Does it snow in Budapest? We’re answering all your questions in this blog post!
One of Europe’s top cities (whatever the season), there’s so much to enjoy in beautiful Budapest.
If you’re visiting in the winter months, you might be wondering about Budapest snow.
It does snow in Budapest, but climate change has ensured you’ll see a lot less of it than in the past.
Read on for all you need to know about snowfall in Budapest?
Does it snow in Budapest?
It does snow in Budapest, but it’s become rarer and rarer over recent years.
You’ll find the city draped in snow periodically throughout the colder months, but the dramatic weather of the past doesn’t happen as much these days.
There’s a chance of snow from December and it can last until the early days of March – in fact, there has been more snow in March!
But it’s usually a lighter dusting of snow that adds a temporary sparkle to the already picturesque settings of Buda Castle or the Chain Bridge.
When does it snow in Budapest?
Snow in Budapest varies from year to year, but typically, the city sees its first sprinkle in late November or early December.
Here’s a month-by-month breakdown:
Does it snow in Budapest in November?
The transition into winter begins in November, but snow doesn’t really happen.
If it does appear, it’s usually light and melts quickly.
You’ll want to keep an eye on the forecast as the city shifts from the crispness of autumn to the more frigid winter temperatures.
Does it snow in Budapest in December?
December marks the true beginning of winter in Budapest, with higher chances of snowfall.
This is when you might see the city’s Christmas markets framed by a delicate layer of snow – but be aware that it’s still a rarity.
Does it snow in Budapest in January?
In January, Budapest is in the depths of winter, and snow is more common.
The city’s thermal baths are the ideal warm refuge from the frosty air, and the sometimes snow-covered Hungarian Parliament Building stands as a striking silhouette against the often overcast sky.
But, that said, snow’s still never guaranteed.
Does it snow in Budapest in February?
Snow’s fairly likely in February, although the frequency and accumulation may begin to lessen as the month progresses.
Does it snow in Budapest in March?
As spring approaches, March typically sees a significant decrease in snowfall – although, that said, it has snowed in March in recent years.
But generally, snow during this month is sporadic and rarely settles for long.
In fact, I went to Budapest at the end of March one year, and it was sunny and t-shirt weather!
Why does it snow in Budapest?
It snows in Budapest due to its continental climate which is characterised by cold winters.
This cold season in Hungary’s capital is influenced by its geographical position within the Carpathian Basin, surrounded by regions that can funnel both warm and cold air currents into the area.
When cold fronts sweep in from the north and east, temperatures drop significantly, creating conditions conducive to snow.
The moisture-laden air, often arriving from the Atlantic or the Mediterranean, meets these frigid temperatures over land, resulting in snowfall.
The varied topography of Hungary, with its hills and low mountains, can also play a role.
Elevation changes around Budapest mean that colder air can settle in the valleys and lower areas, where it interacts with warmer air above to precipitate as snow.
When has it snowed most in Budapest?
When you look back at Budapest’s recent winters, the pattern of snowfall can indeed seem unpredictable.
Notably, March has surprised residents with significant snow in the past years.
In March 2013, Budapest experienced fairly dramatic winter weather – this also happened in March of 2009, 2010, and 2011!
The winter of 2010 is remembered as one of the snowiest in the past two decades.
The winter of 1987 is also etched in the city’s memory – for nearly two days in mid-January, snow fell relentlessly, leading to the Danube River being frozen over by 80%!
This period saw Budapest residents cut off from basic necessities like bread and milk!
Average winter weather in Budapest
Here’s a table depicting the average winter weather in Budapest. As you can see, it’s often too warm to snow, but it’s always possible when the weather’s on the lower end of the spectrum.
| Month | Average High (°C [°F]) | Average Low (°C [°F]) |
|---|---|---|
| November | 8 (46) | 2 (36) |
| December | 3 (37) | -1 (30) |
| January | 2 (36) | -3 (27) |
| February | 5 (41) | -2 (28) |
| March | 11 (52) | 2 (36) |
Tips for visiting Budapest in the snow
Here are some tips for visiting this European city when it’s snowing.
- Dress for the Weather: Wear layers, waterproof boots, and bring a warm hat, gloves, and scarf.
- Check Forecasts: Monitor weather updates at Hungarian Meteorological Service.
- Use Public Transport: Navigate with ease using BKK’s services and consider a travel card for convenience.
- Relax in Thermal Baths: Experience the Széchenyi or Gellért Baths (Széchenyi Bath, Gellért Bath).
- Walk with Care: Main areas are cleared of snow, but side streets may be slippery.
So, does it snow in Budapest?
Don’t expect snow in Budapest in winter, but know that it can happen if you’re visiting anytime from November to March.
I’d recommend keeping an eye on the weather forecast before your trip to see how likely snow will be!
