This year's festival puts German-language literature in the spotlight, with Germany, Austria and Switzerland as the featured guest countries. The programme will bring a diverse group of acclaimed authors to Budapest, including Nelio Biedermann, Christian Kracht, Melinda Nadj Abonji, Eugen Ruge, Tonio Schachinger and Johanna Sebauer. 

The guest-country programme carries the playful motto “Hallo, Literatourist!”, reflecting the festival's aim to turn literature into a journey across languages, cultures and borders. Alongside book launches and author talks, visitors can enjoy readings, workshops, creative activities and family programmes. 

A major highlight will be Irish author Colm Tóibín, this year's guest of honour and recipient of the Budapest Grand Prize. Known internationally for novels such as Brooklyn, Long Island and The Testament of Mary, Tóibín will be a key figure at this year's festival. His novel The Magician, about the life of Thomas Mann, is also being published in Hungarian to coincide with the event. 

Irish literature will have an additional presence this year, as the festival marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Hungary. 

The 2026 festival will take place at the spacious, modern HUNGEXPO Congress Center, offering around 15,000 square metres of event space across three levels. Hundreds of programmes are expected, from book presentations and readings to author signings and professional events. 

Families are also well catered for. The new Special Children's World will offer creative workshops, interactive performances and educational activities, while programmes will explore subjects such as neurodiversity, autism, ADHD and the therapeutic role of storytelling. One of the featured international guests is Swiss author Nelio Biedermann, who will appear in both German- and English-language discussions on October 2, followed by a book-signing session. 

More than a traditional book fair, the Budapest International Book Festival offers an opportunity to meet authors, discover new literature and experience the city's international cultural scene. For visitors to Budapest, it is easy to combine the festival with sightseeing, museums and an evening in the city centre. 

If you are looking for something beyond Budapest's usual tourist attractions, the Book Festival offers a fascinating way to experience the city through contemporary European literature, international authors and cultural exchange.