Christmas markets in Hungary: Budapest, Eger, Szeged and Debrecen
Hungary is a great Christmas destination for anyone who wants to combine beautiful markets, historic architecture, thermal baths and delicious food. Budapest is the big star, but Eger, Szeged and Debrecen offer a more authentic and peaceful Christmas. For other countries, see our guide to Christmas markets in Europe.
When and how to go
- Season: Budapest's markets open early – in mid-November – and run until New Year.
- Getting there: there are direct flights from Sofia to Budapest. Eger, Szeged and Debrecen are about 2–3 hours by train from the capital.
- Documents and money: Hungary is in the EU and Schengen – Bulgarian citizens travel with an ID card. The currency is the Hungarian forint (HUF), and cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Budapest
Buda and Pest, joined by beautiful bridges over the Danube – one of Europe's most impressive winter capitals. Its big advantage: after the market you can relax in a hot thermal bath.
Christmas markets
- Vörösmarty Square – one of Hungary's most famous markets, with Hungarian crafts, ceramics, handmade gifts and plenty of food. In 2026 – from 13 November to 31 December.
- St Stephen's Basilica – a stunning market with light projections on the basilica's façade, a tree and an ice rink around it. In 2026 – from 13 November to 1 January 2027.
- Óbuda – a calmer market in the historic district, with concerts and local crafts.
Entry to both main markets is free.
What else to see
The Parliament lit up above the Danube at night, Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion with its white towers and panoramic views, the Chain Bridge, Gellért Hill, the Great Market Hall and the light-decorated Fashion Street. And for an unforgettable winter experience – the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, where you watch the snow from the hot water.
What to eat
Goulash, lángos with cheese and sour cream, kürtőskalács – chimney cake, and Dobos torte with chocolate cream and caramel. To warm up – mulled wine (forralt bor).
Eger
Baroque architecture, a medieval castle and famous wines – Eger in northern Hungary is a cosy alternative to the big city.
Christmas markets
- Dobó Square – the main market among baroque buildings, with local crafts and traditional food, part of the Advent in Eger programme.
What else to see
The castle, famous for the 1552 siege when its defenders repelled the Ottoman army, the neoclassical basilica, the minaret – one of the northernmost surviving from the Ottoman period in Europe, and the Valley of the Beautiful Women with its wine cellars.
What to eat
The red wine "Bull's Blood" (Egri Bikavér).
Szeged
The "City of Sunshine" in southern Hungary is often left off tourist routes, but impresses with wide squares and elegant architecture.
Christmas markets
- Dóm Square – the market in front of the imposing Votive Church.
- Széchenyi Square – a festive area in one of the city's most beautiful park squares.
What else to see
The Votive Church, the Art Nouveau Reök Palace, the New Synagogue – one of the most beautiful in Europe, and the Anna Thermal Bath.
What to eat
Halászlé – spicy fish soup made with Szeged's famous paprika.
Debrecen
Hungary's second-largest city is a calm and authentic Christmas destination in the east of the country.
Christmas markets
- Kossuth Square – the main market in front of the Great Reformed Church, with traditional gifts and local specialities.
What else to see
The Great Reformed Church – the city's symbol, the Déri Museum, the MODEM contemporary art centre and the Aquaticum thermal water park. Nearby is Hortobágy National Park – a vast UNESCO-listed steppe.
What to eat
Debrecen sausages and goulash.
Tip: pack a swimsuit! The best way to end a Christmas day in Budapest is in a thermal bath – especially in the evening, when it is cold outside and the water is over 35 degrees.
Dates are based on information available in November 2026 and may change – check the market's website before you travel.
Need help planning?
The Clio Travel team will help you with your flight to Budapest, a hotel close to the markets and trips to Hungary's smaller towns. For more ideas, see our guide to Christmas markets in Europe.
