Introduction

If you’re in Budapest and want an unforgettable night out, don’t miss exploring the busy bar district. Budapest has a mix of pubs and rooftop bars, so every visitor can enjoy their night out. In this guide, we’ll show you great bars near you in Budapest.

You’ll find that Budapest’s nightlife is alive with the city’s past and future. Wherever your preference for nightlife is, it can be found, from the hip ruin bars to the modern rooftop spots of Budapest. You can enjoy some relaxed local wine or hop from bar to bar for dancing if that’s your pleasure—Budapest’s bars have something for all types of evenings.

1. District VII is now where the Jewish Quarter stands.

You should make the Jewish Quarter your first stop to experience the nightlife there. Famous ruin bars can be found here, all created inside former abandoned structures. Experience the first ruin bar at Szimpla Kert for something unusual. The unique design and energetic ambiance will really impress you.

For a quiet night, sampling Middle Eastern food in a garden, choose Mazel Tov.

You will find Budapest’s best nightlife concentrated around Király and Kazinczy streets in the Jewish Quarter. Located in a run-down tenement, Szimpla Kert offers vintage items, bright graffiti and secret little rooms, plus jazz and techno music. Inside Sarbog, people drink craft brews or pálinka while getting to know one another. Mazel Tov features a glassed-in atrium, lovely lighting and a chill but refined atmosphere, offering hummus plates and beverages such as the Mazel Mule. The atmosphere in this area is exciting and you can find charm when you stumble onto Kisüzem, offering local drinks and evening open-mic activities.

2. This district is called District V – The City Center.

Try out some more bars in the center of the city, District V. Here you have the choice of elegant cocktail bars and trendy pubs.

If you want something elegant, check out High Note SkyBar at the Aria on the hotel’s top level. Enjoy a beautiful city view from your spot as you sip on your favorite drink.

Any craft beer fan should stop by Élesztő Craft Beer Bar. You’re sure to find different local microbrewery beers to taste among the many available selections.

The district where you’ll find the Parliament and St. Stephen’s Basilica is known for its fashionable nighttime spots. From High Note SkyBar, you can enjoy the “Budapest Sunset” drink (made with gin, elderflower and prosecco) and marvel at the Basilica’s dome from above. Modern furniture and lively DJs make it cool and Élesztő offers many kinds of Hungarian craft beer and bar bites throughout, including IPA and stout. With venues so close together, you can easily travel between them and Boutiq’Bar provides handcrafted cocktails in a speakeasy atmosphere.

3. The Riverside is in District IX.

District IX is a great spot for your stylish last stop along the Danube River. Many amazing bars in the city provide you with impressive views of Budapest’s most famous sights.

You can get great views of the city at 360 Bar. Have a cocktail or wine and watch the beautiful views around you.

Those who want a casual setting should try Dunaparty Borozó. At the Wine Tables wine bar, you can sit outside comfortably and enjoy a glass of wine.

Along the Pest part of the Danube, District IX brings you stunning nature as well as a lively atmosphere where 360 Bar offers breathtaking views of the Chain Bridge and Buda Castle, plus cocktails and Tokaj wines. When it’s winter in Montreal, you can stay in one of the place’s rooftop igloos. Moving closer to the river, you will find Dunaparti Borozó. It’s secluded, like a park and serves Kékfrankos and other local wines. Bar A38, found on the promenade that runs by the riverside, gives an extra appeal to the neighborhood when heading out for the night.

4. Tips for enjoyed bar hopping in Budapest

Having mentioned a few of the best bars in Budapest, here are some ideas to have a better time:

• Look outside the popular spots and you might find an awesome bar nearby.
• Experience traditional Hungarian drinks by trying a hot Palinka or a cooling Fröccs.
• Most places have a casual dress code, yet a few fancy bars have rules, so always ask before going.
• It’s a good idea to bring some cash, because small transactions aren’t always possible with cards.
• Check when the bars close – some will still be open late at night, whereas other have limited closing hours.

You can get the most from your bar-hopping by wandering away from the main square, as Doboz and Fogas Ház offer different kinds of vibes. Two popular local drinks you should pick are Pálinka, a strong brandy and Fröccs, a drink made with wine and sparkling water. Dress simply, though High Note recommends smart-casual for its guests. It’s smart to have some forint for those small purchases and to make sure you check the hours ahead; ruin bars may run late, yet wine bars may end the night early. Go at your own speed, as the city’s nightlife lasts long and think ahead about how you’ll travel home late at night.

Conclusion

Many visitors find Budapest’s bars to be unforgettable. Both the special atmosphere at the ruin bars and the beautiful rooftop scenery have something for everyone. Grab your friends and head out to visit all the attractive bars in Budapest!

Each bar in Budapest displays the city’s special character which combines history, creativity and hospitality. In Szimpla Kert, 360 Bar or Dunaparty Borozó, you’ll find your own taste of the city’s night culture. You will learn as you go that drinking in Budapest is not only about bars—it’s about sharing, culture and moments you will remember later.