Top 7 Illuminated, light related attractions to behold in Budapest
During wintertime we all crave the long days and sunny afternoons of summer. However, it is the absence of light which makes us depressed. In this entry we would like to highlight (get it?) the most interesting light-art and illuminated sights of the city which are lit up only for the winter.
Luckly Budapest transforms into a luminous wonderland during the winter months, offering a variety of light-themed experiences that captivate locals and visitors alike. From festive light shows on historic landmarks to illuminated transportation and immersive exhibitions, the city glows with creativity and holiday spirit. In this guide, we explore seven dazzling attractions, illuminated wonders, each of which attractions showcase the city’s creativity, combining cultural heritage, modern technology, and festive cheer to create an unforgettable experience for visitors during the holiday season. Let’s see what these are:
Light Art Museum
Photo: hun.lam.xyz
Located in the heart of the city in the building of the former Hold Street Market Hall, the Light Art Museum’s latest exhibition, Phantom Vision – The Deep Currents of Perception, is already open to visitors. This international selection showcases works by over 30 artists, featuring artworks, interactive installations, and immersive projections that utilize the latest advancements in science and technology. With its unique visual style, the exhibition offers insights into brainwave patterns, dreams visualized by artificial intelligence, the hidden communication systems of nature, and layers of our reality that go beyond the limits of everyday perception. Don’t miss out on this truly unique exhibition!
Address: Budapest, 1054. Hold utca 13.
More info: https://hun.lam.xyz/
Light show inside the most stunning looking McDonalds
Cover: McDonalds.com
Dubbed one of the world’s most beautiful McDonald’s locations, the venue also hosts live singers or instrumental musicians every other week alongside the DJs.
On Friday and Saturday nights, one of Budapest’s iconic fast-food restaurants, the recently reopened McDonald’s near Nyugati Railway Station, transforms into a nightlife hotspot. Between 10 PM and 4 AM, visitors can enjoy special light shows projected onto the historical building’s ceiling decoration, accompanied by live DJ sets. Perfect for partygoers heading out or returning home, the McDonald’s experience is elevated with vibrant visuals and music. This unique nightlife series runs until the end of the year, making it a must-visit for an unforgettable late-night vibe.
Address: Budapest, 1062. Teréz körút 55.
More info: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=mcdonaldshungary&set=a.953532840149173
Spiritual purification onboard the Boat of Light
Photo: Purpleliner Budapest
On December 21, 2024, the winter solstice, Budapest offers a unique spiritual event aboard our ship the Zinuru; dubbed the Light Boat – Pure Source. This six-hour-long gathering is designed for those who seek to connect with higher powers and explore the realms of spirituality.
The event kicks off at 9:30 AM in front of the iconic Hungarian Parliament building at dock Batthány sq. 1/B, creating a magical atmosphere against the marvelous Danube. Throughout the journey, attendees can enjoy free spiritual guidance sessions, live musical performances, and browse offerings from onboard vendors who specialize in spiritual and holistic products. The winter solstice, marking the longest night of the year, is a time of reflection and renewal in many spiritual traditions, as this event also marks the victory over darkness and the triumph of light. The Light Boat embraces this theme, inviting participants to experience a sense of unity, healing, and deeper understanding of the spiritual world and our role in this universe.
Whether you’re a seasoned spiritual seeker or simply curious, this floating event combines serene views of Budapest with a day of profound connection and enlightenment.
Address: Budapest, 1011. Batthyány tér dock 1/B
More info: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088892694588
Garden of Lights
Cover: gardenoflights.com
This highly successful exhibition has returned to Hungary from Poland this year, presenting an entirely new world where visitors can escape reality for a few hours. The exhibition opened on October 25 and will be on display until March 2. As this exhibition is open-air, be sure to dress well when visiting.
Last year, a display featured almost half a million LED lights, vibrant installations, and sound effects guided visitors through the magical story of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. This time, visitors will encounter the Smurfs in their village, meeting beloved characters such as Papa Smurf, Greedy, Farmer Smurf, Hefty, Smurfette, and even the villains Gargamel and Azrael. For more information on process and availability be sure to check out their website.
Address: Budapest, 1083. Illés utca 25.
More info: https://gardenoflights.com/
Lumina Park
lakaskultura.hu
The world of lights at Palatinus Beach, made popular by the Lumina Park light installation, also has returned. Starting October 18, this year’s theme is the Fairytale Film Festival, where well-known characters, heroes, and stories from films and books come to life in the light park. The magical view of the light installations reflecting in the pools is enhanced by popular film soundtracks, creating an unforgettable experience until March 2, 2025. On our list this is easily the largest and most intriguing display. However, this one is also open-air so dress well before visiting this marvelous exhibition.
Address: Budapest, 1003. Soó Rezső sétány 1. (Margaret Island)
More info: https://luminapark.hu/
Lightshow display on the Basilica facade
Photo: crazypapa.ru
The light show on the façade of St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of the most captivating attractions at Budapest’s Advent Basilica Christmas Market, running from November 15, 2024, to January 1, 2025. This stunning projection mapping display uses modern technology to narrate traditional Hungarian Christmas tales, featuring images of angels, nativity scenes, and elements of folklore. The event blends cultural heritage with a magical visual spectacle, making it a highlight for visitors of all ages. The light show operates every evening during the market, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Specific times for 2024 have not been released yet but shows typically start after sunset and repeat several times throughout the evening.
You can stay updated on the schedule through the official Advent Basilica website.
Address: Budapest, 1051 Szt. István tér
Light trams along the promenade
Photo: gotravel.hu
In Budapest, the BKK’s traditional light trams will begin operating on December 1 and are scheduled to run until January 3, covering several routes. These vehicles, adorned with festive illuminations, will travel along various paths, including the popular Tram 2 line along the Danube River, offering stunning views of the city’s Advent lights. The holiday fleet includes the classic light tram, UV, and Combino trams, and this year, illuminated buses will also be part of the festive transportation experience. So, keep an eye open for any luminously decorated transportation vehicle.
The official schedule for the vehicles is yet to be released. We hope to update you as soon as possible.
Concluding our list, we hope that we could provide you with shining examples of amazing programmes to do while visiting Budapest in late autumn or during the harsh winter months. Next, we hope to give you a Christmas market recommendation list, so see you soon around mid-December! Wishing you all the best, remember to choose Purpleliner Budapest for a casual cruise around the magnificently lit sights of the capital. We won’t leave you in the dark for sure! 😀
