Easter in Hollókő: Hungary’s Most Beautiful Living Tradition

Women wearing traditional Hungarian folk costumes during Easter celebrations in Hollókő village

Easter in Hollókő is one of Hungary’s most beautiful living traditions, where culture, community, and history come together each spring. There are places where traditions are remembered… and places where they are still lived.

Hollókő is one of them.

Every Easter, this small UNESCO-listed village in Northern Hungary transforms into something truly special — a celebration of culture, community, and heritage that feels untouched by time.

A Village That Feels Like Stepping Back in Time

Just 1.5 hours from Budapest, Hollókő is famous for its beautifully preserved white houses, wooden details, and peaceful village atmosphere.

But at Easter, it becomes something else entirely. The streets fill with locals dressed in traditional Palóc costumes, music echoes between the houses, and the whole village comes alive with movement and colour.

This isn’t a performance for tourists — it’s a tradition that has been passed down through generations.

Folk Traditions, Music & Craftsmanship

What makes Easter in Hollókő so special is the authenticity. You’ll see:
  • traditional folk dancing in the streets
  • intricate embroidered costumes unique to the Palóc region
  • beautifully decorated Easter eggs
  • local artisans showcasing handmade crafts

Every detail tells a story — of identity, history, and pride.

Why It’s One of Hungary’s Most Unique Experiences

In a world where many traditions are recreated for visitors, Hollókő stands out because it feels real

It’s not staged.
It’s not polished.
It’s lived.

And that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.

Visiting Hollókő from Budapest

Hollókő is an easy day trip from Budapest, but visiting during Easter requires a bit of planning:

  • Best time to arrive: early morning
  • Travel time: approx. 1.5 hours
  • Expect crowds: it’s one of the most popular spring events

If you’d like a more relaxed and meaningful experience, joining a guided visit can make all the difference — especially when combined with nearby cultural highlights.

You can explore this as part of a Hollókő & Gödöllő day trip, which blends rural traditions with royal history.

Discover Hungary Beyond Budapest

Experiences like this are a reminder that Hungary is so much more than its capital.

If you’re looking to go deeper — beyond the main sights and into real local culture — take a look at my private tours in and around Budapest, designed to show you a more personal side of the country.

Final Thoughts

Easter in Hollókő is not just something you visit. It’s something you feel. A moment where past and present meet — and where tradition still lives.

Easter in Hungary | Hollókő Tradition

Lift Your Spirit in Budapest – Seeing City Park from Above

Hot Air Balloon Ride Budapest - Julia Kravianszky Private Tour Guide

A Flight I Didn’t Plan — But Absolutely Loved

There’s something magical about seeing Budapest from above — but for years, I never felt the urge to try a hot air balloon Budapest ride. The red-and-white balloon floating gently above City Park (Városliget) has been there for a few years now, but I always thought, “Maybe one day.”

This autumn, that day finally came. I didn’t plan anything grand — I simply wanted to admire the autumn colours from a new angle. What I didn’t expect was that this short 15-minute flight would lift not just my view, but also my spirit.

The Experience: Calm, Colour, and Kindness

You’ll find the BallonFly hot air balloon Budapest experience right in the heart of City Park, next to the boating lake and Vajdahunyad Castle. It’s hard to miss — those cheerful red-and-white stripes look picture-perfect against Budapest’s blue sky.

From the moment I arrived, the hosts were incredibly kind and welcoming. They greeted everyone with warm smiles, explained how the flight works, and paid close attention to every small detail. Their calm and friendly energy instantly set the tone — you can feel how much they love sharing this experience.

As the balloon began to rise, the city unfolded below: Heroes’ Square, Vajdahunyad Castle, the Széchenyi Baths, and endless rows of golden trees. The higher we went, the quieter it became.

It’s a tethered flight — safe, stable, and gentle — but the feeling is pure freedom.

From “Not Interested” to “Huge Fan”

I’ll be honest: for a long time, I wasn’t interested at all. I’ve lived in Budapest my entire life, seen every tower, viewpoint and rooftop, and thought, “Do I really need another one?”

But this short hot air balloon Budapest ride completely changed my mind. It wasn’t just the view — it was the entire experience: the soft wind, the quiet, the kindness of the crew, and the beauty of Budapest stretching endlessly in every direction.

It turned out to be the best thing I did all week (and my weeks are usually full of pretty cool things!).

Hot Air Balloon Rides in Budapest — What to Know

If you’d like to read more about the background, check out my earlier post:
👉 Take to the Skies: Hot Air Balloon Rides in City Park, Budapest

Here’s a quick summary for your visit:

  • Duration: around 15 minutes

  • Tickets: approx. EUR 25 for adults

  • Location: City Park (Városliget), near the boating lake

  • Best time: late afternoon, when the light turns golden

  • Good to know: flights depend on weather, so check conditions before you go

Even if you decide to stay on the ground, watching the Budapest hot air balloon float above the park is magical in itself.

Why This Viewpoint Is Worth It

Budapest has many breathtaking viewpoints — Gellért Hill, Fisherman’s Bastion, or the dome of St. Stephen’s Basilica — but the City Park hot air balloon offers something unique.

There’s something gentle and grounding about floating quietly above the park. The mix of nature, history, and serenity is pure magic, and the crew’s kindness turns it into more than just an attraction — it feels like a celebration of the city itself.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes, the things we put off for years turn out to be the most memorable surprises. For me, this short hot air balloon Budapest experience was exactly that — a reminder that the best views (and moods!) often come when we simply decide to look up. I’m more than happy to include a ride in a Budapest walking or driving tour, just let me know if you are interested!

💙 Lift your spirit in Budapest — and maybe your day, too.

Lift Your Spirit in Budapest 🎈 | City Park Hot Air Balloon Ride

Unique Selfie Spots in Budapest (Part 2)

Budapest Unique Selfie Spots - Julia Kravianszky Private Tour Guide

If you’re searching for unique selfie spots in Budapest, you’ve come to the right place. Of course, the city is famous for its postcard-perfect views of the Parliament, Chain Bridge, and Fisherman’s Bastion — but if you’re looking for something different, modern, and a little unexpected, this guide is for you.

Here are six selfie spots that bring out the city’s creative side, from colourful murals to futuristic architecture.

Jewish Quarter Murals – Colourful & Playful

The old Jewish Quarter is full of life — not only in its cafés and ruin bars but also on its walls. Many buildings are decorated with large murals that change from time to time, making each photo unique. They’re bold, vibrant, and the perfect backdrop if you want a splash of colour in your Budapest memories.

Pro tip: Explore Kazinczy Street and its side streets for the best mural finds.

House of Music – Organic & Flowing

Set in City Park, the House of Music is one of Budapest’s newest and most impressive buildings. Its wavy, perforated roof looks like it grew out of the trees, blending architecture with nature. A dream location if you’re looking for something modern yet organic.

Pro tip: Visit during the golden hour — the light through the trees adds a magical touch.

Filatorigát Graffitis – Urban & Creative

By the suburban railway station at Filatorigát, you’ll find Budapest’s biggest open-air graffiti wall. It’s raw, ever-changing, and bursting with creativity. The perfect spot if you’re into street art or want a truly urban background.

Pro tip: Check it out on weekends when local artists often add new works.

Bálna (“The Whale”) – Geometric & Edgy

This glass-and-steel building on the Danube is impossible to miss. Its sharp angles and striking design make it one of the most eye-catching modern landmarks in Budapest. Geometric, edgy, and bold — ideal for a dramatic selfie.

Pro tip: Step inside for unique angles and reflections.

Hajógyári Sziget – Industrial & Raw

Best known as the site of the Sziget Festival, this island also has some quirky industrial corners. Old structures, pipes, and urban details provide a cool contrast to the city’s historic architecture. Perfect if you want something unusual and gritty.

Pro tip: Pair your visit with a walk along the Danube or a picnic in the park areas of the island.

MÜPA – Palace of Arts – Futuristic & Elegant

MÜPA is one of Budapest’s main cultural hubs, and its building is just as impressive as the performances inside. With its glass walls and striking lines, it’s a futuristic and elegant selfie spot that works day and night.

Pro tip: Visit in the evening when the building is beautifully lit.

Final Thoughts about Unique Selfie Spots in Budapest

Budapest is more than its classic sights. These modern, colourful, and sometimes quirky locations are perfect if you want your photos to stand out. Whether you’re drawn to colourful murals, organic architecture, urban graffiti, edgy glass buildings, raw industrial corners, or futuristic elegance, there’s a selfie spot waiting for you.

Want to discover even more hidden and unique selfie spots in Budapest? Follow me on Instagram, and book a private tour with me — I’ll show you the best photo backdrops and authentic local experiences in the city. Contact me here to plan your tour!

Why I Still Love Showing Off Budapest After 2,000+ Tours

Etyek wine region tour - Beautiful Budapest Private Tours

As a private Budapest tour guide, I’ve had the joy of leading over 2,000 tours in this incredible city—and I can honestly say that every single one has been special. No two tours are ever the same—because no two travellers are ever the same. That’s what makes being a private Budapest tour guide so rewarding.

Some come for the history, others for the food and wine, and many are simply curious to understand what makes this city so magical.

From Strangers to Friends

Whether it’s a half-day stroll through Pest or a full-day adventure across both sides of the Danube, something remarkable always happens.

We start as strangers, but somehow, by the end of the tour, we’re sharing stories like old friends. There’s a closeness that naturally forms when walking through streets filled with meaning and memory. As a result, these moments stay with me long after the tour is over.

Budapest Through My Eyes

Every corner I show holds personal significance—these aren’t just stops on a route; they’re part of my life in Budapest. For example the grandeur of Andrássy Avenue while the quiet courtyards of the Jewish Quarter still feel like hidden gems.

The Magic of a Shared Experience

I love seeing the city through fresh eyes again and again. Watching someone fall in love with Budapest—often without even realising it—is one of the best parts of my job. In fact, I especially love that moment when I catch the first sparkle in their eyes, when I know the city has started to work its magic on them.

Of course, it’s not just about sharing facts—though of course, I share plenty! It’s about creating an experience that reflects each guest’s curiosity, energy, and pace.

Tailored Tours, Every Time

Some guests want slow, thoughtful conversations about architecture and culture; others are eager to try lángos at the market or sip some sparkling wine in Etyek. Either way, I’m here for all of it.

These moments—spontaneous, personal, and often funny—make each tour unforgettable for me too. After all, that’s what makes being a private Budapest tour guide so rewarding.

Budapest is always changing, but it never loses its beauty. And after all these years, I still feel incredibly lucky to call it home—and to share it with others.

Let Me Show You Around

If you’re planning a trip, I’d be honoured to show you around the city that I love. Whether you’re after history, food, or just a warm local connection, consider booking with a private Budapest tour guide who truly knows the heart of the city.

Beautiful Budapest Stories: Vajdahunyad Castle

Beautiful Budapest Stories: Vajdahunyad Castle

Tucked away in Budapest’s City Park, Vajdahunyad Castle is one of the city’s most charming and photogenic landmarks. Originally built in 1896 for the Millennium Exhibition, the castle showcases a mix of architectural styles — Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque — all in one fairytale-like complex. It was designed to represent the diverse architectural heritage of Hungary, and walking through its grounds feels like stepping into different centuries.

From the front, the Gothic towers and arched windows echo the legendary Transylvanian castle of the same name. A walk around the back reveals peaceful courtyards, ivy-covered walls, and stunning reflections on the lake. Each angle offers a new photo opportunity, whether you’re standing on the bridge or capturing the castle through the trees.

Vajdahunyad Castle isn’t just a photogenic site—it also houses Hungary’s Museum of Agriculture, the largest of its kind in Europe. Visitors can explore both the architectural beauty and fascinating exhibits inside. A guided tour brings the whole story to life, connecting history, legend, and daily life in Hungary. Inside, the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture is surprisingly fascinating, and nearby, you’ll find statues of historical figures and a whimsical sculpture of Anonymous, the medieval chronicler.

For a truly magical view over Vajdahunyad Castle, don’t miss the chance to climb the castle’s tower or take a ride in the hot air balloon in City Park. Both options offer a unique perspective of this storybook landmark and its stunning surroundings. It’s an unforgettable way to see Budapest from above — peaceful, panoramic, and perfect for photos!

To truly appreciate Vajdahunyad Castle’s stories and its place in Budapest’s cultural landscape, I recommend joining a customised walking or driving tour. I’d love to show you around — book your experience here: https://lovefromhungary.com/fully-customisable-budapest-private-tours/

Learn more about the history of Vajdahunyad Castle on the Agricultural Museum’s official site.

Budapest museums – National Museum

The National Museum is one of the oldest museums of Budapest, founded by Ferenc Széchényi in 1802. It’s one of my favourite museums in the city, not only because it’s beautiful (both the outside and the interiors) but also because there is a beautiful garden around it which serves as a public park. The museum is a special place for Hungarian people, our entire history is on display in an easily digestible manner.

The building is a special place for national pride and heritage, the 1848-49 Hungarian war of independence against the Habsburgs started here, poet Sándor Petőfi read his famous poem on the stairs of the museum.

There are permanent and temporary exhibitions, the coronation robe of the Hungarian kings is on display here, too. A great place to spend a few hours in Budapest in the cold month of January.

Happy New Year from Budapest!

I would like to wish you a very happy new year and hope I’ll see you in Beautiful Budapest in 2024.

These were my most popular tours in 2023, feel free to contact me if you’re interested in booking any of my tours or in creating another one customised to your interests and preferences.

€600

VISITE DE BUDAPEST EN VOITURE – JOURNÉE COMPLÈTE

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€220

PROMENADE GOURMANDE BUDAPEST

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€220

PROMENADE ART NOUVEAU BUDAPEST

Easy
4 Heures
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€220

BALADE QUARTIER JUIF BUDAPEST

Easy
4 Heures
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€600

VISITE DE LA COURBE DU DANUBE EN VOITURE

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Hungarian Strudel

Hungarian strudel is one of those pastries that quietly wins everyone over — and it’s always a favourite on my Foodie tours in Budapest.

Many visitors arrive already knowing Apfelstrudel from Austria or Germany, but the Hungarian version has its own character. The dough is stretched paper-thin, the fillings are generous but never heavy, and the result is not too sweet, just perfectly balanced.

Whether filled with apples, cherries, poppy seeds, or cottage cheese, strudel is a wonderful example of our home-style baking. You can taste it in traditional pastry shops — or, if you’re curious, even try making it yourself and experience the magic of stretching the dough until it’s almost transparent.

Time Travel Along Andrássy Avenue: 19th-Century Villas in Budapest

Walking along Andrássy Avenue feels like stepping back into the golden age of Budapest. Lined with elegant 19th-century villas and grand palaces, this iconic boulevard tells the story of a city at the height of its confidence, wealth, and ambition.

Originally, these buildings were constructed as single-family homes for aristocrats, industrialists, and influential figures of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Many of them were designed by the same architects, which gives Andrássy Avenue its remarkably harmonious appearance. Behind the ornate façades lie stories of old wealth, social life, and a refined urban lifestyle that shaped modern Budapest.

Today, Andrássy Avenue is not only one of the city’s most beautiful streets but also a key part of any Budapest sightseeing experience. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it connects the city centre with Heroes’ Square and showcases some of Budapest’s finest architecture, cultural institutions, and historic residences along the way.

Exploring Andrássy Avenue is about more than admiring façades—it’s about understanding the people who lived here and the era they represented. I’m always happy to include this walk in my private, customised Budapest tours, sharing the hidden details and personal stories that bring these elegant buildings to life.

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