Young tourists love Budapest because it has a great cultural story and vibrant nightlife. Anyone who is eager to meet travelers, have fun and stay somewhere inexpensive should get involved in a Backpackers Pub Crawl in Budapest. If you travel on your own or with friends, you’re sure to have a blast in Budapest’s ruin bars which serve cheap drinks and a lively atmosphere.
With this guide, you’ll know what you are getting into, where to drink and great advice for a fun night out in Budapest.
Why Go With a Pub Crawl in Budapest?
Ruin pubs in Budapest are well-known, as they are built inside ruins and surrounded by eclectic furniture, graffiti and an attractive setting. Local nightlife has made the Jewish Quarter one of the hottest night spots in town.
Having a pub crawl lets you:
An excellent way to discover several music spots at the same time.
You’ll find shots and drinks are nearly always on special.
Experienced local guides know where to take you.
You have instant chances to connect with fellow travelers.
In addition, you don’t need to worry about where to drink safely; the best places are shared for you.
The Best Way to Begin: Common Start for Pub Crawls
The Hungarian capital’s Backpackers Pub Crawls generally begin in the Jewish Quarter, either near Deák Ferenc Square or Instant-Fogas Complex, both spots easy to find near many hostels.
Examples of famous pub crawl organizers are:
All Night Crash Pub Crawl Budapest
The city is famous for helpful guides and a drink at every bar.
Usually, these pub tours are put together by different hostels across the city.
Especially designed for those who are looking to travel within a budget.
Originally, Budapest had its own pub crawl.
Access VIP entry at some of the best clubs and ruin bars.
Participants typically start out between 8:30 and 9:00 PM and the event finishes around one of the city’s biggest after-hours spots late at night.
Main Destinations Found on a Pub Crawl
When making a pub crawl plan, these are a few of the most famous places you’ll stroll through:
1. Szimpla Kert
The very first and most famous ruin pub in the city. Too many different couches, vintage TVs old enough to be modern and bathtubs used as seats, all mixed with live DJs are what you will find.
2. Instant-Fogas Complex
A big place that includes several dance areas and plenty of bars. Whether you like techno, hip hop or funky house, you’ll find music for you there.
3. Ellátó Kert
A choice with plenty of chairs outdoors, as well as delicious street snacks. It’s perfect for warming up before a show.
4. Kuplung (provided it is reopened or replaced)
Originally a garage, the venue often showcases local bands and players enjoy using the thriving dance floor.
5. Doboz
Decorated in a contemporary style, with a huge red-eyed tree outside. After dark, but both residents and tourists love it.
What You’ll Need and Wear
You will usually need to give your ID or passport when going out, since many bars and clubs check for those 18 and above.
Although most places take cards, various shots bars or small pubs typically want cash instead.
Choose shoes that won’t hurt your feet as you might be hopping around all night.
If your phone is charged, it’s best to have Google Maps or an offline map app, as a backup if you get lost from the group.
You don’t have to dress up much for pubs, however, don’t wear beachwear if the crawl concludes in a club.
Ways to Make Sure You Have a Fun Night Safely
Try your best to stay in a group.
Forgetting the map is easy if you lose yourself on one of Budapest’s maze-like roads. Travel from bar to bar along with your friends.
Pace Yourself:
If shots are free and the beers are cheap, it’s easy to overdo it from the beginning. Always keep in mind that a good career takes time.
Keep an eye on what you have:
In a similar way to other cities, crowded bars are favorite places for pickpockets. Always watch your wallet and phone when you are alone.
Eat healthy snacks and don’t forget to drink lots of water.
Take a bottle of water and try to have a substantial meal before the evening gets started. Almost every crawl has a late night snack or pizza break.
Look Up Hostel Information.
Be sure to copy or save your accommodation address so you don’t forget it. If something happens and you travel alone, Bolt and local taxis are cheap and risk-free when organized from the app.
Cost Analysis for the Night
Participants need to pay anywhere from €10 to €20 for entry.
This package gives you entry, a few complimentary drinks and possibly a way into a club as well.
Drinks:
Beers: €2–€3
Cocktails: €4–€6
Entry to Shots is often granted with a wristband or the price is €1 to €2.
Going out for a late treat will cost you around €3 to €5.
Examples are cheesy lángos, pizza or döner kebab.
By taxi, it will cost €3 to €6.
Places to Stay: Backpacker Hostels Closer to Places of Interest
If you’re joining a pub crawl, make sure you stay close. If you’re planning a party trip, consider staying at one of these:
Maverick City Lodge
Hostel One in Budapest
Carpe Noctem’s Original Perfume
Located on the Mountain Estrada, the Hive Party Hostel
The hostels here ensure clean and low-cost beds and they usually put on their own pub crawls or share special deals for joint tours.
Final Thoughts
Enjoying a Backpackers Pub Crawl in Budapest is different from just drinking—it brings together history and wild partying. You’ll discover some unusual ruin bars, meet like-minded travelers and understand why Budapest appeals so much to backpackers.
If you plan to stay here for a while or just happen to be going through, plan to be here during one evening crawl. It doesn’t cost much, adds excitement and you’ll remember it. Drink in a responsible way and you could spend the following day resting.
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