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In the previous blog “Christmas Magic in Budapest: Exploring the 2024 Markets”, I gave you information about markets like the oes at Vörösmarty Square and St Stephen's Basilica; however, why not make a day of it and venture beyond the city limits?

Here are some fantastic one-day trip ideas to discover Christmas markets in Hungary and neighboring countries.

How to Use BKK and MÁV to Buy Tickets

Before planning you day trip, it is important to be familiar with the transportations options. The public transportation network in Budapest, operated by BKK, and Hungary’s national railway system, MÁV, make it easy to travel to nearby Christmas markets. Here’s a quick guide:

Using BKK for Local Travel

Ticket Options: Tickets can be bought at ticket vending machines, BKK customer service centers, or via the BKK FUTÁR app. This is an option to mainly travel within Budapest, but you can buy the and get access to almost all BKK services, suburban and regional buses, HÉV suburban railways and designated trains.

How to Use: Validate your ticket, if necessary, before boarding buses, trams, or metro trains using the orange validation machines. If you buy the Hungary Pass, it is only necessary to show them when asked by the drivers or inspectors.

Tip: The also provides real-time updates on public transportation schedules and routes.

Using MÁV for Regional and International Travel

Buying Tickets: Tickets for regional and international trains can be purchased:

• Online at the or via the MÁV app.
• At ticket counters or ticket vending machines at major railway stations like Keleti, Nyugati, and Déli.
• Onboard some trains (but these may incur an extra fee).

Seat Reservations: For international trains like the Railjet to Vienna or Bratislava, seat reservations are recommended and often included in the ticket price.

General Tips:

• Check schedules in advance using the MÁV app or website.
• Arrive at the station early to ensure enough time to find your platform.
• Keep your ticket accessible, as inspectors may check it during the journey.
• Students with a valid Hungarian student ID may qualify for discounts on train fares within Hungary. Always carry your ID with you when traveling.

Here you can read more about public transport in Budapest and traveling around in Hungary.

A Winter Wonderland Gödöllő, Hungary

Travel Time: 45 minutes by train
Highlights: A royal Christmas at the Gödöllő Royal Palace.  
Public Transport: Take a direct train from Budapest Keleti Railway Station to Gödöllő or use the BKK-operated H8 HÉV line from Örs vezér tere in Budapest.

The town’s Royal Palace, once the favorite residence of Queen Elisabeth (Sisi), hosts a festive Advent market in its picturesque courtyard. You’ll find artisan crafts, Hungarian delicacies like chimney cake (“kürtőskalács”), and seasonal mulled wine. Finally, don’t miss the Gödöllő Christmas House, a magical store filled with handcrafted ornaments, festive décor, and Christmas-themed gifts.

If you want more detailed information about the events, check the .

Vienna, Austria

Travel Time: 2.5 hours by train.

Highlights: A classic and grand European Christmas experience

Public Transport: Catch a train from Budapest Keleti Railway Station to Vienna Hauptbahnhof. Trains are frequent, comfortable, and offer scenic views along the way.

Vienna’s Christmas markets are legendary, and for good reason. The city is home to over 20 markets, with the being the most iconic. Sip on warm Glühwein as you wander among beautifully decorated wooden stalls offering everything from handmade ornaments to gourmet treats. Other must-visit markets include the and . With Vienna just a short train ride away, it’s a perfect destination for a magical holiday experience.