Christmas market, St. Stephen's Basilica, Budapest, Hungary

© Calin Stan/Shutterstoc

Advent at the basilica. Christmas market, St. Stephen's Basilica, Budapest, Hungary

As the holiday season kicks off, St. Stephen's Basilica becomes the dazzling centrepiece of one of Budapest's iconic Christmas markets. The fair buzzes with the holiday spirit, offering a mix of Hungarian craft, festive décor and local delicacies, capturing the essence of a traditional Christmas. The Advent Feast—an event held in the weeks leading up to Christmas and part of Hungary's holiday traditions—invites guests to savour dishes like chimney cakes, stuffed cabbage and goulash soup, while the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the air. A highlight for many is the 3D light show projected onto the basilica's facade, a modern touch that brings this historic structure to life.

This neoclassical basilica honours Stephen I, also known as King Saint Stephen, who was Hungary's first monarch. Completed in 1906 after decades of construction, it is topped by a towering dome. Visitors can explore its chapels, admire the intricate stained glass or view a relic that is believed to be the mummified right hand of the king himself. For those seeking a panoramic view, the dome has an observation deck where visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the city's skyline, as shown in today's image.