Budapest Wine Festival

Name: Budapest Wine Festival
Start: 2025-09-10
End: 2025-09-13
Location: Budapest

An Elegant Toast to Wine and the Danube at Buda Castle

2026/09/09 - 2026/09/12

Every September, the terraces of the UNESCO World Heritage Buda Castle become the stage for the Budapest Wine Festival. Over four days, wine lovers, gourmets, and travelers from around the world gather to taste premium wines from more than 200 wineries, enjoy gourmet food, and experience live music. With the Danube and the city as a breathtaking backdrop, the festival offers everything from sunset tastings to dancing under the stars—a uniquely elegant and joyful autumn celebration in Budapest.

The sparkle of crystal glasses, the aroma of paprika and fresh bread, the taste of Tokaji and Villány reds, the sounds of jazz and folk music, and the gentle breeze from the Danube—this is a festival that delights all five senses, uniting the charm of wine with the magic of the city.

Main Attractions

Wine Tastings & Winery Showcases

The heart of the festival is sampling over 1,000 wines from more than 200 Hungarian and international wineries. From legendary Tokaji Aszú and Villány reds to Badacsony whites, you can chat directly with winemakers as you taste. Pop-up tastings with sommeliers and award-winning wine corners ensure both beginners and connoisseurs are satisfied.

Gourmet Cuisine & Gastro Courtyard

Food is an essential part of the festival. The Gourmet Courtyard features everything from Hungarian classics—goulash, lángos, paprika sausage, chimney cake—to oysters, cheese plates, and global street food. The aromas of grilled meats, herbs, and pastries mingle with the scent of wine, creating perfect pairings. The Sunday Brunch, with unlimited champagne, food, and live music, is especially popular.

Live Music, Performances & Parades

Over 60 live performances—including jazz, folk, pop, and world music—take place on two main stages. Folk dancers in traditional costumes and the wineries’ vintage parade are highlights, filling the castle with tradition and festive spirit.

Cultural and Historical Background

The Budapest Wine Festival began in 1992 as a small event on Vörösmarty Square, but has grown into one of Europe’s premier open-air wine festivals. Each year, 35,000–40,000 people gather at Buda Castle to celebrate Hungarian wine culture, gastronomy, and the arts. The event is a symbol of the joy of harvest and the bond between the city and Hungary’s wine regions, representing both pride and hospitality.

For locals, it’s a cherished tradition and a chance to share Hungarian wine with the world. For visitors, it’s a unique opportunity to become part of the city’s living wine culture.

Participant Voices

“It was my first time at the festival, and I was amazed by the variety of wines and the lively atmosphere. Sipping Tokaji while watching the sunset over the Danube was pure luxury. The sommelier’s tasting session taught me so much about grape varieties and regions, and the food was outstanding!”

Fun Facts

The venue is the UNESCO World Heritage Buda Castle, offering spectacular views of the Danube and the city.
Admission includes a crystal tasting glass and a ticket for sampling award-winning wines.

Festival Dates

The Budapest Wine Festival is held every September at Buda Castle. From sunset to night, raise your glass and let yourself be swept away by the flavors and views of Hungary’s “wine capital.”