Central Market Hall

Also known as Great Market Hall, Budapest’s largest and oldest indoor market is reminiscent of the inside of a train station and is conveniently located in Pest at the end of Váci utca. Although Great Market Hall is a one-stop shop for everything from fresh produce and paprika to pálinka and Hungarian souvenirs, we were there to try the lángos, a deep-fried delight that can be prepared sweet or savory. Booths selling lángos and several other eateries and souvenir shops can be found on the second floor.

It doesn’t matter if you’re trying to find authentic Hungarian spices, meats tapestries or even a few snacks for your next train ride: The Central Market has to be a stop while visiting Budapest. On the ground floor you’ll find several vendors offering the best kolbasz, cured meats, fruits and vegetables from across the puztà, the Great Hungarian Plains. Stop here for a taste of the country, the restaurant upstairs is a bit kitschy, but if you are only in town for a day or two, it’s a great chance to try some regional dishes.