Easter in Budapest is a vibrant and enchanting experience, filled with religious reverence, festive cheer, and cultural delights. Whether you’re seeking spiritual reflection, culinary delights, or lively entertainment, Budapest offers something for everyone to enjoy during the Easter holiday.

Here are 10 mistakes to avoid while celebrating Easter in Budapest:

 

1. Not booking accommodation in advance:

Easter is a busy time in Budapest, with many visitors flocking to the city. Make sure to book your accommodation well in advance to avoid last-minute hassle and potentially higher prices. Look for Airbnbs or hostels for the very best deals.

2. Underestimating crowds:

Easter attracts crowds to popular attractions and events in Budapest. Be prepared for longer queues and crowded spaces, especially at landmarks like Buda Castle District, Easter markets and the Hungarian Parliament. Also, please be prepared for pickpockets! Watch your belongings carefully.

3. Ignoring Easter markets:

Budapest hosts several Easter markets where you can experience Hungarian traditions, enjoy local delicacies, and shop for unique souvenirs. Don’t miss out on these cultural experiences by overlooking the markets. Our pick is at Városháza Park, just behind the yellowish Lutheran Church at Deák Ferenc tér. You can get here by M1, M2, M3 lines, or by trams 47, 49, buses 16 and 105. Experience the perfect blend of tradition and innovation at our artisanal marketplace. Discover a curated selection of timeless handmade crafts alongside cutting-edge designs from emerging talents. Delight your senses with Hungarian food offerings

4. Not Trying Traditional Easter Foods: 

Easter in Hungary is a time for special dishes like ham, eggs, and sweet bread. But don’t limit yourself to just the familiar; embrace the opportunity to explore traditional Hungarian Easter cuisine. Just as Christmas has its own set of traditional dishes, Easter also offers a unique culinary experience that has been cherished for generations.

No Easter table is complete without the iconic Easter Ham, whether it’s smoked, boiled, or roasted. The recipe for boiled ham calls for careful preparation, including soaking it overnight to reduce its salt content and boiling it for as many hours as its weight.

Accompanying the ham is Easter Bread, a delightful addition whether savory or sweet. Crafting this bread, typically in a braided form for the occasion, involves starting with feeding the sourdough, resulting in a truly delicious treat.

And let’s not forget about Lamb, another staple of Hungarian Easter cuisine. Using fresh meat and generously seasoning it with garlic and freshly picked rosemary branches creates an irresistible flavor combination. For guided culinary programs, click here. Ok, grab something to eat before you carry on reading..:-)

 

5. Forgetting to respect religious customs: 

Easter is a religious holiday for many Hungarians. Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially if you plan to visit churches or participate in religious events. Holy Week, also known as Passion Week, is a significant period in the Christian calendar that leads up to Easter Sunday. How Holy Week is celebrated differs by church and denomination.

Churches should expect a much higher turnout during Holy Week. St. Stephen’s Basilica will be open to visitors from 9 am to 5:45 pm on both Good Friday and Holy Saturday but will only be open to visitors from 1 pm to 5:45 pm on Sunday. There will be an English mass on Sunday starting at 4 pm. Matthias Church will be open from 9 am to 2 pm on Good Friday, closed to visitors on Holy Saturday, and open to visitors on Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm. If you speak Latin, you are welcome to join the Sunday service at 10 am.

6. Not Checking Opening Hours: 

Many shops, restaurants, and attractions in Budapest have altered opening hours during Easter. Make sure to check ahead of time to avoid disappointment and plan your itinerary accordingly. On March 29th, Good Friday, stores will be closed. On March 30th, Saturday, stores will operate according to their regular opening hours. On March 31st and April 1st, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, stores will be closed. Please read our website blog “2024 Easter opening hours” for the detailed opening hours.

 

7. Overlooking Thermal Baths:

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, which offer a perfect way to relax after a day of a free walking tour. Don’t miss the opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate in one of the city’s historic thermal spas. All thermal baths will be open during Easter week and on Easter Monday, April 1st.

 

8. Neglecting to Use Public Transportation Tickets:

Budapest boasts an efficient public transportation system, encompassing trams, buses, and the metro. Opting for public transport during your visit can spare you the hassle of navigating through traffic and hunting for parking spaces. However, it’s crucial to remember to have a valid ticket or day pass when using public transportation. Tickets can be purchased at various locations throughout the city, including metro stations, tram stops, and street kiosks.

It’s worth noting that the same type of ticket can be used for all modes of public transport, but you must validate a new ticket for each journey. Travelers without a valid ticket or pass may be subject to fines by ticket inspectors, who may conduct sudden checks onboard. Please do not forget that while encountering ticket inspectors may seem intimidating, ensuring compliance with fare payment regulations helps maintain the integrity of Budapest’s public transportation system and supports its ongoing operation.

9. Underestimating the Weather:

Easter in Budapest can bring anything from rainy and cool to warm weather. As Mark Twain said: “In spring I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours.” Be sure to pack appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions. Check the forecast before your trip and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.

 

10. Exploring Beyond Budapest:

While Budapest’s city center is brimming with attractions, make sure to venture beyond its borders to discover other charming cities like Szentendre or Hollókő. These destinations offer a variety of experiences, including stage performances, interactive educational spaces, craft workshops, and opportunities to savor traditional cuisine.

One standout recommendation is the four-day-long Hollókő Easter Festival, taking place from March 29th to April 1st, 2024. This festival features rich folklore programs, Palóc gastronomy, folk customs such as the Easter sprinkling tradition, live concerts, and engaging activities for families and children. By exploring these nearby cities and attending such events, you’ll enrich your Easter trip to Budapest and immerse yourself in the diverse cultural offerings of Hungary.