March is the Perfect Time for Exploration
Why Visit Budapest in March?
March is a fantastic time to visit Budapest, offering a perfect balance of fewer crowds, unique seasonal events, and the first signs of spring, making it ideal for exploring both cultural landmarks and outdoor attractions.
What Makes March a Great Time to Visit?
Budapest in March has fewer tourists, creating a more relaxed and authentic atmosphere.
Famous landmarks have shorter wait times, allowing you to explore at a slower, more enjoyable pace. Markets, cafés, ruin bars and pubs cater more to locals, offering a chance to experience Budapest’s everyday life without the usual tourist crowds.
How is the Weather in Budapest in March?
Budapest in March has unpredictable spring weather, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Some days feel mild and sunny, while others bring rain and chilly winds, so layered clothing is essential.
Please see more detailed info about the weather, prices and packing tips on the Budapest in March: Weather, Events and What to Do page.
Events, Attractions, Adventures and Experiences
Things to Do in Budapest in March 2026
We’ve grouped our top recommendations to help you easily find the attractions you’re looking for. Click on a section to learn more.
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Top Things to Do in Budapest in March
Discover Budapest’s must-visit landmarks, cultural gems, and unique experiences that define the city’s charm.
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Outdoor Activities & River Cruises in Budapest
Explore Budapest’s scenic outdoors with Danube river cruises, panoramic hikes, and vibrant city parks.
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Cultural & Historical Adventures
Step into Budapest’s rich past with iconic landmarks, museums, and immersive cultural experiences.
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Budapest Itineraries
Explore Budapest with custom 1-day and 3-day itineraries and an interactive map of top attractions.
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Budapest Food & Drink Experiences
Savor Budapest’s flavors with traditional Hungarian cuisine, local markets, and must-try ruin bars.
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Family and Child-friendly Programs
Enjoy interactive museums, fun parks, and outdoor adventures perfect for families and kids in Budapest.
The Best Experiences in Budapest
Top Things to Do in Budapest in March 2026
Discover the best things to do in Budapest this March, from festive events to seasonal attractions.
Experience Budapest’s Enchanting Danube!
City & Sightseeing River Cruises on the Danube
City & sightseeing cruises on the Danube in Budapest offer a relaxed way to see landmark attractions like the Parliament, Buda Castle, and Chain Bridge from the water, with guided commentary available on many daytime cruises.
Evening and dinner cruises add a special atmosphere, combining illuminated city views with a meal or drinks for a memorable Budapest experience.
Good to know
Evening and dinner cruises sell out quickly in spring, so booking in advance is recommended, especially for window or outdoor deck seating.
Good to know
Due to outdoor gatherings and official events, expect road closures and reduced public transport services in central Budapest, especially around Kossuth Square, the Hungarian National Museum, and Buda Castle. Plan ahead and use alternative routes or metro lines for smoother travel.
15th March National Holiday Programs
March 15th: Hungary’s National Holiday in Budapest
March 15th marks Hungary’s 1848 Revolution. Banks, shops, and businesses close, but restaurants, cafes, and cultural venues remain open. Museums like the Hungarian National Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, and Holocaust Museum offer free admission.
- Official ceremonies begin at Kossuth Square with a flag-raising, followed by a hussar procession to the Hungarian National Museum.
- Buda Castle hosts free workshops, folk art activities, and dance performances.
- The Parliament holds an open day (10 AM–6 PM) showcasing the Holy Crown.
- From March 15th, the Lower Danube embankment in Pest becomes car-free on weekends and public holidays for pedestrians and cyclists.
Shops remain closed, but Budapest is alive with history, culture, and tradition.
Relax with Thermal Spas
Széchenyi Spa Full Day with Optional Tasting
Begin with relaxation at Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Budapest’s renowned spa, followed by an optional tour in the city center for an interactive pálinka spirits-tasting experience, delving into Hungary’s rich history and culture.
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).
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.
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.
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.
Prepare for Easter
Easter Spring Fair at Vörösmarty tér
Vörösmarty Square transforms into a vibrant spring destination from late March, featuring artisan stalls, gastronomic delights, and floral displays. The highlight is a lush flower shop, creating a colorful oasis and offering visitors a chance to purchase fresh blooms.
A floral trellis serves as a popular selfie spot, while children can enjoy a craft playhouse to create spring and Easter decorations.
Location
Vörösmarty Square (Tér) See on Google Map.
Date
From 28 March to 21 April 2026.
Price
Free to attend.
Are You Visiting Budapest Another Time?
Things to Do in Budapest in the Spring and Early Summer Months
Create Your Perfect Budapest March Itinerary (With Map)
Plan Your Budapest March Trip (Custom Itineraries & Map)
Plan your Budapest March trip with custom itineraries and a detailed map, designed for solo travelers, couples, and families by the Budapest for You Team. The itineraries include all the things you don’t want to miss in Budapest!
1-Day Budapest Itinerary for Families with Kids
This is a family-friendly 1-day Budapest itinerary, designed for easy exploration using public transport and including stops for both younger and older kids.
1-Day Budapest Itinerary for Couples & Groups
This is a 1-day Budapest itinerary for couples or groups without kids, designed for a mix of sightseeing, culture, and relaxation with minimal walking and easy public transport.
Breathtaking Views on Foot and by Boat Along the Danube
Outdoor Activities & River Cruises in Budapest in March 2026
Experience Budapest’s fresh spring air with scenic Danube river cruises, blooming parks, and outdoor adventures perfect for March.
15th March National Holiday Programs
1848 Revolution Memorial Day
Observed on March 15, this national holiday commemorates Hungary’s 1848 Revolution against Habsburg rule. The day features ceremonies, parades, and cultural events across the city, with many locals wearing cockades in national colors.
Museums like the Hungarian National Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, and Holocaust Museum offer free admission.
Good to know
Shops remain closed.
Explore Downtown Budapest with a Passionate Guide
3-Hour Walking Tour of Pest in Budapest
Explore Pest on a 3-hour guided walking tour, uncovering its history, culture, and daily life. Stroll along the Danube Promenade, admire Art Nouveau landmarks, and visit Saint Stephen’s Basilica (ticket included). Walk through Andrássy Avenue, see the Hungarian State Opera, and learn about Hungary’s 1000-year history at Heroes’ Square. Your guide offers deep insights and answers any questions along the way.
Good to know
Entrance ticket to St. Stephen’s Basilica and subway ticket(s) are included.
Photo Source: Város és Folyó Egyesület
Enjoy the Danube Bank without Cars
Budapest’s Pest Lower Embankment Opens for People
In 2026, as in previous years, the lower embankment road on the Pest side will be a car-free zone for much of the year on weekends and public holidays.
The quayside is open on weekends from March to October and daily during the summer school holidays in July and August. During this time you can walk, jog, have a grill party or just relax on the riverside Danube embankment instead of dodging cars.
This event is known for its panoramic views of the Danube and vibrant community activities.
Location
Jane Haining Embankment; See on Google Map.
Good to know
Don’t miss the farewell celebration in October, featuring a candlelit dinner, before renovations begin under the “Revitalized Embankment 2030” project.
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.
Climb and Crawl Through Budapest’s Longest Cave System
Budapest Caving Tour with Guide
Explore the underground wonders of the Pál-völgyi-Mátyás-hegyi cave system in Danube-Ipoly National Park on a guided half-day caving adventure. Crawl through narrow passages and climb limestone formations in Hungary’s longest cave system, created by thermal waters beneath Budapest.
Ideal for solo travelers, families, or groups, this adventure offers a unique way to discover Budapest’s hidden natural landscapes.
Good to know
No prior experience is needed, as expert guides from the Hungarian Caving Association ensure a safe and thrilling experience.
Opening Hours
The garden is open from Monday to Sunday from 10am to 8pm.
Website
Feel Zen and Relax
Japanese Garden in Zugló
Interestingly, this Japanese garden is maintained by students studying at the Gardening School, which also houses the garden itself.
Here, you’ll find numerous little bridges, greenhouses, streams, and even a 100-year-old ficus tree that has grown over the roof.
Founded by Márton Varga in 1928, the school built the torii gate and the foundation of the garden.
The Japanese garden makes for a great half-day family-friendly activity, especially for children who will surely enjoy crossing the little bridges over the lake.
Location
Disctrict 14., Kövér Lajos utca 1. See on Google Map.
Good to know
Dogs allowed.
Location
(Széchenyi) Chain Bridge, V. Disctrict See on Google Map.
1 Hour Walking Trip Itinerary
Walk around the Chain Bridge
Széchenyi Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) is the first bridge that connected Buda and Pest. The bridge is suspended by chains (hence the name) and from the spring season it is a popular activity to walk across the bridge.
The Chain Bridge underwent a full renovation in 2023, allowing visitors to see its beauty as it is now open for pedestrians as well.
There are a lot of other things to do nearby like the Shoes on the Danube Bank (approx. 5 minutes walk) or visit the Hungarian Parliament Building (10 minutes walk).
The Chain Bridge faces the beautiful Gresham Palace on the Pest side, which now functions as the Four Seasons Hotel.
This is a great program with kids, our kids love the walking through the bridge.
Good to know
Wear comfortable shoes and start your Chain Bridge walk in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the Danube and fewer crowds.
Run Budapest, Feel the Spirit!
Telekom Vivicittá Running Event
The Telekom Vivicittá Half Marathon is a two-day spring running event in Budapest, inviting locals and tourists to explore the city on foot. On Sunday, participants can choose between the 21 km half marathon or a 10 km run, while Saturday features shorter distances like the 7 km Midicittá for beginners.
Runners pass UNESCO World Heritage sites, cross Danube bridges, and enjoy iconic views of Buda Castle, the Parliament, and the Pest riverbank. The race atmosphere is electrified by cheering crowds and live music, making it one of Hungary’s most popular running events. Each participant receives a custom medal and running shirt to commemorate the experience.
Date
From 21 to 26 March 2026.
Good to know
You can support a charity during registration and run for a cause while enjoying Budapest’s iconic views.
Budapest’s History and Culture in March
Cultural & Historical Adventures in Budapest in March 2026
Explore Budapest’s rich history and culture in March with museum visits, national holiday events, and seasonal exhibitions.
Discover Hungarian Jewish History and Heritage
Jewish Heritage Guided Tour with Synagogue Ticket
Explore Budapest’s Jewish heritage on a guided walking tour through the Pest Jewish Quarter. Visit the Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest in Europe, and tour the Jewish Museum to see artifacts and Holocaust memorials. Walk past the Rumbach Street Synagogue and explore the Tree of Life, Martyrs’ Cemetery, and Raoul Wallenberg Memorial Park. Gain a deeper understanding of Hungarian-Jewish history, culture, and resilience.
Good to know
Bring a passport or ID card and wear comfortable shoes; pets and large bags are not allowed.
Explore Budapest’s iconic Hungarian Parliament Building
Budapest Parliament Building Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Explore the Hungarian Parliament Building and its surroundings at your own pace with an audio guide. See the intricate interior, the Hall of the Dome, and the History of the House exhibition.
Start at Kossuth Square and learn about its history and key landmarks like the Ferenc Rákóczi statue.
Good to know
Bring your Passport, ID card or Student card because it is required at the entry.
Website
Orchid and Bromeliad Exhibition in Budapest
Orchid & Bromeliad Exhibition at Vajdahunyad Castle
Orchid and Bromeliad Exhibition 2026
The Orchid and Bromeliad Exhibition is a spring orchid and bromeliad show held in Budapest’s Vajdahunyad Castle, featuring displays and plants from local collectors, exhibitors, and vendors, plus a spotlight on the orchids of a featured country (Brazil for 2026), with something inspiring for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
Location
1146 Budapest, Városliget, Vajdahunyadvár See on Google Map.
Date
From 19 to 22 March 2026.
Price
Tickets can be bought on the Museum’s website or at the exhibition.
Musical Things to Do in Budapest in March
Classical Concerts in Budapest in March
Experience the rich musical heritage of Budapest in March with a vibrant lineup of classical concerts, featuring world-class orchestras, chamber performances, and stunning solo recitals in some of the city’s most beautiful venues.
Local tip: connect your opera experience with an Opera House Guided Tour!
Magical Opera Experiences in March
State Opera House Evening Performances
March brings a rich opera season to Budapest, with the Hungarian State Opera presenting iconic masterpieces, national classics, powerful choral works. Here you can see the March program of the Opera House:
- Carmina Burana – Carl Orff (staged scenic concert/oratorio-style production with chorus & orchestra)
- Lucia di Lammermoor – Gaetano Donizetti
- The Viceroy Bánk (Bánk bán) – Ferenc Erkel
- Rigoletto – Giuseppe Verdi
- Aigul Akhmetshina & Long Long – Aria & song recital (mezzo-soprano & tenor recital)
Good to know
Book tickets in advance, as popular performances and premieres often sell out quickly.
Magical Classical Evening in Budapest
Organ Concert in St. Stephen’s Basilica
Held in the stunning neo-classical St. Stephen’s Basilica, this organ concert features acclaimed Hungarian bass Kolos Kováts, flutist Eleonóra Krusic, and a classical program spanning Bach, Mozart, Verdi, Liszt, and more. The performance combines powerful arias, iconic organ works, and flute pieces in one of Budapest’s most atmospheric concert settings.
Good to know
Choose from three seating categories for comfort and view.
Traditional Hungarian Dance and Dinner
Hungarian Folk Dance & Concert
Enjoy a 1-hour Hungarian folk performance by the Rajkó Folk Ensemble, showcasing traditional dances and music in two 30-minute halves with an intermission. Guests can complement the show with a choice of a poultry-based or vegetarian dinner menu featuring classic Hungarian flavors.
Good to know
Vegetarian menu is available upon request when booking.
Classical Music Performances at the Academy of Music in Budapest
Franz Liszt Academy of Music Performances
In March, the Liszt Academy offers a lively mix of concerts and recitals with top soloists and orchestras in Budapest.
Nicolas Altstaedt & Budapest Festival Orchestra – Classic Passion
Plea – The Chamber Music Department’s Concert Series: Contrasts
François Leleux & Hungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra – (Orchestral Concert)
Space for Sounds: Beethoven Presented by Liszt Academy – It Could Be Like This – The Limits of Artistic Freedom (A Journey Through Music with Balázs Fülei)
Riccardo Frizza & Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra – Genius. Clarinet. Symphony.
New Fossils Presented by Liszt Academy – Jazz It!
MÁV Symphony Orchestra – Bánk bán – Concert-style Performance
Binder 70 Presented by Liszt Academy – (Orchestral Concert)
Concerto Budapest / Mozart-Day (festival event)
Day Trips to Take in March
Day Trips From Budapest in March
Visit historic towns, little villages, and scenic landscapes on a March day trip from Budapest.
Explore the Danube Bend with a Full-Day Hiking Adventure
Danube Bend: Full-Day Hiking Tour from Budapest
Hike through the Danube Bend on a full-day guided tour, starting from the romantic village of Dömös. Begin with a challenging ascent to a ridge with panoramic views of the river and volcanic rock formations.
Reach Prédikálószék, one of Hungary’s most scenic summits, before descending through a wild valley shaped by water erosion. End the journey at Rám Gorge, where ladders and rails guide you through towering rock formations and waterfalls for an unforgettable adventure.
Good to know
Bring food and water, and be prepared for uneven terrain. A good fitness level is required for this hike.
Half-day Guided Tour through the Interior and Gardens
Gödöllő Palace of Queen Elizabeth Tour
Visit Gödöllő Palace, Hungary’s largest Baroque castle, on a guided tour with transportation from Budapest. Explore the lavish interiors once home to the Grassalkovich family and later the royal residence of Emperor Franz Josef and Queen Elizabeth.
Walk through the grand staircase, royal chambers, and historic dining halls, then stroll through the beautifully landscaped Royal Garden. End your visit with optional refreshments at the palace café before returning to Budapest.
Good to know
In some cases, the tour may be managed by a bilingual guide.
Budapest’s March Culinary and Drink Experiences
Budapest Food & Drink Experiences in March
Taste seasonal Hungarian dishes, visit local markets, and enjoy spring terrace dining in Budapest.
Unique Dinners with Locals
Taste Budapest: Home-Cooked Hungarian Dinners
Join locals in their homes for authentic Hungarian dinners, where traditional flavors, stories, and warm hospitality come together for a memorable Budapest evening.
Taste 7 Hungarian Wines from a Selection of Boutique Wineries
Hungarian Wine Tasting with 7 Wines and Tapas
Discover Hungarian wines on a guided tasting experience in Budapest. Sample seven wines, including cserszegi fűszeres, furmint, kadarka, and Bull’s Blood, while learning about Hungary’s wine regions. Enjoy farm-fresh pairings like cheese, ham, and olives at a central wine bar with a local wine expert.
Good to know
This program is not suitable for pregnant women and children under 18 years.
Family-Friendly Activities and Events in Budapest March
Family and Child-friendly Programs in Budapest March 2026
Enjoy interactive museums, outdoor play areas, and festive spring activities for families in Budapest.
Prepare, Bake, and Enjoy your own Chimney Cakes
Hungarian Chimney Cake Workshop
Join a hands-on workshop in Budapest and learn to make kürtőskalács, the traditional Hungarian chimney cake. Follow an expert chef as you prepare the sweet dough, wrap it around a baking cone, and watch the sugar caramelize into a golden crust. Customize your cake with sugar, coconut, or cinnamon, then enjoy your freshly baked treat. Take home a recipe and certificate to recreate the experience.
Good to know
Go with an empty stomach! :)
Price
Free activity.
Perfect kid-friendly activity
Gellérthegyi (Gellért Hill) Playground with Giant Slides
If you’re visiting Budapest with kids, this program will make them feel like they’re in paradise.
Located in the heart of the city, just a 10-minute walk from Gellért Hotel and Thermal Bath, you’ll find a fantastic playground with giant slides built into the Buda hills.
While the kids slide down the banks for the 100th time, you can enjoy some relaxing time and the panorama of Budapest under the trees.
I recommend visiting this free playground in March because it’s usually less crowded in spring, whereas in the summer it’s full of camping children.
Location
Gellért hill, 1118; See on Google Map.
Romantic Experiences for Couples in March
Romantic Things to Do in Budapest in March (For Couples)
Budapest in March offers intimate experiences for couples, from sunset Danube cruises to thermal baths and cherry blossom walks. The city’s scenic spots, cozy cafés, and blooming cherry trees in Gellért Hill and Füvészkert create the perfect romantic atmosphere.
Good to know
Visit Gellért Hill or Füvészkert Botanical Garden on a sunny day for the best views.
Top Romantic Experience for Couples Visiting Budapest
Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Budapest
Budapest in March welcomes cherry blossoms, adding soft pink hues to the city’s parks and gardens. Gellért Hill and Füvészkert Botanical Garden are the best spots to see them, offering a peaceful spring atmosphere.
The mild weather makes it ideal for romantic walks and photography. Cherry blossoms peak in late March, marking the arrival of spring in Budapest.
Locations
- Füvészkert Botanical Garden See on Google Map.
- Gellért Hill See on Google Map
- Tóth Árpád sétány: Situated in the Castle District, this promenade is renowned for its cherry blossoms.
See on Google Map
Date
From late March, but bloom times vary.
Tips and Packing Guide for a March Budapest Journey
Practical Tips for Visiting Budapest in March
Got a question? We’ve got you covered! Check out the resources below and be sure to let us know if we can answer anything else.
What to Wear & Pack for Budapest in March
Budapest in March has unpredictable spring weather, with mild days and chilly nights. Layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes are essential for exploring the city. For outdoor activities, a warm sweater and scarf help with sudden temperature drops.
Travel Tips: Public Transport, City Passes & Seasonal Discounts
Budapest has an efficient public transport system, including buses, trams, and the metro, perfect for exploring. March also brings seasonal discounts for activities like boat tours and thermal baths.
Still have questions about your March Budapest Travel?