Budapest’s Quirky and Colorful Lehel Market

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Budapest is full of incredible things to see and do. One that makes every list of things to do in the city is the Great Market Hall (Vasarcsarnok), also called the Central Market Hall. It is worth a trip to view the majestic building with its Zsolnay tile roof.

However, for something different, I suggest you visit the Lehel Market (Lehel Csarnok).

Full disclosure: I am not a fan of markets. I don’t enjoy food shopping, so I want to get in and out, not stroll from stall to stall, making multiple purchases. Also, most markets are open fewer hours than supermarkets, so they tend to be crowded. But when Steve and I happened across Lehel Market one day, I was impressed enough to return another day for a shopping trip and a chance to photograph its unique interior.

You may be shocked when you first see it. It has nothing in common with any other building in Budapest. It is supposed to resemble a ship.

I think the outside is an eyesore, and I am not the only one. Here is a quote from Steve Fallon, a writer for Lonely Planet guides:

“Lehel Csarnok is housed in a hideous boat-like structure designed by László Rajk, son of the Communist minister of the interior executed for ‘Titoism’ in 1949. Apparently this is his revenge.”

Once you enter the market, you will be greeted by a colorful interior full of brightly painted beams and curving railings.

Both the Central and Lehel markets are heavy on food products: produce, pastries, meats, herbs, and spices (including many paprika products). Both have a supermarket in the basement and stalls on the upper levels where you can buy non-food items or grab a quick bite. The upper floors of Lehel Market are teeming with inexpensive household and personal products (think dollar store after dollar store).

Lehel is also more “market-like,” in my opinion. The Central Market has a touristy feel, with the first-floor stalls flanking wide aisles.

Lehel Market combines stalls with plenty of tables full of produce.

The Central Market draws tourists, while Lehel is more of a locals’ shopping center.

The Central Market is on the Pest side near the foot of the Liberty Bridge at Fővám tér (District IX). The website is in Hungarian and English.

Lehel Market is on Vaci ut 9-15, just a bit north of the Westend Mall. Its website is only in Hungarian.

Both can be reached easily by public transportation. Lehel Market is a bit further from the city center, but not so far that you should miss it if markets are your thing.

For more market options in Budapest, check out “The Most Important Markets in Budapest” by havefun.travel. And don’t miss our post, “The Funky Side of Budapest” for more Hungarian quirkiness.

Happy traveling,
Linda

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