. The city comes alive after dark, and you’ll have the best views of its sparkling skyline. Your evening starts with a welcome drink as you board at Dock 42. Then, as you glide along the river, you’ll capture perfect shots of the Hungarian Parliament, Buda Castle, Várkert Bazár, Margaret Bridge, and Gellért Baths from the open or indoor deck. If you need a refreshment, the onboard bar has you covered. It’s the pefect way to grab some of the best photos and memories of Budapest by night.
Meeting point: Dock 42
3. Join a Ruin Bar Pub Crawl
Budapest ruin pubs are a must-see, especially if you’re keen on diving into the city’s nightlife. Whether you’re looking to enjoy great music, mingle with other travelers, or just hit up the coolest spots, this 5-hour pub crawl is perfect. You’ll visit four of the best bars and clubs, skip the lines at one of Budapest’s top nightclubs, and enjoy free drinks along the way—all guided by a local who knows the scene.
Meeting point: Sark 2, Wesselényi utca 21
4. Spend a full day at Széchenyi Thermal Baths
Széchenyi Thermal Bath is a top pick for anyone visiting Budapest. It’s the largest of the city’s thermal baths, offering a variety of outdoor pools, evening parties, indoor facilities, and massages. Known for its mineral-rich waters and impressive architecture, Széchenyi is a great way to dive into a local tradition.
You can grab a discounted day ticket with the Budapest Card (20% off) or opt for a skip-the-line entry with Viator. The full day ticket is the most popular entry ticket, but there are other alternatives to explore.
Location: Állatkerti krt. 11
4. Tour the Budapest Opera With a Guide
The Hungarian Opera House is a must-see in Budapest, famous for its beautiful neo-Renaissance façade and lavish interior. If you’re in Budapest in September, there are some world class performances that you can book. But you can also take a 1-hour guided tour—with it, you’ll bypass the line and discover the building’s fascinating past on a visit that ends with a short concert.
Location: Andrássy út 22, 1061
5. Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica
St. Stephen’s Basilica is impressive from the outside, with its neo-classical design and towering height of 96 meters (315 feet). But it’s the interior that truly amazes its visitors. Completed in 1905 as a tribute to Hungary’s first king, the Basilica features breathtaking frescoes inside the dome and intricate details throughout.
To enter the basilica, you need to buy a ticket. And to make the most of your visit, it’s best to book your ticket in advance, allowing you to skip the line, which is usually quite long. You’ll spend an hour exploring the Basilica’s ornate interior, including the Treasury and the panoramic terrace on the dome.
Location: Szent István tér 1, 1051
6. Try the Floating Bus Tour (on Land and Water!)
Now let’s talk about a more activity you can do in Budapest during your stay in September. In 55 minutes to an hour and a half, you’ll explore the city’s main attractions with a live guide, available in English or German. But here’s the twist—you’ll be doing it on a bus that doubles as a boat.
Introducing the floating bus tour, a tour that offers a one-of-a-kind experience in Europe. Begin by cruising through Budapest’s lively streets, then seamlessly transition onto the waters of the Danube—all without leaving your seat.
Location: Széchenyi István Square
7. Do the Cave Tour under the Buda Castle
You can also consider a quite unique but popular experience in Budapest in September: an exploration of the extraordinary cave system beneath Buda Castle. These tunnels, hidden beneath the historic district, are filled with fascinating history and natural beauty. On this tour, you’ll venture into winding passageways, discovering limestone formations and centuries-old cellars that tell the story of the area’s past. The caves have served many purposes over the years, from wine storage and bomb shelters to a medieval prison.
This tour offers a deep dive into the caves’ past, available in English, Spanish, and Hungarian, and ranges from 40 to 100 minutes, giving you flexibility based on your interest. You can reserve your spot now with the option to pay later, keeping your plans open. Check the schedule for available times.
Meeting point details vary depending on the tour option you select.
8. Go on the Hop-on Hop-off Bus
For a flexible way to explore Budapest this September, consider the hop-on hop-off bus tour. Available in 24, 48, or 72-hour options, this tour lets you discover the city at your own rhythm. Just be sure to reserve your pass ahead of time, as it’s a sought-after choice among visitors.
The tour gives you the freedom to get off at various stops to check out key landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Jewish Synagogue, the Citadel, and more. Along the way, enjoy audio commentary in multiple languages.
*Your ticket also comes with perks like a discount booklet for popular attractions, plus access to a guided walking tour and a scenic boat ride.
Meeting point: depends on the option you book.
9. Cruise the Danube with Unlimited Prosecco
Here’s a vey good one for September in Budapest: a 75-minute evening cruise along the Danube, with unlimited premium Prosecco (or homemade lemonade).
Pretty much like on other cruises in Budapest, you’ll see the main landmarks illuminated-like the Hungarian Parliament or Liberty Bridge; and you’ll have an informative English audio guide. But you also get to enjoy the boat’s Prosecco and spritzers, making sure your glass is always full. And they also have food options, so this is a pretty complete (and affordable) way to enjoy the city.
10. The Great Synagogue and Jewish Heritage Tour
To dive into Budapest’s Jewish heritage, there’s no better way than with a walking tour through the city’s Jewish Quarter. This tour is an excellent opportunity to explore a vibrant community with deep roots and fascinating stories.
In September, you can select from two engaging routes, but both options include visits to important sites like the Great Synagogue on Dohány Street, the Raul Wallenberg Holocaust Memorial Park, and the Jewish Museum. And you’ll have professional guide sharing compelling stories that bring these places to life.
If you’re up for a more comprehensive experience, the Grand Tour adds the Kazinczy Street Synagogue to your itinerary and includes a delightful stop at a local kosher bakery for a tasty treat.
Location: Dohány Street Synagogue
Tips to visit Budapest in September
1. Book a transfer from Budapest airport. September may be less crowded than August, but a comfortable transfer is still a good idea. After landing, it’s a 30-60 minute journey to the city center. MiniBUD offers a convenient door-to-door shuttle service for about 12 euros.
2. Get an e-sim card. Avoid roaming charges by getting an e-sim card, particularly if you’re visiting from outside the European Union. Airalo is our top pick for affordable and reliable data, ensuring you stay connected in Budapest.
3. Avoid Hidden Exchange Fees. When paying or withdrawing currency in Budapest (Hungarian Forints), hidden fees can quickly add up. To save money, use a card from Wise or Revolut, which are transparent and charge significantly lower fees than traditional banks and ATMs.
4. Consider a Budapest Card. If you plan on visiting museums and using public transport, the Budapest Card is worth it. It offers free entry to top museums, unlimited public transportation, and discounts at places like the Széchenyi Baths, restaurants, and more.currn
5. Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible. September is still a popular time for visitors, so booking activities in advance is wise. Platforms like GetYourGuide and Viator allow you to book now and pay later, with the flexibility to cancel if your plans change.
6. Use the MOL Bubi bikes. If you’re into cycling, take advantage of the Mol Bubi bikes for convenient sightseeing. The bikes are easily accessible throughout the city, and all you need is their app. Budapest’s bike lanes make this an enjoyable way to explore.
7. Learn basic Hungarian phrases. A few words in Hungarian can go a long way. Phrases like ‘Szia’ (hello/goodbye) and ‘Köszönöm’ (thank you) are simple but meaningful, and locals will appreciate the effort.
What to eat in Budapest in September
September in Budapest strikes the perfect balance between summer and autumn, an ideal time to explore the city and savor the local cuisine. Here’s the food we recommend for you to try:
Lángos: Crispy fried dough topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese, a true street food classic.
Hortobágyi Palacsinta: Savory pancakes filled with meat, smothered in a rich paprika sauce.
Paprikás Csirke: Tender chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce, typically served with nokedli (dumplings).
Fisherman’s Soup (Halászlé): A spicy fish soup made with fresh catch from the Danube, simmered with onions and paprika.
Somlói Galuska: Layers of sponge cake, rum, chocolate sauce, walnuts, and whipped cream—a dessert lover’s dream.
Töltött Káposzta: Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, slow-cooked in a tangy tomato sauce.
Kürtőskalács: Also known as chimney cake, this sweet treat is rolled in sugar and baked over an open fire, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Goulash: The quintessential Hungarian dish, a hearty soup of beef, potatoes, and veggies in a flavorful paprika broth.
Dobos Torte: A Hungarian classic, this layered sponge cake filled with chocolate buttercream and topped with a caramel layer.
Pogácsa: Savory, bite-sized scones, often flavored with cheese or bacon, perfect with a glass of wine or as a quick snack.
And what to drink?
And since we’re here, you might be interested to know what people usually drink in Budapest.
Fröccs: The go-to summer drink in Hungary, a refreshing mix of wine and soda water. Whether you choose a ‘kisfröccs’ (small spritzer) or ‘nagyfröccs’ (large spritzer), it’s perfect for hot days.
Lemonade: Hungarian lemonade often comes with a twist—expect flavors like strawberry, orange, mint, or ginger mixed in.
Szörp: A light, fruity syrup drink diluted with water. Popular flavors include raspberry and sour cherry, perfect for quenching your thirst.
Local Beers: Cool down with a cold Soproni, Borsodi, or Dreher, with Dreher Bak offering a richer, dark beer experience.
Pálinka: For those who enjoy a stronger kick, this traditional brandy is made from fermented fruits like apricots or plums and is best enjoyed as a shot.
Túró Rudi Shake: A sweet treat in a glass, this shake blends the popular Túró Rudi chocolate bar with milk or ice cream.
Málnaszörp: A raspberry version of the classic Hungarian syrup drink, sweet, refreshing, and perfect for summer.
Törkölypálinka: A robust digestif made from grape pomace, offering a unique twist on the classic pálinka.
Áfonyalikőr: A blueberry liqueur that’s both sweet and tangy, a delightful choice for a summer evening.
Getting around Budapest in September
Navigating Budapest is a breeze, thanks to its efficient public transportation network. Here’s how to get around:
The Budapest metro is your backbone for getting across the city, with four well-connected lines covering all major areas. Complementing the metro, trams are an iconic and scenic way to travel. Tramlines 2, 4, and 6 are especially handy, taking you through central and picturesque parts of Budapest. Buses are also widely available, covering routes where the metro and trams don’t reach.
If you prefer a more active way to explore, the MOL Bubi bike-sharing system is a fantastic option. Just download the app, and you’ll be able to rent bikes from numerous docking stations around the city. Budapest’s extensive network of bike lanes makes cycling a safe and enjoyable choice.
For those who like a bit more comfort, BOLT is your go-to for ridesharing, offering a service similar to Uber. City Taxi is another trustworthy option if you prefer a traditional taxi ride.
Getting from Budapest airport to the city center is straightforward with the 100E Budapest Airport Bus, offering a direct and affordable connection for 2,200 HUF. Alternatively, the MiniBUD shuttle service provides a slightly more convenient option at a reasonable price.
Bottom line: is September a good time to go Budapest?
September is an excellent month to visit Budapest. The weather is pleasantly mild, the summer crowds have thinned out, and the city’s events calendar is still bustling. It’s a great time to explore outdoor attractions and enjoy the city’s cultural offerings without the peak-season rush.