What are the Best New Year’s Eve Activities in Budapest?

As the new year approaches, more and more people are beginning to plan their getaways to Hungary’s capital city: Budapest. New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest times of the year in this vibrant city and offers a unique experience as residents and visitors celebrate together. Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out, a lively party scene or a more relaxed evening, this ancient destination has something for everyone.

For those looking to make the most of their New Year’s Eve experience in Budapest, here are some of the best activities to enjoy:

Explore Setét Street on a Night Bike Tour

Setét Street is one of the oldest streets in Budapest and it’s known for its vibrant nightlife. A great way to take in the beauty of this area is with a night bike tour hosted by Urban Adventures. This expert-led tour will not just give you an overview of the area, but will also take you along its cobblestoned paths, dark alleyways and the buzzing bars. As your guide shares some local stories along your journey, you’ll be able to soak up some of the amazing atmospheres of Budapest. This tour starts in the evening and lasts for around 2 hours, so it’s a perfect way to make the most of your New Year’s Eve in Budapest.

Feel Like a Local at The Vezér Bár

The Vezér Bár is a local favorite in Budapest and one of the most unique places to celebrate New Year’s Eve. The pub is hidden away in a residential area right near the Setét Street and it looks like a traditional Hungarian house. There’s no shortage of fun activities on offer here either – from drinking the home-brewed beer to playing traditional instruments. The bar is open from 3pm until 5am, so it’s perfect for those looking for a long night out over the New Year.

Catch a Performance of Bluebeard’s Castle

New Year’s Eve is when Hungary’s venues come to life and for culture lovers, it doesn’t get better than catching a performance of Bluebeard’s Castle at the Hungarian State Opera House in Budapest. This dramatic performance by Bela Bartok tells the story of Bluebeard who murdered seven wives and has remained an iconic piece ever since its Hungarian premiere in 1911. If you’re lucky enough to get tickets, you’ll be able to watch this classic story set against a backdrop of sweeping orchestral music, traditional singing and impressive costumes.

Take a Visit to Heroes Square

Heroes Square at Varosliget is the largest square in Budapest and it hosts some fantastic events over New Year’s Eve. At midnight, you can join thousands of other revelers in setting off fireworks to welcome in the new year and enjoy music performances, video projections and by street artists amongst other activities. The square is free entry for most of the evening and it’s a great way to get a feel for the culture and community spirit in Budapest.

Join a Pub Crawl

For those looking to party around Budapest on New Year’s Eve, then there is no better activity than joining a pub crawl. These epic night tours take you along the streets of Budapest and will take visitors to some of its top venues for music, drinks and dancing. This year’s pub crawl is hosted by GetYourGuide, taking you on an unforgettable 4 hour low-key crawl as well as an 8 hour party tour (VIP ticket) throughout the city. The experienced guide will also provide some interesting stories about these popular locations, allowing you to learn more about Budapest’s exciting culture and nightlife. The Budapest New Years Eve Pub and Party Crawl tour offers something special for everyone – from beer-lovers looking for unique pubs to wild revellers looking for top-tier clubs – so it’s worth checking out if you’re looking for an unforgettable night out in Budapest on New Year’s Eve.

Whether you’re looking for an intimate evening with your loved one or an epic night out with friends, there are plenty of fantastic activities taking place in Budapest on New Year’s Eve. Due to cities strict restrictions on public events in 2021, I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance – so you don’t miss out on any of the amazing experiences that await!

An Insider’s Guide to Budapest: What are the Best New Year’s Eve Activities

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a city that has a lot to offer for everyone, every season. But, during New Year’s Eve, the city sparkles with a special charm, making it a popular destination for tourists from all around the world. From stunning fireworks display to outdoor winter parties to indoor concerts, Budapest has some of the best NYE activities that you can experience. Below are some insider’s tips on how to make the most of your New Year’s Eve in Budapest.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While Budapest has many famous landmarks, such as the historic Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Parliament Building, there are also many hidden gems that only the locals know about.

Why not take a stroll along the Danube Promenade to see some of the city’s most beautiful sights illuminated by the festive lights? The promenade stretches between Elizabeth Bridge and Chain Bridge, where you can see the panorama of Buda Castle and the Gellért Hill.

For a unique experience, head to the unusual Hospital in the Rock Museum, situated underneath Buda Castle. This subterranean museum tells the story of how this space was used as a secret hospital during World War II.

Another hidden gem is the Budapest Pinball Museum, where you can experience classic pinball machines and arcade games from the 1950s to the 1990s.

Dining Spots: The Local Cuisine

Hungarian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its rich flavors and spices. For a taste of Hungarian cuisine, there is no better place than the Great Market Hall – Nagycsarnok, Budapest’s largest indoor market. You can taste typical Hungarian dishes such as goulash, stuffed cabbage, and chimney cake.

Another hidden gem is the Fülemüle Étterem, a local restaurant tucked away on a quiet street in Pest, serving traditional Hungarian cuisine since 1950. The cozy ambiance combined with excellent service and delicious meals like chicken paprikash and Hungarian strudel make it an unforgettable experience.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals and Traditions

The end of the year in Budapest is full of vibrant celebrations and cultural experiences. On New Year’s Eve, the highlight is the outdoor party at Vörösmarty Square, where you can enjoy free concerts and folk dancing.

If you stay in Budapest until January 1st, don’t miss the annual Budapest New Year’s Day Concert at the Palace of Arts, which features world-renowned classical musicians.

Another unique cultural experience is visiting one of Budapest’s many thermal baths, such as Gellért Baths, which have been operating since the 1800s and are famous for their Art Nouveau architecture.

Local History: Stories from the Past

Budapest has a rich history dating back over 1000 years. One of the most fascinating historical sites is the Shoes on the Danube Promenade, where bronze shoes commemorate the Jewish victims who were shot into the riverbank during World War II.

Another captivating historical destination is the House of Terror Museum. This museum documents the terrifying history of the fascist and communist regimes in Hungary.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences

For an unforgettable and unique experience in Budapest, take a night-time tour of the city on a vintage scooter. You can explore Budapest’s most iconic sites with a knowledgeable guide, travelling like a local.

Another unique experience is to take a sunset cruise on the Danube River, where you can enjoy an unforgettable panoramic view of the city. You can choose from many different options, including romantic dinner cruises, party boat rides, and sightseeing tours.

In conclusion, Budapest is a city that has something for everyone. With hidden gems, delicious cuisine, vibrant festivals, captivating history, and unique experiences, Budapest is one of the most exciting destinations to celebrate New Year’s Eve. This enchanting city is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.