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You are here: Home / Blog / Great Market Hall Budapest

Blog Food Hungary Travel

Great Market Hall Budapest

This post explores the exhilarating Great Market Hall Budapest. Warning: you may feel really hungry after reading this post!

My complete guide to Budapest, including 2, 3 and 4 day itineraries can be found in here.

___

The day before leaving Europe, after moving around the continent for 15 days, we went back to the beginning, we went back to Budapest.

It felt exhilarating to be back in the city we learned to love a couple of weeks before.  I knew I had to be back before going home because I still had a stop to make.

I couldn’t leave before paying a visit to the Great Market Hall, the oldest and largest indoor market in Budapest.

I am sure this is not a surprise since I have professed my love to markets in Vienna, Valencia, Madrid and Oaxaca.

That is how a Saturday morning we ended up passing thru the doors of this gastronomic temple in Budapest.

To be accurate, the Great Market Hall (or Central Market Hall or Central Market) is located on the Pest side of the city, at the end of the famous pedestrian street known as Vaci Utca. The market is located directly across the Liberty Bridge.

The original building was constructed in 1897 with Neogothic touches. The roof contains colorful tiles from the town of Pecs and the inside consists of a steel structure (very intricate steel structure I should say).

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

During the World Wars, the structure was completely damaged and then closed for some years. Throughout the 1990s, restoration works brought back the market to its ancient splendor. The building even won an excellence prize in 1999.

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Table of Contents

  • Great Market Hall Budapest – What to Eat / Buy
  • Market Hall Hours
  • Market Hall Location
  • Other Markets in Budapest
  • Other Markets in Europe
  • Explore Budapest
  • Additional Resources
    • Related posts:

Great Market Hall Budapest – What to Eat / Buy

Once you enter the market, you are going to notice the total dominance of the most prominent spice in Hungary, the paprika.  Stall after stall sells the precious pepper in its many forms.

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

IMG_8028

I loved to see the dry peppers hanging from the many stalls.  I think I will be happy in a paprika only market.

In addition, the spice is sold as a powder. You can find the spicy, sweet and smoked versions.  Some bags of paprika come with recipes of what can be prepared with the product.  So, do not worry what you are going to cook with it.  Make sure you get some and the inspiration will come later.

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Also, Paprika is sold in jars or in tubes (as a paste).

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

They even sell you the paprika spoons in a very unique way (see below).

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Are you ready for a fun fact? Maybe you know this but the peppers used to make paprika come from the New World (like tomatoes and chocolate).  The Spaniards introduced the peppers to Western Europe and the Ottomans to Central Europe and the Balkans.

After getting an overdose of paprika, you are going to notice a second obsession of Hungarians.  More than 20 stalls in the market are dedicated to sausages and cold cuts.  To be honest, they looked delicious.  I couldn’t stop looking at how one type was different from another.

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

At the Central Market Hall, you can find sausages made from liver, pork, rice and blood (black sausage).  They have a wide array of salamis and bacon.  In addition, you can find sausages typical from towns like Szeged, Gyula and Debrecener.

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

And get this, are you ready?  They have Lokolbasz or horse sausage. Yup, you read that right.

It is very difficult to walk around so many sausages without salivating or wanting to try some.  I have good news.  You can buy slices by the half or quarter kilo or ask the vendors to prepare you a sampler plate.

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

IMG_7978

The only thing is that you are not going to know exactly what you are eating (you can ask but there is a language barrier).  I am sure you know where I am going with this.  I think I tried that horse sausage.  What is more, I think it was the piece I liked the most!

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

If you are a fan of all things sweet, do not fear.  There are stalls selling what I call a ridiculously variety of sweet and cakes.  Get prepared to find Dobos torta, Linzer torta, kifli (crescent shaped biscuit), piskota (crispy cookie), turo rudi (sweet cheese filled in a chocolate bar) and much more.

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Oh, and the famous poppy rolls and strudels are everywhere.

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

A lot of the cakes sold in the city’s famous cafes are available in here at a discounted price (not the same atmosphere but cake is cake).  I had a hard time deciding what to eat and ended up eating two pieces of cake (if I remember correctly ;0)  My husband got cookies, nougat and sweet bread.

Fresh produce is available if that is your kind of thing.  Locals come here to fill their shopping bags.

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

The Central Market is filled with many more goods.  I encourage you to walk around and see what you can find.  We saw cheese, hand-made pasta, honey, jelly, jam, olive oil, Hungarian wine and chocolate.  The list continues and continues.  This may be the market where I have seen more goods per square meter.

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Now, everything I have described in here is located in the first floor.  The second floor contains stalls selling typical Hungarian food such as goulash, langos, chicken paprikash, lecso and palacsinta. The food is delicious! Yes, I ate in there too! Plus, a lot of people assure some of the best food in Budapest can be found in here.

Langos, What to Eat in Budapest, Hungary

What and where to Eat in Budapest, Hungary

Last but not least, the second floor offers a big variety of all sorts of souvenirs.  Take a look around to see if something gets your attention.

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

What do you think?  Did I have a reason to go back to Budapest?  Well, I think so.  After experiences like this, my desire to visit European markets grow.

Great Market Hall, Budapest, Hungary

Market Hall Hours

  • Sunday – Closed
  • Monday – 6:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Tuesday to Friday – 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Saturday – 6:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • It is better to visit the market during the morning hours (or during early lunch hours)

Market Hall Location

  • Across the Liberty Bridge, on the Pest side of the city

Other Markets in Budapest

The Great or Central Market Hall happens to be the most famous market in the city.  However, you have the option to visit other markets:

  • Fény Street Market
  • Fehérvári Street Market
  • Downtown market
  • Hunyadi Square Market
  • Lehel Square

Other Markets in Europe

  • Mercado San Miguel – Madrid
  • La Boqueria – Barcelona
  • Mercat Central – Valencia
  • Naschmarkt – Vienna

Explore Budapest

  • Biking Budapest
  • Buda Castle and Chain Bridge
  • What to Eat in Budapest

Additional Resources

  • Budapest Travel Guide
  • Go To Hungary

Hope you have enjoyed this short tour of the Great Market Hall and bon appetite if you are running in this moment to get some food!

Would you visit the Great Market Hall in Budapest? What market hall foods would you like to try?

Ready to pin? Let’s do this!

The Great Market Hall is the oldest and largest indoor market in Budapest. Stop by here if you want to try Hungarian food and find paprika, salamis and more. This is a true foodie paradise.

Related posts:

Bike Tour, Budapest, HungaryBudapest with Yellow Zebra Bike Tours Hungary, Danube Bend Tour, Budapest, Szentendre, EsztergomDanube Bend: Day Trip from Budapest The Most Romantic Place in Budapest: Vajdahunyad Castle Best of Budapest, Guide to Budapest, Top things to see in Budapest, best sights in Budapest3 Days in Budapest: Walking Tours and Itineraries


135 Comments

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Comments

  1. Rhonda Albom says

    February 6, 2017 at 1:13 am

    I would visit this market. The food looks incredible. I don’t know where I would start. Maybe eat a bit there and bring a lot home 🙂

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 6, 2017 at 10:02 pm

      I get your feeling! There is so much stuff to eat. We did got a lot of stuff to take back home. Not sure how that fit in our luggage.

      Reply
  2. Lisa says

    February 6, 2017 at 7:22 am

    What wonderful photos! The market looks pretty amazing. Those paprika spoons made me smile 🙂

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 6, 2017 at 10:03 pm

      Those are so cute! I couldn’t leave them out of the post.

      Reply
  3. klara says

    February 6, 2017 at 9:57 am

    great photos. the market looks amazing, will all those delicious foods…

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 6, 2017 at 10:04 pm

      Looks amazing and it was amazing! I am dreaming about my next visit.

      Reply
  4. Carol says

    February 6, 2017 at 10:35 am

    What a fun market – would love to explore it.

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 6, 2017 at 10:06 pm

      It was tons of fun! I felt like not leaving.

      Reply
  5. Photo Cache says

    February 6, 2017 at 4:23 pm

    A foodie mecca.

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 6, 2017 at 10:05 pm

      That is a good way to describe it! I love it!

      Reply
  6. LovelyGishi says

    February 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

    These are so colorful market. I like the spices hanging from above..

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 7:39 pm

      Color is one of the reasons I like markets so much! I like the hanging peppers too. That is so unique of this market.

      Reply
  7. Amila says

    February 6, 2017 at 11:00 pm

    Beautiful market.Seems it is well organized with the food arrangements.I really like the way they sell red chilies.Very colourful pictures too…

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 7:42 pm

      Thanks a lot! The red peppers are so cool!

      Reply
  8. Marleen says

    February 7, 2017 at 2:49 am

    A great place to visit! Wonderful photos.

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 7:42 pm

      Glad you liked it!

      Reply
  9. Lolo says

    February 7, 2017 at 12:12 pm

    That was one of my favorite markets! It was so colorful and I loved the iron designs! #CityTripping

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 7:43 pm

      Great to know you have been! Did you eat there or but something?

      Reply
  10. Bumble Bee Mum says

    February 7, 2017 at 3:47 pm

    This would have been the FIRST place I make a beeline for if I was in Budapest!! You sure know the meaning of saving the best for the last? Lol… #CityTripping

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 7:45 pm

      Well, I guess that is a great way to put. Thanks goodness I was able to visit.

      Reply
  11. Lois says

    February 7, 2017 at 4:56 pm

    I will be in Budapest this summer with my daughter, so maybe we will have time to go to this market. Thanks for sharing your pictures!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 7:47 pm

      I hope you have the time. This place gives you the opportunity to try the best of Hungarian cuisine under one roof.

      Reply
  12. Yogi says

    February 7, 2017 at 6:56 pm

    Wow, if I ever get to Budapest I know where to good what a huge variety of delicious looking food. I would have to try the horse sausage, just don’t tell anyone.

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 7:49 pm

      Ok, deal! I would not tell anybody. I bet you will like it.

      Reply
  13. Van says

    February 8, 2017 at 8:40 am

    I absolutely love market halls and trying samples at the different booths! Definitely bookmark this in case I’ll make it to Budapest one day 🙂

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 7:52 pm

      I do hope you make it to the city. I think you will like a lot of aspects about it.

      Reply
  14. Sarah says

    February 8, 2017 at 10:34 am

    I would love to visit Budapest and now I will have to pay a visit to the great market hall whenever I get the chance to make it! Especially as the sweets look sooo good… #wanderfulwednesday

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 7:55 pm

      You have a great eye since those sweets were delicious. And, like I mentioned, they are much cheaper than in cafes.

      Reply
  15. Sharon says

    February 8, 2017 at 10:41 am

    Your photos show how colorful and fun this place would be to visit! I love all the paprika — so Hungarian. I’m currently trying to decide whether to include Budapest in our itinerary (with the Swiss alps, Prague, and Vienna). Hmmm — this is a plus for going to Budapest!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:02 pm

      Would be cool if you can add Budapest to your itinerary but it depends how much time do you have. You will love Prague and Vienna (not sure if you have visited before).

      Reply
  16. Pauliina/PauMau says

    February 9, 2017 at 7:11 am

    Looks delicious 🙂

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:03 pm

      I know! Love to write posts like these.

      Reply
  17. Sharon Wagner says

    February 9, 2017 at 7:20 am

    The variety is overwhelming! And so eye popping. Love the cute cookies. I’ll pass on the horse sausage. Thanks for the tantalizing tour.

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:05 pm

      No problem Sharon! I was not interested in the horse sausage at all!

      Reply
  18. Rebecca says

    February 9, 2017 at 7:39 am

    I love markets! Those photos very close up are great – a bit like abstract expressionism!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:08 pm

      Ooohhhhhh, I like that (abstract expressionism). I enjoy taking closeups since I want to show things in different ways.

      Reply
  19. Tanja says

    February 9, 2017 at 9:17 am

    You really do love markets:) I bought some paprika spice here:) #Farawayfiles

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:09 pm

      I know! I put them on my list every time. I bought paprika too!

      Reply
  20. jesh StG says

    February 9, 2017 at 12:11 pm

    I know Budapest from the time it was behind the Iron Curtain and food was scarce – unrecognizable from this food paradise!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:15 pm

      Thanks for your perspective. I imagine things were very different back then. I am glad everything is different now.

      Reply
  21. Catherine's Cultural Wednesdays says

    February 9, 2017 at 1:42 pm

    We managed to catch the market hall just as it was closing but was still stunning #citytripping

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:38 pm

      At least you were able to catch a glimpse. The architectural details are reason enough to visit.

      Reply
  22. Sally@Toddlers on Tour says

    February 9, 2017 at 4:00 pm

    What a gorgeous market, both the building and the food.
    I’d love to try all the charcuterie and the shortbread 🙂

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:39 pm

      I wish I had more time on the city because I wanted to try more of the charcuterie. We rented an apartment, so, we had a place to store our goods.

      Reply
  23. Erin Gustafson | Oregon Girl Around the World says

    February 9, 2017 at 4:36 pm

    I adore a good market. I think it is one of the best ways to learn about a place. See what they eat, what they sell, what is on offer, who buys it. Horse. Not so sure about. But I’m sure I’ve eaten things that seem completely normal to me that might make other people squeamish. (Raw oysters? YUM.) Beautiful post and would love to visit Budapest in general and will make a point to visit the great market! Thanks for sharing, Erin #FarawayFiles

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:43 pm

      Oysters, yeah, those are not of my liking (my husband loves them). It is a texture thing for me.

      Reply
  24. Jill says

    February 9, 2017 at 6:17 pm

    Looks like food heaven! I think it was definitely worth it for you to go back – that’s quite a food market!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:45 pm

      I am glad I visited the market even though there was some drama behind it (last day in Budapest we had problems with our accommodations).

      Reply
  25. ladyfi says

    February 9, 2017 at 9:40 pm

    Such a colourful array of deliciousness!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:46 pm

      That is true! Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  26. Jonny (daisythebus) says

    February 10, 2017 at 12:20 am

    Another wonderful market post. You have a great eye for colour and composition in your photographs; when I try to take market photos I am always disappointed with the result, but you just have that… talent. I’m so jealous! 😉
    #FarawayFiles

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:48 pm

      I am so flattered by your comment. I have tried to improve my market photos. It is not easy to take good pictures when the markets are not covered and the light is poor. Open air ones are way easy to photograph.

      Reply
  27. budget jan says

    February 10, 2017 at 2:22 am

    I do enjoy markets and I’m pretty sure this would be the first thing I did in Budapest! So much to see and eat…

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:49 pm

      Feels like a great way to get introduced from the city. When I arrive into a place, I am always hungry.

      Reply
  28. Natasha says

    February 10, 2017 at 11:24 am

    Oh I love the variety of cakes, cookies and sweets on the stalls there, I think I’d have a hard time just choosing one thing to try! I can definitely see why you fell in love with Budapest, and with each of these posts you’re reminding me I must go and visit some of these European markets. I’ve only ever visited a German market, but it was here in the UK, so not the real experience! – Tasha

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:51 pm

      Tasha, it would be great if you have the opportunity to visit some markets in Europe. That is one of the reasons why I would love to live in Europe. I have a list of other markets I would like to visit.

      Reply
  29. Katy says

    February 10, 2017 at 11:36 am

    Of COURSE I love this post Ruth and am now plotting a way to get to Budapest ASAP. I always make a beeline for markets on our trips. This one looks incredible. Plus paprika is my favourite spice Thanks for joining us on #FarawayFiles

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:53 pm

      If paprika is your favorite spice, then Budapest is the place for you. You are going to feel in paradise once you start to see paprika everywhere.

      Reply
  30. Allison says

    February 10, 2017 at 1:12 pm

    That looks like an amazing market! I am a big fan of markets so I would definitely check it out if we find ourselves in Budapest one day. #FlyAwayFriday

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:54 pm

      Hope you visit Budapest one day! What markets do you often visit?

      Reply
  31. shere y paul - traveling with a baby says

    February 10, 2017 at 2:18 pm

    I love markets as well and this one looks amazing!! it’s the type I love 🙂 I’ll go for sure for the discounted pastries 😀

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:55 pm

      Glad you liked it! How not to with all those pastries at really good prices?

      Reply
  32. Natalie says

    February 10, 2017 at 4:33 pm

    I love a local market and this one looks so cool! Love to show the kids how people all over the world shop. When I first visited Hungary many years ago and tried goulash I was so in love with it, BUT I didn’t think to bring any home, thinking…incorrectly that all paprika is created equally. Next time I’m there….I’m bringing some home!

    On another note…I have a list of travel blogs with commentluv on my blog and you are on it. 🙂

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 12, 2017 at 8:57 pm

      This is a perfect place for kids. I think of how much they can learn by looking at the different displays and asking questions. We loved goulash too. In general, Hungarian food is delicious.

      Reply
  33. Rachel Heller says

    February 11, 2017 at 2:45 am

    What always frustrates me when I’m traveling is that I can’t buy all of the different foods I’d enjoy trying! I’m always limited by baggage restrictions, etc. I end up wandering through and tasting and taking pictures like you did, but regretting what I can’t buy!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 7:41 pm

      The same thing happens to me. We buy some stuff but not as much as we will want. We are very restricted with the liquids. California has very strict laws on what you can bring back.

      Reply
  34. Anisa says

    February 11, 2017 at 5:25 am

    I missed this when I was in Budapest unfortunately! This definitely looks like something I would enjoy because all the food looks so good. I want to try all the sweets. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 7:46 pm

      Well, this is the perfect excuse to go back to Budapest. I am sure you will no mind going back.

      Reply
  35. Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says

    February 11, 2017 at 6:27 am

    What a fabulous looking market, Ruth! Feels like a real must-do in Budapest. I was interested to see how similar it looks inside to the markets I’ve been to in Spain – Seville and Barcelona, although lots of great looking Hungarian products. I’d come home with far too much paprika, I’m sure! Thanks for sharing on #farawayfiles

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 7:50 pm

      Clare, I think this market is very different from the ones in Spain. The product and the way they are sold is different. Those differences among countries is what makes me want to stop by markets.

      Reply
  36. Danielle says

    February 11, 2017 at 8:29 am

    Absolutely love this! We just got back from Budapest and LOVED the market. Thanks for sharing! #farawayfiles

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 7:51 pm

      So good you went! I am sure you enjoyed this place a lot.

      Reply
  37. Jessica Norah @ Independent Travel Cats says

    February 11, 2017 at 9:53 am

    Sounds like a fantastic market – you visit so many! I am not sure I’d want to try the horse sausage or not…the smiley face cookies made me smile!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:00 pm

      I would have liked to try the sausage consciously. Maybe it is good. Anyway, the sausage had been processed and I do not think the real “horse” flavor is there.

      Reply
  38. Anda says

    February 11, 2017 at 12:10 pm

    I love visiting Budapest’s Nagy Vásárcsarnok. I am drooling as I read your blog and look at your beautiful pictures. You can find everything your heard desires in this market. Plus, you can have a very inexpensive lunch on the second floor, tasting some of the most traditional Hungarian dishes. I wish we would have markets like these in Los Angeles. #TheWeeklyPostcard

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:02 pm

      We ate at the second floor and the food was so good. I am so glad we fit this into our itinerary.

      Reply
  39. Elizabeth (Wander Mum) says

    February 11, 2017 at 3:15 pm

    I’m pretty sure I’ve been here ! It was so long ago but I recognise those steel arches. The food looks good (aside from the horse meat…I just can’t go there). The paprika spoons are so cute. I may have revisit just to purchase some! Thanks for linking #citytripping

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:07 pm

      I understand your feelings toward the horse sausage. I should have asked which one it was. I also saw it in other areas of the city.

      Reply
  40. Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says

    February 11, 2017 at 3:41 pm

    Oh my gosh! We share your obsession with markets, and this is like a market mecca! I’m not sure what I like more, though, the amazing food and crafts, or the building. That is gorgeous architecture. But then, all that food looks good, too! Thanks for sharing all your great pictures. They will keep us happy until we can get there ourselves!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:10 pm

      I am glad you enjoyed the post! I can see you get really excited about markets. I am dreaming about the ones I am going to visit in the future.

      Reply
  41. Bryna | Dotted Line Travels says

    February 11, 2017 at 4:35 pm

    Wonderful, colourful pictures of this market! I did not know that paprika was so popular there. Love that they sold them in tubes. It reminds me of the condensed milk sold in tubes that I found in Asia, that I haven’t been able to find back home!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:12 pm

      Condensed milk in tubes? Well, it kind of makes sense. In others countries I have seen sauce and juices in bags.

      Reply
  42. Brooke of Passport Couture says

    February 11, 2017 at 7:44 pm

    I can see why this market hall won an award–it’s phenomenal! I enjoyed seeing the spices in tubes, it’s a different way of storing and using them. #flyawayfriday

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:16 pm

      I think it is better to have a paste in a tube. In my family, we used to cook with tomato paste and it was not easy to take it out of the can.

      Reply
  43. Lyn aka The Travelling Lindfields says

    February 11, 2017 at 10:56 pm

    I loved Budapest when we went there many years ago. It has a magic about it which is hard to describe. Your photos look vaguely familiar but I can’t recall whether we got to the Great Market Hall or not.

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:21 pm

      It is true, the city has a magic that is hard to resist. I really want to go back one day.

      Reply
  44. Corinne says

    February 12, 2017 at 12:04 am

    Ruth, I always love your market posts. You really capture the great local-ness of the products on sale. Gorgeous photos!

    Thanks for linking up with #wkendtravelinspiration! We’ll see you next week!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:23 pm

      Thanks Corinne! Market post are some of my favorite to put together.

      Reply
  45. Paula McInerney says

    February 12, 2017 at 1:33 am

    I could live in the Great Food Hall in Budapest – so good.

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:13 pm

      Actually, that is not a bad idea. Living here (or nearby) would be great.

      Reply
  46. David | Travelsewhere says

    February 12, 2017 at 3:35 am

    What a fantastic market hall, pity I missed it when I visited Budapest. I love Cabanossi, something we actually also have quite a bit in Australia, so think I know where I’d head first. Must be quite a huge hall given how many photos you were able to take! #theweeklypostcard

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:25 pm

      Interesting Cabanossi is popular in Australia. Yes, this market hall is huge!

      Reply
  47. Stephanie (@Vaycarious) says

    February 12, 2017 at 8:29 am

    This is such a great market, Ruth! I brought my family members paprika home as a souvenir, but they weren’t nearly as excited about it as I was. 🙂 #weekendwanderlust

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:29 pm

      Stephanie, sometimes friends and family do not appreciate souvenirs in the way we will like it. Maybe we are attached to certain things because we actually visited a place where it is popular.

      Reply
  48. Ruth Daly says

    February 12, 2017 at 9:01 am

    Oh wow, how would you ever decide what to buy, what to eat?! So much to choose from (but this would be heaven for a photographer)!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:32 pm

      I know, so much to choose from! Ahh, in a way, that is a plus.

      Reply
  49. Trekking with Becky says

    February 12, 2017 at 10:38 am

    Great photos, as always. I feel like an idiot, but I’ve never thought of putting markets on my list of things to see when thinking about cities like Budapest or Vienna. Markets tell you so much about the culture and the locals. 🙂

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:38 pm

      When I know I will visit a city, I check what markets are in there. In Europe, it seems like the biggest cities have great markets.

      Reply
  50. Birgit | Groove Is In The Heart says

    February 12, 2017 at 12:13 pm

    I love Budapest and remember my visit to the Great Market Hall so well. It was super interesting and made for the best photo opportunities. All that wonderful food! 🙂 Thanks for taking me right back with your wonderful pics.

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:40 pm

      I am glad this post brought back good memories. Hope you tasted some of the great offerings in the market.

      Reply
  51. Bob says

    February 12, 2017 at 5:55 pm

    Man what a great place. I love visiting markets wherever I go. You can really get a feel for the place and meet some great people. This place looks over the top though. It is the kind of place where I could spend hours walking around. I would be like the guy in the photo wheeling a bag behind me except I wold have a bigger bag.

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:42 pm

      That is funny Bob! I can understand how one can overbuy in here.

      Reply
  52. Ahila says

    February 12, 2017 at 6:58 pm

    I like the building that houses the market. It looks so colourful and pretty #wkndtravelinspiration

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 8:41 pm

      I agree! The building contributes a lot to the atmosphere of the market.

      Reply
  53. Kana says

    February 12, 2017 at 7:57 pm

    Wow that looks amazing! The colors are so vibrant!!!!! Thanks for joining #FlyAwayFriday! xo

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 7:55 pm

      Hello Kana, yes, everything in there was so vibrant. As you can see, that is one of the reasons why I couldn’t stop taking pictures.

      Reply
  54. Tonkin Voyage Travel Vietnam says

    February 13, 2017 at 1:19 am

    OMG, my mouth is melting. Pin this food heaven for future. Tks Ur post.

    Reply
  55. Tonkin Voyage Travel Vietnam says

    February 13, 2017 at 1:21 am

    OMG, my mouth is melting. Would pin this food heaven for future. Thks for your post, so beautiful!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 13, 2017 at 7:53 pm

      Thanks for stopping by! Hope you can visit the market in the future.

      Reply
  56. Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says

    February 13, 2017 at 10:02 pm

    The metalwork in that Great Hall is beautiful. I’m glad that they restored it. I also really like that locals shop here, and it’s not just a tourist attraction. Funny, the kids and I were talking this morning about whether or not we’d eat horse… or drink horse milk. No on both counts. Any suggestions for a souvenir other than paprika or a paprika spoon? My husband goes to Budapest so much, and I can never think of what to request. Having been thwarted once at customs for trying to import meat into the USA, I know not to ask for sausage — horsemeat or otherwise.#WkendTravelInspiration

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 25, 2017 at 10:43 am

      In the market, we got handmade pasta, chocolates and jam. They have a lot of homemade products so it is a matter of taking a look at the stalls. Your husband can get sausages and other goods at the airport. They have huge stores selling all sorts of goods.

      Reply
  57. Nancie says

    February 14, 2017 at 5:33 am

    Thanks for the trip down memory lane. I fell in love the with the Great Market Hall. I think I did most of my shopping there. I took home gorgeous paprika bought from a little old lady at the back of the market. I can’t remember how many cans of Foie gras I purchased. I also bought some things from the souvenir vendors upstairs. Just wandering around gawking and sampling what was on offer was a real delight. Thanks for co-hosting this week. #TPThursday

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 25, 2017 at 10:44 am

      Nancie, seems like you got a lot of stuff. But, I guess that is normal for a place like this.

      Reply
  58. Cathy (Mummytravels) says

    February 14, 2017 at 12:36 pm

    Wow this looks amazing – definitely deserves it’s title of the Great market. I do love wandering around markets, there’s always something to discover and the stalls of paprika alone are fabulous. #citytripping

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 25, 2017 at 10:46 am

      I love to wander around markets too. I discover so many things. I keep returning and returning to them.

      Reply
  59. Photo(Geo)grapher says

    February 14, 2017 at 10:37 pm

    What a fabulous post! This place looks great. So many great pictures!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 25, 2017 at 10:46 am

      Thanks a lot!

      Reply
  60. Nell (Pigeon Pair and Me) says

    February 15, 2017 at 7:56 am

    Eek! Horse sausage!But the rest of the produce looks incredible, and I’m not surprised the place won a prize. Such a beautiful location. #FarawayFiles

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 25, 2017 at 10:57 am

      Sounds gross but I think it is good. Like I said, I do not think I tasted it consciously but I like all the samples we tried (I think the horse sausage was there).

      Reply
  61. Laura says

    February 15, 2017 at 11:35 pm

    I loved this market! I bought a couple of scarves and a magnet. I was on a long term trip, so I couldn’t buy too much! I enjoyed a pastry from the bakery from across the road. Relish!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 25, 2017 at 10:59 am

      That is so cool! With the many baggage restriction we have nowadays, it is not easy to bring as much as you would like.

      Reply
  62. eileen g says

    February 16, 2017 at 12:13 pm

    what a fun market! the building looks almost like gingerbread, which I guess fits. I would love the poppy seed pastries and the sausages. I would try it all, too!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 25, 2017 at 11:53 am

      Love the gingerbread description! Now, that I think about it, I can see where you come from.

      Reply
  63. Moira says

    February 19, 2017 at 8:31 am

    Going to food markets like this is one of my absolute favorite things to do. This one looks gorgeous. Great post – I love how into the sausages they are!!!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 25, 2017 at 11:55 am

      I like how they display their sausages and the variety of them. I tried like 10 different ones.

      Reply
  64. Chloe says

    February 22, 2017 at 10:15 pm

    aw I love places like this, they’re always my favorite to check out to get a really good vibe of the city! great post!

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      February 25, 2017 at 11:56 am

      You are right! Places like this give you a lot of insight into the pulse of the city.

      Reply
  65. NatureFootstep Photo says

    March 9, 2017 at 2:27 pm

    from the outside it looks like a fairytale building 🙂

    Reply
  66. Mellissa says

    March 15, 2017 at 12:57 am

    We went there last year and couldn’t believe what a great market it was! #citytripping

    Reply
  67. Michelle says

    July 25, 2017 at 10:28 am

    Very nice post. My husband’s parents are from Budapest, although they emigrated to Germany during the Cold War. His aunt and cousin are still in Budapest and we’ve visited them a couple of times since we’ve been married. I was first there in the 90’s before they joined the EU, but we returned to Budapest 3 years ago and there were many changes that make the language barrier easier to navigate for foreigners. My husband speaks Hungarian, but for me, I noticed the addition of many English signs and directions at all the public places of transportation and on many menus, etc. It was simple for me to get around, even without my husband’s language skills.

    But agree that this market is definitely a must-see when visiting the city. We love the Langos (lang-gosh). It is a round, fried bread, about the size of a small pizza and we always ask for it to be topped with sour cream, garlic and cheese. You can order savory or sweet toppings. My teenage kids love the garlic and also a sweeter version with Nutella. One of the souvenirs to look at upstairs is the needlepoint done by Hungarian women. Turn them over and look at the backsides, which look nearly as perfect and beautiful as the top side. They have extremely skilled and tidy embroidery skills. They have smaller placemats, aprons, etc. to larger tablecloths. Thank you for sharing this lovely post! Brings back so many wonderful memories! Budapest is a very beautiful city and I would encourage anyone to visit it if they have the chance! And it’s only a 3-4 hour train ride to Vienna.

    Reply
  68. Monalisa Matache says

    August 11, 2017 at 11:10 am

    What an astounding post! This place looks extraordinary. Such a large number of awesome pictures!

    Reply
  69. Anne Cruz says

    October 14, 2017 at 12:45 pm

    Just came across your blog while searching for guides in Great Market Hall. I’m visiting Budapest soon and I’m wondering if you know how much the dolls from your pictures costs? I’m a doll collector so I want to bring a few of them back home. Thank you so much! 😉

    Reply
  70. Darlene says

    April 13, 2018 at 5:28 pm

    I visited this market in December 2017. The upstairs level of the market was filled with touristy souvenirs of subpar quality. The downstairs is where you find the spice stalls, authentic foods, and liquor. We were thrilled to find a local made liqueur, Unicum, that our tour guide had mentioned the day before. It is made of many herbs, smells interesting, and is used to treat upset stomachs. A small bottle now lives in south Georgia, but none of us have been brave enough to try it! We were here as the final stop on a Danube River cruise and Budapest had THE BEST Christmas Market for authentic, handcrafted items that you will be thrilled to find and bring home!

    Reply
  71. Lauren Blake says

    April 14, 2019 at 6:22 am

    Nice Post…. Pictures you captured are pretty amazing… love it … enjoyed your blog post.. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  72. Jackie Gately says

    August 29, 2020 at 9:23 am

    Ohmigosh…I am totally drooling! I am a huge foodie and everything looks so amazing at Great Market Hall! I may have to plan a trip just for that reason.

    Reply

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