Last December, I made a solo trip to Europe to see the holiday lights, sip mulled wine and shop the fabulous Christmas markets. It was my first time visiting Budapest, and while I had heard wonderful things about the city, I did not know much about the Christmas markets there and what to expect.

What I discovered was a very pleasant surprise – festive markets with mulled wine and delicious food, live performances, and many stalls with local handmade ornaments, crafts, ceramics and more.

My favorite market in Budapest was the one in Vörösmarty Square. It was large, always filled with people, and featured traditional wooden stalls.

I discovered this booth with felt ornaments, small pouches and pillow covers, and I was in love.

These felt ornaments and bags were so pretty. I purchased several of these white and gold star ornaments (on the left in the photo below) and some of the angel ornaments as gifts for my family. I would love to decorate a Christmas tree in red and white ornaments only.

These felt pillow covers captivated me. It took me a long time to find the right ones to bring home – and what great souvenirs too – they are fabric (and lightweight), they fold, and they won’t break in your luggage!

The pillows are a great way to decorate for Christmas.

Have you been to the Christmas markets in Budapest? What was your favorite find?