Budapest Long Weekend Guide – Free Events & Local Tips

Discover free events, local traditions, and cultural highlights!

Planning a Budapest Long Weekend over May 1st? You’re in luck — the city comes alive with music, chocolate, family fun, and cultural charm. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit during the Budapest Long Weekend:

What’s Open and Closed?

May 1 (Thursday) – Public Holiday (Labour Day)

• Shops & malls: Closed

• Museums & thermal baths: Open

• Our daily free walking tours: Running as usual!

May 2 (Friday)

• Shops and Grand Central Market are open with Saturday opening hours

• Museums & thermal baths: Open

May 3 (Saturday)

• Shops and Grand Central Market are open with Saturday hours

• Museums & thermal baths: Open

May 4 (Sunday)

• Shops, malls, museums & thermal baths: Open

• Central Market is Closed

Fun Activities to Do in Budapest Over the Long Weekend

Retro Rock Fans, Don’t Miss This!

Head to Tabán Hill on May 1st from 4 PM for a free outdoor retro rock concert — a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike. Bring a blanket, grab a local beer, and enjoy the tunes with a panoramic view over Budapest.

Sweet Tooth Paradise

From May 1–4, indulge yourself outside St. Stephen’s Basilica at Europe’s 4th largest Chocolate & Cake Festival. Sample artisan chocolates, browse sweet treats at the open-air market, and snap that perfect Instagram shot in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Family Weekend Fun

Looking for something the whole family will love? The Family May Weekend in City Park (Városliget) behind Heroes’ Square is packed with games, performances, concerts, workshops, and more — all free from May 1–4.

Enjoy the City Like a Local

Join our daily free walking tours, running throughout the Budapest Long Weekend — perfect for first-time visitors or anyone looking to dive deeper into Budapest’s history and charm.

Relax at a historic thermal bath, many of which will be open every day during the Budapest Long Weekend.

More Fun Activities During Your Budapest Long Weekend

Rent a Bike & Explore Margaret Island

Cycle-friendly and full of hidden gems, Margaret Island is perfect for a sunny day. Rent a pedal cart, visit the musical fountain, or just enjoy a picnic in the park.

Evening Walk Along the Danube

Take a romantic stroll between Elizabeth Bridge and Margaret Bridge after sunset — the city lights reflecting on the Danube are truly magical.

Take a Danube River Cruise

Short on time? A 1-hour cruise is a great way to see Buda and Pest from the water. Many companies offer affordable daytime or evening options — you can book them online in advance, for example here.

Pro Tips for the Budapest Long Weekend

• Public transport runs on a holiday schedule on May 1st, but it’s still reliable and easy to use.

• Bring some cash for markets and food stands — some may not accept cards.

Whether you’re here for music, history, or a sweet escape, the Budapest Long Weekend offers unforgettable experiences — and most of them are free!