Best time to visit Hungary

City Park Ice Rink in Hungary

Sliding, gliding, skating, and skiing in front of a Neo-Baroque castle

Best time: late November–February

City Park Ice Rink
City Park Ice Rink

When winter comes to Hungary, it brings laughter and music into the usually peaceful Budapest City Park. The quiet lake in front of the Vajdahunyad Castle becomes one of the biggest outdoor ice rinks in Europe. The Ice Rink is open all day, but enjoying Christmas decorations and the evening lights of the Castle will definitely bring more miracle to your skating. By the way, whe​n sliding over the 15,000 square meters of ice, do not forget that more than a century ago citizens of Budapest were also enjoying such an attraction in the same place.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit the City Park Ice Rink in Budapest?

The winter period in Hungary from late November until February is the ideal time to visit the City Park Ice Rink in Budapest. Skaters can enjoy the Christmas decorations and evening lights of the Vajdahunyad Castle all day during this season. The ice quality is also better with colder weather, making it a more enjoyable and stress-free skating experience. Show more

Where is the City Park Ice Rink located in Budapest?

Situated in the City Park (Városliget) of Budapest, Hungary, the City Park Ice Rink is easily accessible by public transport with several bus and metro lines stopping near it. Visitors can also find nearby parking facilities for convenience. Surrounded by popular tourist attractions such as Heroes' Square and Szechenyi Baths, the rink is a convenient location to visit. Show more

How big is the City Park Ice Rink in Budapest?

With an enormous 15,000 square meter area, it is one of the biggest outdoor ice rinks in Europe; therefore, several skaters can enjoy their skating experience without any overcrowding. The ice surface is well maintained, making it a safe skating experience and allowing for smooth gliding. Show more

What are some of the Christmas decorations at the City Park Ice Rink in Budapest?

Skaters can witness the Vajdahunyad Castle's delightful Christmas decorations, which include ornaments, Christmas trees, and eye-catching lights. The rinkside offers warm drinks such as mulled wine or hot chocolate. The Old-fashioned Christmas Market close by also provides an opportunity to indulge in the festive spirit. Show more

How old is the Vajdahunyad Castle in Budapest and what is its history?

Hungarian architect Ignác Alpár designed and constructed the Vajdahunyad Castle in Budapest as part of the Millennial Exhibition that commemorated the 1000th anniversary of the Hungarian Conquest in 1896. It exemplified impressive Hungarian architecture and was built by combining design elements from various eras, like Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The castle currently houses a Hungarian Agricultural Museum and is a well-known attraction for tourists. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin