When to go · Hungary
Hungary in December
Mixed month. Christmas markets at Vörösmarty tér and the Basilica; closures on 24–26 December.
Key facts
- Verdict
- Mixed
- Crowds
- High
- Hungary
- Prices
- High
- Hungary
Verdict
Christmas markets at Vörösmarty tér and the Basilica; closures on 24–26 December.
Weather in December
- Budapest and the north · Budapest, Danube Bend, Eger, Tokajcool
Hot summers (35 °C spells) and cold, foggy winters; spring and autumn are best.
- Lake Balaton · Siófok, Tihany, Keszthely, Badacsonycool
Swimming season June–August; many resorts shut from October to April.
- Great Plain and south · Szeged, Pécs, Hortobágycool
The sunniest, hottest part of the country; Pécs has a milder, Mediterranean touch.
Festivals and holidays
Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.
Christmas big impact
24–26 Dec
Shops close early on the 24th and on 25–26; many restaurants shut.
Christmas markets
Vörösmarty tér and the Basilica square fill with stalls from late November; evenings are the busiest.
Crowds and prices
- Crowds · Hungary
- High
- Prices · Hungary
- High
High-price month: see what to book ahead.
What to pack
- Layers: a fleece or light jacket
Where to go in December
Rated best or good this month
Cold; Christmas markets.