Best Souvenirs from Budapest to Remember Your Trip

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Are you looking for the best souvenirs from Budapest? I’ve got you covered.

In this blog post, we’ll look into the top vegan-friendly Budapest souvenirs that not only capture the essence of this beautiful city but also align with ethical values.

I spent 2 weeks in Budapest this year and even though I couldn’t buy any souvenirs myself since I only travelled with a personal item-sized bag, it didn’t stop me from admiring the Hungarian craftsmanship.

This post hopefully helps you decide on a souvenir from Budapest you’re really excited about and that you’re going to use at home. And in case your bag is too small for souvenirs as well, you can just opt for eating a lot of chimney cake while you’re in Hungary, like me.

Let’s embark on this souvenir-hunting journey together, keeping it light, delightful, and utterly vegan.

Best Drinks and Food Souvenirs from Budapest

1. Paprika Powder or Dried Paprika

Paprika powder and fresh paprika on a table

Oh, where do we even start with Hungarian paprika? This vibrant red spice is more than just a kitchen staple, it’s a taste of Budapest’s rich culinary tradition and makes Budapest worth visiting. Hungarians love to cook with paprika and you see it in markets and stores everywhere.

Whether you opt for the aromatic paprika powder or the dried variant hung on a string, you’re bringing a piece of Hungary into your home if you decide on paprika as a souvenir.

No matter if you’re in Budapest for 3 days or shorter, you have to try some traditional Goulash or Paprikash, two of the most famous dishes prepared with paprika powder.

Once back home, you can try your own recreations of those Hungarian dishes, to be reminded of the bustling markets in Budapest. Not only is it a flavourful addition to your meals, but it also embodies the fiery spirit of Hungary.

2. Pálinka – Fruit Brandy

still life composition with traditional fruit brandy and pears on a vintage grunge wooden background

While you can get paprika in many other countries as well, even if it’s known as a very Hungarian product, you can only get Pálinka in Hungary. So it’s one of the unique things to do in Budapest.

The strong fruit spirit, about 40 to 70% alcohol, must be mashed, distilled, matured and bottled in Hungary in order to get the name Pálinka.

The most common fruits used for Palinka are plums, apricots, apples, pears, and cherries.

In Budapest, you’ll find Pálinka in many restaurants and bars. So, you can try it if it’s to your taste before buying a whole bottle in a local grocery store.

3. Unicum – Herbal Liquor

Two shots of alcoholic beverage on dark wooden background. Herbal bitter liqueur with different natural ingredients.

Continuing our list of best gifts from Budapest with another true Budapest liquor: Unicum. This herbal liqueur, with its secret blend of more than 40 different herbs and spices, is a journey for your taste buds, offering a complex yet harmonious blend of flavours.

It’s a staple in Hungarian households, often enjoyed as a digestive aid after a hearty meal. And you’ll be able to taste the traditional Unicum in many restaurants after your meal.

As you stroll through Budapest’s picturesque streets, you’ll see this iconic green bottle on the shelves of many local shops. It’s more than a drink, it’s a true embodiment of Hungarian hospitality and culinary artistry.

4. Chimney Cake

Tina eating chimney cake in Budapest, not that handy to pack but so delicious it's one of the best souvenirs from Budapest

Chimney cake might not be one of the best edible souvenirs from Budapest if you have a long journey home since it’s best when it’s fresh. But it’s so delicious and so popular in Hungary it can’t be missing from this list.

It’s a great food souvenir if you don’t live far away or you want a traditional Hungarian snack for your journey.

You can buy chimney cake at food stalls all around the city and you can choose between different toppings, like cinnamon, chocolate or coconut. Many stalls have them labelled as vegan, if you don’t see a label you can just ask the staff about it.

My favourite chimney cake is a classic one with just cinnamon and sugar as a topping. I had so many during my time in Budapest because they’re so delicious. Trying chimney cake counts as one of the amazing things to do in Budapest.

You can find even more delicious vegan snacks in Budapest, but the other ones are even more difficult to transport.

5. Tokaji Wine

Recommended by Lowri from Many Other Wines

If you’re planning a trip to Budapest, one of the most memorable things you can bring home with you is some Tokaji wine. This sweet wine has been a staple of Hungarian cuisine for centuries, and it’s now gaining popularity around the world as well.

Sweet Tokaji wine has been produced in the Tokaj wine regions since the 16th century, and it’s known for its unique flavour. It’s made from a combination of Furmint and Hárslevelű grapes, giving it a sweet yet tangy taste.

If you are a fan of wine and love travelling on a budget, this is one of the best wine spots in Europe for you!

You can easily buy a bottle of this amazing Hungarian wine from a liquor stores, wine shops and even some supermarkets.

However, if you want to sample and buy some of this wine in the most amazing way, book the wine-tasting experience in the cellars underneath Budapest Castle.

Traditional Souvenirs from Budapest

6. Hungarian Embroidery

Multiple embroidered table clothes, one of the souvenirs from Budapest

Hungarian embroidery is a canvas where tales of Hungarian heritage come to life through threads and needles.

Whether it’s a delicately embroidered tablecloth gracing your dining table or a vibrant wall hanging adding a splash of colour to your living space, Hungarian embroidery brings a touch of Budapest’s vibrant culture into your home.

The best place to buy Hungarian embroidery is at one of the traditional markets. You might even be able to chat with the creator of the embroidery. And knowing the person behind the product and the story behind the embroidery makes this Budapest souvenir even more special.

7. Ajka Crystal

In the heart of Hungary, the town of Ajka harbours a sparkling secret – the birthplace of the world-renowned Ajka Crystal. Each piece is meticulously crafted and stands as a beacon of elegance and sophistication, promising to add a touch of luxury to your home.

It’s not the cheapest souvenir from Budapest but quality has its price. So if the price is too good to be true make sure to check if it’s really Ajka Crystal or just a cheap knock-off.

8. Hungarian Porcelain

Plates with a detailed blue pattern on it stacked on a table

Steeped in centuries of tradition, Hungarian porcelain is a canvas where art meets elegance. It’s not just a piece of decor, it’s a fragment of Hungary’s soul, encapsulated in delicate patterns and ethereal forms.

Hungarian porcelain comes in different shapes and patterns, most often it’s a flowery pattern on plates and cups.

Porcelain is besides Ajka Crystal the most difficult for transportation but once you bring it home it’s a useful souvenir which you can use for years and you’ll always be reminded of Budapest.

9. Painted Wooden Egg

Traditional Easter Eggs on a tree outside Matthias church in Budapest, Hungary, Happy Easter!

As we traverse the vibrant markets of Budapest, we come across a delightful find that combines tradition with a touch of modern sensibility – the painted wooden eggs.

Traditionally, the hand-painted eggs are real, but nowadays you can also find a more vegan-friendly version – wooden eggs.

10. Traditional Hungarian Shirt

Traditional hangarian embroidery shirts sold on a Central Market Hall

Traditional Hungarian shirts are adorned with intricate embroidery, usually a floral design in bright colours.

Despite their traditional roots, these shirts blend seamlessly with modern fashion. I think their unique designs go really well with a pair of jeans. In an outfit like this your pictures in Budapest will be even more instagrammable.

Wearing a traditional Hungarian shirt is like donning a piece of the country’s vibrant culture. It fosters a deep connection with the land and its rich history, making you a walking ambassador of Hungary’s vibrant cultural narrative.

Fun souvenirs from Budapest

11. Rubik’s Cube

brain game rubik cube in hand isolated on white background.

Did you know that the Rubik’s Cube was invented by Hungarian architect Ernő Rubik? I didn’t know that before visiting Budapest.

A Rubik’s Cube is therefore the perfect souvenir from Budapest if you’ve ever wanted to solve one of these. Get a cube, download a video of how to solve one and you have the whole journey home to practice.

And once you’re home, you can impress your friends and family by solving a Rubik’s Cube and telling them about the Hungarian inventor.

12. Traditional Hungarian Doll

A bunch of traditional Hungarian dolls, some of the best souvenirs from Budapest

Traditional Hungarian dolls aren’t just toys, they are a vibrant tapestry of Hungarian folklore, each doll narrating a tale of the country’s rich history and traditions.

The dolls are dressed in intricately designed costumes that mirror the traditional outfits of various Hungarian regions. These dolls are a beautiful representation of the country’s diverse cultural tapestry.

You’ll be able to appreciate these dolls even more if you get the chance to visit a traditional festival in Hungary to see the life-sized counterparts of the costumes.

13. Hungarian playing cards

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One of Budapest’s best souvenirs to buy is Hungarian playing cards, also known as Magyar kártya! These cards are a unique deck with its own history behind it.

Magyar kártya consists of only 32 cards that are divided into four suits: acorns (nuts), hearts (red), leaves (green) and bells (pumpkins), inspired by the original German playing card deck. But what makes Magyar kártya unique are their numbers, figures and designs.

Some cards are numbered with Roman numerals from VII to X instead of numerical figures. Other cards feature aces, Kings and Under and Upper Jacks. The ace cards each represent the seasons of the year and the four Kings represent anonymous heroes sitting on horses.

Meanwhile, the Under and Upper Jacks feature folk figures such as William Tell, a Swiss folk hero, and Herman Gessler, who was William Tell’s enemy.

It is theorised that József Schneider, who designed these cards in the 1830s, chose Swiss heroes to encourage the revolutionary spirit that led to the Hungarian War of Independence.

By the late 19th century, Magyar kártya became popular amongst Hungarians, with Macau and Snapzli being the most popular games to this day!

14. Hungarian Puzzle Box

The Hungarian puzzle box is a truly unique find. This isn’t just a box, it’s a work of art. Crafted meticulously with intricate patterns and secret compartments, each box is a mind-bending puzzle waiting to be solved.

You can spend hours at home deciphering the secrets of this enigmatic box, a delightful challenge that beckons both kids and adults alike.

It’s not just a souvenir, it’s an experience, a chance to engage with a piece of Hungarian creativity and innovation.

Once you solved all its secrets, you can display it as a piece of art or use it to stash your precious keepsakes. This puzzle box will add a touch of mystery and elegance to your home.

Unique souvenirs from Budapest

15. Hungarian Spa Products

indoor thermal bath in Budapest with beautiful decorated columns next to the pool

Budapest is known for its many thermal baths. There are many thermal baths in the centre of Budapest making for the perfect places to relax after a day sightseeing.

But the relaxation doesn’t have to end with your visit. You can bring a slice of this tranquillity home with you, thanks to the range of spa products available at these thermal baths.

From mineral-rich mud masks to aromatic essential oils, from towels to shampoos these products are a gateway to Budapest’s age-old tradition of wellness and relaxation.

Recreate the soothing ambience of a Hungarian spa in your own bathroom, turning your skincare routine into a luxurious daily ritual. You might even discover massage oil to rekindle the memory of a Budapest massage.

16. Ceramic Flowers

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If you are looking for a unique souvenir to get from Budapest, then you need to get yourself some ceramic flowers. Ceramics are usually a popular souvenir in Hungary. But it is not everyday you find ceramic flowers.

You can get ceramic flowers in different sizes and if you are short on space, you can always opt for a single flower or a smaller bouquet.

The best place to get it in Budapest is from Bokreta Kremaria and they have thousands of options for you to choose from. You can get a big basket of ceramic flowers as well as entire pieces of a ceramic flower garden including cute farm animals.

Prices start at 10 euros and you can get a mini vase of flowers for around 45 euros. It is a perfect gift to get for your ladies from Budapest. It was so tough choosing just a few to get from Budapest.

17. Stationery from Bomo Art Budapest

3 notepads on a table next to a business card

Recommended by Goya Galeotta

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect souvenir to remember your trip by, you have to stop by Bomo Art Budapest.

Nestled in the heart of the city, Bomo Art Budapest, boasts two charming stores that are home to some of the most beautiful and one-of-a-kind stationery you’ll ever lay your eyes on.

What truly makes Bomo Art Budapest stand out is its dedication to connecting people with the magic of books and sparking their creativity with meticulously crafted notebooks, journals, and diaries.

These pieces are not just functional; they are true works of art. And what’s even more special is that they incorporate Budapest’s iconic landmarks and rich history into their designs.

As you flip through their collections, you’ll come across stunning depictions of famous places like the Opera House, and the Gresham Palace and intricate designs featuring historical maps of Budapest from the late 19th century. It’s impossible not to be captivated by their beauty!

Now, when it comes to pricing, it can vary depending on the complexity of the design and the size of the item you choose. But fear not, you can start your souvenir collection with as little as €10, which makes these pieces affordable mementoes of your Budapest adventure.

So, whether you’re someone who loves to jot down your thoughts, an art enthusiast, or simply in search of a unique keepsake to remember your time in Budapest, Bomo Art Budapest’s stationery is an exceptional and meaningful choice. It’s a piece of this captivating city that you can carry with you wherever you go.

Cheap souvenirs from Budapest

18. Fridge Magnets

Artistic hungarian handmade porcelain china fridge magnets as souvenirs. Folklore from Hungary Europe Budapest

As we continue our souvenir hunt, we stumble upon a classic yet ever-charming option – fridge magnets. Now, you might think, “Oh, it’s just a fridge magnet”, but let me tell you, it’s a classic for a reason.

From intricate designs showcasing Budapest’s iconic landmarks to quirky pieces that capture the city’s vibrant spirit, these aren’t just magnets, they are tiny canvases that showcase the life of Budapest.

Imagine your fridge turning into a mini gallery, each magnet narrating a different chapter of your travels and one piece of that is your trip to Budapest. It’s a daily splash of joy, a constant reminder of the beautiful moments you experienced on your holidays.

And the best part? They are lightweight and easy to carry, making them a hassle-free addition to your great souvenir collection.

19. Coffee Mug

Hungary, Budapest. A bunch of souvenir tea mugs with magyar landmarks on a shelf from market in Budapest.

I know coffee mugs as souvenirs are a bit basic but I love all the mugs I got from different countries! Every time I drink my tea out of a souvenir mug I remember my holidays.

In Budapest, you can find mugs with intricate patterns inspired by Hungarian folklore or with iconic landmarks of Budapest. These mugs are a daily reminder of your Hungarian adventure.

They are a perfect blend of artistry and functionality, making your morning coffee ritual a bit more special.

Where to buy the best Budapest souvenirs

You can get a lot of souvenirs at different souvenir shops or markets. Just wander through Budapest and keep your eyes open. Here I just want to talk about the most famous and biggest places where you can get your souvenirs.

Central Market

The Central Market Hall is a haven for anyone looking to find Hungarian souvenirs. This bustling market offers a vibrant array of options, from traditional Hungarian embroidery to all forms of paprika.

Even if you don’t end up buying anything, the great market hall is worth visiting. Strolling through this bustling indoor market is one of the best things to do in Budapest.

But even though the Central Market is a good place to stroll through and do some souvenir shopping, keep in mind that the market is very touristy and some prices might be higher than when you shop at a not so popular place.

Memories of Hungary

There are a lot of gift shops in Budapest since Hungary’s capital is very popular for tourists. The best souvenir shop Budapest has to offer is Memories of Hungary.

From the moment you step in, you’re greeted with a wide range of colours and patterns, each product narrating a tale of Hungary’s vibrant heritage.

Whether you’re on the hunt for a classic fridge magnet or some Hungarian playing cards, this place has got you covered.

Paprika Market

Paprika is important in Hungary, like really important. That’s why there’s even a special shop all about paprika: the Paprika Market.

As you wander through, you’ll find an array of paprika variants, from the fiery hot to the sweet and mild, each promising to add a burst of flavour to your culinary adventures.

But it’s not just about the spice, the market is also a great place to get a range of paprika-infused products, from sauces to marinades, allowing you to bring a bit of Hungarian cuisine into your home

Final thoughts: Souvenirs to buy in Budapest

After your Budapest holiday you’ll find yourself full of vibrant memories and perhaps a few souvenirs to bring home.

And whether you’re bringing home a piece of Hungarian innovation with a Rubik’s Cube or adding a touch of elegance to your home with Ajka Crystal, each souvenir is a chance to remember the amazing moments spent in Budapest.