Prepare to Be Stunned in Hungary, Queen Elizabeth’s Garden of Lights in Gödöllő Is the Ultimate Winter Destination for Light Lovers and History Buffs Alike!

Published on December 29, 2025

The Royal Palace of Gödöllő, located just a short distance from Budapest, is once again bringing the magic of the season to life with the Queen Elizabeth’s Garden of Lights. From 24 October to 31 December 2025, the palace gardens will be transformed into an enchanting spectacle, bathed in thousands of sparkling lights. This annual event has become a highlight of Hungary’s winter tourism calendar, attracting visitors from all over the world to experience the beauty and history of one of Hungary’s most iconic landmarks.

A Dazzling Display of Light and Art

As visitors step into the garden, they are greeted by an awe-inspiring visual feast. The Garden of Lights features an array of light sculptures, trees adorned with glittering lights, and intricate installations that create an atmosphere of pure wonder. The palace grounds are illuminated by over a million lights, creating a magical ambiance that is perfect for an evening stroll or family outing. The exhibition is carefully designed to integrate art with the natural beauty of the palace gardens, providing an immersive experience that is both captivating and serene.

A Royal Experience with Magical Themes

The exhibition is not just about lights; it is a tribute to Queen Elizabeth of Austria, also known as Sisi, who often visited the palace. The light displays are divided into several themed sections that reflect different aspects of the royal heritage and the beauty of the palace grounds.

• Sisi’s Garden – A serene section inspired by the royal gardens Queen Elizabeth cherished, filled with whimsical floral displays that evoke the elegance of the past.
• The Music of Lights – A celebration of music, with light installations inspired by musical instruments and the rhythm of melodies, transforming the gardens into a symphony of glowing colors.
• Baroque Brilliance – This section brings the grandeur of the Baroque era to life, with light displays designed to reflect the opulence of the palace’s architecture.
• Children’s Wonderland – A playful, interactive area that features lights designed to delight children and families, with fun installations that encourage creativity and imagination.

Each of these themed areas offers a different experience, ensuring that visitors of all ages can find something to marvel at. The combination of artistic lighting and historical inspiration makes this event a unique celebration of Hungary’s royal past.

Ride the Ferris Wheel for Stunning Views

One of the highlights of the Queen Elizabeth’s Garden of Lights is the ferris wheel located within the gardens. This attraction provides a panoramic view of the illuminated palace and its surroundings, offering a bird’s-eye perspective of the stunning light displays. Visitors can take a ride on the ferris wheel and enjoy the beauty of the exhibition from above, making it an unforgettable part of the experience.

The ferris wheel also serves as a perfect photo opportunity, capturing the grandeur of the royal palace and the twinkling lights of the gardens from a unique angle. It’s an ideal way to see the exhibition in a whole new light, literally and figuratively.

A Family-Friendly Winter Wonderland

The Queen Elizabeth’s Garden of Lights is designed to be a family-friendly event, offering an enchanting environment for both children and adults. The interactive light installations and playful features in the Children’s Wonderland make it especially appealing for younger visitors, while the romantic atmosphere of the Baroque and Sisi-inspired sections provides a more tranquil experience for couples and history enthusiasts.

Families can enjoy leisurely walks through the garden, take photos with the stunning light sculptures, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The event is perfect for creating lasting memories and enjoying the magic of the season together.

Ticket Information and Visitor Details

Tickets for the Garden of Lights can be purchased either online or on-site. The exhibition is open daily from 17:00 to 21:00, with the last entry at 20:30. Standard ticket prices for adults start at 4300 HUF, while tickets for children and seniors are available at a reduced rate of 3900 HUF. Family tickets are also offered at a discounted price, making it an affordable outing for families looking to experience the magic of the lights together.

Additionally, visitors can purchase combined tickets that include access to both the light exhibition and the permanent exhibition inside the Royal Palace, which is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00. This is an excellent option for those looking to explore both the palace’s historical interiors and the stunning light displays in the gardens.

The exhibition is closed on select holidays, including 1 November, 24–25 December, and 31 December, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Getting There – Easy Access from Budapest

The Royal Palace of Gödöllő is easily accessible from Budapest, making it an ideal destination for a day trip. Visitors can reach the palace by suburban train (HÉV) from Keleti Station, with a journey time of around 40 minutes. Alternatively, those driving can take advantage of the available parking near the palace.

Gödöllő is located just 30 kilometers from Budapest, and the easy access to the palace makes it a popular choice for both local visitors and international tourists. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the light exhibition or explore the palace’s rich history, Gödöllő is a perfect winter getaway.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Event

The Queen Elizabeth’s Garden of Lights is not just a light exhibition; it’s a celebration of history, culture, and artistic brilliance. The event brings together Hungary’s royal heritage with modern light art to create an experience that is both magical and educational. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular, there is always something new to discover in the gardens as the lights transform the space each year.

This winter, make sure to add the Queen Elizabeth’s Garden of Lights to your travel itinerary. With its stunning displays, family-friendly atmosphere, and breathtaking views, it’s an event that promises to captivate and enchant all who visit.