Behold the beauty of sakura—not just in Japan

Here are a few locations where the blossoming of fruit trees can be truly spectacular.

• Tóth Árpád Promenade, Buda Castle: a classic cherry blossom walk in a pink ‘tunnel’ along the castle wall.
• ELTE Botanical Garden: a botanical garden with Japanese cherry trees and spring events.
• Buda Arboretum: a quiet, lesser-known sakura spot at the foot of Gellért Hill.
• Millenáris Park: a landscaped environment with a playground and flowering trees—ideal for families.
• Margaret Island: a green oasis on the Danube, with ornamental trees blooming in spring.

Pro tip: don’t miss the Sakura Festival at the ELTE Botanical Garden, celebrating the blooming of Japanese cherry trees (ohanami)! The programme includes events related to Japanese culture, such as an ikebana exhibition, Japanese music, martial arts demonstrations, concerts and a haiku competition. Visit the Botanical Garden’s website (fuveszkert.org) for dates and times.

Since these blossoms last only a few weeks, and are outdoor events, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:

• The blossoming depends on the weather, usually reaching its peak from late March to mid-April—keep an eye on updates!
• The flowers are at their most beautiful in the morning, when they’re still fresh—and the crowds are smaller then, too. At this time of day, the light is softer, making photos far more evocative.
• Many locations also host spring events, such as sakura festivals or flower-themed weekends.
• For trips outside the city, it’s worth checking local events and opening hours in advance.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the following locations:

• Vácrátót National Botanical Garden: One of Hungary’s most beautiful and largest botanical gardens, with over 13,000 plant species. The thematic gardens, vast lawns and pleasant walking paths, offering views of unique trees, shrubs and flowers, are especially appealing for families. In spring and summer, the garden’s colourful, fragrant flowers and shady trees provide the perfect setting for picnics and play. 
• The Tuzson János Botanical Garden in Nyíregyháza, with its diverse plant collection and thematic gardens, offers an engaging experience for all ages. During cherry blossom season, the site is especially spectacular, as the pink and white flowers conjure a true springtime magic.
• The Botanical Garden of Szeged is a pleasant place to stroll year-round, offering a fabulous sight with its diverse plant collection and flowering trees, making it perfect for a family walk or casual photography.