Weather in Hungary

The weather in Hungary is characterised by four distinct seasons. The country boasts beautiful, warm summers and has bitterly cold winters as well as mild spring and autumn seasons.

Summers are quite warm and sometimes uncomfortable, but there are many ways to beat the heat. Temperatures can reach 82°F (28°C) or higher, with the occasional evening thunderstorm. 

Hungary is landlocked and far from the ocean, but many beautiful public baths and open-air swimming pools provide an ideal way to cool down. Lake Balaton and Mátra Hills are popular summer destinations for locals and visitors alike. In summer, lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended, although a light jumper or cover-up might be necessary for the evenings.

Winters are often freezing, but thankfully short, particularly in Budapest. Winter lows usually hover between 32°F and 5°F (0°C and -15°C), but can easily drop lower, especially when the northeasterly wind known as the Bora sweeps through the country. The coldest months of the year are December and January.

Snowfall is common in winter. If you love the outdoors, you will enjoy the opportunity to ski, snowboard, sledge, or play around in the snow. That said, you should take care as even light snow can whip up into a vicious snowstorm, especially in the high-altitude, mountainous parts of the country. In winter, you should wrap up warmly with layers and thick coats, particularly if the weather is rainy or snowy.

The pleasantly mild weather in spring and autumn make these seasons popular with visitors and are widely considered the best times of year in Hungary. That said, there can still be bouts of relatively chilly weather in either spring or autumn.