Guide To Festivals, Concerts, Exhibitions, Party Places, Eating Out
May in Budapest is packed with all sorts of exciting events. Besides the program-packed 1st May/May Day the whole month offers plenty to see and do in Budapest.
In this article, we will explore why May is a good time to visit Budapest, what are the hottest attractions and things to do, unique experiences, current exhibitions, festivals, outdoor programs, and more.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
🌷 Why Visit Budapest In May?
Budapest presents its most charming side in May. The weather is warm enough for outdoor programs – daily temperatures can reach 25+ Celsius degree.
May is a fantastic time to visit Hungary’s capital for several reasons.
- First, the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures around 20°C (68°F). This makes it a great time to explore the city on foot, take in the beautiful architecture, and enjoy the outdoor attractions.
- Second, May is still a relatively quiet month for tourism, meaning that you’ll have more space to enjoy the many attractions without having to contend with large crowds.
- Finally, May in Budapest is a month of festivals and events, making it an excellent time to experience the Hungarian culture and traditions.
What’s more, a dazzling array of flowers will greet you everywhere in the city, even along busy streets like Andrássy Avenue. The vibrant green of parks and gardens entice you for outdoor activities.
In short, May in Budapest is a most ideal time for:
- Picnics in parks,
- Al fresco dining,
- Partying outdoor, or
- Going for excursions in the Buda Hills.
May is also month of some big festivals and gastro events in Budapest. Here are some of the highlights:
- Budapest 150 May Day Festival
- Pancake Picnic
- Budapest Beer Week
- Wine & Champagne Festival In The City Centre
- International Children’s Day
🎈 May Day Festivals In Budapest, May 01, 2024
Venue:
- Városháza Park/City Hall Park, Budapest 1052, district V.
Getting There:
- M 1, 2, 3 metro lines, Deák Ferenc tér station, 2 min walk from there
- Tram 2, get off at Vigadó tér, 700m walk from there (cc. 8 min)
- Trams 47, 49 from the Buda side, Deák Ferenc tér termini
Entry:
- Free
TIP: Although the festival is geared more towards locals, don’t hesitate to drop by to enjoy some typical Hungarian festival food, concerts in the evenings, a street art installation that you can join to create, and to absorb the whole 1st May atmposphere.
See also our detailed event and program guide to May Day in Budapest!
🏬 Budapest 100 – Houses from the 1970s, May 09 -12, 2024
The Budapest 100 is a wonderful event devoted to all buildings in the city that turn not 100 but 150 year old in 2024.
From May 9th to 12th, the city will come alive with events honoring the late modern architecture of the 1970s.
This is your chance to immerse yourself in the unique style and stories of this era, often overlooked and underappreciated.
What to expect:
- Open House Weekend: Explore a selection of iconic 1970s buildings, many of which are not usually accessible to the public. Get a behind-the-scenes look at their design, construction, and significance.
- Walking Tours: Join knowledgeable guides as they lead you through the city’s rich tapestry of 1970s architecture. Learn about the historical context, architectural trends, and social impact of these buildings.
- Exhibitions and Talks: Delve deeper into the world of 1970s architecture through engaging exhibitions and thought-provoking talks. Hear from experts, architects, and residents as they share their insights and perspectives.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply curious about Budapest’s past, this event is not to be missed. Discover the hidden gems of the city and gain a new appreciation for the architectural legacy of the 1970s.
Location:
- Several venues in the city
Programs Include:
- Guided tours,
- Exhibitions,
- Movie watching, and
- Children activities.
🥞 Pancake Picnic in Újbuda, May 10 – 12, 2024
So to see what Hungarians offer in terms of this all-popular sweet dish head for the Pancake Picnic in Újbuda between May 10 and May 12
Opening Hours:
- Friday: 15.00 – 22.00
- Saturday: 10.00 – 22.00
- Sunday: 10.00 – 20.00
Venue:
- Thebazaar in Kőrösy József utca, next to the Allee Mall in Budapest’s XI.
District (View on Map) - Taketram 4, or M4 metro (green line) to Újbuda Központ
Entry: FREE
Whether you’re a child or an adult, everyone loves pancakes in some form, and you can indulge in this passion at the Pancake Picnic in Újbuda, right next to the Allee Shopping Centre.
Pancakes You Can Taste:
Besides locals’ favourites (with sweet cottage cheese, apricot jam or cocoa powder), you have a wide selection of pancakes to choose from:
- American-style pancakes and other international flavors,
- Stuffed pancakes,
- Layered pancakes,
- Grandma’s pancakes,
- Fried pancakes,
- Savory pancakes, along with many
- Special flavors
Highlights – Why Go?
- So many pancakes to enjoy at one place!
- It’s next to the Allee Shopping Mall so you can combine shopping with pancakes.
TIP: Guests with food allergies or those following a special diet we’ll find gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegan pancakes options too!
🏃♀️ 😎 Europe Day Festival & Running Race, May 12, 2024
Venue:
- Szabadság Square, city centre, near the Parliament
A festival celebrating Hungary’s joining the EU 19 years ago.
Programs Include:
- A 19 km running race starting at 10.00
- Concerts and children programs between 11.00 – 17.30.
You can find more information on the programs on the event’s Facebook page.
Museum Festival, May 25 – 26, 2024
Venue:
- Several Museums in Budapest,
- Main event is in the Hungarian National Museum, Múzeum körút 14 – 16., district VIII., M3 metro (blue line), Kálvin tér station
The main themes of this year’s festival are:
- Museums, sustainability, well-being
Concerts, workshops, unique guided tours of museum exhibits and many other exciting programs await visitors on the 2-day weekend festival.
TIP: Find out more about the Museum Festival in Budapest
Wine & Champagne Festival on Szabadság Square – 2024 Date Is Not Available Yet!
The 6-day long wine festival is probably the 2nd largest wine event in Budapest after the Wine Festival in Buda Castle taking place each September.
The last day 29. May falls on Whit Monday/Pentecost so if you happen to plan a weekend trip to Budapest at this time drop by Szabadság Square near the Parliament to sample some fine local wines and bubblies.
Venue:
- Szabadság tér/Liberty square, Downtown Budapest
Opening Hours:
- Every day: 12.00 – 0.00
Entry:
- Free but you have to buy a tasting glass for 3 499 HUF to be able to drink wines.
Highlights – Why Go?
- Centrally located wine and foodie event with free entry
- Close to the Parliament, Danube Promenade, St. Stephen’s Basilica and other attractions.
- A place to sample local wines and street food.
🍾 Prosecco/Hungarian Wines On A Danube Cruise
Should you miss the Wine and Champgne Festival go on a river excursion with Prosecco or a glass of Tokaji aszú!
If you want to really indulge choose the unlimited processo cruise, deparing several times every day in May!
Find out more details about the Downtown Budapest Wine & Champagne Festival!
👩🍳 Gourmet Festival, May 24 – 26, 2024
Venue:
- Millenáris Park, Buda
- Trams 4, 6, M2 metro Széll Kálmán tér stop – a couple of minutes walk from there
Opening Hours:
- May 24 – 25/Friday-Saturday: 11.00 – 23.00,
- May 26/Sunday: 11.00 – 19.00
Tickets: 18 EUR/day
This is a must event for foodies especially if you want to sample the best of local gastronomy at one go!
he cream of the crop of Hungary’s and its capital’s
- Restaurants,
- Street food bars
- Gourmet shops,
- Cake and pastry shops,
- Wineries, wine shops and
- Craft breweries will be present, so you can sample the best foods and drinks at one place
Find out more details about the Gourmet Festival in 2024!
TIP: See also our photos taken on the Gourmet Festival.
Downtown Festival (Belvárosi Fesztivál), May 24 – 26, 2024
Venue: Szabadság Sqr., Erzsébet Sqr., Zrínyi Street, Vigadó Square
The inner city of Budapest (district V.) organizes a festival each year in May or June.
Five venues in downtown offer.
- Concerts,
- Cultural programs,
- Kids’ activities during the 3-day event.
The main location is Szabadság Square, near the Parliament, where pop-rock concerts by popular Hungarian bands will be performed.
A world music stage on the revamped Erzsébet tér, and another pop music stage in Zrínyi utca welcomes everyone.
Concerts, tasty food, drinks, a design fair, street ball show ensure a great program on the last weekend of May in Budapest.
TIP: See the detailed program of the Downtown Budapest Festival 2024!
Budapest Beer Week, May 20 – 26, 2024
Budapest is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. But did you know that it’s also a hub for beer enthusiasts?
If you’re a fan of craft beer, then you’ll definitely want to mark your calendar for May 20 – 26, for the Budapest Beer Week. The week-long event is a celebration of all things craft beer.
Main Venues:
- Dürer Kert: Öböl utca 1, Budapest 1117: venue for main tasting sessions and after parties between May 22 – 26
- Hopaholic Craft Beer Bar: Akácfa u. 38, Budapest, 1072, the HQ for the Budapest Beer Week. You can buy tickets and/or get your entry wristband on weekdays between 16.00 – 22.00
- Madhouse Bistro c Craft Beer Bar: Anker köz 1-3, Budapest 1061
Admission:
- Tasting sessions on 25 May & 26. May: 19 790 HUF / 63 EUR/day,
- Two-day ticket: 32 990 HUF / 106 EUR
- Tasting session opening hours: 14.00 – 20.00 on both days
Ticket Includes:
- Unlimited tasting of the best local and international craft brews (different beer list on Friday and Saturday)
- Tasting glass (1 dl)
- Meeting and a chance to talk to the brewers in person
- After party on both days.
Beer will be in the focus for a whole week in Budapest’s best craft beer bars, specialty cafes and street food places.
You can also sample unlimited beers on the two tasting sessions in Dürer Kert:
- 26. May/Friday and
- 27. May/Saturday.
After the tasting sessions get wild on the after parties from 20.00 to the tunes of the best live DJ-s and rock’n’roll bands.
The venue, Dürer Kert is one of the most popular outdoor party venues in the city, near the City Park. You can have more local craft beer goodness on the parties.
What To Expect On The Budapest Beer Week?
This annual event brings together the best of Hungary’s beer scene, showcasing local breweries and their delicious brews. The week-long festival is packed with events, tastings, and parties that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
One of the highlights of the Budapest Beer Week is the Craft Beer Festival, held on May 27-28.
This two-day event takes place at the breathtaking Gellért Thermal Bath and offers visitors the chance to sample over 100 different beers from Hungary’s top craft breweries. From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, there’s something for every beer lover at the Craft Beer Festival.
But the Budapest Beer Week isn’t just about drinking beer – it’s also an opportunity to learn more about the brewing process and the history of Hungarian beer. Throughout the week, there will be
- Guided brewery tours,
- Workshops, and
- Talks on beer culture and history.
And of course, no beer festival would be complete without delicious food to pair with your drinks. Budapest Beer Week has got you covered with plenty of food vendors serving up tasty snacks and meals that pair perfectly with your favorite brew.
See also the official website of the event.
Ice Cream Time!
Venue: ice cream parlors at various locations in Budapest
Sadly, The Day of Artisan Ice Cream held usually on 8th May is the perfect occasion to indulge in some of this icy and creamy delicacy.
Have a scoop of ice cream at one of the following places:
TIP: See also our list of Best Ice Cream in Budapest!
Children’s Day Programs in Budapest May 26 -27, 2024
The last Sunday of May is all about children: programs for the youngest at several venues in the city.
Children’s Day Festival in City Park (Városliget), 2. May
The Hungarian Children’s Safety Service has been organising a children’s day festival in Budapest’s popular park, the Városliget/City Park since 1990.
The varied two-day program include:
- Theatre performances, concerts
- Sport events, programs involving horses and dogs
- Children can learn rules of safe transportation in a fun way
- Quizzes, competitions
- Gastronomy offers, and the
- Usual fair where you can get all sorts of things that your kid will persuade you to buy.
Entry is free.
Children’s Day In The Hungarian Railway Museum, 30 – 31. May, Sunday
The Hungarian Railway Museum is a must-see attraction for families with kids and the last Sunday of May is a great opportunity to go.
Similarly to previous years the park, which showcases the history of railway in Hungary with giant, retro locomotives and hands-on displays, welcomes kids with concerts and exciting programs all day.
Entry is free under 14 years of age.
Gozsdu Court – Children’s Day
Address: Király utca 13., Bp. 1075, district VII.
Opening Hours: 14.00 – 18.00
Entry: FREE
Take your little ones to Gozsdu Court – a series of connected courtyards – and enjoy craft programs, play corner, face painting and balloon folding.
Children’s Day Tn The Garden of the Várkert Bazaar
Entry: free
The 6000 sqm neo-Renaissance park in the Várkert Bazaar in Buda welcomes children with various programs on the last Sunday of May:
- Puppet show by the Majorka Theatre at 11.00
- Folk dance by the Forrás Folk Ensemble at the Szárazárok Stage from 12.00
- Concert by the Csurgó Band starting at 13.00
- Dance performance of the Kutyakölkök Ensemble from 15.00
- Netz Production – an interactive family fun for all ages, from 16.00
- Children show of the MintaPinty Band from 17.00
Accompanying programs include arts and crafts workshop, face painting, wooden toys, adventure park, ice cream and other sweet treats.
Sightseeing Recommendations In May
Budapest is a walkable city with many sights located in downtown Pest or in the Castle district in Buda.
Here are some walk and other tours with expert, English guiding:
Jewish Tours
Budapest boasts a very rich Jewish heritage from synagogues to museums, and monuments.
The world’s most beautiful and one of the largest synagogue is in the centre, in Dohány Street. It has a museum and archives with lots of relics and historic displays.
Book a Segway Tour in the City Center
The city is also ideal for Segwaying around which is a great way to quickly see all the important landmarks and attractions and the wonderful view.
The 1.5 hour tour in Pest city center covers all the must-see sights from the Opera House to the Parliament.Prior the tour you’ll get a 15-minute training to help you safely ride and control your Segway.
The Zoo – A Great May Program for Families
A visit to the Zoo is always a nice outdoor program for the whole family:
- Lots of green,
- Animals
- Playgrounds,
- Snacks, restaurants, and
- A fine confectionery (Gundel Patisserie).
The best thing is that the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden is in the City Park, home to a colourful May Day Festival each year.
TIP: Take a night walk in the Zoo on every 2nd Thursday between 18.00 – 21.00. Find out about the Zoo’s and its inhabitants nightlife secrets
which you almost certainly can not see in daylight!Professional guides lead you through the park and you cantake a peak behind the glass walls and runways. Price: 5 000 HUF.
Concerts, Cultural Programs In May In Budapest
For those who seek cultural entertainment May in Budapest offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy great concerts, folk programs and museum and art exhibitons.
The city’s stunning cathedrals and churches are especially popular venues for classical music concerts, and there are several organ concerts taking place in May.
Some of the top venues for organ and church concerts in Budapest include the
- St. Stephen’s Basilica – right in the centre,
- Church of St. Michael – located also in downtown, right in the hip shopping street Váci utca, and
- Matthias Church that stands in Buda Castle.
Classical Concerts In Matthias Church
Indulge in an unforgettable evening of classical music in Matthias Church, renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. Choose from three seating categories that cater to your budget and preferences, allowing you to tailor your experience to your unique needs.
Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing performances of the Duna String Orchestra and acclaimed violinist Gabora Gyula, as they take you on a musical journey through time.
With its exceptional acoustics and magnificent ambiance, the Matthias Church is the perfect setting for an unforgettable concert.
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or just looking to experience the magic of live music, this concert is not to be missed.
Revel in the beauty of classical masterpieces from renowned composers such as
- Mozart,
- Bach, and
- Saint-Saens, and let the exquisite sounds transport you to another world.
Concerts in The Basilica
TIP: The Basilica of Budapest also hosts wonderful organ concerts in May on 04, 11, 18, and 25 starting at 20.00.
Jazzfest Budapest – Till May 15, 2024
In addition to classical music concerts, Budapest also hosts the Budapest JazzFest this month, till 17. May to be precise, which features performances by some of the biggest names in jazz.:
Concerts take place at several venues with ticket prices ranging from 2 000 up to 18 990 HUF.
Some Of The Performers Include
- Simon Phillips Protocol V, 02. May – RaM Colosseum (Kárpát u. 23, Bp 1133, District XIII., Újlipótváros)
- Paal Nilssen-Love CIRCUS, 04. May – Lumen Cafe,Horánszky u. 5, Budapest 1085, District VIII.
- Anouar Brahem Quartet, 05. May – Franz Liszt Music Academy (Liszt Ferenc tér 8, Bp 1061, District VI.)
- Stanley Clarke N 4 Eever, 06. May – Erkel Theatre (II. János Pál pápa tér 30, Bp 1081)
See full list of concerts here.
Folk Dance Shows On A River Cruise With Dinner/Drink
The spectacular dance performances are showcasing Hungary’s colourful folk traditions.
Night Cruise with Folk Show and Dinner
From 02 May to 26 October 2024
Cruise Starts: 22.00
Duration: 90 min – Price: From €69
The major cultural venues of Budapest:
- The Opera House on Andrássy Av.,
- Erkel Theatre, the
- Music Academy and the
- Palace of Arts/Müpa.
always have a rich repertoire. Two of the above places, the Music Academy and the Opera House can be visited on guided tours:
Opera House Tour With Optional Mini Concert:
Date & Time:
- Every day at 13.30, 15.00 and 16.30 with guiding in English.
Prices:
- 7 000 HUF (full price only)
The 5-minute concert (can be bought only with a tour ticket): 690 HUF/person – the concert is at the end of the tour 2 popular arias presented by a singer of the Hungarian State Opera.
On the tour you’ll explore the building and learn about its history and architecture.
Eat and Drink Alfresco – Terraced Cafes, Bars in Budapest
The pleasant May weather is perfect for sipping a glass of wine or fröccs (spritzer made from wine and soda) or craft beer outdoor.
Here are some of our favorite terraced places in the city:
Kiosk Terasz – Március 15. Square
Address: Március 15. tér 2., tram 2
Sitting on the terrace of Kiosk on the Danube Promenade with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and enjoying the beautiful panorama of Erzsébet bridge, the Gellért Hill and the Danube is a perfect way to relax.
The place also offers tasty meals:
- Goulash soup with csipetke,
- Chicken paprikash,
- Grilled sandwiches and
- A good value 2- or 3-course daily menu.
More Outdoor Cafes:
You’ll find plenty in the following areas:
Szent István Tér: The Basilica & Neighbourhood
The square in front of the Basilica and also the nearby streets (Zrínyi utca, Hercegprímás utca, Nádor utca, Sas utca, Október 6. utca) are home to many superb cafes and restaurants.
- Akademia Italia next to St. Stephen’s Basilica is always a good place for coffee, cakes and pastries and lovely Italian food.
Andrássy Avenue & Neighbourhood
- Callas Cafe – though a bit expensive and service is sometimes slow – has a lovely terrace overlooking the Opera House.
Gozsdu Court
- This connected series of courtyards in the Old Jewish Quarter is packed with bistros, bars and cafes: TIP: Blue Bird Cafe is great for a breakfast and coffee (they roast their own coffee )
Party TIP – Hottest Party Places
Open air clubs and bars welcome the approaching summer season with exciting outdoor parties. Here are some of the hottest spots to check out if you’re in the mood for an awesome night out in Budapest!
Instant-Fogas Complex
Address: Akácfa u. 51, Bp 1073, District VII.
This popular ruin bar has a large outdoor area and is known for its lively atmosphere and great music.
Highlights:
- Outdoor area: The bar has a spacious courtyard with plenty of seating, perfect for enjoying a drink and socializing with friends.
- Themed rooms: Instant-Fogas boasts multiple themed rooms, each with its own unique ambience and decor. From retro and vintage to modern and funky, there’s a room to suit every taste.
- Live music: The bar regularly hosts live music events, featuring local and international artists from a variety of genres.
- DJ sets: Instant-Fogas is also known for its DJ sets, which feature a mix of electronic, house, and techno music.
- Affordable prices: Despite its popularity, Instant is quite budget-friendly, making it a popular spot among locals and visitors alike.
Past Events In May
Related
June Things To Do – July Events, Programs – August Things To Do
