Tag Archive for: march

March Break Budapest 2025: Best Activities for Traveling on Budget

Budapest in March is a delightful blend of lingering winter charm and the early whispers of spring. As our valued traveler, you are at the heart of everything we do, and we want to ensure you have the best experience in this magical city. March Break Budapest 2025 is a fantastic time to visit, with the city coming alive with activities, festivals, and cultural events. From the Buda Castle District’s cherry blossom trees to the intimate charm of Margaret Island, this guide will help you make the most of your trip during March Break Budapest 2025.

Before You Arrive: Planning for March Break Budapest 2025

Weather

March ushers in the arrival of spring, bringing milder temperatures and the first signs of blooming flowers. While the air can still be crisp, the city’s quieter atmosphere allows for a more relaxed and authentic experience. Expect temperatures to range from highs of 12°C (53°F) to lows of 0°C (33°F), with a mix of sunshine and occasional rain showers.

What to Pack for Budapest in March

Pack layers to adjust to changing temperatures, including a warm coat for chilly mornings and evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city’s cobblestone streets. Bring an umbrella and rain jacket for occasional showers, as well as swimwear if you plan to visit the famous thermal baths. A small backpack will help carry your daily essentials while exploring.

After You Arrive: Activities

Visit the Buda Castle District

Explore the iconic Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, perched high above the city with stunning views of Budapest and the Danube River. Stroll through its museums or simply soak in the picturesque surroundings. Join our daily 2-hour Free Buda Castle District Walking Tours for a guided experience.

Take a Downtown Orientation Tour

March Break Budapest 2025 is an ideal time to explore the city on foot, with pleasant temperatures making sightseeing enjoyable. Visit landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Parliament, and the Shoes on the Danube Memorial. Join our daily 2-hour Free Budapest Walking Tours to uncover hidden gems and learn about the city’s history and architecture.

Relax at One of the Thermal Baths

Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, and March Break Budapest 2025 is the perfect time to unwind. The Széchenyi Baths, one of the largest and most renowned in Europe, offers a mix of outdoor and indoor experiences. Don’t miss the chance to soak in the warm waters while admiring the grand architecture.

Take a Danube River Cruise

The Danube River is the heart of Budapest, and a cruise is a must. Whether by day or night, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the city’s landmarks, including the Parliament, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge.

Discover Budapest’s Ruin Bars

Budapest is known for its quirky ruin pubs, set in abandoned buildings with eclectic decor. Visit Szimpla Kert for a unique, laid-back experience, perfect for enjoying a local drink and mingling with fellow travelers. On Saturday’s they organize a flea market during the day and on Sunday mornings you can taste some real local ingredients at their Farmer’s Market event.

Vajdahunyad castle - free events in Budapest

Explore City Park (Városliget) or Margaret Island

City Park is a lovely spot for a relaxing day out, with attractions such as the Hungarian Museum of Fine Arts and Vajdahunyad Castle. Margaret Island, as it starts to bloom in spring, is perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a scenic walk.

Take a Public Tram Sightseeing Tour in Budapest

For a unique perspective, hop on Budapest’s iconic trams:

  • Tram 2 runs along the Danube River, offering breathtaking views of Parliament, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge.
  • Trams 19 and 41 travel along the Buda side, providing spectacular views of the Pest side.
  • Trams 4 and 6 traverse the Grand Boulevard, giving insight into Budapest’s business districts and local life.

Combine tram rides with short walking tours to discover charming neighborhoods like Buda Castle District and the Great Market Hall area.

March Break Budapest 2025 offers travelers a chance to enjoy the city without the summer crowds. With a mix of historical exploration and relaxing experiences, we are excited to welcome you and ensure your March break getaway is unforgettable!

What to Expect on March 15th in Budapest: Useful Information for Travelers

This day holds a special place in the hearts of Hungarians as it commemorates the historic Hungarian Revolution of 1848. March 15th in Budapest, the capital city,  is marked with various events and celebrations. Hungarians proudly display their cockades. This tradition harks back to a significant moment in Hungarian history when leaders of the radical youth received cockades from their loved ones on the eve of the revolution. Unlike the French cockade, which was pinned on hats, the Hungarian cockade was worn closer to the heart, typically affixed to the jacket or coat as a circular ribbon in the national tricolor with small straps.

Whether you’re a visitor or a local, here’s what you can expect on this significant day:

Commemorative Ceremonies about the revolution on March 15th in Budapest:

On March 15th in Budapest, everybody comes alive with patriotic fervor. Expect to see Hungarian flags adorning the streets, and locals dressed in traditional attire. Throughout Budapest, ceremonies are held to honor the heroes of the 1848 Revolution. One of the focal points is often at Kossuth Square, where speeches are delivered, wreaths are laid, and moments of silence are observed to pay respects to those who fought for Hungarian independence. Traditionally, at 9:00 a.m., the flag of Hungary is raised at Kossuth Lajos Square, followed by a ceremonial hussar march to the Hungarian National Museum, where a formal ceremony begins at 10:30 a.m. 

Additionally, an anti-government commemorative ceremony will take place at the section between Andrássy Avenue, Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Road, and the Opera House at 3:00 p.m.

Cultural Events:

In addition to the solemn ceremonies, Budapest offers a range of cultural events on March 15th. From 2:00 p.m. on March 15th, and then on the 16th and 17th, families are welcomed with programs related to the national holiday at the Hungarian National Museum. 

As part of the Open Parliament program, visitors can freely view the Holy Crown in the Parliament Building from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on March 15th. Expect large crowds and potential queues. 

On the national holiday, as well as on the 16th and 17th, from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., the facade of the Hungarian National Museum building will be adorned with light projections.

 

Opening Hours on this Day:

March 15th in Budapest is a bank holiday, meaning shops and malls are closed while restaurants and cafés are likely to be open. The Central Market Hall going to be closed as well!

Thermal Baths operate as on weekends, with the following hours:

  • Széchenyi Thermal Bath:: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (outdoor thermal pool is under renovation)
  • Gellért Thermal Bath: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  • Lukács Thermal Bath: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (drinking fountain will be closed)
  • Rudas Thermal Bath: 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (the Turkish bath will be coed bathing all day)

List of museums offering free entrance on this day, including:

  • Budapest Gallery
  • Budapest History Museum / Castle Museum
  • Goldberger Textile Industry Collection
  • Institute and Museum of Military History
  • Hercules Villa
  • Holocaust Memorial Center
  • Kassák Museum
  • Kiscelli Museum
  • Liszt Ferenc Memorial Museum and Research Center
  • Ludwig Museum
  • Hungarian Museum of Commerce and Catering (registration required)
  • Hungarian Agricultural Museum and Library
  • Hungarian Money Museum and Visitor Center (reservation required)
  • Hungarian Museum of Science, Technology and Transport
  • Hungarian National Gallery
  • Hungarian National Museum
  • Hungarian Natural History Museum
  • Hungarian Railway History Park
  • Museum of Ethnography
  • Óbuda Museum
  • Ráth György Villa
  • Róth Miksa Memorial House and Museum
  • Semmelweis Medical History Museum
  • Museum of Fine Arts
  • Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum (registration required)
  • House of Terror
  • Vasarely Museum

Dohany Street Synagogue Complex and Rumbach Street Synagogue will be closed on 15th March 2024.

All free tours are going as normal. Just show up at our meeting points for a priceless experience.

Budapest in March: 10 Unmissable Programs for Every Taste

March in Budapest is a magical time, it brings a wealth of activities and experiences to the town. We finally see the sun more, the temperature gets slowly higher. The locals and visitors finally have a chance to enjoy some outdoor activities, besides the city’s plenty of special events at this time of the year. The other main advantage to visit Budapest in March, that it is not the high season yet, which translates to lower airfares and cheaper accommodation rates. More importantly, it means shorter queues at attractions and a chance to explore the city like a local.  Here’s your guide to making the most of it:

Roman amphitheater pictured from above in Budapest

1. The Best Historical Sites to Explore in Budapest in March 

With the weather warming up, it’s the perfect time to delve into Budapest’s rich history and architectural wonders. Don’t miss iconic landmarks like Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and the Hungarian Parliament Building. Wander through historic neighborhoods and explore outdoor museums like the Aquincum Museum and Memento Park.

One of the many thermal pools of Budapest, the beautiful Széchenyi Bathhouse

2. Relax in Thermal Baths

Escape the chill of March with a relaxing day at Budapest’s renowned thermal baths. Indulge in the warm, mineral-rich waters of Széchenyi, Gellért, or Rudas baths, complete with saunas, steam rooms, and massage services for the ultimate pampering experience.

Lots of people sitting outside on terraces that could reopen on the 24th of April 2021

3. Attend Cultural Events

Enjoy Budapest’s vibrant cultural scene with concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions. Check out venues like Müpa Budapest and the Hungarian State Opera House for a taste of the city’s artistic offerings. Between March 1-17th, Budapest Zoo’s Biodome lights up as a modern sight. Explore a stunning display of light art inspired by natural phenomena. Installations by local and foreign artists showcase their glow throughout this special architectural wonder. More details and ticket info here.

Chain Bridge - in St Patricks day - Budapest in March

Photo by Russell Skidmore

4. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

Locals are always looking for new excuses to party, so naturally we inherited happily a new tradition a couple of years ago. Join the festivities in Budapest in March, to be exact on the 17th of March, as Budapest comes alive with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations at Szabadság tér. From traditional Irish music to green-themed parties, there’s something for everyone to enjoy across the city’s bars, pubs, and restaurants.

5. Explore Outdoor Spaces

Embrace the arrival of spring by exploring Budapest’s picturesque parks and outdoor spaces. Take an easy stroll along the Danube River promenade, discover the green oasis of Margaret Island, or hike up Gellért Hill for stunning city views. 

6. Indulge in Hungarian Cuisine 

Treat your taste buds to the flavors of Hungary with traditional dishes like goulash, paprikash, and lángos. Don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with Hungarian pastries like chimney cake and strudel from local cafes and markets. Check out a culinary walk, if you want to experience the best Hungarian dishes and wines!

Parlament -one day itinerary in Budapest

7. Experience a Danube River Cruise

See Budapest from a different perspective with a scenic cruise along the Danube River. Choose from daytime or evening cruises with Mahart, departing from Pier N.5 at Vigadó tér 5. Timetable: 4:15 PM, 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM. Price: 5000 HUF.

8. Attend a Wine Tasting at the Prestigious New York Palace

Join a Wine Tasting event on March 23rd at the historic New York Palace. Experience luxury while enjoying delicious pastries and coffee. Secure your spot in advance for an unlimited wine-tasting experience priced at 15,900 HUF. For further details, don’t hesitate to get in touch with badacsonynewyorkban@gmail.com.

9. Best Markets to visit in Budapest in March

Discover creativity and community at Budapest’s bustling markets. From the Women’s Day Women’s Market on March 8th to the Maker’s Market on March 17th, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy. Of course for culinary experiences the Central Market Hall is always available, but there will be another special food market in Budapest in March, called the Spring Fair of Hungarian Flavours. If you are looking for something truly homemade, every Sunday morning the Szimpla Kert ruin bar organizes a Farmer’s Market. 

budapest in March - March 15

10. Enjoy Free Museums and Parliament Access on Hungarian National Day – March 15th

Celebrate Hungary’s National Day by visiting state-owned museums and the Hungarian Parliament for free. Experience flag-raising ceremonies, concerts, patriotic speeches, and more as Budapest commemorates its rich history and values. Be aware, banks and shops are closed that day!

Whether you’re seeking culture, relaxation, or culinary delights, Budapest has something for everyone to enjoy this March. And don’t forget to join our daily Free Budapest Walking Tours.