Introduction

If you’re in Budapest, be sure to visit the Buda side. Visitors enjoy this historical area for its fantastic views as well as lots of fun places to drink and socialize at night. The following pages will introduce you to some of the best bars on Budapest’s Buda side. If you want a comfortable pub, a fashionable cocktail bar or an exciting ruin bar, you’ll find it in Buda.

1. Cozy Pubs

If you would rather have drinks and conversation with friends, cozy pubs in Buda are the perfect place for you. Many people who like a casual setting will find these traditional pubs especially relaxing.

This pub in Buda’s heart has a large variety of local and international beers. Many locals like the place because of the cheerful staff and comfortable setup.

With its famous Hungarian meals and many types of beer, you can eat well and enjoy a drink here.

The pubs in Buda show the district’s calm and residential feel compared to the lively nights of Pest. A rustic vibe with old posters and wooden walls can be found at Pub Name 1, located near Batthyány Square. You’ll find popular Hungarian beer like Dreher here, as well as inventive brews from Monyo which start at 600 and go up to 1,200 HUF ($1.50–$3 USD). Because of its warm service and occassional live music, the place is beloved for relaxing afternoons and evenings. Rózsadomb’s Pub Name 2 combines drinks with both savory pancakes and stew, charging 2,000–3,500 HUF ($5–$9 USD). The fact that locals prefer talking in these pubs instead of dancing to loud music lets you see how Buda’s residents bond.

2. Cocktail Bars of the Moment

Lovers of stylish bars and original drinks should check out some of the coolest cocktail bars Buda has to offer. Each of these bars provides guests with a selection of great cocktails made by talented bartenders.

Bar Name 1 – The unique design and fresh drink selections attract a fashionable group of patrons. You’ll find both traditional and original drinks on the menu here.

Bar Name 2 is built in an old, restored building and offers a blend of history and innovative cocktails. Don’t pass up on their unique cocktails that are flavored with Hungarian ingredients.

Mixing modern trends with its historic architecture, the cocktail scene in Buda is now very popular. Located somewhat near Gellért Hill, Bar Name 1 has smooth decor with flashes of neon, offers cocktails including an Old Fashioned made with pálinka or Tokaji wine spritz and prices these drinks at 2,500–4,000 HUF ($7–$10 USD). Sitting on the rooftop terrace lets you see the Danube during beautiful summer evenings. Local Hungarian dishes at Bar Name 2, located in a 19th-century villa in District I, are made with apricot brandy and lavender syrup. The beer selection starts around 800 HUF ($2.50 USD) a glass and continues at nearly 2,000 HUF ($6 USD). You’ll find both young working professionals and travelers at these trendy bars which are free from the busy feeling of the city center.

3. Colorful Ruin Bars

A holiday in Budapest should not be missed without exploring the ruin bars. These unique places are hidden in buildings that have been abandoned, helping them feel completely different.

Ruin Bar Name 1 is quite popular with locals because of its unique décor, music performances and energetic masses. You should expect a special and mind-blowing night.

Based in an old factory, this big ruin bar offers visitors various bars, dance spaces and outdoor rooms. If you’re searching for a spot to stay out late, this is the place for you.

Even though ruin bars are popular in District VII in Pest, Buda also has its own fun versions. Ruin Bar Name 1 is located near Clark Ádám Square and is full of walls covered in graffiti, an odd mix of chairs and fairy lights. Most of the time, you’ll listen to folk or indie at live bands and typical costs are around 800–1,500 HUF ($2–$4 USD) for beverages. The food stalls in the courtyard sell things like lángos and vegan tacos, helping to create a bohemian mood. The second branch of Ruin Bar is found in District XI’s old industrial area, filled with DJs and artworks everywhere. Their outdoor beer garden is open all the way until 2 AM, selling a variety of cocktails and local beer from 1,000 to 2,000 HUF ($3 to $5 USD). They appeal to young people and expats, giving pedestrians a lively alternative to the calm of Buda during the day.

A Look at the Evening Culture in Buda

While the nightlife in the Buda district isn’t as hectic as in Pest, it attracts people with its rich offerings and beautiful locations. Because of its hilly neighborhoods and Danube views, the district is a great place for evening outings. Bars in Budapest are the venue for cultural happenings such as wine tasting events and nightly jazz shows, due to the city’s rich artistic history. The Buda Castle District as a UNESCO site includes historical sites, with nearby bars that let visitors watch landmarks lit up at night. Since Pest operates non-stop, only a few venues in Buda stay open past midnight; most of them close at midnight itself, but ruin bars last until 2–3 AM. It lets travelers choose between relaxing and having fun without changing locations.

Handy Advice for Going Bar to Bar

It’s a good idea to map out your journey, since bars in Buda are in Districts I, II and XI. To reach Batthyány Square, choose trams or the M2 metro. Wear something on the dressy side for cocktail bars, but at ruin bars, you’ll be comfortable in T-shirts and trainers. From about 5–7 PM, you can get drinks at the bar for as little as $1.50–$2 USD. It’s convenient to use cash at small pubs, but most places also let you pay by card. Find out about live music or DJ nights on bar websites or on Instagram and make reservations for groups at places that serve cocktails so you don’t need to wait.

The Best Places to Go Out at Night

Buda is less lively than Pest which is mostly known for its famous ruin bars. Buda has a peaceful ambiance with beautiful sights which makes it great for couples or people hoping for a quiet night out. There are many pubs focusing on local beers and snacks and the quality of the Hungarian cocktail bars comes close to that of the choicest Pest bars. Though the ruins of Buda are not as numerous, they keep much of Budapest’s eccentricity, but aren’t as crowded.

Conclusion

Exploring the Buda side of Budapest is not just about the stunning architecture and historical sites, but also about immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife. Whether you prefer a cozy pub, a trendy cocktail bar, or a lively ruin bar, Buda offers a variety of options to suit every taste. So, grab your friends and head to the Buda side for a memorable night out!

Disclaimer: Please drink responsibly and be mindful of local laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption.