Spending Easter in Budapest: Everything You Need to Know

Spending Easter in Budapest is a beautiful mix of tradition, spring vibes, great food, and a slower‑paced city atmosphere. However, because Easter is a major holiday in Hungary, some things work differently than on regular weekends. Knowing what’s open, what’s closed, what locals actually eat, and what traditions are still alive will h

elp you avoid surprises and enjoy the city like a pro.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Easter in Budapest — from shop opening hours to traditional Hungarian Easter foods, customs, and the best things to do during the holiday weekend.

Flowers Blossoms are usually present through out the city during Easter

Is Easter a Public Holiday in Hungary?

Yes — and this matters.

In Hungary, the following days are official public holidays:

• Good Friday (Nagypéntek)

• Easter Sunday (Húsvét)

• Easter Monday (Húsvéthétfő)

Because of this, Budapest feels noticeably calmer. Locals spend time with family, many businesses close, and the city shifts into a more relaxed, almost village‑like rhythm — which can be lovely if you’re prepared, and annoying if you’re not.

What’s Open and Closed in Budapest During Easter

Shops & Supermarkets

This is the biggest trap for visitors.

Closed on Good Friday, Easter Sunday & Easter Monday:

• Supermarkets (Lidl, Aldi, Tesco, Spar, Penny, Auchan, CBA)

• Shopping malls

• Most retail stores

Open normally on Holy Saturday:

• This is your only reliable shopping day — do your grocery run here or suffer later.

Exceptions:

• Small independent shops

• Petrol station convenience stores

• 24/7 non‑stop shops (limited selection, higher prices)

Restaurants, Cafés & Bars

Good news: Budapest’s food scene stays alive during Easter.

• Most restaurants, cafés, and bars remain open

• Tourist‑friendly areas (city center, Jewish Quarter, Buda Castle area) operate close to normal

• Easter Sunday and Monday lunches are popular with locals

📌 Strong advice: Make reservations — especially for Easter Sunday.

Museums & Attractions

• Most museums stay open during Easter

• Some may operate with special holiday hours

• Popular attractions like Parliament tours, Buda Castle museums, and galleries usually continue

Always double‑check opening hours if a museum is a must‑see for you.

Thermal Baths

One of the best things to do in Budapest during Easter.

• Széchenyi

• Rudas

• Lukács

Thermal baths are typically open throughout the Easter weekend, regardless of weather. Expect higher crowds — Easter + spring tourists = busy pools.

Traditional Hungarian Easter Foods You’ll See Everywhere

Hungarian Easter food is hearty, symbolic, and unapologetically filling.

Easter Ham (Sonka)

Slow‑cooked, salty ham is the centerpiece of the Easter table. It’s usually served cold, sliced thick, and paired with bread and eggs.

Boiled Eggs

Often decorated or dyed — eggs symbolize rebirth and new life. You’ll see them everywhere, from markets to restaurant plates.

Kalács

A sweet, braided bread made with eggs and milk. Soft, rich, and essential. Hungarians take this very seriously.

Lamb Dishes

Roast lamb or lamb stew appears on special Easter menus, especially on Easter Sunday.

Easter Market Street Food

At Easter fairs you’ll find:

• Lángos (fried dough with sour cream & cheese)

• Kürtőskalács (chimney cake)

• Local pastries and seasonal sweets

Hungarian Easter Traditions You Might Encounter

Easter Markets in Budapest

The most famous:

• Vörösmarty Square Easter & Spring Fair

Here you’ll find:

• Folk crafts

• Live music and dance

• Traditional food stalls

• Egg‑painting demonstrations

A more relaxed, younger vibe:

• Gozsdu Courtyard Easter Market in the Jewish Quarter

Easter Monday Sprinkling (Locsolkodás)

This is one of Hungary’s most unique Easter traditions.

Traditionally, men sprinkle women with water (or perfume) for good health and beauty — and in return receive painted eggs or drinks. In Budapest today it’s mostly symbolic, playful, or seen during folklore events, but it’s still very much part of Hungarian culture.

Best Things to Do in Budapest During Easter

• Walk along the Danube and enjoy spring views

• Visit Easter markets for food and atmosphere

• Relax in a thermal bath

• Explore Buda Castle and City Park

• Enjoy a long Easter lunch at a traditional restaurant

• Take a guided city tour (many still operate during holidays)

Easter in Budapest isn’t about shopping — it’s about slowing down and enjoying the city itself.

Practical Tips for Visiting Budapest at Easter

✔ Shop for groceries on Holy Saturday

✔ Reserve restaurants and baths early

✔ Expect crowds on streets as there are a lot of people visiting this time of the year

✔ Pack layers — spring weather can change fast

✔ Don’t panic if shops are closed — this is normal here

Is Easter a Good Time to Visit Budapest?

Honestly? Yes — if you know what to expect.

If you want buzzing nightlife and endless shopping, Easter may feel limiting. But if you’re after culture, food, thermal baths, traditions, and a calmer version of Budapest, Easter is a fantastic time to visit.

Budapest doesn’t shut down — it simply changes pace.

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I’m Betti, your private tour guide behind Betti Tours Budapest.

✉️ bettitoursbudapest@gmail.com

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