The best time to visit Budapest
Although we think Budapest is great any time of year, we recognise some parts of the year are more appealing. For most tourists, Spring, Summer and Fall are the best times to visit Budapest. Visiting Budapest in the winter, around Christmas time would be quite lovely and it is on our list of things to do for a future visit.
Below you will find information about the best time to visit on a month by month basis.
Here are the best times to travel to Budapest!
April to May
The winter months are disappearing and the days are getting longer.
Average highs in April hover around 15°C (59°F), with lows of 6°C (43°F). Expect 40 mm (1.57 inches) of rain throughout the month on average. Average highs in May hover around 21°C (70°F), with lows of 11°C (52°F). Expect 70 mm (2.76 inches) of rain throughout the month on average
Spring weather should be in full swing in April, and the city will feel as if it’s springing to life after the winter months. Most outdoor beer gardens and terrace bars open in early April, and Budapest’s most famous street food spot, Street Food Karavan, should also be open in the lively 7th district. Bringing some warm clothes is still important, as the evenings will feel crisp and cool. Expect at least some rain on your trip.
In May, the feeling that summer is just around the corner takes over, and Budapesters take to the garden bars in full force, including the famous ruin bars. There’s at least some rain on many days, although it’s still not a lot: average rainfall in Budapest in May is around 70 mm, or 2.76 inches. Bring a good raincoat or travel umbrella with you!
June to August
Budapest summers are hot and sunny, with many people retreating to nearby Lake Balaton to escape the heat. Temperatures ranging from 30°C / 86°F to 35°C / 95°F aren’t uncommon. As such, choosing a hotel with air-conditioning is essential!
Although average highs are around 24°C in June, some weeks can get much warmer, so prepare for a relatively warm trip, and pack a few different layers so you can adjust your wardrobe. Again, there will be some rain, so plan to bring a light outer layer that’s waterproof, or a compact travel umbrella. In June, and for the rest of the summer, you’re likely to see some spectacular sunsets, best viewed from the Citadel or Castle District!
Many Budapesters escape the city in July, heading to nearby Lake Balaton for weekends, or even for weeks at a time! That leaves the city less congested, especially on public transit. Expect hot days and evenings at this time of year; while annual average put the highs around 26°C (79°F), temperatures around 30°C (86°F) aren’t uncommon. Pack a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, and look for a hotel with air conditioning.
Summer heat continues throughout August, so don’t be surprised if the weather temperatures are in the 30s°C / 80s°F, with long stretches of sunshine. Although August receives some of the most rain of the warm months (70 mm / 2.76 inches on average), it’s rare to have rain for days on end, and the rain tends to blow over quickly. If you want to relax, head to Margaret Island, a popular summer hang-out for locals, and the perfect spot for a picnic!
September to October
Average highs in September hover around 22°C (72°F), with lows of 12°C (54°F). Expect 70 mm (2.76 inches) of rain throughout the month on average, spread across 11 days.
Although the temperatures cool slightly in September, it’s still a gorgeous time of year to visit Budapest, with 70 mm / 2.76 inches of rain throughout the month, on average, and comfortable daytime highs of around 22°C (72°F). The city’s terraces are still open in September, and there’s still a lively, summer-loving vibe for most of the month. As a bonus, the peak of the tourist season is over, so you’re less likely to encounter long lines at Budapest’s most popular attractions.
October really begins to feel like autumn in Budapest, and you’re likely to get a mixed bag of weather, with some beautiful sunny days, and some cool and rainy days as well. Many sidewalk cafes are open until the end of the month, so take advantage when you have sunny weather. And think layers when it comes to packing, as you’ll likely need to adjust your wardrobe with the ever-changing weather.
November to March
Average highs in November hover around 7°C (45°F), with lows of 2°C (36°F). Expect 60 mm (2.36 inches) of rain throughout the month on average, spread across 13 days. Snow is rare in November, but not unheard of.
November can be a real mixed bag when it comes to weather, and we recommend bringing waterproof footwear and a good raincoat, as it’s not uncommon for it to rain for an entire day, which can be tough when you’re out exploring. On the other hand, you can still expect some crisp, sunny days throughout the month, and the tourist season has really died down by this point, creating a sweet spot lull between summer and Christmas. Enjoy the lack of crowds, and check out the few Christmas markets that start to open around the middle of the month!
Christmas is in full swing in Budapest in December, as evidenced by the gorgeous lights along Andrassy Avenue and at the parliament building, the cheerful Christmas tram (which is decorated in Christmas lights), and the many Budapest Christmas markets that spring up around the city! Pack in layers, and expect the possibility of snow and ice during your trip. Don’t sweat the cold weather too much – it’s the perfect excuse to indulge in some hearty Hungarian cuisine!
Average highs in March hover around 10°C (50°F), with lows of 2°C (36°F). Expect 40 mm (1.57 inches) of rain/snow throughout the month on average, spread across 11 days.
The coldest days of the year start to fade from memory in March. At the beginning of the month, follow the advice for a January and February trip to Budapest: cold, clear days, potentially icy sidewalks, and lots of layers. As the month wears on, however, you can expect spring weather.
Is it Still Worth Visiting Budapest in the Winter?
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