Budapest has a continental climate and it is claimed to average 2000 hours of sunshine a year, among the highest in Europe. Both spring and autumn are very pleasant in Budapest, with plenty to see and do, and the winter cold doesn't really hit until mid-December when many museums and tourist sights close.

Summer can be hot and sticky but there are numerous festivals taking place throughout the town and an ideal time to make the most of the outdoor cafes.

Hungary 's biggest celebration of the year is the Budapest Spring Festival in March, a two-week cultural extravaganza of local and international performances, conferences and exhibitions.