You’ve seen the photos of the Hungarian Parliament Building dusted in white, looking like a literal gingerbread house. It’s dreamy. But honestly, if you're looking at the 10 day weather forecast for budapest right now, you might be seeing something a bit more... grey.
Budapest in late January is a mood. It’s cold.
As of Sunday, January 18, 2026, the city is sitting at a crisp 31°F. It’s mostly sunny today, which is a total win because January usually averages only about two hours of bright sunshine a day. If you're out by the Danube right now, that light east wind at 2 mph feels like a gentle slap of reality.
The Week Ahead: Is Snow Actually Coming?
Everyone wants the "Winter Wonderland" experience, but Budapest weather is notoriously fickle. Looking at the next few days, we’re entering a bit of a deep freeze. Tomorrow, Monday, January 19, the high is only going to hit 27°F. The low? A bone-chilling 18°F.
It stays in that sub-freezing pocket through Wednesday.
Then things get interesting. Friday, January 23, shows a 25% chance of snow at night. By Saturday, January 24, we’re looking at a messy mix of rain and snow with a high of 35°F. This is that classic Central European "slush phase" where the city looks beautiful for twenty minutes before turning into a grey puddle.
Here is the quick breakdown of what the next several days look like:
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- Sunday (Today): High 31°F, Low 20°F. Mostly sunny, turning cloudy at night.
- Monday: High 27°F, Low 18°F. Properly sunny but colder.
- Tuesday: High 28°F, Low 18°F. Partly sunny, very dry.
- Wednesday: High 31°F, Low 19°F. The clouds move back in.
- Thursday: High 32°F, Low 26°F. Creeping toward the freezing mark.
Why You Can't Trust the Forecast Blindly
Basically, Budapest sits in the Carpathian Basin. This creates a "lake of cold air" effect. Sometimes the forecast says it’ll be 35°F, but because the air is so damp and trapped by the surrounding mountains, it feels like 20°F in your marrow.
Humidity is the real killer here.
Right now, humidity is hovering around 74%, and it’s expected to climb as high as 92% by Monday, January 26. When the humidity hits 90% and the temperature is 37°F (the forecast for that Monday), you will feel colder than if it were a dry 20°F.
You’ve gotta dress for the moisture, not just the number on the screen.
The Turn Toward Rain
Toward the end of this 10-day window, the "Great Thaw" begins, sort of. By Sunday, January 25, the high jumps to 38°F. Instead of snow, we’re looking at light rain.
The chance of precipitation jumps to 35%.
If you're visiting, this is actually the trickiest time to be a tourist. Ice starts melting off the Neo-Gothic carvings, and the sidewalks get incredibly slick. Tuesday, January 27, sees the temperature drop back down to a low of 22°F after a 36°F day. That is a recipe for black ice.
Be careful walking up to the Fisherman’s Bastion. Seriously.
Expert Packing: What You Actually Need
Forget the light "fall" coat. You need a long parka. The wind coming off the Danube isn't usually fast (forecasted between 3-9 mph this week), but it is relentless.
- Waterproof boots: Essential for the Jan 24-26 slush period.
- Thermal layers: Uniqlo Heattech or similar. You'll thank me when you're standing in line for a chimney cake.
- Gloves with tech-fingertips: You're going to want photos of the Basilica, and taking your gloves off in 18°F weather is a mistake you only make once.
Actionable Tips for This Forecast
If you are in the city or arriving this week, pivot your plans based on these specific shifts.
On the sunny days (Monday and Tuesday), do your outdoor sightseeing. Head to Castle Hill early. The low UV index (around 0 or 1) means you won't get burned, but the clarity will be amazing for photos.
When the rain and snow mix starts on Saturday and Sunday, retreat to the thermal baths. Széchenyi or Gellért are best when it's miserable outside. There is something deeply satisfying about sitting in 100°F water while 35°F rain hits your face.
Next Steps for You: Check the wind direction. When the wind shifts from East to Northwest (like it will around Jan 27), it often brings clearer, sharper air. Keep an eye on the humidity levels on your weather app; if it's over 85%, add an extra layer.