Budapest, Hungary, straddles the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other. These three elements, Buddha in the hills, Pest in the plain and the eternal European river that divides the two, are the essence of the Hungarian capital. Budapest is known for its impressive art nouveau architecture from the early 20th century, its thermal baths and spas, its extraordinary views from the bridges over the Danube, and the music that fills the air.
One of the best ways to enjoy the scene is to sit at a coffee table with a coffee, a cocktail, or a glass of wine. The March weather makes for a challenge, but if you’ve packed for the weather, well, no problem.
Budapest weather in March
Bad news first: Nighttime temperatures in March stay below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, ranging from 30 to 38 degrees. The good news is that towards the end of March, after spring officially arrives, daytime highs are approaching 60 degrees, with 57 degrees on average.
March sees a huge warming in daytime temperatures, with early-month highs more than 10 degrees cooler, averaging 47 degrees cold. Spring may be in sight, but it looks a lot like winter for most of March. March is also a cloudy month in Budapest, so don’t expect a lot of sun.
On average, Budapest receives around 11 days of rain during the month and 9 hours of sunlight each day before dark.
What to pack
The weather in Budapest in March is not what you call charming, but there is a lot of relaxation and warmth in the city. Try soaking in the thermal baths and spas, an educational tour of the Hungarian Parliament and many museums, take a day trip or just relax and watch the world go by in any of the multitude of cafes and pubs.
Having the right clothing to stay comfortable is key. The trick is to choose pieces that work together to keep you warm no matter the temperature. Start with a warm leather jacket, pea coat, warm winter jacket, or a knee-length walker coat. (You will most likely wear it if you are leaving many places in the US at this time of year. If you are leaving a warmer place, choose the coat that is easiest for you.) Add a scarf to wrap your neck in a knot style for extra warmth that doesn’t take up much space in your bag.
This scarf can also be worn with a light jacket or sweater on warmer days without a coat.
The rest of your bag should contain the usual pieces for layering: jeans, medium-weight knitted sweaters, a cardigan-style sweater, and tops to slip under sweaters for warmth and warmth.
All of these items should be in the same neutral palette to get the maximum use from a minimum number of them. Ankle boots are the perfect footwear for March; Shoes that are supportive enough for walking are also a good option.
March Holidays and Events
- Budapest Dance Festival – This all things dance appreciation showcases artists and styles from around the world in various locations around the city. You can see the last day of the 10-day festival on March 1.
- Revolution Day : March 15 is a national holiday in Hungary. Celebrate the 1848 uprising with parades and other events. The Budapest Spring Festival marks the arrival of the season with concerts, performances and a traditional fair.
- International Macaroon Day: Mark the calendar for March 20 and enjoy the treats. The celebration of the tasty dessert originated in Paris, but has spread to other major cities in Europe. Patisseries and bakeries are likely to have specials and deals on the sugary treat.
- Budapest Spring Fair: The annual festival is an appreciation of the arts and culture of Hungry. The city hosts more than 200 events that highlight the best of dance, music, art, and film. Performances last more than two weeks and begin on March 30, 2019.
Tips for traveling to Budapest in March
- Finding accommodation for most of the month shouldn’t be a problem, but if you’re traveling during or before the start of a festival like the Spring Fair, plan ahead.
- Since Revolution Day on March 15 is a national holiday, check in advance if major public attractions have limited hours or are closed before scheduling your day.
- Look for colorful aspects of Hungarian culture such as decorated Easter eggs, Hungarian folk costumes, and Hungarian Easter traditions during the Budapest Spring Festival.
