Because You deserve a great New Year's Eve time, and an even better New Year's Day.

All posts tagged New Year Budapest 2020

Liget Club NYE Party 2018 2019

NYE Club Party

Celebrate the New Year 2020 in Budapest on a fantastic dance party in Liget Club & Bar, offering the ultimate and most exlcusive club party in the city.

Date & Hours: 9pm on Dec 31, 2019 – 5am on Jan 1, 2020
Venue
: Liget Club & Bar
Prices: HUF 6,000 (Basic Ticket) / HUF 12,000 (VIP Ticket)

BOOKING

Inclusions of NYE Club Party

Liget Club & Bar

Liget Club & Bar

  • 4 Dancefloors
  • Different Music Types (Dance, R’n’B, Retro, Nu Disco)
  • Many Djs
  • 5000 Party People

VIP Ticket Includes:

  • Fast Track Entry at VIP Gate
  • Entry to VIP Area
  • 1 Cocktail Coupon

Choose the greatest party of Budapest for the last night of the year, and have an unforgettable experience of dancing, meeting great party people, and having fun and in the biggest club of the city.
The high class party is guaranteed by the unique atmosphere of Liget Club, with exclusive DJ sets, unimaginable audio and visual effects, and of course the greatest dance hits in different genres of Dance, Disco, R’n’B, Retro, Radio Hits and Nu Disco.

Tickets are selling very fast, so book as early as you can to make sure you won’t miss this party on Dec 31.

BOOKING

Terms & Conditions

  • The minimum age to attend to the NYE Club Party is 18 years old (as is the legal age of alcohol consumption in Hungary).
  • Anyone who is visibly drunk / intoxicated / disorderly will not be allowed to enter the party.
  • Any damage caused by Guest must be paid by Guest responsible for damages.
  • No rowdy behaviour is accepted on the program.
  • Guests who fail to act in accordance with the Code of Conduct will be escorted out of the Club.
  • Cancellation policy: Please note that the order cannot be cancelled.

 

New Years Dinner with Bar Piano Battle in Budapest Hungary 2019 2020

Learn about the best places to enjoy the Fireworks on New Year‘s Eve in Budapest, the best parties to say farewell to the old year and welcome the new year, and the best ways you can get over the hangover after the NYE Party, or simply to recover from winter exhaustion.

Fireworks in New Year Budapest – Best Places to Watch From

NYE Danube Cruise in Budapest with Dinner and Live Music

NYE Danube Cruise in Budapest

Most of NYE fireworks displays are usually close to the river Danube, so probably the best place to watch them is from the deck of a river cruise.
You can select from a wide range of New Year’s Eve Cruises in Budapest, including live music, dinner and drinks.

The Fisherman’s Bastion in the Buda Castle provides an excellent panorama of Budapest, and it’s worth visiting during the daytime as well, not to mention the night of New Year’s Eve to admire the fireworks shows all around the city.
The Fisherman’s Bastion is open 24hours a day, and it’s completely free to enter in December and January.

Parties in New Year Budapest – Best Parties in Various Themes and Styles

Booze Cruise Budapest Dec 31

Booze Cruise Budapest Dec 31

Budapest offers a various range of New Year’s Eve Parties, so everyone can find the perfect program that suits their style, budget and idea of the ultimate celebration.
From NYE Party Cruises to club parties, you can choose from several options to spend the last night of the year in Budapest. 

Gala NYE Parties with Dinner

NYE Cruise & Retro Music

Looking for a more exclusive and elegant way to say goodbye to 2019? You might be interested in the NYE Gala Dinner & Party in the Danube Palace or the NYE Party Cruise & Gala Dinner.

Or join the NYE Retro Cruise, offering all inclusive Buffet Dinner, Open Bar and an unforgettable retro party with the greatest hits of the 1980s, ’90s and 2000s.

Family-Friendly Events at New Year in Budapest

Although most of the Budapest NYE programs and events are not available for all ages, families with smaller children can also find great places to go to during the last few days of the year.
Budapest’s biggest aquapark, the Aquaworld Resort offers fantastic programs – the special NYE celebrations are available from 7pm to 1am on New Year’s Eve, and from 10am to 5.45pm on New Year’s Day.

Relax and Recover from New Year in Budapest

Szechenyi Bath Budapest New Year

Szechenyi Bath Budapest New Year – James Guppy Photography

Don’t let your New Year start in the minus energy level. Relax and reinvigorate in the best places in the city.

Why not spend a peaceful and relaxing day in one of the Thermal Baths of Budapest, maybe even having a massage too (advance booking is recommended).
Should you be interested in a more festive activity for the first evening of the year, we recommend to take a New Year’s Day river cruise, as a perfect ending of your Budapest holiday during the Christmas & New Year season.

Best Budapest pre-NYE events on Dec 29, 2019. Bring the most out of your New Year holiday in Budapest in December 2019. A lot of concerts, parties, cruises and show are waiting for you on Dec 29 too.

Cruises in Budapest on Dec 29

Budapest Buffet Dinner Cruise

Budapest Buffet Dinner Cruise

7 pm Cruise with Buffet Style Dinner + Gypsy Music: all inclusive dinner with 2 drinks on the buffet style dinner cruises of 2 hour.

7.30 pm Budapest Cruise with 4 Course Dinner + Piano Music: 3 hour cruise with Served Dinner of 4 options for the Main Course (Fish, Duck, Beef, Vegetarian) and live piano music. 1 glass of sparkling wine also included in this price along with the 4 course served dinner, 3 hour cruise, live music. You can also upgrade for the cruise with unlimited drink package for 3 hours (unlimited wines, beers, soft drinks, hot drinks).

7 pm Cruise with A La Carte Dinner + Salon Music: A La Carte Dinner Cruise in Budapest with Live Music on Legenda Sightseeing Boat: 4 course a la carte dinner of your choice. Candles lit, band playing aboard, servers bringing your delicious foods and drinks. 1 glass of champagne awaits for guests.

Parties in Budapest on Dec 29

Hungarian Folk Dance Show Budapest

Hungarian Folk Dance Show Budapest

No pre-NYE parties have been announced yet for Dec 29, please check the available parties on Dec 30.

Shows in Budapest on Dec 29

You can choose from various Hungarian Folk Show programs in Budapest on Dec 29.

8pm Hungarian Folk Show: theatre-style Folk Show with 3 Categories

7.30pm Folk Dinner Cruise: Folk Show on the Danube, including a 4-Course Served Dinner, Welcome Drink (or Unlimited Drink Package) and Live Folk Music & Dance Show.

St Anne's Church Concert Budapest

St Anne’s Church Concert Budapest

Concerts in Budapest on Dec 29

Dec 29 concerts have not been confirmed yet.

Related: Pre-New Year Events in Budapest on Dec 30, 2019

Best Budapest pre-NYE events on Dec 30, 2019. Bring the most out of your New Year holiday in Budapest in December 2019. A lot of concerts, parties, cruises and show are waiting for you on Dec 30 too.

Cruises in Budapest on Dec 30

A La Carte Dinner Cruise on NYE

A La Carte Dinner Cruise on NYE

7 pm Cruise with Buffet Style Dinner + Gypsy Music: all inclusive dinner with 2 drinks on the buffet style dinner cruises of 2 hour.

7.30 pm Budapest Cruise with 4 Course Dinner + Piano Music: 3 hour cruise with Served Dinner of 4 options for the Main Course (Fish, Duck, Beef, Vegetarian) and live piano music. 1 glass of sparkling wine also included in this price along with the 4 course served dinner, 3 hour cruise, live music. You can also upgrade for the cruise with unlimited drink package for 3 hours (unlimited wines, beers, soft drinks, hot drinks).

7 pm Cruise with A La Carte Dinner + Salon Music: A La Carte Dinner Cruise in Budapest with Live Music on Legenda Sightseeing Boat: 4 course a la carte dinner of your choice. Candles lit, band playing aboard, servers bringing your delicious foods and drinks. 1 glass of champagne awaits for guests.

NY Pool Party in Szechenyi Bath Budapest

Pre-NY Pool Party in Szechenyi Bath Budapest

Parties in Budapest on Dec 30

Unmissable Pre-NYE Bath Party in Szechenyi Baths on Dec 30.
The Party starts at 10.30pm, tickets are available from €60 (inlcuding 2 Drink Coupons). Book while you can!

 

Budapest Folk Cruise

Budapest Folk Cruise

Shows in Budapest on Dec 30

7.30pm Folk Dinner Cruise: Folk Show on the Danube, including a 4-Course Served Dinner, Welcome Drink (or Unlimited Drink Package) and Live Folk Music & Dance Show.

Concerts in Budapest on Dec 30

100 Member Gypsy Orchestra Budapest Concert

100 Member Gypsy Orchestra Budapest Concert

Start celebrating the New Year earlier, and join a special festive Budapest concert on Dec 30.

Dec 30, 2019: Budapest Gala Concerts

Dec 30, 2019: Music-Wine Gala Concert: 100 Gypsy Violins in Budapest Congress Center

Dec 30, 2019: The Best of Classicals Concert Series in St. Michael’s Church Budapest

Dec 30, 2019: Concerts at Matthias Church Budapest

Related: Pre-New Year Events in Budapest on Dec 29, 2019

 

Learn about the special opening hours at New Year in Budapest, on Dec 31 and Jan 1 to plan your NY holiday ahead in Hungary for NYE and NYD.

There are many programs on offer for both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, so we hope you will find your way to spend a great end of the year in Budapest.

There are many parties, cruises, and other programs, but booking for most events and attractions is essential.

Opening Hours at New Year in 2023

Budapest Baths New Year Opening Hours

Szechenyi Bath Budapest New Year

Szechenyi Bath New Year – by James Guppy

Dec 30 planned opening hours: as usual on Dec 30, with the exception of Szechenyi Baths, which will feature a very special pool party to prepare folks for the big NYE parties on Dec 31. On Dec 30, the bath will re-open its gates at 10.30 pm, and you can enjoy an amazing futuristic thermal bath party until 3 am in the morning of Dec 31. Pre-NYE Party in Szechenyi Bath and booking tickets online on the link.

Dec 31 planned opening hours: from 6am to 6pm in all the facilities in Szechenyi Baths. Check-in for online reservations: 9 am – 5 pm.  The rest of the major thermal baths in Budapest like Gellert Spa, Rudas Bath, etc. are usually open from 6am to 6pm. Kiraly Bath is closed on this day.

Jan 1 planned opening hours: from 10am to 6pm in all 3 outdoor pools, and most of the thermal section with 15 pools, saunas, etc. in Szechenyi Baths. Check-in for online reservations: 10 am – 6 pm.

Buda Castle – New Year Opening Hours

Winter Buda Castle Hill

Winter Buda Castle – Photo by Neil Howard

The open air historical courts of the Buda Castle are open all year round. You can find the NY opening hours of the and buildings: Buda Castle December Holiday Opening Hours

There are many winter tours in the Buda Castle District on the Castle Hill, so make sure to book one as the New Year events in Budapest are attracting many tourists to Hungary.

Museums

Museum of Ethnography Budapest

Museum of Ethnography Budapest

Many of the museum buildings in Budapest are worth a visit just for their architecture, even if you are usually bored by museum displays, they can be a treat. 2019 planned opening hours:

Budapest History Museum: December 31: 10am – 6pm
Hungarian National Museum: December 31: 10am – 2pm
Hungarian National Gallery: December 31: Open 10 am – 4 pm (latest entry at 3 pm)
Museum of Ethnography: Closed until 2020
Hungarian Agricultural Museum: December 31: 10am – 5pm

More information about Budapest Attractions at New Year.

Parliament Tours & Opening Hours at Christmas

Hungarian Parliament Budapest in Winter

Hungarian Parliament Budapest in Winter

The House of Parliament in Budapest will be closed during Christmas Days (Dec 24, 25 and 26) but will be open again from Dec 27. More information: Parliament Opening Hours.

Booking a Parliament Tour in Budapest in advance is warmly recommended.

Fisherman’s Bastion in Buda Castle

Budapest Fishermans Bastion Winter

Budapest Fishermans Bastion Winter – Philippe Clabots Photography

The Fisherman’s Bastion is one of the best places to take a view of the winter landscape of Budapest and the river Danube. An all day, any hour alternative for a winter holiday in Budapest.

Dec 31: from 0-24
Jan 01: from 0-24

Don’t miss the New Year’s Fireworks Show on the Fisherman’s Bastion.

More info on Fisherman’s Bastion Christmas Opening Hours.

Restaurants Opening Hours

NYE Party with Latin and RocknRoll Music

NYE Party with Latin and RocknRoll Music

Budapest Restaurants usually have special opening hours for the Christmas holiday. You can check them on the following page: Budapest Restaurants Christmas Opening Hours Many of the restaurants will offer Christmassy dinners or lunches with traditional Hungarian and international delicacies. Special NYE Dinner Programs are available for booking online.

Andrassy Avenue

Andrassy Avenue features beautiful 19th century – Paris style – buildings, a long line of trees decorated with festive lights, and a range of luxury shops with the big brands putting their winter offers throughout the New Year period.

Andrassy Avenue Christmas

Andrassy Avenue Christmas – Krisztian Bodis Photography

There are several attractions along the avenue, like the Opera House, Miniversum (mini city), the Kodaly House in Budapest or the Heroes’ Square with the Millennial Monument.

Christmas Attractions and Sights in Andrassy Avenue

Ice Rink in the City Park Budapest

Skating Rink by Vajdahunyad Castle

Skating Rink by Vajdahunyad Castle – Ben G Hancock Photography

Although the weather is chilly, the City Park is a great place to mix relaxation with fresh air activities. Just pop in Szechenyi Thermal Baths to get soaked up in hot spring waters after a refreshing walk around the Vajdahunyad Castle and the Ice Rink.

Enjoy the warm thermal water of Szechenyi Baths near the City Park. Book your Szechenyi Baths Massage in advance for a full relaxation.

For a cup of coffee or a hot soup with nice meals take a visit to the restaurant residing in the Ice Rink Palace. Great
Christmas Opening Hours of the Ice Rink

Discover the attractions of the City Park on a guided City Park Budapest Segway Tour.

Budapest Christmas Markets Opening Hours

Budapest Christmas Market by St Stephen's Basilica

Budapest Christmas Market by Basilica – Tunde Lovei

The 2019 Opening hours are the following:
Hungary’s capital is famous for her fascinating Christmas events, including the Budapest Christmas Markets in various parts of the city. On Dec 31 and Jan 1, most of the craft stalls are already closed, but food stalls will be open as the opening hours below shows:

Vorosmarty Square Christmas Market planned opening hours of the oldest and most central Christmas Market in Budapest:

Dec 31: 10:00 – 16:00
Jan 1: 14:00 – 22:00

St. Stephen’s Basilica Christmas Market planned opening hours of the amazing, also centrally located Christmas Market in Budapest:

Dec 31: 10:00 – 22:00
Jan 1: 11:00 – 20:00

Budapest Christmas Streetcar Schedule

Budapest Christmas Streetcar

Budapest Christmas Streetcar

Taking the public transportation in Budapest at winter is an easy way to get around the city and go past the most important landmarks. But you can do more than that. You can even take a special Christmas Streetcar to enjoy the city views from the tram in a festive, somewhat vintage vehicle. But what is the Budapest Christmas Street Schedule?

December 31: TBC
January 01:
TBC

You can find the full Christmas Streetcar Schedule here.

Traditionally, the Christmas Tram of Budapest runs along the river Danube after sunset (Tram 2 and 19), which is 4 pm in winter time. The last trams / streetcars leave at about 9pm.

Normally, regular fares are charged, there is no need to buy a special Christmas Streetcar ticket.

Shopping at New Year in Budapest

Budapest Mammut Christmas 2012

Budapest Mammut Christmas

Should you wish to go on a shopping spree, or just buying some necessities in the city of Budapest, we have good news.

Budapest has several groceries, boutiques,  and shopping malls, which we call Plazas. Some of the most popular ones are located close to the city centre, like Mammut Shopping Mall, or West End City Shopping mall. Groceries are scattered all over the city, you will definitely find some in the vicinity of your hotel / accommodation.

Dec 31 – usually open until 2pm

Jan 1 – closed

Most importantly, shops tend close earlier on December 31 at about 2 – 4 – 6pm (depending on places), and open later in the afternoon, or not at all on January 1. In Shopping malls, Jan 1 is the day when only catering units (restaurants, bars) and bowling bars or cinemas are open.

24/7 shops (in the city centre too) are absolutely open even on the night of New Year’s Eve, and at dawn of Jan 1, while normal stores stop to operate. These shops get busy with buyers aiming for the 18+ shelves of alcoholic drinks, and a wide range of sparkling wines and chips.

Budapest Opera House New Year Shows

Nutcracker in Hungarian Opera House at Budapest Christmas

Nutcracker in Hungarian Opera House at Budapest Christmas

Although the Opera House will soon undergo a major architectural and structural change, the 2019 / 2020 opera season will not be ruined by the scheduled construction works. Booking is essential.
Dec 31 in the Opera House: Not announced yet.
Dec 31 in Erkel Theater: Not announced yet.
Jan 1 in the Opera House: Not announced yet.
Jan 1 in Erkel Theater: Not announced yet.

If you did not get into the Opera House, and you wish to book a nice New Year’s Eve Concert in Budapest or New Year’s Day Concert in Budapest, visit Budapest Concert guide for more updated details.

Budapest Card Tourism Office Opening Hours

Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport Terminal 2A
December 31: 8.00 am-6.00 pm
January 01: 10.00 am-10.00 pm

Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport Terminal 2B
December 31: 10.00 am-6.00 pm
January 01: 10.00 am-10.00 pm

Budapest Card Office Budapest Deak Square

Budapest Card Office Budapest Deak Square

Deák Ferenc Square
2 Suto str., Budapest H-1052
December 31: 8.00 am-8.00 pm
January 01: 10.00 am-6.00 pm

Ice rink building
5 Olof Palme promenade, Budapest H-1146
December 31: 9.00 am-7.00 pm
January 01: 12.00 pm-7.00 pm

Budavár (Holy Trinity square pavilion)
15 Tarnok str, Budapest H-1014
December 31: 9.00 am-6.00 pm
January 01: 11.00 am-6.00 pm

Top Museums in Budapest at New Year

Budapest History Museum

December 31: Closed
January 01: 10am – 4pm

Hungarian National Museum

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

Hungarian Agricultural Museum

Vajdahunyad Castle Budapest in Winter

Vajdahunyad Castle Budapest in Winter

December 31: 10am – 5pm
January 01: Closed

More info about Vajdahunyad Castle Budapest

House of Terror Museum

December 31: 10am – 4pm
January 01: Closed

Hospital of the Rock

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

Underground Railway Museum

Underground Railway Museum Budapest

Underground Railway Museum Budapest

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

Holocaust Memorial Center

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

Hungarian National Jewish Museum

December 31: 10am – 4pm
January 01: 10am – 4pm

Hungarian Railway Museum

Santa Claus in Budapest Railway Museum

Santa Claus in Budapest Railway Museum

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

Museum of Military History

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

Hungarian Natural History Museum

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

Pinball Museum

Pinball Museum Budapest

Pinball Museum Budapest

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

Miniversum

December 31: 9am – 5pm
January 01: 12pm – 5pm

House of Houdini

December 31: Closed
January 01: 10am – 7pm

Book Tickets

Liszt Franz Memorial Museum

Poster in House of Houdini Museum

Poster in House of Houdini Museu

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

Also check the Concerts in Budapest Liszt Music Academy.

Art Galleries & Museums in Budapest at New Year

Hungarian National Gallery

Dec 31: Open 10 am – 4 pm (latest entry at 3 pm)
Jan 1: Open 12 pm – 6 pm (latest entry at 5 pm)

Museum of Ethnography

December 31: Closed (until 2020)
January 01: Closed (until 2020)

Further Hungarian Folk programs in Budapest: Budapest Hungarian Folk

Ludwig Museum Budapest

Ludwig Museum Budapest

Palace of Exhibitions (Kunsthalle)

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

Museum of Applied Arts:

December 31: Closed due to renovations
January 01: Closed due to renovations

Ludwig Museum

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

Outdoor Attractions at New Year Budapest

Vorosmarty Square Christmas Market

Budapest Christmas Market by Basilica

Budapest Christmas Market by Basilica

December 31: 10 am – 4 pm (food stalls only)
January 01: 2 pm – 10 pm (food stalls only)

Christmas Fair at St Stephen’s Basilica

December 31: 10:00 – 22:00
January 01: 10:00 – 20:00

Memento Park

December 31: 10am – 4pm
January 01: 10am – 4pm

Fisherman’s Bastion

Fisherman's Bastion Budapest by Night

Fisherman’s Bastion Budapest by Night

December 31: 0-24
January 01: 0-24

Funicular

December 31: Operates as usual (7.30 am – 10 pm)
January 01: Operates as usual (7.30 am – 10 pm)

Ice Rink

December 31: TBC
January 01: TBC

Tasting Attractions – Foods & Drinks

Wine Tasting Cruise (Danube side attractions of the UNESCO World Heritage):

NYD Cruises Budapest

New Year Cruises Budapest

December 31: 2pm
January 01: 2pm, 4pm and 7pm

Craft Beer Cruise (Danube side attractions of the UNESCO World Heritage):

December 31: 2pm
January 01: 2pm, 4pm and 7pm

Great Market Hall

December 31: 6am – 3pm
January 01: Closed

Chocolate Museum

Great Market Hall Budapest

Great Market Hall Budapest

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

Zwack Museum

December 31: Closed
January 01: Closed

 

 

 

Most Budapest attractions have special opening hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. You can find the list of the most important museums and other tourist attractions of Budapest on Dec 31 and Jan 1 below.

The Danube in New Year’s Budapest

Evening Danube in Budapest

Evening Danube in Budapest

Walking along the river Danube in wintertime is beautiful, when all riverside cafes, floating restaurants and hotels are already decorated and nicely lit in anticipation for the celebration of Christmas and the New Year. Of course, you can best admire all the attractions and sights along the Danube from sightseeing cruise. Enjoy 7-Tier Wine Tasting Cruise or upgrade to a Dinner Cruise by Candlelight.
Should you choose to have a nice walk along the river, there are tours with professional guides. At this time of the year, the Evening Walking Tour & Night Cruise program can be a great choice too.

Thermal Baths in New Year’s Budapest

Szechenyi Bath Budapest New Year

Szechenyi Bath New Year – by James Guppy

The hot thermal pools of the Budapest Baths are extremely popular at wintertime – it is an absolutely must see during your end of the year holiday in Budapest. You might wish to skip the lines at the cashier with an online ticket, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Most of them are open every day during Christmas and New Year too, although the opening hours might change, so please check the actual hours before your visit.

Szechenyi Baths Winter Opening Hours
Gellert Spa Winter Opening Hours

Apart from the thermal water, most of the baths of Budapest also offer a great range of relaxing massages, but make sure you book your treatment minimum a few days ahead.

Winter Markets around the New Year

Budapest Christmas Market

Budapest Christmas Market – Eszter Hargittai Photography

Both of the greatest Budapest Christmas Markets (the one at Vorosmarty Square and the other one in front of the St. Stephen’s Basilica) are open until Jan 1. Visiting them is absolutely recommended during your winter holiday in Budapest (free of charge), but what’s even better: you can book a Budapest Christmas Market Guided Tour too, which includes Chimney Cake and Wine Tasting as well.
Other markets not to be missed: are the Great Market Hall and the Downtown Market Hall – both can be visited by yourself or during an interesting Guided Market Hall Tour.
If you wish to visit a Sunday’s Farmer’s Market, we recommend Szimpla Kert’s market in the city center, which is held every Sunday from 9am to 2pm with lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, jams, mushrooms and meat products directly from producers to customers.

Castles in Budapest around New Year’s Time

Buda Castle in Winter - photo by Neil Howard

Buda Castle in Winter – photo by Neil Howard

With its beautiful sights, the Buda Castle offers a great walk both outside the courtyard, and inside the Royal Palace building with exhibitions and concerts. All kinds of Buda Castle Guided Tours for various budget are available in the Castle area during Christmas and New Year too.
Do not miss the Fisherman’s Bastion, and admire the amazing winter panorama of Budapest – visiting is free of charge during the whole month of December.
If you really wish something special, we recommend the Concerts in Matthias Church.

Another castle in Budapest, lesser-known but a fantastic place is the Vajdahunyad Castle in the middle of the city park. This fairy tale castle with a little lake offers a nice walk surrounded by the beautiful winter park of Varosliget (City Park) right next to the great Ice Rink. Vajdahunyad Castle is one of the romantic castles in Budapest, with its mixed architectural style, lots of little towers and fantastic statues – it’s worth a visit in itself, but can also be visited inside, where the Hungarian Agricultural Museum is located.
Most of the Budapest Guided Walking Tours also feature the Vajdahunyad Castle.

Special Vehicles in Winter Budapest

Winter Segway Tours Budapest

Winter Segway Tours Budapest

The Funicular in the Buda Castle (one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Budapest) is a famous attraction, and of course a fun way to travel up and down the Castle Hill. Book a comprehensive Castle Tour with Funicular Ride and Danube Cruise, for a great half-day program in Budapest.

Segways are interesting, fast and great way of discovering the city, and the Budapest Segway Tours are welcoming guests in the winter season too.

Speaking of special vehicles, we must mention the historical underground (“Metro M1” on maps), also called as Millennial Underground, which is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage, and connect the city center (Vorosmarty Square) with the City Park – and Szechenyi Baths.

Outdoor Activities in New Year’s Budapest

Parks in Budapest

The City Park (Varosliget) is the biggest park in Budapest (approx. 122 ha). City Park offers a great place for refreshing winter walks to escape the teeming city center, and it is also the home of some great attractions, such as the Budapest Zoo, the Capital Circus of Budapest, Szechenyi Spa Baths and the Vajdahunyad Castle.

Another beautiful park for taking walks if you are longing for some calm re-connection with mother nature is the Margaret Island. The island can be accessed via 2 bridges on each end, but the nicest way to get there is by a boat. There are several Sightseeing Cruises daily that stop on Margaret Island, so you will have plenty of time to discover the sights of the island (the cruise voucher offers some great discounts, but there are also a lot of free attractions to visit).

Ice Rinks in Budapest

Vajdahunyad Castle and Ice Rink Budapest New Year

Vajdahunyad Castle and Ice Rink Budapest – Gabriel Hess Photography

Ice skating can be and ideal afternoon or evening program during your winter holiday in Budapest. Visit with your better half for a romantic event or have a fun family program with kids – the Budapest Ice Rink at the City Park is a perfect choice to spend a few hours on the fresh air.

Walking Tours in Budapest

Budapest offers amazing guided tours in wintertime too. On the Buda side, the popular Buda Castle Tours are worth to mention, but if you wish to book a more comprehensive tour in both the Buda and Pest side, the Budapest Guided Walking Tour is recommended for you. There are some great themed tours as well, for example the Jewish Heritage tour which can be booked as a package with a nice Buffet Dinner Cruise. For those who wish to see the less touristy side of the city, a good choice can be the Alternative & Street Art Walking Tour or a real nice Guided Pub Crawl visiting the best Ruin Bars of Budapest.

Hiking in Budapest

Budapest Citadel Gellert Hill (photo by Patrick Down)

Budapest Citadel Gellert Hill (photo by Patrick Down)

One of the best venues for hiking and winter sports is the Normafa Park, located on Svabhegy (part of the Buda Hills). Easily accessible by public transportation from Szell Kalman Square. There are plenty of hiking routes, various tracks for excursions in the Buda Hills either on foot or by bicycle and if there is enough snow, you can even ski or snowboard! Don’t forget to visit the Chairlift and the Elisabeth Lookout Tower too.

A bit closer to the city center, also on the Buda side you can find the Gellert Hill (right next to the famous Gellert Spa). The hill offers some great walking routes too, but also worth getting on the top to see the iconic Statue of Liberty and the Citadel providing a breathtaking panorama of Budapest.

Shows and Concerts in Budapest New Year

NYE Gala Concert in Danube Palace

NYE Gala Concert in Danube Palace

Looking for cultural programs during your winter holiday in Budapest? You’ll have plenty to choose from. There are several Concerts in Budapest in December in different genres, at various locations (theaters, churches, cruises, etc.). On Dec 29 and Dec 30 the pre-NYE celebrations begin, leading up to of course the big night of New Year’s Eve.

The great list of festive programs does not end with Dec 31, there are some unmissable events and concerts on New Year’s Day too.

Attractions in Budapest Anytime

There are many attractions and sights in Budapest that are worth visiting, regardless of the season. These places are open throughout the year, and must be seen at least once on a Budapest trip.

Opera House Budapest in Winter

Opera House Budapest – Damian Entwistle Photography

Hungarian Parliament – that majestic building by the river Danube is the 3rd largest parliament of the whole world. Luckily, it is available for visiting on Guided Parliament Tours.

Heroes’ Square – absolutely stunning, and absolutely free. Heroe’s Square is one the most iconic venues of the city of Budapest. Located right next to the City Park, Szechenyi Spa Baths and the Vajdahunyad Castle.

Opera House – the Hungarian State Opera is a fascinating building, it is highly recommended to visit on a Guided Opera Tour. If you are lucky enough to attend to a show or concert too – don’t miss the chance. Check the Christmas & New Year Program in the Opera House.

Majestic Churches – the St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Great Synagogue are the biggest and most beautiful churches in Budapest. Both are offering guided tours as well.

Hidden Gems in Budapest

If you want to get more ideas about your New Year holiday in Budapest, Hungary: find some off the beaten track Hidden Gems in Budapest.

Hungarian Parliament - New Year Budapest

New Year’s Eve Dinner in Budapest – December 31

New Year’s Eve Dinner cruises in Budapest are the most sought after events in our calendar, as they provide a one-and-only chance to welcome the New Year in the magic lights of the city over the magnificent river Danube.

Book your place for a special NYE cruise with Dinner and live entertainment, but hurry up, tickets are selling out like hot cakes!

Budapest New Year’s Eve Party Cruise & Folk Show

NYE Danube Cruise in Budapest with Dinner and Live Music

NYE Danube Cruise in Budapest with Dinner and Live Music

4-course Gala Dinner (plus a midnight dinner with a traditional Hungarian dish), unlimited drinks, live gypsy music, folk dance show with fun and party all night long and much more.

This cruise is suitable for groups with shared seating at tables.

You can now reserve your place for the New Year’s Eve dinner & party cruise by paying a deposit of €95 (approx. 1/2 of the full price).

Budapest Cruise on New Year's Eve

Budapest Cruise on New Year’s Eve – Furanda Photography

 

NYE Cruise with Buffet Dinner and Retro Party

Celebrate the new year on an unforgettable retro party cruise, including buffet style dinner, unlimited drink package and live DJ.

NYE Cruise with Piano Music 

The beloved Piano Cruise offers its New Year’s Eve edition, with various available drink packages on a modern catamaran ship. Enjoy the Ala Carte dinner while listening to a piano battle show. Vegan options are also available!

Budapest Candlelit Dinner Cruise on Legenda 

Live Music Candlelit Dinner Cruise Legenda Ship Budapest

Live Music Candlelit Dinner Cruise Legenda Ship Budapest

Enjoy an a la carte dinner cruise in Budapest on the river Danube from 7 pm on 31 December, on the beautiful Legenda ship.

Live music, candle lit dinner and delicious meals will make this cruise even more memorable. Sold out

100 Member Gypsy Orchestra in the Budapest Congress Center

The traditional and renowned Music-Wine Gala Concert of the 100 Member Gypsy Orchestra is one of the best ways to say goodbye to the old year in a fantastic mood. The concert can also be topped up with a delicious dinner.

New Year Day’s Dinner in Budapest – January 1

Why not welcome the New Year of 2020 in exactly the same way as you said your fairwell to the old year? That is on a wonderful Budapest Dinner Cruise on the Danube with either a la carte or buffet style dinner with live music.

Budapest Candlelit Dinner Cruise on Legenda

The leisurely and romantic dinner cruise is 2.5 hours on the Danube, with a served pre-paid 4-course A la Carte dinner for €70.65 per person.

This high-end dinner cruise is one of the most loved ones by the guests, so this is a perfect choice to start the new year with.

New Year’s Day Dinner Cruise & Piano

Bar Piano Dinner Cruise Budapest

Bar Piano Dinner Cruise Budapest

2 hour cruise on the river Danube with live bar Piano music, 4 course dinner from 6 pm and from 9 pm.

Have a happy and relaxed start for a cheerful New Year, especially if you upgrade your ticket with the unlimited drink package option.

With city central boarding & arrival, this option is ideal for thos who partied until dawn.

Tickets with Dinner are starting from only €63.

 

Budapest Evening Cruise with Gypsy Music

This 2 hour cruise on the river Danube includes Buffet Dinner, music by an award winning Hungarian Gypsy trio and 2 drinks.

This dinner cruise is reported to be the highlight of many tourists’ Budapest visit, therefore book your tickets in advance as this program often run full house.

NYD Gala Concert Budapest

Tickets with Dinner are starting from €54.

New Year’s Day Gala Concert with optional Dinner Cruise

This Gala Concert with an optional Dinner Cruise is an elegant way to enjoy all the magic of New Year’s Day with a wide repertoire of musical styles such as gypsy music, operetta, classical music and ballet featuring a special Hungarian folk instrument (hammer dulcimel). Not scheduled for 2022

Hungarian Parliament Budapest New Year 2019 2020

While the Hungarian Parliament is open on most days in a year (except for parliamentary sessions, or on the day of special delegations), the days of Christmas are some of the exceptional public holidays in Hungary when the Parliament in Budapest are not open for visits. Book a Parliament tour online to make sure you get in for a guided tour inside the 3rd biggest parliamentary building in the world.

Parliament in winter Budapest

Parliament in winter Budapest – Neil Howard Photography

New Year Opening Hours

Dec 31: Open until noon (12pm)

The general opening hours of the Hungarian Parliament building in Budapest in the winter months are as follows:

Opening hours of the Orszaghaz between October 1 and April 30, including November, December, January, February

Monday–Friday: 8 am – 4 pm
Saturday: 8 am – 4 pm
Sunday: 8 am – 2 pm

You can also enjoy the views of the beautiful Parliament building from the Buda Castle, the Fisherman’s Bastion or from a Budapest river cruise (cruises go in winter months, including December and January too).

Hungarian Parliament - New Year Budapest

Hungarian Parliament – New Year Budapest

National Gallery Budapest

The Hungarian National Gallery, which takes up most of the space of the Buda Castle in Budapest is a very nice place to visit to see some of the best Hungarian fine art pieces, especially the 19th century Hungarian paintings.

Hungarian National Gallery

Hungarian National Gallery – redteam Photography

If you wonder what the Buda Castle might be from the inside, or what the views are from its windows, it is also worth visiting the National Gallery, even if you are not a museum fan or gallery goer. The entrance fee to the National Gallery in the Castle is very cheap, it has a nice cafe, and the exhibitions will not bore your for an hour. More about the National Gallery in Budapest here: Hungarian National Gallery

New Year Opening Hours 2019 – 2020

Dec 31 TBC
January 1 TBC

In general, the National Gallery (Nemzeti Galéria) opening hours during December (except for Xmas and NYE, see below) are as follows:

the general opening times of the National Gallery are as follows (almost all days in December)

Monday: Closed
Tuesday – Sunday: 10 am – 6 pm

National Gallery Budapest

National Gallery Budapest – Jaime Silva Photography