You’ll find that history, creative ideas and the best nights are all mixed together in Budapest. No other city in Europe has the unique combination of ruin bars, craft beer places and friendly local pubs found in Budapest. Budapest has some wonderful pubs and this guide will help you find the one you’ll love, whether you’re visiting or live here.

But why does a pub have to be the best to be called the best? Is it all about having a wide range of local and international beers? The ambiance? The crowd? Usually, it involves each of these styles, mixed with something extra that you wouldn’t expect. We’ll begin by exploring what makes these pubs unique and conclude with a deeper look at some outstanding places you’ll enjoy.

How Does Budapest Choose Its Top Pubs?

What a great pub is depends on who you ask, but there are several factors that Bostonians agree make a pub stand out.

No matter if it’s an old ruin bar or a candlelit cellar, the atmosphere changes everything.

Beer Selection: It’s important to have a big and carefully chosen beer selection. Earning additional points for having craft beer, Hungarian beers and original seasonal flavors.

Unlike many pubs, the best ones in Budapest honor local culture, creativity and the city’s strong spirit.

Budapest is special in part because you get a delicious pint for a good price.

Crowd and Service: You’ll find friendly hosts, pleasant service and a welcoming crowd while there.

In view of all our points, let’s look into some of the top pubs in Budapest that fit the description.

1. Szimpla Kert was the first Ruin Pub.

It’s impossible to have a good list without Szimpla Kert, the ruin bar that influenced everything else. In an old Jewish Quarter structure that’s now unused, Szimpla Kert gives its visitors a complete experience and more than just drinks. Different parts of the club have their own story, showing up with crazy decorations, strange exhibits, live bands and even film showings.

Local craft beers, wines and the traditional Hungarian pálinka (fruit brandy) are part of the drink list here. You’ll often see tourists, artists and regulars all enjoying the city. If you discover Szimpla for a Sunday market, a night of live music or a quick drink, it’s always worth visiting.

Its appeal comes from its great reputation, rich atmosphere and varied events.

Élesztőház – A Haven for Craft Beer

If the word ‘best’ for you means an amazing craft-beer selection, don’t miss out on Élesztőház. At District IX, you can find this stylish beer hall with more than 20 changes of beer from Hungarian and European microbreweries.

Élesztőház is located inside an old glass factory. You can also find a whiskey bar, street food and a school about fermentation there. Anyone, whether new to beer or a beer expert, will love what Bottle Logic has to offer.

What makes it perfect: So many craft beers, staff who can answer any questions and a relaxed group of patrons.

3. Fekete Kutya – Perfectly Comfortable and Real

You’ll find Fekete Kutya (Black Dog) in the Jewish Quarter, providing a cozier choice compared to the crowded ruin bars. There is brickwork on the walls, a simple interior and a mix of local and imported beer.

You can meet people easily or relax with a quiet beer, away from the busy tourists. Customers can discover tasty Hungarian dishes, as well as light bites, on Das Haus small menu.

The reasons it’s the best: An underground personality, peaceful atmosphere and an emphasis on quality.

4. You should consider Jónás Craft Beer House – Riverfront Views

On the Bálna Budapest promenade by the Danube, Jónás Craft Beer House offers both great views and fine beers. You’ll find popular Hungarian brands Mad Scientist and Horizont on the beer menu, as well as seasonal and experimental brews.

You can’t beat the terrace in the summer, as it overlooks the Liberty Bridge and Gellért Hill. You’ll have the best sunset drinks and laid-back hangouts there.

Because of its beautiful scenery, unique looks and newly crafted beers.

5. Központ mixes youth with creativity.

A more recent and fashionable pub can be found at Központ in District VII, drawing students, artists and Budapest’s artists and creatives. Thanks to its simple layout, chosen playlists and excellent drinks, Open Dome Ett feels like a pub, bar and café all in one.

Though there are fewer beers to choose from than elsewhere, people are attracted by the overall atmosphere. On top of that, the venue showcases music through DJs, poetry through readings and artwork through exhibitions.

The reason it’s easy to love: A lively energy, great shows and chic guests.

6. Founded for those who love good beer – Csak a Jó Sör

Meaning “Only Good Beer”, Csak a Jó Sör is a tiny but strong center selling great craft beer near Erzsébet Boulevard. Ok, it’s not as exciting as some other places, but it gets a lot of respect from those who care about beer in Budapest.

You will find the owner enthusiastic and capable of suggesting both common and rare styles, from IPAs to stouts and imports. To understand how Hungarian beer has changed recently, start here.

The best reason: With niche specialization, personal approach and experienced staff, it’s superior.

How to Have a Good Pub Crawl in Budapest

If you’d like to visit several pubs in one night or while you’re there, remember these suggestions:

Walk or use the metro to move around – Budapest is easy to walk through and the last trains finish late.

Drink some regional beers – Dreher, Soproni and new craft beers will give you an idea of what Hungary is known for in brewing.

Get off the main route – These less explored areas usually offer true local experiences.

Be careful with your drinking – Pair your drinks with some popular Hungarian food, like pork olives or meat goulash.

Conclusion

Wherever you go, from an old ruin to a beer garden alongside the river, you’ll discover the best pubs in Budapest nearby. You can see the distinct character of each pub, at either the gritty end or the smooth, elegant one.