Your Guide to Shopping During Budapest’s October 23rd Long Weekend in 2025
When October 23rd rolls around in Budapest, the city transforms for one of Hungary’s most significant national holidays. In 2025, the celebration stretches into a luxurious four-day weekend, and if you’re visiting the Hungarian capital during this time, you’ll want to know what’s open and what’s closed. Don’t worry—while most shops take a well-deserved break on the holiday itself, you won’t be left stranded if you need something urgently.
Quick Shopping Schedule Overview
Thursday, October 23rd (National Holiday): Most stores closed, gas stations and 24-hour shops open
Friday, October 24th: Saturday hours apply, most stores open
Saturday, October 25th: Normal weekend hours
Sunday, October 26th: Normal weekend hours
Understanding Hungary’s National Holiday
October 23rd commemorates the 1956 Revolution, a pivotal moment in Hungarian history. In 2025, the holiday falls on a Thursday, creating an extended weekend that runs through Sunday, October 26th. For most Hungarians working regular schedules, Friday the 24th is also a day off, though it was pre-worked on Saturday the 18th. What this means for you as a tourist is that Thursday will feel quite different from the bustling city you might experience on other days, but the long weekend atmosphere brings its own special charm.
What’s Closed on October 23rd
Major supermarkets: Aldi, Auchan, Lidl, Penny, Tesco, and most Spar locations will be closed for the day.
Shopping malls: Retail stores within malls are shuttered, though restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues often remain open.
Markets: The Great Market Hall and most neighborhood markets take the day off.
Post offices: All Hungarian Post offices are closed on the 23rd.
Most pharmacies: Regular pharmacies close, but duty pharmacies remain open for emergencies.
What’s Open on October 23rd
Gas station shops: Your most reliable option for groceries and essentials. Look for Spar mini-markets at OMV stations, convenience stores at Orlen stations, and mini-shops at Shell stations.
Tom Market stores: This chain with over 150 locations keeps many stores open during holidays.
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24-hour convenience stores: Roni and Manna stores in Budapest maintain round-the-clock operations.
Independent shops: Flower shops, newsstands, and candy stores can open if owners choose to work.
Restaurants and entertainment: Cafes, restaurants, cinemas, and entertainment venues remain open throughout the city.
Finding Emergency Pharmacy Services
While most pharmacies close on October 23rd, designated duty pharmacies remain accessible throughout the day and night. The National Public Health and Pharmacy Center maintains an online pharmacy locator where you can search for the nearest open location. This searchable database is regularly updated and shows which pharmacies are on duty in your area, ensuring you can get necessary medications even during the national celebration.
Shopping Friday Through Sunday
The good news for visitors is that October 24th operates under Saturday opening hours. This means most major supermarket chains and shopping centers return to their weekend schedules, which are generally quite generous. You’ll find stores open and ready for business, though perhaps opening slightly later than weekday hours.
Saturday the 25th and Sunday the 26th follow typical weekend patterns. Supermarkets maintain their regular weekend hours, shopping malls buzz with activity, and the city feels fully operational again. If you need to stock up on groceries, pick up souvenirs, or do any serious shopping during your long weekend visit, these three days give you ample opportunity.
Markets and Local Shopping
Budapest’s famous markets largely close on October 23rd, but smaller local markets might open at the discretion of individual vendors. On Friday through Sunday, markets return to their normal operating schedules, giving you the chance to experience authentic Hungarian market culture, sample local produce, and pick up handcrafted souvenirs.
Other Practical Services
Postal services: Post offices operate on reduced Saturday schedules on October 24th and 25th. Locations inside shopping centers may have different hours.
Waste collection: The regular garbage collection schedule continues uninterrupted, even on the holiday.
Planning Your Long Weekend in 2025
The four-day break coincides with autumn school holidays, which run from October 23rd through November 2nd, 2025. This means Budapest might feel busier with Hungarian families taking advantage of the extended time off. Popular tourist attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues will likely see increased local visitors alongside international tourists.
The October 23rd holiday offers a unique opportunity to experience Budapest at a different pace. While the commercial shutdowns might initially seem inconvenient, they create a more authentic glimpse into how Hungarians observe their national day. The city’s streets fill with commemorative events, the atmosphere becomes reflective and celebratory, and you’ll see a side of Budapest that differs from the everyday hustle.
Smart Shopping Tips for the Long Weekend
Pack some snacks before October 23rd to avoid scrambling for food. Plan your meals around restaurants rather than self-catering on the holiday. Remember that essential services remain available—you won’t go hungry, and you can still get medical supplies if needed. The following three days give you plenty of time to stock up, shop, and explore without restrictions.
Before making a special trip anywhere on the 23rd, check online or call ahead to confirm opening hours. This simple step can save you time and frustration during your Budapest adventure.
This long weekend presents an excellent opportunity to balance sightseeing with the local cultural experience. Whether you’re visiting thermal baths, exploring the Castle District, or simply wandering along the Danube, you’ll find that while shops might be closed, the city’s beauty and atmosphere remain fully open for discovery.
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