Due to its scenic setting, Budapest is usually called the ‘Paris of the East’ and the place definitely lives up to this claim. With its majestic boulevards and beautiful architecture all around the streets, Budapest is most certainly a dynamic and lively city with so much to explore.
With a mix of Western and Eastern Europe, this transitioning city has a lot to offer its people through its rustic charm. The capital of Hungary has a unique, youthful atmosphere, a great classical music scene, and pulsating nightlife that is likely appreciated among European youth. Budapest is Europe’s most delightful and enjoyable city that also offers exceptional natural thermal baths. If you plan to travel to this exotic city in the month of January, keep scrolling!
What makes Budapest in January special?
Given Budapest’s extreme cold, January can be a bit dreary, but not unbearably cold to travel to the Hungarian capital city. But don’t let the weather deter you from travelling to this picturesque city as the airfare is probably much cheaper during this time of the year. January in Budapest is not a peak season, with grey days along with some brilliant blue skies. You can enjoy the top landmarks and attractions without having to fight through the crowds. Towards the end of the month, the city throws a bit of a bone, reminding all that spring is just around the corner with a few sunny and mild days. It isn’t a particularly busy time to visit Budapest and you are unlikely to deal with long queues before visiting the iconic landmarks and attractions that the city has got to offer. Budapest in January, however, can be a bit of a funny beast, so ensure you carry sunglasses, an umbrella as well as good winter boots.
Budapest in January Weather
During the month of January, Budapest is slightly warmer than the rest of the Easter European places, with an overall average temperature of 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters runs from December through March or April and is the country’s coldest and gloomiest season. During this month, the city receives up to 15 inches of snow on a single day. Nevertheless, January is a good time to visit Budapest, While the weather may be cold outside, there is a lot to do inside. We have made a list below of the top things to do in Budapest in January. Check it out!
Budapest in January: Things To Do
1
The Budapest Parliament
Get set to indulge in Hungarian history while you are on a guided tour of the Budapest Parliament. This iconic landmark is a notable tourist destination in Budapest, visited by millions every year. Nested on Kossuth Square, this attraction has been the largest building in the country since its completion.
January Timings
8 AM – 4 PM, Daily
Hungarian Parliament Visitor Centre, Budapest
Hungary
Getting There ›
2
Gellért Spa
The Gellert Spa is one of the most well-known spas in Budapest and the rest of Europe since 1918. These thermal waters are used for relaxation and treatment. Soak in the glorious architecture that is made up of turquoise, mosaics and ceramics, neo-classical cherub statues, and more. Visiting this place is sure to indulge all of your senses.
January Timings
9 AM – 7 PM, Daily
Kelenhegyi út 4., Budapest
Hungary
Getting There ›
3
Cruise down the Danube
Enjoy sightseeing through the heart of Budapest, along the beautiful River Danube. As you cruise through the majestic winter skies, soak in the city’s history and architecture as you pass through some of the historic landmarks such as the Fisherman’s Bastion, The Parliament Building, and the Castle District, to name a few.
January Timings
Depends on which cruise you take
Silverline Cruises, 1051 Budapest, Vigadó tér, Dock 11, Budapest
Hungary
Getting There ›
4
Explore the Jewish Heritage of Budapest
When in Budapest, visit the Dohany Street Synagogue as it is famous for being an architectural marvel and is an important part of Budapest’s Jewish history and heritage. Enjoy a guided tour of the museum and get an idea of the Jewish heritage through the various collections of art from Hungary and Europe.
Dohány Street Synagogue Budapest , Dohány u. 2 , Budapest
Getting There ›
5
Take a Day Trip to Gödöllő
Enjoy a nice scenic drive to Godollo and visit the beautiful Baroque Palace. You will be fascinated by the great stories about Francis Joseph and Queen Elisabeth. As you visit the interiors, you will get an insight into the times under the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Grab a cup of hot coffee once you are done with your guided tour of the Palace.
Budapest, Hungary, Budapest
Getting There ›
6
Buda Castle Cave
Buda Castle Cave: Get set to embark on a journey to admire the 800-year-old man-made cellar in one of the most exotic caves in Hungary. You can take a guided tour and get an idea about the geology of the caves and explore the cave system under the Buda Castle District.
January Timings
10 AM – 6 PM, Daily
Holy Trinity Column / Szentháromság Square, right next to Matthias Church, Budapest
Hungary
Getting There ›
Budapest In January: Events To Look Out For
Budapest has a lot of seasonal events that continue in full swing even after the holidays. One popular attraction in the city for Hungarians and the many tourists are its thermal baths. The city has about 15 spas, among them the famed ones are Gellert Bath and Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
Ice Skating and Shopping in Budapest
Through January
Now we understand it is already cold in Budapest, but if you are okay with the cold, ice skating is a must-try in the City Park.
Also, if you enjoy retail therapy, then enjoy shopping at Budapest shops as there will be a lot of sales during this time. Many local shops offer discounts even after the holiday season.
BDPST Wedding Exhibition 2024
27-28 Jan 2024
During the end of January, Budapest conducts a bridal expo to unveil its wedding dresses, accessories, décor and multiple venues around the country and is undoubtedly a majestic experience that one must witness.
Budapest In January: 3-day Itinerary
Check out our handmade itinerary guide to spend 3 days in Barcelona to plan your trip efficiently.
If you are short on time, you can also check out our guide about exploring Budapest in 1 day or 2 days.
Budapest Essentials
LanguageHungarian
Time zoneGMT+2
Country Code+36
Socket Type C & F
CurrencyHungarian Forints (HUF)
Budapest Weather In January
Budapest has an overall temperature of 30 degrees Fahrenheit during the month of January. The average high is -2 degrees Celsius and the average love is -3 degrees Celsuis. The place tends to receive a significant amount of snow around this time of the year, but is slightly warmer than the other Eastern European destinations.
Where To Stay In Budapest During January
- 5- Star Hotels – Prestige Hotel Budapest, Hotel Moments Budapest, ARCadia Hotel Budapest, Medosz Hotel Budapest, Leonardo Boutique Hotel Budapest M-Square
- 4 Star Hotels – Continental Hotel Budapest, Hotel Oktogon Haggenmacher, Hilton Garden Inn Budapest City Centre, Hotel Parlament, Bohem Art Hotel
- Budget-Friendly Hotels – ibis Budapest Centrum , Impulso Fashion Hotel , Hotel Vision Budapest , Budapest Suites
What To Pack When Visiting Budapest In January
The winters in Budapest cannot be predicted, so it is ideal to be well prepared before your trip. Make sure you have a lot of layers and waterproofs, alongside the heavy coats and winter accessories. Do carry woollen socks, sweaters, thermal wear, waterproof boots, hats, gloves, and scarves to ensure you stay warm and can enjoy the city well.
Getting Around Budapest In January
Getting around the Hungarian capital is quite easy. Walking is undoubtedly your best bet, but the tramline 2,4, and 6 as well as the three subway lines are good alternatives that allow you to get to most places in Budapest. It connects most of the city’s important areas.
Another alternative can be using the taxis as it can be fast and cheap in the city when there is limited public transportation especially during the night hours.
The MOL Bubi public bike system is a public transport mode suitable for short rides to explore the city on two wheels. The first 30 minutes are free with a ticket.
You can also use buses or trolley buses that are available in 13 routes in Pest only.
Budapest In January - Must Try Delicasies
Budapest offers many exotic dishes that are sure to tease your taste buds. Here is a list of the top dishes you should try and where you can have them in Budapest.
Goulash is a very famous Hungarian dish and is something that can be eaten by itself in Budapest! Chunks of beef meat are carefully cooked in broth, with a mixture of potatoes and carrots, making it a wholesome and delicious soup. It is extremely delicious and very refreshing in the heat.
Try this dish here: Gettó Gulyás
These are extremely delicious deep-fried flatbread topped with sour cream and cheese. Nowadays, you can get a range of toppings and even langos burgers. They are made of a dough similar to doughnuts and make a perfect drinking food as they will line your stomach. Although the heavy dough can fill you up too soon. This dish is a must try in Budapest.
Try this dish here: Retro Langos Budapest
There is no doubt that the Hungarians most certainly love their paprika. This dish had a thick creamy sauce flavoured with paprika around the stewed chicken. Just like Chicken Paprikash, you can also enjoy this in other types of meat and types of Paprikash too.
Try this dish here: Paprika Vendeglo
Layered with potatoes, baked with sour cream and a hard-boiled egg, this dish can be served with a Hungarian sausage called Kolbasz. This dish can be eaten by itself, perhaps is best suited by pickles, or served in tiny portions as a side dish. The name literally translates to ‘pleated potatoes’.
Try this dish here: Frici Papa
This neat cabbage parcel is a traditional Hungarian cuisine made out of stuffed cabbage. Leaves are taken from the cabbage and used to wrap a filling curated from chopped onion, egg, rice and seasoned minced pork. These leafy parcels are laid over a bed of sauerkraut and finished with slices of smoked bacon.
Try this dish here: Dunacorso
Tips To Visit Budapest In January
If you are visiting Budapest in January, you can discover the city and soak in all the culture even in the cold weather. One best way to do so is by visiting the quirky bars and restaurants in town.
- We recommend you book your tickets to Budapest, as, even though it is off-season, you can still expect thick lines at the ticket counters.
- A lot of attractions in Budapest provide guided tours which are absolutely worth a try. Your tour guide will give you an insight into each attraction, ensuring you get a good exposure about the attraction.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will have a lot of walking around to do in the streets of Budapest.
- Pack warm clothes and winter essentials as January is a cold season in Budapest.
- Carry a camera to capture perfect pictures in the Hungarian capital.
- Try Hungarian culinary staples such as beigli and lentil soup, which is traditionally eaten during New Year’s.
- Ice skating in City Park continues through January and is a fun way to spend the outdoors.
- The Christmas Trams run into the first week of January, so if you arrive during early January, you will be able to catch the tram.
FAQs
Is January a good time to visit Budapest?
What is the weather like in Budapest in January?
What is the weather like in Budapest in January?
Is Budapest in January a busy time?
Is Budapest in January a busy time?
Are any famous attractions in Budapest closed in January?
Are any famous attractions in Budapest closed in January?
What are the top attractions in Budapest to visit in January?
What are the top attractions in Budapest to visit in January?
Explore Budapest By Months
Read our complete guide best time to visit Budapest to plan a carefully thought out trip to the capital of Catalonia.
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