Last Updated on 9 June 2026 by LizzyBP
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, and the Pentecost weekend, May 23 – 25 – the whole month offers plenty to see and do in Budapest.
Let’s 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 – May in Budapest
🌷 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 appreciate the outdoor attractions.
- ✅ Second, May is still a relatively quiet month for tourism, meaning that you’ll have more space to enjoy the many sights 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:
➡️ Most Value-for-Money River Tour in Spring On A Historic Boat
May is a wonderful time to cruise the Danube in Budapest!
Busk in the warm sunshine on the deck of a beautiful vintage ship while it sails past the historic landmarks.
Note: There are still blankets available if it’s get windy. Hot and cold drinks are also served.
Audio guide in 20+ languages is included (need your own phone and earbuds/headphones).
Available every day! Note: Cruises in the evening and on the weekends usually cost more.
🌼 Spring Market at vörösmarty Square, May 01 – 25, 2026
If you are visiting Budapest this May, you cannot miss the Spring Fair at Vörösmarty Square.
Located in the heart of the city at the end of the famous Váci fashion street, this event transforms one of Budapest’s most popular squares into a lively celebration of Hungarian culture, crafts, and gastronomy.
Why You Should Visit?
The Vörösmarty Spring Fair (often called Vörösmarty Tavasz) is the perfect alternative to the crowded Christmas markets. It offers a more relaxed, sunny atmosphere where you can:
- ✅ Discover Authentic Crafts: Browse stalls featuring local artisans selling everything from hand-painted ceramics and leather goods to unique jewelry and traditional Hungarian embroidery.
- ✅ Taste the Flavors of Hungary: The air is filled with the scent of freshy baked Kürtőskalács (chimney cake) and savory Lángos. It’s a food lover’s paradise where you can try authentic goulash, grilled meats, and local wines, all at one place.
- ✅ Experience the Local Vibe: Unlike many tourist traps, this fair remains a favorite for locals to meet up, enjoy the spring weather, and listen to live music.
What’s on the Program?
The fair is more than just shopping; it’s a cultural hub. Throughout the month, you can expect:
- Live Folk & Modern Music: Performances by local bands and folk ensembles on the central stage.
- Craft Workshops: Interactive sessions where you can watch blacksmiths, potters, or weavers at work— and sometimes even try it yourself!
- Family Activities: Weekends usually feature puppet shows, dance houses (táncház), and children’s craft corners.
Essential Information:
- Dates: May 1 – May 25, 2026.
- 🕒 Opening Hours (General):
- Food & Craft Stalls: Daily from 10:00 to 20:00 (Food stalls often stay open until 21.00 PM or 22:00 on weekends).
- 📍 Location: Vörösmarty tér, District V, Budapest. (Easily accessible via the Yellow Metro Line M1).
- Admission: Free!
👉 For more details and specific daily performance schedules, keep an eye on the official website
🍷 Wine Tasting in Downtown Budapest
Here are three centrally located venues where you can sample local wines accompanied by expert guiding.
Budapest Wine Tasting and Heritage Experience
Sample 4 Classic Hungarian Wines + a specialty drink
Program Starts: Every Thurs, Fri & Sat at 16.00
Duration: 1 Hour – Price from: €40
Hungarian Wine Tasting by Bortársaság Wine Store
Enjoy 3 characteristic wines. Snacks & water are incl.
Program Starts: Every Wed, Thurs & Fri at 13.00
Duration: 1 Hour – Price from: €18
Hungarian Wine Tasting with Cheese and Charcuterie
Try 5 local wines & Taste 4 types of cheese/meats
Program Starts: Every day at 15.00
Duration: 1.5 Hours – Price from: €43
👉 Find out more about where to taste Hungarian wines in downtown Budapest!
💐 Floralia Spring Festivities in Aquincum Museum, May 09 – 10, 2026
On May 9th and 10th, the toga-clad people of Rome will once again take over the former civilian city of Aquincum to bring Budapest’s Roman-era heritage within palpable reach.
This unique cultural event in Óbuda evokes ancient Roman tradition, a Spring Festival with varied programs for the whole family over the 2nd weeknd of May.
The venue of the event, the ruin garden of the Aquincum Museum & Archaeological Park, lends an authentic atmosphere to the event, which has now grown into a festival.
Floralia traditionally begins with a festive procession, in which delegated members of heritage preservation groups march through the ruin garden.
Other Programs Include:
- Music and dance,
- Theatre performance,
- Fashion Show
- Arts and Crafts
- Culinary programs.
👉 Here’s the detailed program scheduleof the festival.
Location:
Aquincum Museum & Archaeological Park, Szentendrei út 135, Bp 1031 (Óbuda) (View on Map)
Opening Hours (Between Apr 1st – Oct 31st):
- Exhibitions: Tue – Sun: 10.00 – 18.00
- Archaeological Park: Tue – Sun 09.00 – 18.00
- Last entry at 17.30
Tickets:
- Full price/Adult: 3 000 HUF,
- Students, retirees: 1 500 HUF,
🥞 Pancake Picnic in Újbuda, May 15 – 17, 2026
So to see what Hungarians offer in terms of this all-popular sweet dish head for the Pancake Picnic in Újbuda between May 15 and May 17.
📍 Venue:
- The bazaar 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
🕒 Opening Hours:
- Friday: 15.00 – 22.00
- Saturday: 10.00 – 22.00
- Sunday: 10.00 – 20.00
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 sample 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!
🏛 Museum Festival, May 16 – 17, 2026
The motto of this year’s festival: “Museums Connect A Divided Wolrd”
At this unique cultural festival, you can meet more than 100 Hungarian museums at one place: in the garden of the National Museum and the institution’s inner courtyard.
All programs are FREE
📍 Venue:
- Several Museums in Budapest,
- Main event is in the Hungarian National Museum and its garden, Múzeum körút 14 – 16., district VIII., M3 metro (blue line), Kálvin tér station (View on Google Maps)
Tickets:
- Entry to the museum and all its exhibitions are FREE during the two days.
- Programs of the festival are also FREE to attend.
The main themes of this year’s festival are:
- In 2026 the event focuses on themes that connect the museums: traditions, customs, and heritage.
Concerts, workshops, unique guided tours of museum exhibits and many other exciting programs await visitors on the 2-day weekend festival.
👉 Find out more about the Museum Festival in Budapest
🍾 Prosecco/Hungarian Wines On A Danube Cruise
Should you miss the tthe Wine and Champagne Festival between May 20 nad 25 go on a river excursion with Prosecco or a glass of Tokaji aszú!
If you want to really indulge choose the unlimited processo cruise, departing several times every day in May!
Unlimited Slushy Cruise
🍹🍸🍹Unlimited slushy consumption
Departures: Afternoon-Evening
Duration: 60 min.
Price: From €21
Bottega Prosecco Cruise
🍸Unlimited prosecco
Departures: Afternoon-Evening
Duration: 60 min.
Price: From €27
🕊 Pentecost Weekend, May 23 – 25, 2026
Pentecost is a public holiday in Hungary so we get to have a long weekend packed with exciting programs between May 23 – 25.
🍾 Wine & Champagne Festival on Szabadság Square, May 20 – 25, 2026
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.
Drop by Szabadság Square near the Parliament building to sample some fine local wines and bubblies!
👉 See more info about the Downtown Budapest Wine & Champagne Festival!
📍 Venue:
- Szabadság tér/Liberty square, Downtown Budapest (See on Google Maps)
🕒 Opening Hours:
- Wednesday, May 20: 14.00 – 2.00
Thursday – Monday, May 22 – 25: 12.00 – 00.00
Note: Concerts usually start in the afternoon around 17.00 / 5pm.
🎫 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.
🎷 Jazz & Wine Festival: A Perfect Long Weekend on Margaret Island, May 23 – 25
If you’re looking for the ultimate “local vibe” while visiting Budapest at the end of May, escape the city bustle and head to the lush Margaret Island.
From May 23 to 25, the Jazz & Wine Festival returns to the historic Margaret Island Theater courtyard for three days of world-class music and Hungary’s finest pours.
Leisurely sip a glass of chilled Furmint under the shadow of the 115-year-old Water Tower while smooth jazz fills the air.
Here’s why you shouldn’t miss it:
- 6 Hungarian Wine Regions: Taste your way through Hungary! From the world-famous sweet Tokaj (the guest of honor this year) to the bold reds of Villány and crisp whites from Lake Balaton.
- Gourmet Bites: Pair your drinks with premium cheeses from Sajtangyal and traditional wine snacks.
- The Venue: Held in the “Kerengő” (Cloister) and Water Tower courtyard—one of the most atmospheric, green spots in Budapest.
The Lineup:
- International Stars: Catch double Grammy-winner Kurt Elling (May 22 opening) and soul sensation Mario Biondi (May 23).
- Local Jazz Legends: Enjoy a rotating schedule of Hungary’s best jazz trios and quartets throughout the afternoons.
- Party Vibes: Sunday features swing dancers to get the crowd moving!
Quick Festival Info for Travellers:
- 📍 Location: Margitszigeti Színház Kerengő (Margaret Island Open-air Theatre) – Accessible via the #26 bus or a scenic walk through the island) View on Google Maps
- Date: May 23 – 25, 2026 (Saturday – Monday).
- 🕒 Daily Hours: 10:00 to 19:00 (Monday until 18:00).
- Price: 3,600 HUF (approx. €9). Free for under 18s! You can buy your ticket here.
- The Bonus: Your ticket includes a festival glass, a wristband valid for all days, 20% off bottled wine, and free entry to climb the Water Tower for a panoramic
💡 Locals’ TIP: If you buy a ticket for any of the main evening concerts (Kurt Elling, Mario Biondi, or “Wonderful Hungarian Jazz”), your entry to the wine festival is free on that day!
👉 See also our detailed guide to Pentecost Weekend programs in Budapest
👜 Day of Markets – Erzsébet Square, May 30 – 31, 2026
Visit Budapest’s biggest market event, the PIACOK NAPJA x BELVÁROSI FESZTIVÁL in the heart of the city, where Erzsébet tér will once again transform into a huge community market!
The event is part of the two-day Belvárosi Fesztivál (Downtown Festival – see details below) happening at three venues in the city centre.
This is a special day when Budapest’s most popular community markets come together in one place to offer a huge variety of goods from vendors!
- Design, vintage, antique, retro, unique, handmade – wardrobe refreshers, high-quality treasures from Hungarian artists and designers,
- DIY and vintage products,
- Artisanal gastronomic creations,
- Natural cosmetics,
- Delicacies from Hungarian producers,
- Unique baby and children’s accessories and toys,
- Zero waste and eco-friendly alternatives.
The fair is a CHILD, FAMILY and DOG FRIENDLY event!
Address, Getting There:
- Erzsébet tér, district V., (See on Map)
- M1, M2, M3 metros, Deák F. tér station
Opening Hours:
- 11.00 – 19.00
Entry is FREE!
🎸 Downtown Festival Picnic (Belvárosi Fesztivál), May 30 – 31, 2026
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.
Four 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.
👉 See the detailed program of the Downtown Budapest Festival 2026.
🧒 Children’s Day Programs in Budapest May 30 -31, 2026
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), May 30, 2026
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 home to many restaurants and bars – and participate i craft programs, play corner, face painting and balloon folding.
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:
✡ Guided Jewish Tours With Synagogue Visit
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.
Kazinczy Street Synagogue Entry Ticket
Mo-Thu: 10:00-18:00 / Fri: 10:00- 14:00 / Sa: Close
Duration: 30 min.
Price: From €13
Jewish Heritage Guided Essential Tour
Tour starts: 10:00
Duration: 120 min.
Price: From €55
🛴 Go On 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.
🎶 Concerts, Cultural Programs In May In Budapest
For those who seek cultural entertainment May in Budapest offers plenty of opportunities to attend great concerts – even in outdoor concert venues, like Budapest Park – 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 in May 2026
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 needs.
Enjoy the captivating 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 wonderful 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.
Check Dates & Tickets for Concerts in Matthias Church
Montserrat Abbey Boys’ Choir at Matthias Church, May 27, 19.30
This is a truly special event. The world-renowned Escolania de Montserrat (the boy’s choir from the Benedictine abbey in Spain) will perform in Matthias Church.
Between the colorful Zsolnay roof tiles outside and the breathtaking frescoes inside, witnessing a world-class choir here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Performers:
- Montserrat Abbey Boys’ Choir
- Vicenç Prunés – Organ
Concerts in The Basilica
The Basilica of Budapest also hosts wonderful organ concerts in May:
Concert on the Grand Organ with Visitor Ticket To the Basilica, Treasury, Panorama Terrace – ✅ EXCELLENT VALUE
Basilica: Unique Grand Organ Concerts & TICKETS
Every Wednesday at 10.00 am
– 20 minutes long exclusive small group concert and explanation by the Organist
– All inclusive ticket to the venue: Access to the Church, the Treasury and the Panoramic Terrace
– Detailed explanation about the Grand Organ; visitation of the venue is non-guided
Price: From €52
🎼 Choir Performances in St. Anne Church
This church is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture located in the charming Batthyány Square area.
The acoustics here are heavenly, making it the perfect venue for choral music.
It regularly hosts concerts and choir performances, often free of charge. This month we hand-picked three exceptional programs.
Venue Address – Church of St. Anne (Szent Anna-plébániatemplom) :
- Batthyány tér 7. in the Buda side, Bp 1011 (M2 metro/red line) – View on Google Maps
#1. Baroque Masterpieces: Elvinus Chamber Orchestra, May 17, Sunday, 19.00
For lovers of the high-energy, ornate sounds of the Baroque era, this Sunday evening concert is a true gem.
Violinist László Pótz Nagy joins the Elvinus Chamber Orchestra to perform some of the most beloved works of the 18th century, including the fiery “Summer” from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons.
Best of all, this concert is open to the public with free admission, making it a perfect cultural addition to your Sunday stroll through the city.
Program – Masterpieces of the Baroque Masters
- Tessarini: Violin Concerto in D major
- Tartini: Variations on a Theme by Corelli
- J.S. Bach: Violin Concerto in G minor
- Albinoni: Violin Concerto in G minor
- Vivaldi: Prelude
- Vivaldi: The Four Seasons – “Summer”
#2. Centenary College Choir (USA) at St. Anne Church, May 22, 18.00
Coming all the way from Louisiana, the acclaimed Centenary College Choir will be performing in the Church of St. Anne, on Friday, May 22 at 18.00.
Entry is FREE.
#3. Concert of the Chor 96 Ottobeuren from Germany, May 28, 18.30
- Guest Choir: Chor 96 Ottobeuren – Germany
- Featuring: La Caffettiera Stioppéta – Budapest
On the last Thursday of May the St. Church you are in for a wonderful international collaboration.
This performance features the Chor 96 ensemble visiting from Ottobeuren, Germany, performing alongside the local Budapest favorites, La Caffettiera Stioppéta.
Entry is FREE.
Program:
- Unknown Italian composer: Alta Trinità Beata
- Hans Leo Hassler: Cantate Domino
- Thomas Luis de Victoria: Jesu dulcis memoria
- Henry Purcell: Sing Ye Faithful
- Thomas Tallis: O nata lux
- Giuseppe Ottavio Pitoni: Laudate dominum
- Camille Saint-Saëns: Ave verum
- Liszt Ferenc: Ave verum
- Halmos László: Hogyha az Úr nem építi a házat
- Szergej Rahmanyinov: Bogorogyice gyevo
🕺 Folk Dance Shows On A River Cruise With Dinner/Drink
The spectacular dance performances are showcasing Hungary’s colourful folk traditions. In addition the dance show you can enjoy a sightseeing boat tour on the Danube
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:
- 9 000 HUF (full price only) – 1-hour guided tour in English with a mini concert.
On the tour you’ll explore the building and learn about its history and architecture.
The sightseeing program ends with 5-minute concert showcasing 2 popular arias presented by singers of the Hungarian State Opera.
👉 Find out more about the Hungarian State Opera House Building!
Museum & Art Exhibitions in May
Brewing History: Discover the “Fő a kávé” Exhibition in Budapest, Till Oct 31, 2026
Are you a coffee lover who can’t start the day without a fresh brew? Or perhaps a history buff fascinated by the golden age of Budapest’s coffeehouses?
If so, there is a brand-new exhibition in the heart of the city that you should absolutely include in your itinerary.
“Fő a kávé – From Camel Fodder to the New Wave” opened its doors on March 4, 2026, at the Electrotechnical Collection (Kazinczy utca 21).
This unique collaboration between several major Hungarian museums — including the Museum of Commerce and Hospitality and the Museum of Applied Arts — takes you on a sensory journey through the cultural history of coffee making and consumption.
What to Expect?
The exhibition is cleverly structured around the steps of coffee preparation:
- Preparation & Grinding: Travel back to the 1683 Siege of Vienna and discover how coffee evolved from a curious Ottoman drink to the “black soup” of the 19th century. You’ll get a glimpse into the legendary worlds of the New York, Centrál, and Hadik coffeehouses, where Hungary’s greatest writers and artists once gathered.
- Dosing & Brewing: From the iconic Hungarian “kotyogó” (moka pots) to high-precision engineering masterpieces, the display showcases the technical evolution of coffee machines. It’s a fascinating look at how technology met art to create the perfect espresso.
- Consumption: The experience doesn’t end with the artifacts. After wandering through the history of caffeine, visitors can enjoy a real cup of coffee or a hot chocolate at the MTMR coffee shop located right within the exhibition space.
Plan Your Visit:
- 📍 Location: The Hungarian Museum of Science, Technolgy & Transport Address: 1075 Budapest, Kazinczy utca 21. (Electrotechnical Collection) View on Google Maps!
- 🕒 Opening Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00
- Saturday: 10:00 – 19:00
- Note: Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- 🎫 Tickets:
- Adult: 4 200 HUF
- Discounted (Student/Senior): 2 100 HUF
- Family Ticket (2 adults + 2 children): 7 200 HUF
🍹 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 admiring 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 In Budapest:
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.
- Liszt Ferenc Square – a small side street off Andrássy Av. is packed with lovely terraced cafes and restaurants, like Cafe Vian (see photo below)
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 )
💡 TIP: See also our post about other terraced cafes and restaurants in Budapest!
😎 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
May Day Festivals in Budapest, May 01 – 03, 2026
👉 See also our detailed event and program guide to May Day in Budapest!
Spring Artisan Market on the Danube Bank, May 09
If you happen to be in Budapest on Saturday, May 9, skip the traditional souvenir shops and head down to the river for a truly local experience.
The Pest embankment (the road right along the Danube) will be closed to cars and transformed into a lively community space!
In front of the atmospheric Viadukt Bár, you’ll find a curated selection of Hungarian designers and craftsmakers offering unique, handmade treasures.
Nestled between the Chain Bridge and Elizabeth Bridge, it’s the perfect pit-stop during your sightseeing walk. What’s more you can find one-of-a-kind jewelry, ceramics, and prints from local artists.
Grab a refreshing drink at the bar, enjoy the festive lights, and enjoy the car-free “RAKPART~2026” project.
🍺 Budapest Beer Week, May 04 – 10, 2026
Budapest is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture.
But did you know that it’s also a fantastic city for beer enthusiasts?
If you’re a fan of craft beer, then you’ll definitely want to mark your calendar for May 25 – June 01, ’25, 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 (On Map): venue for main tasting sessions and after parties between May 20 – 26
- Hopaholic Craft Beer Bar: Akácfa u. 38, Budapest, 1072 (On Map), 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 & Craft Beer Bar: Anker köz 1-3, Budapest 1061 (On Map) – venue for the BPBW meetup on 23.May and for the Opening Party
🎫 Admission:
- Tasting sessions on 25 May & 26. May: 94 EUR/36 990 HUF day (online price)
- Two-day ticket: 179 EUR/68 990 HUF/day (online price)
- Tasting session opening hours: 14.00 – 20.00 on both days, then
- After party
Ticket Includes:
- Unlimited tasting of the best local and international craft brews for 6 hours(different beer list on Friday and Saturday)
- Tasting glass branded with the BPBW logo (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:
- 30. May/Friday and
- 31. 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 between May 04 – 10.
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.
🍦 Gelato Time! – May 8th is National Ice Cream day
Venue:
- ice cream parlors at various locations in Budapest
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.
To honor the day many gelaterias offer 50 % discount on the price of ice cream.
This yaer the price drop applies if you have 4
Have a scoop of ice cream at one of the following places:
👉 See also our list of Best Ice Cream in Budapest!
🏃♀️ 😎 Europe Day Festival & Running Race, May 10, 2026
📍 Venue:
- Szabadság Square, city centre, near the Parliament
A festival celebrating Hungary’s joining the EU 21 years ago.
Programs Include:
- A 21 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 official website
🏬 Budapest 100 – Houses from the 1970s, May 09 -10, 2026
The Budapest 100 is a wonderful event devoted to all buildings in the city that that will built in the 1970s
From May 9th to 10th, 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.
👉 Find out more about the programs on the event’s website!
Related
June Things To Do – July Events, Programs – August Things To Do
