Things to do in Hungary in february

Discover the grandeur of Hungary's iconic Parliament Building, where neo-Gothic architecture and historic interiors will leave you in awe. Then, unwind in the soothing waters of Széchenyi or Gellért Thermal Baths, two of Europe’s largest and most beautiful bath complexes. For breathtaking views and a touch of history, visit the magnificent St. Stephen’s Basilica and the historic Buda Castle, each offering unique insights into Budapest's past.

Table of Contents

• Top Attractions and Activities
• Festivals and Events
• Cultural Experiences
• Family-Friendly Activities

Top Attractions and Activities

1. Tour the Parliament Building

Explore the stunning architecture and rich history of Hungary's iconic Parliament Building.

• Location: Kossuth Lajos Square, Budapest, Hungary;
• Schedule: Open daily; guided tours available in various languages;
• Cost: Approx. €8-€15 for adults, discounts for students and children;
• Features: Stunning neo-Gothic architecture, historic interiors, the Holy Crown of Hungary.

2. Warm Up in a Thermal Bath

Széchenyi Thermal Bath: Enjoy the outdoor and indoor pools, saunas, and spa treatments in one of Europe's largest thermal bath complexes.

• Location: Állatkerti krt. 9-11, Budapest, Hungary;
• Schedule: Open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM;
• Cost: Approx. €15-€20 for full-day entry; additional charges for massages and treatments;
• Features: Outdoor and indoor pools, saunas, steam rooms, wellness services.

Gellért Thermal Bath: Experience the beautiful Art Nouveau architecture while relaxing in the warm waters and steam rooms.

• Location: Kelenhegyi út 4, Budapest, Hungary;
• Schedule: Open daily from 6 AM to 8 PM;
• Cost: Approx. €15-€18 for full-day entry; additional charges for massages and treatments;
• Features: Art Nouveau architecture, therapeutic pools, saunas, steam baths.

3. Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica

Marvel at the magnificent interior, climb the dome for panoramic city views, and see the mummified right hand of St. Stephen’s Basilica.

• Location: Szent István tér 1, Budapest, Hungary;
• Schedule: Open daily; varying hours for the basilica, dome, and treasury;
• Cost: Free to enter the basilica; small fee to access the dome and treasury;
• Features: Panoramic views from the dome, rich interior decorations, mummified right hand of St. Stephen.

4. Explore Buda Castle

Wander through the historic castle complex, visit the Hungarian National Gallery, and enjoy breathtaking views over the Danube River.

• Location: Szent György tér, Budapest, Hungary;
• Schedule: Open daily; museums and galleries have specific opening hours;
• Cost: Free to wander the grounds; entrance fees for museums and galleries;
• Features: Historic castle complex, Hungarian National Gallery, Budapest History Museum, panoramic city views.

5. Take a Danube River Cruise

• Daytime Sightseeing Cruise: See Budapest’s landmarks from the water, including the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and Chain Bridge.
• Dinner Cruise with Live Music: Savor a delicious meal accompanied by live music while floating past illuminated city sights.

• Location: Various embarkation points along the Danube River;
• Schedule: Multiple departures daily;
• Cost: Approx. €10-€20 per person;
• Features: Scenic views of Budapest’s landmarks, multilingual audio guide.

6. Go Ice Skating

• Városliget Ice Rink: Skate on one of Europe's largest outdoor ice rinks, located in City Park with a picturesque backdrop of Vajdahunyad Castle.
• Budapest Park Ice Rink: Enjoy a more modern setting with skating sessions and events.

7. Visit the Hungarian Museum of Fine Arts

Admire an extensive collection of European art, including works by Spanish, Italian, and Dutch masters, as well as ancient Egyptian and classical antiquities.

8. Discover the Fisherman’s Bastion

Take in the fairy-tale-like architecture and stunning views over the Danube River and Pest side of the city from the Fisherman’s Bastion.

9. Enjoy the Night Life

• Ruin Bars: Experience Budapest's unique ruin bar culture in eclectic, retro-fitted venues.
• Nightclubs: Dance the night away in popular spots like Instant and Akvárium Klub.

10. Walk Along a Bridge

• Chain Bridge: Take a romantic stroll across Budapest's most famous bridge, linking Buda and Pest.
• Liberty Bridge: Enjoy the Art Nouveau design and scenic views of the city from this historic bridge.

11. See a Hungarian Dance Performance

Watch traditional Hungarian folk dances performed by local troupes in vibrant costumes.

12. Go to a Concert

Enjoy performances by international and local artists in venues like the Budapest Congress Center or the Papp László Budapest Sportaréna.

13. Visit the Opera House

Tour the opulent Hungarian State Opera House or attend a performance of opera or ballet.

• Location: Andrássy út 22, Budapest, Hungary;
• Schedule: Tours and performances on various dates and times;
• Cost: Tour tickets approx. €10-€15; performance tickets vary;
• Features: Opulent interiors, renowned performances of opera and ballet.

14. Visit the Budapest Puppet Theater

Delight in puppet shows that are entertaining for both children and adults, showcasing Hungarian folklore and classic tales.

15. Enjoy the Budapest Independent Film Festival

Watch free screenings of independent films from around the world, celebrating diverse genres and innovative filmmaking.

16. Explore the El Greco Exhibition

View masterpieces by the renowned Spanish painter El Greco before the exhibition closes.

17. Experience the Star Wars Exhibition

Immerse yourself in the world of Star Wars with interactive displays, costumes, and memorabilia from the iconic film series.

Festivals and Events

1. Valentine’s Day Celebrations

Romantic Dinners in City Restaurants: Enjoy special Valentine’s Day menus and cozy atmospheres at top restaurants in Budapest.

Danube River Cruise with Dinner: Celebrate with a romantic dinner cruise featuring gourmet food, live music, and stunning nighttime views of Budapest’s landmarks.

• Location: Embarkation points along the Danube River;
• Schedule: Evening of February 14;
• Cost: Approx. €50-€70 per person;
• Features: Gourmet dinner, live music, stunning nighttime views of Budapest’s landmarks.

Valentine’s Day Special Events: Participate in themed events like dance parties, wine tastings, and couples’ spa packages.

2. Mangalica Festival

Held in various locations in Budapest, this festival celebrates the Hungarian Mangalica pig with food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and live entertainment.

3. Fish Festival

A celebration of seafood with numerous vendors offering fish dishes, cooking contests, and cultural performances.

4. Budapest Bachata Festival

Join dance workshops, social dancing events, and performances by international Bachata artists. Perfect for dance enthusiasts and beginners alike.

5. Budapest Boat Show

Explore the latest in boating and water sports equipment, attend seminars, and enjoy live demonstrations at Hungary’s largest boat show.

6. Budapest Dance Festival

Enjoy contemporary dance performances, workshops, and masterclasses by renowned local and international dancers and choreographers.

7. Indoor Beer Festival in Castle Bazaar

Sample a wide range of craft beers from local and international breweries, enjoy unlimited beer tasting with a ticket, and attend beer-related events and workshops.

8. Budapest Independent Film Festival

Watch free screenings of independent films from around the world, celebrating diverse genres and innovative filmmaking.

Cultural Experiences

1. See a Hungarian Dance Performance

Enjoy traditional Hungarian folk dances performed by local troupes in vibrant costumes. These performances often include live music and are held in various venues such as the Hungarian Heritage House.

2. Go to a Concert

• James Arthur Concert: Attend the performance of the popular British singer-songwriter at a major venue in Budapest.
• Other Concerts: Explore a range of music genres from classical to contemporary in venues like the Budapest Congress Center or Papp László Budapest Sportaréna.

3. Visit the Budapest Puppet Theater

Delight in puppet shows that are entertaining for both children and adults, showcasing Hungarian folklore, fairy tales, and classic stories.

4. Enjoy the Budapest Independent Film Festival

Watch free screenings of independent films from around the world. The festival celebrates diverse genres and innovative filmmaking, providing a platform for new and established filmmakers.

6. Visit the Hungarian Museum of Fine Arts

Admire an extensive collection of European art, including works by Spanish, Italian, and Dutch masters, as well as ancient Egyptian and classical antiquities. Special exhibitions and events are often held here.

• Schedule: Exhibition dates vary; typically on display for several months
• Cost: Included in museum admission fee, approx. €10-€12 for adults
• Features: Masterpieces by El Greco, insights into his influence on European art

6. Explore the Hungarian National Gallery

Located in Buda Castle, this gallery showcases Hungarian art from medieval times to the present day. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and altarpieces.

7. Take a Winter Photo and Coffee Tour

• Best Spots for Winter Photography in Budapest: Capture the beauty of Budapest in winter at iconic locations such as Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Heroes' Square.
• Best Cafes in Budapest: Warm up with a coffee in some of Budapest’s coziest cafes like New York Café, Gerbeaud, and Ruszwurm Confectionery.

8. Attend the Budapest Dance Festival

Enjoy contemporary dance performances, workshops, and masterclasses by renowned local and international dancers and choreographers.

9. Participate in the Budapest Bachata Festival

Join dance workshops, social dancing events, and performances by international Bachata artists. This festival is perfect for dance enthusiasts and beginners alike.

10. Enjoy a Walking Tour

Take a guided walking tour to explore the historic and cultural sights of Budapest. Options include general city tours, themed tours focusing on history or architecture, and food tours highlighting Hungarian cuisine.

11. Visit the Invisible Exhibition

Experience the world from the perspective of visually impaired people in this unique exhibition that takes place in complete darkness, guided by blind or partially sighted hosts.

12. Explore Central Market Hall

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Budapest’s largest and oldest indoor market. Sample Hungarian delicacies, buy fresh produce, and shop for souvenirs and traditional crafts.

• Location: Vámház krt. 1-3, Budapest, Hungary
• Schedule: Monday to Saturday, 6 AM to 6 PM (closes at 3 PM on Saturdays), closed on Sundays
• Cost: Free entry, food and items priced individually
• Features: Vibrant atmosphere, Hungarian delicacies, fresh produce, souvenirs, and traditional crafts

Family-Friendly Activities

1. Enjoy the Budapest Puppet Theater

Delight in puppet shows that are entertaining for both children and adults. The theater showcases Hungarian folklore, fairy tales, and classic stories, making it a magical experience for the whole family.

2. Participate in the Indoor Beer Festival (for families with older children)

While primarily an event for adults, families with older teens can enjoy the festival atmosphere, food stalls, and live entertainment in the historic setting of the Castle Bazaar.

3. Visit the Palace of Miracles

This interactive science museum offers hands-on exhibits and activities for children of all ages. It's a fun and educational experience that covers topics like physics, biology, and space exploration.

4. Visit the Budapest Zoo

• Bear Carnival: Participate in this festive event featuring themed activities, animal encounters, and carnival games, perfect for families with young children.

Year of the Dragon Lampion Festival: Celebrate the Chinese New Year with lantern displays, cultural performances, and themed decorations throughout the zoo.