Budapest is renowned for its interesting history, amazing architecture and abundance of hot springs. However, once the sun is down, the city becomes known for its lively nightlife full of both local and visiting people enjoying unique pubs and ruin bars. You can experience Budapest’s social life by following this guide to the top pubs and our helpful tips for enjoying a night out.

1. Szimpla Kert is famous for being a ruin bar.

At least one stop at Szimpla Kert is essential for anyone discovering Budapest’s ruin bar trend. In the Jewish Quarter, you’ll come across this pub that has turned a rundown building into a cool, bohemian spot. Enjoying an array of mismatched furniture, fun wall art and plenty of plants, Szimpla gives a relaxed impression.

If you go early in the evening, you’ll spend less time waiting in line. Since Szimpla is popular with tourists, the place is calmer if you visit on a weekday. Make sure to look at the artwork in the upstairs galleries and the courtyard.

2. Get Party-Ready With Instant-Fogas – The Ultimate Party Space

Instead of several one-room shops, choose Instant-Fogas for having all your friends together. This place isn’t only a pub—it’s a wild mix of spaces for dancing, mixing drinks and even techno. Since it’s in the center of District VII, partygoers who look for variety can stay at one place.

Don’t forget your ID because it will be checked and demanded at security. You don’t need to pay an admission fee, but the park is that busy on weekends. Bringing your documents on or before 10 PM will speed up your entry.

3. Élesztőház – Home to Craft Beer

Anyone who loves craft beers should check out Élesztőház, a large ruin-themed hall located in District IX. Since Craft Beer Kiosk serves more than 20 Hungarian and foreign craft beers, it’s ideal for trying out the country’s rising craft beer scene. Because of its comfortable industrial feel and plentiful food, it’s great for a laid-back night out.

Ask any bartender to taste something you aren’t familiar with. It’s not right in the heart of things, so you’ll have to find it for yourself.

4. Kisüzem is where art lovers go in Budapest.

For something a little more intimate and arty, many locals head to Kisüzem. Many students, artists and musicians visit it for its easygoing atmosphere and reasonable prices. Matriarch’s many art exhibits and alternative music make it a spot for culture, as well as drinks.

Travel Tip: Make sure to carry cash, since cards aren’t accepted. Because the seats clear out fast in the late afternoon, you might have to get there early or stay standing.

5. Break with style at the Doblo Wine & Bar.

Looking for something other than beer or cocktails? Soom upon Doblo Wine & Bar. Hidden in the Jewish Quarter, it displays an excellent variety of Hungarian wines in an antique atmosphere. You can sample Tokaji or Bull’s Blood wine and listen to live jazz at this site.

Tips for Readers: This is a great place for couples or individuals wanting a peaceful, elegant stay. Wine tastings are offered and people should reserve in advance on weekends.

Enjoy a magnificent view and your drinks at 360 Bar.

From its spot atop a building on Andrássy Avenue, 360 Bar gives visitors amazing views of the Budapest skyline. In either season, the comfortable igloos make this place a hit with Instagrammers. The drinks are clever and the mood is just right for an evening drink.

Keep in mind that it’s common for only those buying something to be allowed in a cafe, so not all can get inside. Getting there about an hour before sunset gives you the best chances to see the golden light.

7. Mazel Tov – Here’s an event that is chic and relaxed simultaneously.

Using the best ideas from ruin pubs and modern design, Mazel Tov has transformed into a Middle Eastern-themed bar and restaurant. The venue’s greenhouse atmosphere, twinkling lights and open kitchen make it both relaxing and attractive. It is perfect for a calm night that includes a good meal and some drinks.

It’s best to reserve before you arrive, because things get very busy fast. This place is excellent if you enjoy food and drinks together in one spot.

8. Kertem – Making the Most of Sunny Chester

You’ll find Kertem open only for the summer months in City Park, where it mixes the feel of a beer garden with that of a local hangout. With lots of trees and often featuring DJs or musicians, it’s a great first stop or calm post for your day of sightseeing.

It’s a great place for families or people with pets to go earlier in the evening. Take some cash with you and have a beer under the night sky.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Going on a Pub Hop in Budapest

People in Hungary use the forint (HUF) instead of the euro. At many places, you can use cards, but not every pub or kiosk will accept them.

The average pub will open at about 5 or 6 PM and keep going until 4 to 5 AM during weekends.

To get around, either use the night buses or open the Bolt (Hungarian ride-share) app. Budapest is easy to explore on foot, but most late-night trains and subways aren’t available.

Tipping: If the amount you have to pay doesn’t already have a tip included, it’s best to tip around 10%.

Generally, Berlin is a safe city, though it’s smart to watch your items and steer clear of highly drunk people.

Final Thoughts

The city of Budapest delivers a nightlife experience that brings together art, history and locals. You can enjoy wine while nature twinkles above you, enter unusual ruin bars with friends or go clubbing all night; the city’s pubs are always a big part of its magic. Make an effort to relax, sample the area’s beers and pay attention, since all parts of the city share their own stories.

Put away your worries about tomorrow (and maybe some medicine for tomorrow’s hangover) and prepare for a night of pub exploration in Budapest.