Budapest Markets Make CNN’s List of Best Christmas Fairs Worldwide

Christmas tree at the Advent Basilica.

Budapest has earned a prestigious spot on CNN’s list of the best Christmas fairs around the world, an elite ranking that places the Hungarian capital alongside other renowned cities such as Vienna, Prague, and even Singapore. CNN’s list includes 22 of the most enchanting and festive Advent markets from across the globe, and Budapest’s two largest fairs, located in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica and Vörösmarty Square, are both featured.

In a few sentences, CNN praised each of the Advent festivities, points out Magyar Nemzet. The Advent Basilica, in particular, has earned a reputation for its magical atmosphere, bolstered by the 3D light shows that illuminate the façade of the Basilica every evening. Visitors can enjoy these stunning projections, bringing the building to life, while also exploring a variety of stalls offering everything from traditional sweets and handcrafted gifts, to hot mulled wine. The fair’s 150 vendors cater to all tastes, from those seeking unique holiday treats to those looking for handmade gifts and decorations. One of the main attractions is the festive light show, returning every year and has become a favorite among visitors.

Similarly, the Vörösmarty Classic Xmas on Vörösmarty Square offers its own unique charm, with a bustling market that attracts around 800,000 visitors during the Christmas season.

A highlight of this fair is its giant Advent calendar, which opens a window each day from December 1 to 23, revealing a new surprise for visitors.

The square is also known for its delicious traditional foods, including roasted chestnuts, chimney cakes, gingerbread, and local specialties like stuffed cabbage and premium sausages. Additionally, the newly revamped fair features a massive Christmas tree and a stunning light display.

The Advent Basilica and Vörösmarty Classic Xmas will open on Friday November 15,

writes Turizmus.com. Both markets offer a mix of traditional and modern attractions, with cultural performances held throughout the season. The Advent Basilica hosts weekly shows featuring gospel, folk, jazz, and funk music, which adds a lively touch to the holiday spirit. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Vörösmarty Square market has added a new feature this year—a giant transparent snow globe housing a statue of Hungarian poet and dramatist Mihály Vörösmarty. This unique installation serves as a perfect backdrop for holiday photos, further enhancing the fair’s appeal.

The Christmas markets are not just about shopping and entertainment; they also offer a taste of Hungary’s rich culinary traditions. A wide range of food stalls will serve both affordable and gourmet dishes.

One of the standout offerings is the fixed-price meal available daily at both fairs for HUF 1,600 (EUR 3.9), giving visitors a chance to sample classic Hungarian food at an accessible price.

There will also be themed weekends dedicated to specific dishes, such as goose, pork, fish, and even a special “lentil day” at the Advent Basilica on January 1.

Both fairs feature a variety of local crafts, from folk art to modern design, giving visitors the opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind handmade goods.

From the twinkling lights and festive foods to the stunning performances and charitable events, Budapest’s Christmas markets offer something for everyone. With their inclusion in CNN’s prestigious list, these markets are sure to attract even more visitors eager to experience the magic of the Hungarian holiday season.

Via Magyar Nemzet; Featured image via Facebook/Advent Bazilika