The nature of Budapest is defined by the river Danube. The two parts of the city, Buda and Pest sit on either side. Buda has a rolling geography, and Pest is flat. Together they form an amazing panorama on one of the most beautiful rivers in the world. This relatively unknown Central European city is known for its thermal baths, early 20th century architecture, and a wide variety of music, from jazz and folk to klezmer and gypsy music. If you are going to Budapest in October, check what the weather will be like and what you should pack before you go.
Weather
October is generally a good month to visit Budapest, depending on the weather. Afternoon highs average 61 degrees Fahrenheit, with nightly lows averaging around 45 degrees. Mild days like these are perfect for sightseeing in a city by walking. Because October is a month of rapidly decreasing temperatures, expect both numbers to trend downward as the month progresses and to be higher in early October. You should also expect significant deviations from these averages as a result of cold fall fronts. October is relatively sunny, although the chances of rain are on the rise.
But overall, you will still have plenty of opportunities to sit outside in cafes, especially in early October.
What to pack
Dressing in layers is key to being comfortable and prepared for the changeable weather in Budapest during October. Good bets are jeans, long-sleeved cotton blouses or shirts, a medium-weight cotton sweater or two, and a light jacket like denim or a heavier sweater or poncho. If you go in late October, a leather jacket could be swapped out for a lightweight one. If you have a short trench coat with a hood, it is a good alternative and useful if it rains. A cashmere wrap is ideal for a night out at restaurants or cultural events.
As always in Europe, you will need comfortable walking shoes. Ankle boots are the perfect October pick and work with jeans or a fancier outfit. If it’s really cold, buy yourself a splendid scarf that adds warmth; A piece of clothing from a place you have visited is one of the best memories ever.
Holidays and events
- The annual Palinka and Sausage Festival, held in Buda Castle, combines the famous Hungarian fruit brandy with sausage, a Central European favorite. (Construction at Buda Castle led to the cancellation of this event in 2017).
- The Budapest Autumn Festival is a cultural tour-de-force and highlights contemporary music, theater and dance.
- Nightly pool parties take place in October at Scezhenyi Bath or Lucas Baths. Think of this as an extraordinary European hot tub experience.
- Halloween parties are held throughout the city in pubs, in Scezhenyi Bath and on a boat on the Danube that includes a DJ and bar on board. Costumes are optional.
- The World Press Photographic Exhibition is on display in Budapest every October. It is a traveling show of award-winning news photos from some 25 countries.
- There is a full schedule of concerts in Budapest every October. Check the venues for the dates you will be there.
