Why visit Budapest in March?
Budapest in March is generally affordable and less crowded compared to peak tourist months like summer and December. The weather is getting warmer, and if it rains, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy.
Is Budapest Expensive or Crowded in March?
March is considered shoulder season in Budapest, meaning lower hotel prices and discounted flights compared to high season (June–August).
The city is noticeably quieter than in summer, especially at major attractions like Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion. However, weekends and national holidays (March 15 – Hungarian National Day) may bring larger crowds to key landmarks and public squares.
Budapest weather in March
The spring season is coming to a full effect in the second half of March, but don’t be surprised to experience colder days in the first half of the month. Snow is rare and the average weather is not that hot (as you can see in the following table). The month of March is an ideal time for a cultural visit to Budapest.
Average temperatures in March in Budapest:
| In the morning | During the day | At night |
|---|---|---|
| 4-8 °C (39-46 °F) | 10-15 °C (50-59 °F) | 3-6 °C (37-42 °F) |
Rainfall and humidity
March in Budapest is typically not very rainy but you can experience some harsh winds. There are a lot of sunny days during the month of March although sometimes you can experience some clouds, too.
Daylight Hours & Sunset Times
Budapest in March experiences 12 hours of daylight on average as spring approaches. The sun sets around 6:00 PM in March in Budapest.
Hungary uses Daylight Saving Time on the last Sunday of March, when clocks move forward an hour, making evenings brighter and ideal for a Castle Hill walking tour.
What to pack for Budapest in March?
March is a transitional month in Budapest, with chilly mornings (especially in the first half of the month) and warmer afternoons. If you’re visiting the Hungarian capital during this time, it’s advisable to pack warmer clothing such as coats, lined trousers, hats, and occasionally mittens, especially if you plan on spending time outdoors.
In the second half of the month the weather is getting much warmer, so you should be fine with a thicker sweater, long sleeved t-shirts and regular clothing. It is best to wear layered clothes, so you can adjust to the changing weather.
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Discover What’s Happening in Budapest When You are Here:
- Things to do in March 2025 in Budapest
- April 2025 in Budapest: Weather, Events and Top Things to do
- May 2025 in Budapest: Weather, Holidays and Things to do
- June 2025 in Budapest: What to pack, Events and Things to do
- Budapest in July 2025: Weather, Events and Things to do
- Month by Month Calendar of Events, Holidays and Things to do in Budapest
Events and Holidays in March 2025
National Day on 15th of March
15th March in Hungary is the Memorial Day of the Hungarian 1848 Revolution. Tourists can enjoy a lot of outdoor events and activities. Hungarian people wear a cockade with the colors of the Hungarian tricolor (red, white, green).
This day is a bank holiday, so please note that almost everything is closed.
Easter
Hungarians celebrate Easter on a long weekend from Friday till Monday (4 days). In 2025 the holiday is in April. Good Friday and Easter Monday are bank holidays, so almost every shops are closed. Plan accordingly.
See All Hungarian National Holidays
Not sure when to come? Check out our full guide to the Best Time to Visit Budapest – or dive in below to see what’s happening in March.
Places to visit in Budapest in March
Top 5 things to do and see in March
A guide to the top cultural attractions and must-see places in Budapest in March.
For a comprehensive list please see our Things to do in Budapest in March page.
Experience Budapest’s Enchanting Danube at Night!
Candlelit Dinner River Cruise with Live Music
On this relaxing evening dinner cruise you see Budapest from a different perspective, with all the famous landmarks like the Parliament and Buda Castle lit up for your viewing pleasure as you enjoy a 4-course meal and welcome drink while listening to live music.
Ideal for a romantic night out or a memorable evening with friends, this cruise promises an unforgettable experience in Budapest’s enchanting evening ambiance.
Good to know
During the dinner, you will be presented with a menu and can make your choice for each course out of several options available.
Gypsy Folk Show on the Danube
Dinner Cruise with Operetta and Folk Show
Enjoy a 4-course dinner on a Danube River cruise while passing Budapest’s iconic monuments (Gellert Hill, Chain Bridge, Buda Castle, Hungarian Parliament Building, Margaret Bridge).
Watch a live show featuring gypsy music and folk dance, and see Buda and Pest illuminated at night.
Good to know
A window seat can be bought in advance if you wish to reserve it.
Vegetarian option is available.
Relax with Thermal Spas
Széchenyi Spa: Entry + Palm House with Snack and Cocktail
Relax at the exclusive Palm House at Széchenyi Baths with full-day access to thermal pools, saunas, and a private relaxation area. Drinks, snacks, and all spa essentials are included — just bring your swimsuit.
Good to know
Don’t forget to bring your own swimwear, towel, flip-flops and swimming cap (cap is required only for the swimming pools).
Classical music bliss at Budapest’s Basilica
Classical Music Concerts in St Stephen’s Basilica
Experience an exquisite classical music concert at Budapest’s St. Stephen’s Basilica, set in a stunning neo-classical venue.
Choose from three different concerts and various seating options, enjoying performances by talented soloists in an unforgettable setting.
Good to know
Classical music performances featuring compositions by renowned composers such as W.A. Mozart, J.S. Bach, A. Vivaldi, and G.F. Handel and more.
Rudas Spa: Thermal Relaxation & Dining
Rudas Spa Wellness and Dining Experience
Experience Budapest’s Rudas Thermal Bath with a full-day spa pass, including access to thermal pools and saunas.
Enjoy a scenic 3-course meal at Rudas Bistro with panoramic views of the Danube River, combining relaxation and gastronomy in the heart of Budapest.
Good to know
The Turkish bath at Rudas Bath is available only on Fridays and during the weekend or special times of the year
See our Things to do in Budapest in March page for a full list of events, concerts, attractions and things to do.
Are you coming solo, as a couple or with kids?
Budapest is ideal for solo travelers, couples and families
Explore the spring Budapest solo for a personalized adventure, enjoy romantic getaways as a couple, or create unforgettable family memories with family-friendly activities – there is something for everyone in Budapest.
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Travel solo to Budapest
Take a stroll along the Danube and reflect on the poignant Shoes on the Danube Bank, a moving tribute to Holocaust victims. Bring a candle or a flower to remember the people who have lost their lives to World War II.
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Romantic activity for couples
Strolling through the streets of Buda Castle and admiring the blooming cherry trees make for a particularly romantic activity for couples in March. Additionally, the Castle offers a breathtaking panorama of the city.
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Family and kid-friendly place to visit
Enjoy a family-friendly day out on Margaret Island (Margitsziget), where children can explore and play in the safe and welcoming environment of one of the island’s many playgrounds.
Is it worth visiting Budapest in March?
Tips only Budapest locals know
Uncover the city’s best-kept secrets and little-known facts, shared by locals, to enrich your Budapest experience.
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In case of rainy weather
You can buy a cheap umbrella or disposable raincoats from one of the many Chinese shops throughout the city.
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Eco-friendly travel options in Budapest
Instead of using taxis or cars, use the public transport in Budapest or cycle with MOL Bubi. Both are cheap, quick and get you anywhere in the city.
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Stork arrivals
March is the month when storks return to Hungary after a long winter. You can see their nests occupied again by stork couples. Keep an eye on the top of the light poles!
What to eat in Budapest in March?
Hungarian cuisine in spring
The traditional Hungarian dishes contain a lot of new vegetables in spring. The season’s foods are usually connected to the Easter holidays or the renewal of nature with fresh veggies.
Stuffed Paprika
Stuffed paprika is an old traditional Hungarian dish, usually in tomato sauce, but it is delicious without the tomato too. It is a very easy recipe, but very tasty.
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Stuffed Paprika recipe
Easter Braid Bread (Kalach – kalács)
People eat cooked ham with eggs and fresh vegetables at Easter, but the crown of the table is the beautiful braided milk bread / loaf (kalács).
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Hungarian Easter Braid Bread recipe
Spring Vegetable Soup
Hungarians eat a lot of soups, it is part of the daily menu in many people’s life. Preparing this spring soup is very easy, even for beginners.
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Spring vegetable soup recipe
Budapest Pictures in March
Gallery about the beautiful Budapest in March
Blossoming flowers, the green colors of the trees and lots of sunshine. This is Budapest in March in pictures.
Budapest Planning Guides
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