Last Updated on 8 June 2025 by ZoliBP
What to Do During Whit Sunday & Monday?
Date: June 08 – 09, 2025 / Location: Various Venues In Budapest
Pentecost in Budapest is a two-day public holiday in Hungary filled with spring festivities:
- Sunday, June 08., and
- Monday June 09. in 2025.
It is a Christian holiday held on the 50th day after Easter. Many traditions and folk customs relate to the day that are kept alive on Pentecost festivals.
Although shops, markets, banks etc. will be closed, a couple of exciting festivals and programs await visitors in Budapest over the weekend.
Here’s everything you need to know – from what’s open or closed to the best events and local traditions – to make the most of your Whit Sunday/Monday in Hungary’s capital
- What to Do During Whit Sunday & Monday?
- 🍾 Wine & Champagne Festival, Downtown Budapest, June 04- 09, 2025
- 🎺 🍷 Wine & Jazz Weekend, Margaret Island, June 07 – 09, 2025
- 👉 Take A Cruise On the Danube – The Best Way To See Some of the Top Sights of the City
- 👑 Whitsun Heritage Festival in Szentendre Skanzen, June 08-09, 2025
- 💃 Danube Carnival International Cultural Festival, June 06-14, 2025
- 🛍 Weekend Market in Gozsdu Court, June 07-09, 2025
- 💃 Folk Dance, Concerts, Cultural Programs
- 💎 Beyond the Usual: Unique Museum Exhibits to Explore in Budapest This Pentecost Weekend!
- 🏊♀️ Bath Opening Hours
- 🚋 Public Transport & Opening Hours on the Pentecost Weekend
- To Sum Up – Why Spend Pentecost in Budapest?
🍾 Wine & Champagne Festival, Downtown Budapest, June 04- 09, 2025
Summer’s biggest wine event will take place in the city center between June 4th and 9th at one of the most beautiful locations in Budapest, Szabadság Square.
What’s more, the Wine & Champagne Festival will end with the long weekend of Pentecost on Monday.
The best wineries and champagne houses in Hungary will be there for 6 days so this an excellent opportunity to sample local wines and food at one place.
Location:
- Szabadság tér/Liberty Square, Budapest 1054 (View on Map)
Tickets:
- Entry is free to the festival, but to taste wines you have to by a festival glass, the price of which is 4 250 HUF or 5 999 HUF.
👉 Find out more about the Downtown Wine and Champagne Festival in Budapest 2025!
🎺 🍷 Wine & Jazz Weekend, Margaret Island, June 07 – 09, 2025
Spend the Pentecost weekend on Margarte Island where the Hungarian Jazz Federation and the Open-Air Theatre organizes the JAZZ and WINE Festival for the 2nd time.
Enjoy summer time summer by a glass or two of great wine and mellow jazz music.
Beyond the main Saturday concert, catch smaller musical acts all day Friday, June 7th, and Saturday. These will be held in the theatre’s Cloister by the Water Tower.
Six Hungarian wine regions, like Tokaj, Etyek, and Szekszárd, will offer their best wines to sample and purchase.
Plus, find plenty of delicious wine snacks and cheeses at the festival!
Location:
- Margaret Island Open-Air Theatre (View on Map)
Tickets:
- 3 600 HUF/person
- Free under the age of 18
Included Are:
- Festival wristband granting access to the JAZZ and WINE Festival on June 07 – 09, 2025, valid for both days
- 1 festival wine glass
- 20 % discount on bottled wines purchased at the wineriesFree Water Tower visi and exhibition viewing
Opening Hours:
- June 07, Saturay: 14.00 – 22.00, opening ceremony: 16.00
- June 08, Whit Sunday/Pentecost: 10.00 – 20.00
- June 09, Whit Monday: 10.00 – 18.00
👉 Take A Cruise On the Danube – The Best Way To See Some of the Top Sights of the City
River tours – available with meal and/or drinks – are a great and relaxing way to see the beautiful cityscape during the day, in the evening or at night.
Advanced booking is highly recommended because places tend to sell out quickly during major holidays like Pentecost. You can cancel anytime free of charge!
Happy Hour – 60 minute Cruise
🍸1 cocktail of your choice
Departures: 11:00 / 13:00 / 15:00 / 16:30 / 18:00 / 19:30 / 21:00
Duration: 60 min.
Price: From €21
Tokaji/Prosecco Cruise
- Tokaji Cruise – 1 glass of Tokaji Aszu
- Cocktail / Beer Cruise – 2 cockatils or 3 beers
- Unlimited Prosecco / Open Bar
Departures: 19:00
Duration: 120 min.
Price: From €29
Sunset Cocktail Cruise
🍹🍸🍹 2 cocktails of your choice
Departures: 16:00 / 18:00 / 20:00 / 22:00
Duration: 60 min.
Price: From €32
TIP: For more river tour options browse our Danube Cruise in Budapest page, or see a list of the best-value dinner cruises (according to our honest opinion).
👑 Whitsun Heritage Festival in Szentendre Skanzen, June 08-09, 2025
Just a short trip from capital lies the charming town of Szentendre, home to the Hungarian Open Air Folk Museum (Skanzen), which will be hosting its annual Whitsun Heritage Festival.
If you have time to include a daytrip into your Budapest visit then we definitely recommend going to Szentendre.
This festival is a fantastic opportunity to learn about Hungary’s colourful cultural heritage. The Skanzen is a sprawling open-air museum that showcases
- Traditional Hungarian village life, complete with
- Authentic houses,
- Farm buildings, and
- Workshops from various regions of the country.
What to Expect – Why Go?
The Whitsun Heritage Festival brings these historical settings to life with a vibrant program focused on the country’s cultural heritage.
You’ll witness
- Demonstrations of traditional crafts,
- Listen to folk music, and even
- Try your hand at some age-old activities.
It’s a wonderful chance to interact with communities dedicated to preserving Hungarian folk traditions and experience a slice of rural life from bygone eras.
Think lively dance performances, delicious local gastronomy, and unique artisan products for sale! It’s a truly family-friendly event with something for everyone.
Practical Information for Visiting the Whitsun heritage Festival in Szentendre:
Venue Address:
- Szentendre Skanzen, Sztaravodai út 75, 2000 Szentendre, Hungary. (View on Google Maps)
Tickets:
- Full price: 5 000 HUF
- Students/seniors: 2 500 HUF
- Discount tickets for families with kids are also available.
Here’s the official website of the festival, if you need more information.
🚢 TIP: A Boat Tour To Szentendre Is a Picturesque Way To Get There:
💃 Danube Carnival International Cultural Festival, June 06-14, 2025
The Danube Carnival takes in Budapest for the 30th time this year.
This international cultural festival transforms the city into a global stage of folk and dance hetitage, offering an memorable experience for tourists.
You can see watch parades weaving through the city, showcasing both Hungary’s rich folk heritage and diverse traditions from around the world.
You’ll be treated to spectacular dance performances, lively folk music concerts, and even opportunities to join in a traditional “dance house” (táncház).
Highlights for Visitors Include:
- The Grand Parade: Witness a colourful procession of Hungarian and international dance troupes in striking costumes, bringing the streets of Budapest to life.
- Performances Across the City: Enjoy open-air shows and concerts at various iconic venues, including the beautiful garden of the Hungarian National Museum.
- The Jubilee Gala on Margaret Island: The festival culminates in a breathtaking gala performance on June 14th at the picturesque Margaret Island Open-Air Stage, featuring a dazzling array of local and international artists.
🛍 Weekend Market in Gozsdu Court, June 07-09, 2025
If you’re looking for a charming and authentic neighbourhood market experience stop by Gozsdu Udvar, a series of connected courtyards in Budapest’s hottest party district.
It’s a great palce for finding
- Antiques and vintage treasures
- Local art and crafts by Hungarian artisans
- Jewelry with unique designs
What To Expect Beyond Shopping?
- Street food vendors offering delicious Hungarian and international treats.
- Live music performances by local musicians, adding to the lively atmosphere.
- A great place to people-watch and soak up the city’svibes.
All in all, the 4-day long market is a nice program for Pentecost. Entry is FREE.
Location:
- Gozsdu Courtyard, District VII, Király utca 13. – Dob utca 16. (See on Map)
Opening Hours:
- Friday – Monday: 10.00 – 17.00
🍓🥦 Pentecost Farmers’ Market on Római Part, Saturday, June 07, 2025
For an off-the-beaten-path, memorable experience visit the Róma-parti Piac farmers’ market right on the bank of the Danube in Óbuda district, held on Saturdays.
Location:
- Nánási út 47-49., Budapest, 1031, district III.
Getting There:
- It will take cc. 50 minutes to get to Római Part/Roman Beach by public transport. It’s much quicker by bike, only 35 minutes and you will definitely enjoy the ride along the scenic Danube river.
- If you still prefer to use public transport the best option is to take suburban railway H5 (HÉV) from Margaret Bridge Buda end, get off at Aquincum stop. Then look for the stop for bus No. 106. Get off at the 5th stop at Nánási út.
Here are the directions on map.
Opening Hours:
- 08.00 – 13.00
From the vendors stationed along the lovely promenade you can buy
- fresh fruits, veggies,
- bread and pastries,
- cheese and sausages from local, small producers.
The organizers welcome families with exciting kids’ programs to celebrate International Children’s Day.
Kids can have fun in the Village PLayhouse, participate in a Mushroom Hunting Adventure
You can grab some really tasty, authentic local food too.
💃 Folk Dance, Concerts, Cultural Programs
If you miss the Danube Carnival’s programs, view a folklore show performed during a river tour on the Danube. Drinks or dinner are included in the 1.5-2 hour excursion.
Hungarian Folk Dance
Indulge in a 20-minute folk dance performance on a river tour.
Besides admiring the city scape from the Danube – and savoring a delicious dinner or refreshing drink – you get to experience a spectacular journey into Hungarian folklore.
The show will captivate you with traditional music, mesmerizing dances, and vibrant costumes.
Highlights:
- Witness the fascinating performances of a dynamic folk duo, as they showcase their talent in authentic traditional clothing.
- Enjoy awe-inspiring dances that have been passed down through generations, dating back hundreds of years.
- 1.5 hour/2-hour Danube excursion with dinner (local gastronomy or international dishes in buffet style) or 3 drinks of your choice
- Take amazing photos at sunset or night when the city’s attractions rae illuminated gainst the dark sky
👉 Dazzling Folk Dance Show on a Danube Cruise At Pentecost Weekend:
💎 Beyond the Usual: Unique Museum Exhibits to Explore in Budapest This Pentecost Weekend!
Planning a trip to Budapest for the Pentecost weekend and looking to dive deeper than the typical tourist traps? While the Hungarian Parliament and Buda Castle are must-sees, the city’s museum scene offers some one-of-a-kind experiences.
Here are a couple of lesser-known, but highly recommended, museum exhibits that are perfect for a memorable holiday weekend in Budapest
Note: Some museums will be open on Pentecost Monday – Budapest museums are generally closed on Mondays – others will be closed. Please visit the website of individual museums for up-to-date information on opening hours during the holiday.
Listen! A Musical Journey Around the World Exhibition (House of Music)
For an experience that transcends visual beauty and truly engages your senses, make your way to the House of Music, in City Park, for their captivating “Listen! A Musical Journey Around the World” exhibition.
This isn’t your typical museum display; it’s an immersive and interactive exploration of sound and music from across the globe.
The House of Music itself is an architectural marvel, and this exhibition perfectly complements its innovative spirit.
You’ll be invited to discover diverse musical traditions, instruments, and soundscapes through cutting-edge technology and engaging installations.
It’s a chance to open your ears to the rhythms of distant lands, understand the universal language of music, and perhaps even participate in creating your own sonic experiences.
Venue & Address:
- House of Hungarian Music, Budapest, Olof Palme stny. 3, 1146/City Park (View on Map)
Opening Hours – till August 31 2025:
- Tuesday – Wednesday – Thursday – Sunday, 10.00 – 18.00
- Friday: 10.00 – 20.00
- The exhibition is closed on Whit Monday.
Tickets:
- Full Price: 4 500 HUF,
- Students, senior citizens: 2 700 HUF
Whether you’re a seasoned music lover or simply curious, “Listen!” offers a refreshing and deeply enriching cultural encounter that will resonate long after you’ve left.
It’s the perfect way to add a unique, sensory dimension to your Budapest itinerary
Shine! Jewelry Exhibition, Hungarian National Museum
If you have a penchant for all things sparkly and exquisite, the “Shine! Jewelry Exhibition” is an absolute must-see. Housed in the Neoclassical building of the National Museum, this exhibition isn’t just about precious stones; it’s a journey through the history of
- Design,
- Craftsmanship, and the
- Stories behind these glittering adornments.
You’ll see incredible jewelry pieces, from the last 40,000 years: from ancient times to today including important Hungarian historical items like King Béla III’s poison ring.
You can also learn how jew
elry has always been a way for people to show who they are and tell their stories.
Museum Address:
- Múzeum körút 14-16. district VIII. (View on Google Maps)
Opening Hours (The Exhibition Can Be Visited Till June 22, 2025):
- Tuesday – Sunday: 10.00 18.00
Tickets:
- Full price: 3 200 HUF
- Students, seniors: 1 600 HUF
Hungarian National Gallery (Buda Castle)
Address: Szent György tér 2., district I. inside the Royal Palace
The National Gallery in Buda’s Royal Palace will be open between 10.00 – 18.00. on the following days:
- May 17, Friday
- May 18, Saturday,
- May 19, Whit Sunday
- May 20, Whit Monday
- Closed on May 21, Tuesday!
Hungarian National Museum
Address: Múzeum krt. 14-16., district VIII.
The museum will be open on Pentecost Sunday, May 19 between 10.00 – 18.00, but remains closed on May 20, Monday.
It has an extensive exhibit on the history of Hungary. The most precious treasure you cna view is the coronation mantel of King St. Stephen.
House of Terror
Address: Andrássy út 60., district VI.
Getting there: Millenium Underground, get off at Vörösmarty utca or trams 4, 6, Oktogon stop, a short walk from there
General opening hours:
- Tue – Sun: 10.00 – 18.00, cashier closes at 17.30
- Will be closed on May 20, Pentecost Monday
Note: The Great Synagogue in Dohány Str. and the Jewish museum will be closed.
🏊♀️ Bath Opening Hours
The Gellért and Széchenyi Baths will be open as usual on both days of the holiday (with weekend pricing):
- Gellért Spa: 09.00 – 19.00, saunas & steam cabins: 10.00 – 18.00 (cashier closes at 18.00), the open air pool is open.
- Széchenyi Bath Complex: 08.00 – 20.00, open air pools are open, saunas & steam cabins: 10.00 – 19.30.
- Cashier closes 1 hour before the closing time in all baths.
Some of the seasonal outdoor pools – like the Palatinus on Margaret Island – are also welcome visitors over the Pentecost weekend.
Veli Bej Turkish Bath:
The Veli Bej Bath will be closed on Whit Sunday/Pentecost, May 19 and Whit Monday, May 20.
The bath will be open on Saturday, May 18 according to weekend operating hours:
- 06.00 -12.00
- 15.00 – 21.00
Normal Opening Hours of the Veli Bej:
- Monday – Friday: 15.00 – 21.00
- Saurday – Sunday & Holidays: 06.00 – 12.00, 15.00 – 21.00
▶ Rudas Bath – Rooftop Jacuzzi
The Széchenyi and Gellért Baths tend to be a bit crowded on special occasions like Pentecost so we recommend instead to try the Rudas Bath also near the Gellért Hill.
This more than 450-yrs old historic spa has an
- Amazing rooftop panorama jacuzzi besides the
- Hot Turkish pool, and offers a
- Range of various massages.
Check out the couple’s massages for a romantic experience!
Take your loved one to the Rudas Thermal Bath, a 450-year-old historic spa complex and treat her/him to a memorable evening!
Enjoy the
- Healing warm waters: 42-degree pool, an
- 11-degree plunge pool,Sauna zone, and a
- Pool on the sky terrace with panoramic views of Budapest.
- Later, relish a 3-course meal at the bistro.
- Choose wine or champagne to accompany your meal.
🍽 Dine With A View Of The Danube River And The City!
A unique wellness experience in Budapest.
🚋 Public Transport & Opening Hours on the Pentecost Weekend
Note: Whit Sunday and Whit Monday are public holidays – shops, malls, and markets will be closed, but museums, baths (see opening hours of thermal baths above, most tourist attractions, restaurants and cafes remain open (often on a Sunday schedule). Public transport runs on a holiday timetable.
On June 07/Saturday metro, tram bus and other public transportation will run according to Saturday schedule, on June 08 and 09 (Whitsun and Whit Monday) according to Sunday/holiday schedule.
🕘 Opening Hours of Shops, Markets
Grocery stores, shops, food markets (the Great Market Hall) will be CLOSED on June 08 – 09.
Most restaurants, cafes, bars will be open though over the weekend.
✔ Travel Tips for Pentecost Weekend Visitors
Book Accommodation Early
Pentecost often means a long weekend when locals from neighboring countries or around Hungary travel (and some events attract crowds).
Book your hotel/accommodation and popular tours – especially river cruises – in advance. Also, prices might be slightly up due to demand, so planning ahead saves money.
Public Transport Holiday Schedules:
On Whit Monday, buses and metros run like it’s Sunday, at slightly lower frequency. Give yourself a bit of extra time when moving around the city.
Visit Local Church Services:
For a truly authentic experience, why not step into a church service on Pentecost Sunday (e.g. at St. Stephen’s Basilica, or Matthias Church in Buda Castle) to witness the holiday’s religious side – whether just to hear the organ music or see the local congregation.
Weather and Attire:
Pentecost falls in early summer in 2025. Usually it’s quite hot and sunny during the day with some occasional showers.
It doesn’t get cold in the evening either, but do bring a light rain jacket or cardigan especially if you plan to go on a Danube Ccruise.
To Sum Up – Why Spend Pentecost in Budapest?
Hungary’s capital during Pentecost offers a mix of
- spiritual tradition and
- Lively fun. Despite a few closures, you’ll find the city very much alive – from wine festivals to folk dances.
Whether you’re clinking glasses at a festival or cruising the Danube under a sunset, Pentecost weekend in Budapest can be truly memorable.
Enjoy the celebration like a local!
Related:
Other Public Holidays in Hungary – May Day Things To Do – Programs in Budapest in June – Summer Festival – Top Summer Activities
