8 reasons why you should visit Veszprém and its surroundings during the winter break
As the Advent season approaches, Veszprém is transformed into a true wonderland thanks to the lights, which are made even more special by the snowy winter days. The Bakony-Balaton region is not only magical in summer: discover its hidden treasures and get in the mood for the holidays with us!
In winter, Veszprém and the region become quiet, and although this period is mainly characterized by tranquility, cultural life does not stop. There is no shortage of exhibitions, theater performances, concerts, and special events, which are made even more intimate by the festive preparations.
1. Advent markets – Christmas flavors and aromas
The authentic atmosphere of the Advent markets captivates everyone, and you can even check off a few items from your Christmas gift list while browsing the market. Handcrafted products, gourmet specialties, and fragrant mulled wine await visitors not only in Veszprém, but also in several other places in the region.
2. Festive lights – as if you were entering an imaginary world
In winter, Veszprém transforms into a real fairy-tale kingdom: the streets of the city center are illuminated with lights, and the buildings are decorated with sparkling decorations, creating a festive Advent atmosphere. In the Monasteries and Gardens of Veszprém area, trees are decorated with festive lights, there is Christmas music, and illuminations and photo opportunities create an intimate experience.
3. Discover Lake Balaton in winter – you won't believe how special it is!
On quiet, misty mornings and foggy days, when the beach promenades are almost empty, you can enjoy a completely new, intimate experience by Lake Balaton. Take a walk on one of the most beautiful promenades: visit Tagore Promenade in Balatonfüred or discover the wonderful villas of Kvassay Promenade in Balatonföldvár.
4. Following fabulous hiking trails – if you prefer active recreation
There is nothing more beautiful than exploring the picturesque landscapes of the Bakony Hills in fresh snow, but regardless of the season, there are always exciting routes to explore in the region. The quiet, intimate villages, rural Advent celebrations, and the countryside create a truly unique atmosphere. It's worth keeping your camera or phone handy, as the mist-shrouded panorama, snow-capped hills and ice-covered landscapes offer unparalleled photo opportunities.
5. Put on your skates: winter fun can begin!
Winter is here, which means that outdoor skating rinks are opening, including places like Balatonfüred, Siófok and Balatonalmádi, where you will have the opportunity to skate right next to lake Balaton, which is a real winter treat for young and old alike.
Enter a new dimension of digital technology!
At CODE Digital Center of Experiences, thanks to audiovisual technology, you can be a viewer and an active participant at the same time: educational and 360° screenings, immersive exhibitions, sound and motion-sensitive interactive installations, and special family events make the winter break experience complete, with activities for the whole family to enjoy.
In December, truly unique performances color the program: the immersive musical fairy tale entitled The Song of the Ice Cave will transport the whole family into a winter wonderland, while the audiovisual album launch of Fragments takes the traditional concert experience to a new level, and the intimate and festive atmosphere is provided by the performance of Christmas Spheres – Gregorian Melodies makes for a warm and festive atmosphere.
7. Disconnect creatively!
If you want your child to spend the holidays in a truly creative way, choose Code Creator, Veszprém's leading digital education and creative workshop, where you can make unique Christmas gifts and decorations together with your child during the Christmas craft workshops with the help of 3D printing or laser engraving technology. During the workshops, children can learn about robotics, programming, and the mysteries of artificial intelligence, among other things.
8. Culture never sleeps, even in winter: a rich program awaits you!
Are you looking for a special way to relax during the winter break? The Visitors' Center at the Castle in Veszprém invites you on an imaginary journey through time, where you can learn about the history of the outlaws and gain insight into the daily lives of the prisoners. The history locked within these walls will unfold before your eyes, and after your visit, you can be sure of one thing: you will see not only the past but also the present with different eyes.
The Advent program at the Dungeon includes a concert by Budapest Festival Orchestra's European Orchestra Academy, which will be held at Ruttner House café. After Christmas, there will be two performances of the extremely popular Family Treasure Hunt, and the Thrilling Crime Cases will be held twice for those seeking adventure.