Magical 7-Day Budapest Christmas & New Year Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Christmas Eve Celebration

Budapest, Hungary on December 24, 2024

10:00AM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive and check-in at your hotel in central Budapest, settling in for your festive adventure.
Hotel would be located near Deák Ferenc tér for easy access to attractions.
EUR100, 1 hour

11:30AM

St. Stephen's Basilica

Visit Hungary's largest church, beautifully decorated for Christmas with a festive atmosphere.
A pleasant 15-minute walk from the hotel.
EUR3, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Gerbeaud

Enjoy a traditional lunch in this historic café, renowned for its pastries and holiday treats.
Just a short walk from St. Stephen's Basilica.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Váci Street Shopping

Stroll along Váci Street, exploring shops and festive markets brimming with holiday goods.
A 10-minute walk from Café Gerbeaud.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Christmas Market at Vörösmarty Square

Experience the enchanting Christmas market with artisan crafts, local cuisine, and mulled wine.
Easy walk from Váci Street.
Free (excluding purchases), 2 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Buksz (The Heart of the City)

Dine at a vibrant restaurant offering a mix of traditional Hungarian dishes and modern cuisine.
Walking distance from the market.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion on Christmas Day

Budapest, Hungary on December 25, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with a hearty buffet breakfast at your hotel.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Fisherman's Bastion

Explore this fairytale terrace offering panoramic views of the city adorned in holiday lights.
Take public transport or walk along the Danube.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Matthias Church

Visit the beautiful church next to Fisherman's Bastion, known for its Christmas decor and history.
Short walk from Fisherman's Bastion.
EUR5, 1 hour

1:00PM

Christmas Lunch at Ruszwurm Confectionery

Relish a festive lunch while enjoying traditional Hungarian desserts at this historic café.
Located nearby in the Castle District.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Gellért Hill and Citadel

Hike up Gellért Hill for exquisite views of Budapest and enjoy a peaceful afternoon.
Use the tram to get to the base, then hike up.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kiosk Budapest

Enjoy a delightful dinner in a stylish restaurant with a warm atmosphere.
Tram ride from Gellért Hill.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 3: Educational and Relaxing Day

Budapest, Hungary on December 26, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at your hotel before venturing out.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hungarian National Museum

Discover the extensive collections showcasing Hungary's rich history and culture.
Short walk from the hotel.
EUR10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Borkonyha Winekitchen

Savor modern Hungarian cuisine paired with exquisite wines in this bistro.
A short tram ride from the museum.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

House of Terror Museum

Visit this poignant museum dedicated to the victims of Hungary's oppressive regimes.
Accessible via tram from the restaurant.
EUR8, 2 hours

5:00PM

Thermal Bath Experience at Széchenyi Baths

Relax at one of Europe’s largest thermal baths, enjoying the soothing waters.
Metro to Széchenyi Baths stop.
EUR25, 3 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Menza

Conclude your day at this trendy spot in Liszt Ferenc Square, offering a delightful menu.
Metro back from the thermal baths.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 4: Exploration and Relaxation

Budapest, Hungary on December 27, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at New York Café

Delight in a lavish breakfast at the iconic New York Café, showcasing stunning décor.
Take a tram or walk from the hotel.
EUR20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Heroes' Square

Explore this monumental square honoring the founders of Hungary, adorned with holiday decor.
Metro or tram to Heroes' Square.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Vajdahunyad Castle

Wander through this picturesque castle located in City Park, enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Short walk from Heroes' Square.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Paprika

Enjoy homey Hungarian dishes in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
A quick walk to the restaurant from the castle.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Margaret Island

Visit this peaceful park to stroll or relax amidst gardens and picturesque views.
Take a tram to Margaret Island.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Early Dinner at Central Market Hall

Experience Budapest's culinary culture while grazing through local specialties.
Take a tram back to the city center.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Visit Szimpla Kert Ruin Bar

Immerse yourself in Budapest's nightlife at one of the most famous ruin bars.
Short walk from the market.
Free (excluding drinks), Rest of the evening
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Day 5: Free Exploration and New Year Preparation

Budapest, Hungary on December 28, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Kávézó C

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at this local favorite, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Walk from the hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Free Day for Exploration

Discover Budapest's hidden gems or revisit favorite spots at your leisure.
Walk or use public transport.
Free, Rest of the day

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Find a cozy spot to grab lunch, trying more local specialties.
Explore the city for options.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

New Year’s Eve Planning

Plan your NYE celebrations, consider venues, and book reservations if necessary.
Use your hotel or café as a workspace.
Varies, Rest of the afternoon

7:00PM

Dinner at Borkonyha

Indulge in a Michelin-starred dining experience before the New Year celebrations.
Make a reservation in advance.
EUR100, 2 hours
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Day 6: New Year’s Eve Festivities Approach

Budapest, Hungary on December 29, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Central

Start your day at this charming café, perfect for gathering energy.
A quick tram ride from the hotel.
EUR15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Budapest Eye

Take a ride on the Ferris wheel to see your favorite spots from above, all decked out for the holidays.
Short walk from the café.
EUR10, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at a District Restaurant

Find a nearby restaurant or bistro to enjoy unique Hungarian flavors.
Explore the area around the Eye.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Local Art Galleries

Immerse yourself in Budapest's art scene, visiting local galleries showcasing contemporary works.
Close proximity to the café area.
Free, 2-3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at a Local Bistro

Enjoy dinner at a local bistro while reflecting on your exploration.
Choose from the numerous options around you.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

New Year’s Eve Celebration Preparations

Prepare for the vibrant celebrations, finalizing your plans for the evening.
Get ready at your hotel or local venue.
Varies, Rest of the evening
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Day 7: Post-New Year Reflections

Budapest, Hungary on December 30, 2024

11:00AM

Brunch at Caffè Piazza

Savor a leisurely brunch to recover from last night’s festivities.
Short walk from your hotel.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Relaxation at a Spa

Pamper yourself with a spa treatment and enjoy the thermal baths to rejuvenate.
Book a spa nearby that specializes in traditional treatments.
EUR50, 3 hours

5:00PM

A Final Walk Along the Danube

Stroll along the riverbank reflecting on your unforgettable trip to Budapest.
Walk from the spa along the river.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at La Perle Noire Bistro

Conclude your trip with dinner at this bistro combining French and Hungarian influences.
Walk back into the city center.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
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