As winter finally gives way to spring each year, Hungary's capital city is transformed into a hub of music and culture. The Budapest Spring Festival draws travelers from across the world and backpackers should book their Budapest hostels early to ensure they have somewhere to stay.

When It Is
The Budapest Spring Festival takes place in the final fortnight of the month of March every year. This year it will begin on 20th March 2009 and will continue until 5th April 2009.

What It Is
A highlight in Hungary's cultural calendar, the Budapest Spring Festival is a long-standing annual celebration of orchestral and classical music. The city comes alive during two weeks in spring with musical performances, workshops and talks. Travelers on a budget can soak up the atmosphere and enjoy some of the free public performances that are regularly organized.

The Music
With over 200 performances arranged over 14 days, the Budapest Spring Festival will appeal to most musical and artistic tastes. Backpackers who enjoy jazz, opera, theater, ballet and concerts will not be disappointed.

Highlights
This year's highlights included performances by the Russian National Opera, an evening of jazz courtesy of Nigel Kennedy and flamenco fused with gypsy sounds brought to audiences by Maria Serrano and Kaman Balogh.

Contemporary dance performances and cultural film screenings reflect the festival's modern approach which makes it so popular among young people.

Where to Stay
Budapest hostels offer great value and are a far cry from the austere and limited travel accommodation that was available during the Communist era.

Travelers should head downtown to get the best Budapest hostel bargains. Many of the city's main attractions such as the thermal baths and Roman ruins are located here and backpackers will be able to combine the Budapest Spring Festival with some sightseeing.

Getting Around
Public transport in Budapest is excellent and backpackers can make their way to festival performances using the various modes of travel available.

A sophisticated bus and tram network makes navigating a journey from a traveler's Budapest hostel to any desired destination straightforward. Trolleybuses, overhead trains and underground lines are also reliable and cost-effective. It is also worth investigating transport discount promotions and travel passes.