The Traveller's Magazine
Budapest is a truly romantic city regardless of time of year, but there’s something about Budapest in the cold and snowy air that transform the city into a dreamy fairytale, and sends the romance levels off the charts. You’re able to find cheap flights to Budapest from all the major UK airports. The city is perfect for a spontaneous romantic getaway which won’t break the bank and will gain you juicy bonus points with the other half.
Budapest Outdoor Ice Rink
The beautiful summer boating lake located in Varosliget Park is transformed into a magical icy wonderland from late November to mid-February. The outdoor rink is huge, giving you plenty of space to show off your skating tricks, or hold on to the side for dear life. The rink itself is pretty impressive; it’s the oldest and largest outdoor artificial ice surface in Europe. But it is the location which really steals the show. The rink is overlooked by Vajdahunyad Castle, one of the most romantic castles in Budapest. Combine ice skating with those views and you can’t help but feel those warm fuzzy feelings of love for your Signiant Other (or the person holding you up.)
Walks
Romance is literally in the Budapest air, so walking along the river Danube will provide you with plenty of picturesque sights and romantic feelings as you gaze upon the night lit Danube Promenade.
Thermal Spas
One of the greatest pleasures of winter in Budapest is the city’s thermal baths. The architecture is grand, spectacular and a must see. The water springs straight from the ground and is said to have healing effects. Széchenyi is one of Europe’s largest medicinal baths, and is located in the wonderful surroundings of City Park. Visiting an outdoor thermal bath when it’s snowing is a truly amazing experience; the steamy 38 °C water will keep you warm and toasty as the pretty snow falls around you.
Romantic dinners in Budapest
You can take your other half on a romantic river dinner cruise along the Danube. The a la carte dinner cruise on Budapest Legenda boat is a great pick, but it is often booked weeks in advance so be quick!
Café Culture
In summer the streets and squares are filled with people sipping coffee in cool outdoor terraces gazing at the wonderful architecture and people bustling by. In winter, this is not such a familiar sight. Although, seeking refuge from the cold brisk air in one of Budapest’s grand cafes is just as much fun. New York Café, Gerbeaud and Café Central are a few of the most visited, and are great spots to cosy up to your loved one and chat over a coffee or hot chocolate.
Book a Hotel
AirBnB’s are super cheap in Budapest and great value, but if you’re looking for a romantic atmosphere then maybe a luxury hotel is the way to go. Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Budapest is the best you could ask for, with 5 star luxury rooms and suites with river views of the Danube you might not actually leave your room. But if you’re looking for more affordable luxury then Corinthia Hotel Budapest is your best bet with five star historical luxuries you won’t feel like your opting for the cheaper option.
Visit Great Market Hall
Open 6 days a week, (Mon 6am – 5pm Tue-Fri 6am – 6pm and Saturday 6am – 3pm) the Central Market Hall in Budapest is one of the most visited Budapest attractions for both its stunning appearance and its unrivaled local produce. If you’re staying in an apartment, then why not take a trip to the market to cook a romantic meal in.
Beautiful. Romantic. Came from Budapest about ten days ago. I had a fantastic time and this is winter in Budapest through the eye of my camera:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ax2_ev4ybY
Stunning video! Do you have any tips for people who are visiting Budapest in the up coming months?
I was few times in Budapest and think that winter is best time to visit. Don’t miss Christmas fair (from November to January): Hungarian traditional food, mulled vine, music, handmade souvenirs…I have also good time during Palinka festival in May. Palinka is Hungarian word for fruit brandy. Very tasty but also very strong, so be careful 🙂
Budapest has cheap and high quality hostels (5-10e – dorm), located in the city center.
Food: try goulash off course, but not just gulyasleves (Goulash soup), porkolt is better I think.
Few photography tips: best panorama photos I took from Fisherman’s bastion and Buda palace (Buda hill), most beautiful sunset panorama from Gelert hill