Budapest International Guitar Competition

Repertoire requirements

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• Preliminary Round · 20 min
  • Free choice program
• Semi-Final · 25 min
  • Free choice program
• Final · 30 min
  • Free choice recital

Official website

https://budapestguitar.com/

Visiting? A guitarist's guide to Budapest

Photo: Visions of Domino, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Budapest, a city famously known as the "Paris of the East" for its scenic setting and grand architecture, offers a unique blend of youthful atmosphere, world-class classical music, and natural thermal baths. This vibrant capital, split into historic Buda and Pest by the Danube River, becomes a focal point for classical guitarists during the annual Budapest International Guitar Competition, drawing talent to one of Europe's most delightful cities.

Getting there

The most convenient way to reach Budapest is by flying into Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). From the airport, a well-connected public transport system, including buses and metro lines, provides efficient access to the city center. Budapest boasts Europe's first underground transit line, the M1 Millennium Underground, opened in 1896, and its extensive metro and tram network forms the backbone of daily transportation, moving millions of people. Once settled, the city's central areas are highly walkable, and the efficient public transport makes navigating between districts straightforward.

Compare trains, buses & flights to Budapest on Omio →

Hungary runs on Type F sockets, standard across most of Europe, so you will only need a travel adapter if you are coming from the UK, Ireland, or beyond Europe.

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Where to stay

For visitors attending the competition, basing yourself in Pest's central districts, such as Belváros (Inner City) or Lipótváros (Leopold Town), places you at the heart of the action. These areas, rich with beautiful squares, cafés, and major sights, offer excellent walkability and proximity to cultural venues. Újlipótváros, just outside the Great Boulevard, provides a relaxed residential atmosphere with its own array of restaurants and shops, making it another fine choice. Hotels and guesthouses are plentiful, catering to various budgets, but booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak event times.

What you'll hear

The Budapest International Guitar Competition is an annual event that attracts top emerging guitarists from around the globe. It offers a substantial first prize, including €5,000 and a Sakurai guitar, as part of a total prize fund of €20,000. While the competition does not feature a concerto round, the repertoire required for each stage can be found on the official website, ensuring a diverse program of solo guitar music from various periods.

Beyond the competition, Budapest is celebrated for its world-class classical music scene, making it a fitting location for a major guitar event. The city is home to the magnificent State Opera House and numerous other venues that regularly host orchestral concerts, chamber music, and recitals. This rich musical heritage provides a vibrant cultural backdrop, allowing attendees to immerse themselves not only in the guitar competition but also in the broader classical traditions of Hungary's capital.

If you play as well as listen, explore Franz Liszt, whose academy hosts the finals in our repertoire finder, where you can hear each piece and find the sheet music.

The local table

Budapest has earned its place among the top 50 food cities globally, renowned for its distinctive Hungarian cuisine. While here, explore the city's culinary landscape, which ranges from traditional eateries to nearly ten Michelin-starred restaurants. Expect hearty and flavorful dishes, often featuring paprika, rich stews, and a variety of meats. Beyond the formal dining scene, Budapest's vibrant café culture offers delightful pastries and coffee, perfect for a break between competition rounds or sightseeing. Do not miss the opportunity to sample local specialties and experience the city's dynamic gastronomic offerings.

Fancy a guided taste? Food and wine tours in Budapest →

While you're there

Between competition events, Budapest offers a wealth of sights and experiences. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter, and Andrássy Avenue. On the Buda side, ascend to Buda Castle, visit the Matthias Church, and take in panoramic views of the city. Cross the Chain Bridge to Pest, where you can marvel at the Hungarian Parliament Building, the third-largest parliament building in the world, and visit St. Stephen's Basilica. Budapest is also Europe's spa capital, with over 100 medicinal geothermal springs; a visit to one of its famous thermal baths, such as Széchenyi or Gellért, is a quintessential experience. Delve into history at the Dohány Street Synagogue, the second-largest in the world, or explore one of the city's more than 40 museums and galleries. In the evenings, discover Budapest's pulsating nightlife, particularly its unique ruin bars, which offer a memorable social experience.

Tours, tickets and day trips in Budapest →

More guitar events in Hungary: Balaton Guitar Festival · Szeged International Guitar Festival and Competition

Listing data is compiled from official sources and can change each edition. Always confirm dates, deadlines and requirements on the organizer's official website before applying or booking travel. Spotted an error? See our terms or let us know via the About page.

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