Everything You Need To Know About Shopping In Budapest
Budapest is most famous for its historical role as a cultural crossroads. You can see it in the city’s architecture, and there are numerous sites and attractions along both sides of the Danube. But Budapest has been modernizing at a rapid pace in the past few decades. World-class modern coffee, amazing street food with an international palate, and a vibrant wine and craft beer scene help Budapest stack up with the best international cities to travel to.
Shopping in Budapest is another part of the equation of this city’s exceptional travel experience. While you can find all the best international brands represented in Budapest’s streets and shopping malls, there is a thriving local industry of homegrown fashion talent. You will find some of the best designers in Europe’s boutiques in Budapest. You will also stumble across amazing vintage stores, interesting flea markets, and other no-frills shopping institutions. You just have to know where to look. Here are our best recommendations for shopping in Budapest.
And don't forget to drop off your unneeded bags at Bounce luggage storage in Budapest. Once you see all the stores have to offer in the enduring capital, you'll be picking up plenty more bags, so make sure you leave the luggage behind.
Best Budapest Shopping Destinations
WestEnd City Center
Budapest shoppers have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to quality shopping malls. First and foremost, the WestEnd City Center is one of the largest concentrations of stores so close to downtown Budapest. It’s only a few miles from the main tourist districts and hotels. It’s also located directly next to Budapest-Nyugati, one of the main train stations in the city.
In terms of shopping options, WestEnd is certainly not lacking in quantity. There are over 400 shops in this sprawling (but navigable) shopping center. But quality is a key component in this institution's appeal. 200 of these are fashion stores, including famous international brands. There are over 150 specialty stores for shoes, bags, and accessories. There are also many amazing jewelry stores that will appeal to every price point. WestEnd’s food court puts other shopping malls to shame, with a variety of local restaurants and familiar favorites on offer. Many of these are big brands and commercial chains, but the art galleries, local producers, and little shops are just as big of a draw.
The large variety available to WestEnd shoppers is truly impressive. Because of the sheer number of stores, there are brands that will appeal to any walk of life and any budget. This is one of Europe’s can’t-miss shopping malls, and it’s very convenient in relation to where many travelers tend to find themselves in Budapest. There is a Bounce Storage facility at the WestEnd City Center, so drop your bags and get to the world-class shopping!
Hunyadi Square Market
If there’s one thing you can say about this market, it’s that you cannot beat the location. It’s right near the Grand Boulevard and the Oktagon transit interchange, so it’s about as easy to get to as you get. (And for more on getting around Budapest, don't forget to check out our guide.) It’s one of the city’s smallest markets, crammed into a tiny city square. And yet, this is Budapest’s “little farmer’s market that could.” Local foodies shop farm-fresh veggies, fruits, and other authentic Hungarian culinary delights like sausages, cured meats, and honey. The liver paté from the butcher’s stand is one of the most highly recommended items. When paired with a baguette or roll, it makes for a nice city picnic.
This is a compact and efficient morning or afternoon activity, and a great way to find small affordable shops in Budapest. It doesn’t take much time to explore the stalls, taste some produce, and find a snack, but you’ll leave happy with your decision to take the short trek. Grab a coffee and prepare for the crowds of happy shoppers on Fridays and Saturdays.
WAMP Design Market
This peculiar little market sells clothing, jewelry, footwear, and other accessories. The items on offer are all locally-designed and produced, as the intention of WAMP Design Market is to showcase the talented Hungarian fashion scene.
Unlike most markets, WAMP is open all year long. Don’t worry, it’s covered in the winter, but in the summer, its outdoor setting is one of the market’s greatest appeals. There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and street food vendors near the market that make this a worthwhile afternoon adventure.
Arena Mall
Formerly known as Aréna Plaza, this is the largest shopping mall in Budapest. Built on the site of an old horse racing track, the developer intended this to be a Western-style shopping center. What they got was a modern building absolutely jam-packed with all the most prestigious fashion institutions and international brands. One of its claims to fame is Hungary's first IMAX Cinema. With 22 screens, Arena Mall might be the best refuge for visiting families during an ill-timed rainstorm. There are so many entertainment features, dining, and shopping options that it might end up being the highlight of the trip! Arena Mall is located near a high concentration of bus terminals (equipped with Bounce locations), so this is a convenient place for all your shopping and entertainment needs.
Great Market Hall (Central Market Hall)
Known locally as Nagycsarnok or Vasarcsarnok, the Great Market Hall is located near the Danube on the Pest side. It is a quick, pleasant walk from the Jewish Quarter and other bustling central neighborhoods. While it’s not the biggest shopping center in Budapest, Great Market Hall is expansive, and easily the most beautiful. Held in a restored 1897 neogothic hall that once housed traders from around Europe, this charming market is the perfect place for shopping for fresh produce, wines, meats and dairy, and gifts of all sorts throughout 3 floors of vendors.
Because of its historical significance, there are guided tours, food tastings, and other fun activities that highlight the beauty and bountiful offerings of The Great Market Hall. Some of the best local delicacies included Hungarian paprika, natural wines, ceramics, ornate cookware, and serving ware (including some from one of the world’s largest porcelain manufacturers) and more delicious foods from vendors. Whether you buy something or not, you will leave this Budapest landmark having enjoyed yourself!
Paloma
Paloma is equal parts shopping center and tourist destination. Located in a (perhaps tough to find) courtyard deep in Budapest’s labyrinthine Jewish Quarter, Paloma is Budapest’s most interesting shopping destination. Paloma consists of the ground floor, where an interesting selection of clothing is displayed, and a second floor connected by a winged staircase with numerous individual boutiques. Each of these offers shoppers the opportunity to meet Hungarian designers in person and discuss their brand’s story. Clothing, jewelry, bags, shoes, and other accessories are all on offer. There are even vintage options available. All of this is in a unique setting you will not find anywhere else.
Budapest Designer Stores
Nanushka
Founded by local Sandra Sandor, Nanushka has become Hungary’s most famous fashion brand. This is not just a domestic favorite; this brand is beloved around the world among fashion enthusiasts. Nanushka headquarters is located in Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, and the store offers the company’s full collection and even has a cafe for an immersive shopping experience. While the prices are certainly not bargain-bin, these are incredibly reasonable given the quality. Can’t make it to the store? You can find pieces from Nanushka’s women’s line in reputable stores all over the world.
The Garden Studio & Cafe
This minimalistic and chic store, located on a winding backstreet near the intersection of Bajcsy-Zsilinszky and Andrássy, is one of Budapest’s best mid-range fashion stores. Designer clothing, Instagram-friendly ceramics, and artsy home decor line the walls. There is a hip cafe linked to the store, where Turkish Breakfast and third-wave coffee are on offer. For shoppers looking for a highly-bespoke Budapest shopping experience, this is the place.
Eszka
While the store is located pretty far from the city center in District IX, you can find this beloved Hungarian clothing line all around Budapest. This line of clothing is relatively affordable, especially given the quality. The aesthetics lean toward cute, twee women’s clothing items as well as blankets, pillows, and other decorative items for the home.
MONO Art & Design
This downtown design outlet offers clothing, accessories, and more from Budapest’s best design houses. MONO pretty much chooses one or two of the best brands for each category and showcases their best products. Stalwart brands like PomPom skincare, Nubu clothing, Agneskovacs bags, and accessories are all on offer here.
The Best Vintage Stores and Flea Markets in Budapest
Antik Placc
Located in the Jewish Quarter’s Klauzál tér Market Hall, Antik Placc is a weekly antique market held on Sundays. One of the creative wrinkles here is that many of these items have been modified, redesigned, repurposed, or otherwise altered in a way that makes them unique or adds value to the item. This is another setting where the designers are available to discuss their work with curious shoppers. Because of the unique nature of each item, getting there early (even before your first coffee!) is advisable, as many of Budapest’s most knowledgeable and avid shoppers might beat you to your new favorite outfit.
Ludovika
This tiny boutique in the Jewish quarter specializes in attractive approachable vintage clothing. Only the best-preserved and fashionable pieces are on offer at Ludovika. Because of this, some of the prices will resemble new designer clothing, but this has much to do with their expert curation and restoration. There are some quirky and historical items like Hungarian folk dresses and jewelry. If you’re looking for a needle in a haystack, this is one of your best bets.
Retrock
As far as vintage shopping in Budapest goes, Retrock is the most iconic, and largest vintage store. Located in the shadows of Budapest’s Great Ferris Wheel, this is an accessible store in the bustling city center. One of its best attributes is that Retrock also offers new designer clothes alongside their vintage used clothing. This helps the store differentiate itself from basically every other clothing store in the city. The prices are not exactly bargain bin, but the curation of high-end vintage pieces and reliably fashionable new garments make it a must-visit.
Lovebug Vintage
Just down the street from Millenáris Park on the Buda side of the Danube, Lovebug vintage is THE vintage shopping store in the area. It's the antithesis of a flea market. Finding Lovebug Vintage requires a little know-how, as it’s located in a private ground floor apartment. But stroll up bravely and ring the doorbell, and you’ll be admitted into a store that makes you feel like a true insider. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the prices are approachable. Leaving this charming store, you’ll feel like your new best friend just helped you find your new favorite one-of-a-kind blouse or dress!
Best Streets for Shopping in Budapest
Váci Utca
This is the most prominent pedestrianized shopping street in Budapest, and for good reason. For one, the location is basically unbeatable. This narrow, winding street more resembles an alley, and it’s perfect for efficiently window-shopping while taking in the sights and sounds of downtown Budapest. Váci Utca runs from Vörösmarty Square all the way to Great Market Hall. All of the usual suspects are here: Zara, Mango, H&M, and other familiar favorites. There are a number of excellent cafes and restaurants along the way, which can provide crucial sustenance if you find yourself on an all-afternoon shopping spree. You simply cannot say you’ve shopped in Budapest without a visit to this tree-lined thoroughfare.
Fashion Street
This pedestrian-only stretch of shops is aptly named. Located on Deák Ferenc Square, this is one of Budapest’s most beautiful streets, and an easy destination to pop into. Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger, Lacoste, Benneton, and Furla all have locations on Fashion Street.
Andrássy Avenue
For an upscale shopping experience, Andrássy Avenue near downtown should be one of your main destinations. The most exclusive stores in Budapest are on this bustling avenue. International brands like Burberry, Gucci, Rolex, and Louis Vuitton are all represented here. The best stretch is between Elizabeth Square and the Oktogon terminal.
In many ways, Budapest feels like a city that is in flux. On both sides of the Danube, the ornate grandeur of centuries past still looms large. Traditional Hungarian culture (and even Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman) can be felt in cafes, streets, and Budapest’s many stately monuments. And yet, modern culture is popping up on many a street corner in downtown Budapest, and its less central neighborhoods. This is much more (and better) than mere globalization; homegrown modern Hungarian culture is thriving in Budapest. Its dining, nightlife, coffee, wine, and especially shopping scenes are all finding their distinct voice. Luckily, both the old and new are at your fingertips in Budapest. So drop your bags with Bounce, and take a walk through this city’s history in the making.
