Are you planning a trip to Budapest in November?
Trees bearing autumnal colours, cool but not too cold temperatures, and a city that’s preparing for the festive season – there are plenty of reasons to visit Budapest in November!
Whether you want to sip on Hungarian wine and enjoy hearty food, warm up in the thermal baths or explore the tourist attractions crowd-free, November is a fantastic month for Budapest.
It’s not warm, but Budapest isn’t a city where you need particularly good weather for. It shines throughout the seasons!
So, here’s all you need to know about visiting Budapest in November.
Top reasons to visit Budapest in November
Budapest is one of my favourite European city breaks any time of year.
But, as long as you aren’t too set on sunny weather, November could be the perfect time to visit.
There are tonnes of reasons to visit Budapest in November – fewer crowds, it’s cheaper and you can easily warm up in the thermal baths!
Here are our favourite things about the season:
Less crowded tourist spots
Budapest’s buzzing in the summer, but winter’s much more serene.
You can enjoy the stunning architecture without a sea of other people and cameras!
Walk the halls of Buda Castle in near silence, without lines and crowds – just you and centuries of Hungarian art and history.
Fisherman’s Bastion is like your private lookout over the city.
Stand atop its terraces without competing for elbow room – and get much better photos!
Generally, the entire city feels more comfortable and relaxed out-of-season.
Affordable accommodation
As it’s off-season, November’s usually packed hotels empty out, but the perks don’t.
Budapest was historically a very budget-friendly place to visit, but thanks to its popularity over the last few years, hotel rates have increased significantly (which is great for the hotel owners and the economy as a whole!).
However, visiting in November will see a slight move back to cheaper accommodation options – if you’re savvy, you can grab a real bargain this month.
Snag a room near landmarks like the Chain Bridge or Andrassy Avenue at cut-rate prices.
This is your chance to live large — rooftop pools, and in-house spas, without breaking the bank!
Fancy some affordable luxury? Use those savings for room upgrades.
Swap that standard room for a suite without maxing out your credit card.
Fewer guests mean hotel staff can zero in on making your stay special.
In November, your forint stretches farther, but the luxury scales even higher!
The thermal pools are perfect
Budapest’s thermal baths are a year-round draw, but they really come into their own when the mercury drops.
Dive into Szechenyi Baths‘ steamy pools, framed by ornate Neo-Baroque details, as mist softens the air around you. If that’s not your scene, maybe Gellért Baths will be—where intricate mosaics and stained glass dial up the mood.
I also love Rudas, which has a huge hot tub on the roof! If it’s raining or windy, there’s an indoor pool too.
If you want the baths to be as quiet as possible, go in the evening. It’s the perfect winter warmer!
St. Martin’s Day festivities
St. Martin’s Day, on the 11th November, is a centuries-old Hungarian tradition.
Centered around St. Martin, the patron saint of geese and charity, the day kicks off a season of winter preparation and feasting.
It’s a nod to St. Martin’s legendary kindness and a chance to ready homes for winter.
St. Martin is said to have hidden in a goose pen to avoid being ordained a bishop, but the geese gave him away with their honking—a story retold through the goose dishes on St. Martin’s Day.
The day is a cultural event.
For locals, it’s about family gatherings and community festivities.
It’s a piece of cultural history served on a plate, and as the goose dishes arrive, so does a communal sense of Hungarian tradition and folklore.
Many restaurants have St. Martin’s Day menus, or you could even keep an eye out for community events!
There are plenty of indoor attractions
Don’t worry if there are fewer hours of sunshine on your November trip to Budapest; the city’s awash with indoor attractions.
Wander through the Hungarian National Museum for an intimate look at Hungary’s past, from medieval artifacts to modern art.
Or explore the Museum of Fine Arts, where European masters like Raphael and El Greco await.
If science intrigues you, the Palace of Wonders offers hands-on exhibits that both kids and adults will enjoy.
The House of Terror is also well worth a look around, although parts are quite harrowing. It describes Hungary in the 20th century – detailing how it went from being under Nazi occupation to part of Communist Europe during the Cold War.
Winter markets begin
Why wait until December for that quintessential European winter market experience?
Budapest kicks off its holiday season early, with markets opening up in November – often as early as the middle of the month.
The scent of mulled wine fills the air as you stroll through rows of wooden stalls adorned with twinkling lights, offering everything from handcrafted ornaments to Hungarian chimney cakes.
These markets aren’t just for tourists. Locals frequent them too, making it a genuine part of Budapest’s winter culture.
And if you’re keen on bringing home unique gifts, the earlier you visit, the wider the selection you’ll have before the high-season crowds sweep in!
Delicious Hungarian food that’s perfect for cooler weather
November in Budapest is a tantalizing scene for food lovers.
Indulge in hearty Hungarian dishes that are ideal for the chilly weather.
From goulash served in bread bowls to chicken paprikash, these dishes warm the body and soothe the soul!
What’s special about November? As the grape harvest wraps up, vineyards begin releasing the season’s new wines.
Pair a local vintage with your meal for an authentic Hungarian dining experience.
Don’t forget to try chimney cake, a sweet, spiral-shaped pastry that’s a popular Hungarian treat.
November weather in Budapest
In November, Budapest has a crisp climate that’s perfect for those who prefer avoiding the summer crowds.
While you’ll need to bundle up a bit, the conditions are generally mild and it’s certainly not the coldest month.
| Weather Event | Value |
|---|---|
| High Temperature | 9°C (48°F) |
| Low Temperature | 4°C (39°F) |
| Rainfall Days | 6 days |
Packing list for Budapest in November
When packing for Budapest in November, you’ll want to prepare for cool to cold weather, occasional rain, and various indoor and outdoor activities.
Here’s a guide to what you should include in your suitcase to make your stay as comfortable and convenient as possible.
Clothing
- Thermal Underwear: Base layers to keep warm.
- Knit Sweaters: Layering is key.
- Long-Sleeved Shirts: For additional layering or stand-alone wear.
- Jeans or Corduroys: Ideal for daytime and evening outings.
- Water-Resistant Coat: A must-have for those six days of potential rain.
- Light Scarf: For that extra bit of warmth and style.
- Beanie or Hat: Helps retain body heat.
Footwear
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Consider water-resistant or waterproof options.
- Warm Socks: Wool works well.
Accessories
- Gloves: A light pair should suffice.
- Daypack: For daily essentials and any souvenirs.
Toiletries
- Travel-Size Umbrella: Small enough to carry in your daypack.
- Lip Balm: The cold can dry your lips.
- Hand Cream: Same goes for skin.
Miscellaneous
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while on the go.
- Portable Charger: Keep your devices charged during long days of sightseeing.
Things to do in Budapest in November
- Savor the tranquility at the usually busy Fisherman’s Bastion.
- Dive into history with a guided tour of Buda Castle.
- Unwind in thermal bliss at the famous Szechenyi Thermal Baths.
- Indulge in local flavors during St. Martin’s Day Festivities, renowned for goose dishes.
- Discover Hungarian heritage with a visit to the Hungarian National Museum.
- Get a taste of the holiday season at early Winter Markets around the city.
- Stroll along the Danube for iconic views of the Hungarian Parliament Building.
- Wander through art at the Museum of Fine Arts, featuring an extensive classical collection.
- Learn about Hungary’s tumultuous past at the House of Terror Museum.
- Hike up to Gellért Hill for panoramic views and a visit to the Citadella.
- Take part in a river cruise on the Danube for a different perspective of the city.
- Experience a unique shopping venture at Great Market Hall, perfect for souvenirs.
- Immerse yourself in the local theater scene at The Hungarian State Opera House.
- Enjoy a leisurely afternoon of café-hopping in the historic Jewish Quarter.
FAQs about visiting Budapest in November
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about visiting Budapest in November.
Is November a good time to go to Budapest?
Absolutely, November provides a unique opportunity to experience Budapest without the summer crowds.
Attractions are less busy, and many indoor activities and early winter markets start up.
Will it snow in Budapest in November?
It’s not common, but light snow is possible.
The temperature can be quite chilly, so if you’re hoping for a winter wonderland as the festive markets open, there’s a slim chance you might get your wish.
However, any kind of moderate snow won’t happen until December.
Is Budapest Christmas in November?
Christmas festivities in Budapest typically begin at the end of November.
So, if you’re looking to kick off the holiday season early, you’ll find winter markets and decorations starting to appear then!
What is the weather like in Budapest in November?
Expect cooler temperatures in November.
On average, you’re looking at around 9°C (48°F) for highs and 4°C (39°F) for lows.
Rain is expected on around 6 days of the month.
Is Budapest rainy in November?
November can be a little rainy with about 6 days of expected rainfall.
However, it’s not considered to be a particularly wet month, and there are plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy if it is!
What clothes to wear in Budapest in November?
Layering is key.
Pack warm clothing like sweaters, long-sleeved tops, and a sturdy, warm jacket. Don’t forget a scarf, gloves, and a hat.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and if you plan to visit the thermal baths, pack a swimsuit.
What time does it get dark in Budapest in November?
Hours of daylight are reduced in Budapest – it usually gets dark from around 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm.
If you’re planning outdoor activities, it’s best to start early in the day!
November in Budapest: are you ready?
With great food, a wide selection of attractions that stay open throughout the cooler months, Budapest in November is an absolute delight.
It’s most popular in the summer season, but there are plenty of allures to off-season travel here.
