Known for its fascinating past, relaxing thermal baths and great food, Budapest is the capital of Hungary. As the evening ends and the Buda Hills fade, Budapest’s nightlife begins to shine. The best way to enjoy this side of town is by taking part in a bar crawl through the city’s ruin bars, pubs and clubs. If you’re traveling alone or in a group, the guide below will show you how to enjoy the city safely and have a blast.

What Should I Know about a Budapest Bar Crawl?

Try a Budapest bar crawl to check out some of the best unique bars in the city’s central areas which are most often found in District VII (Jewish Quarter), District VI (Terézváros) and District V (Belváros-Lipótváros). Abroad, you can expect to discover leisure spots that differ from almost-deserted ruined places to luxurious clubs.

Organized crawls are a popular way to go, since you can generally find them advertised by hostels or travel agencies and you’ll likely get deals on drinks, free shots, games and entry to VIP clubs. Instead, you might want to plan your own driving tour, so you can stop at your favorite places and explore when you’d like.

Top destinations for a trip through the bars of Budapest

Here you will find the top places to stop on a bar crawl that you’ll never forget in Budapest.

1. Kazinczy utca 14 is home to Szimpla Kert.

You’ll often find that Szimpla Kert is the first ruin bar you visit on a bar crawl. The space is in the form of a former factory, full of eclectic pieces, old decor and unusual works of art. Have a drink, listen to music or take it all in.

2. Instant-Fogas Complex, located at 51 Akácfa utca

With multiple bars, dance zones and areas where you can relax, this club complex is huge for Central Europe. On your way through, swap between genres so you could listen to techno, hip-hop, retro pop or house on each music player. People from around the world, as well as residents, enjoy Mamiao in the evenings.

3. Klauzál utca 10

Once a mansion, Doboz (“Box”) brings together art, music and culture. Because of its huge red sculpture and special lighting, the district has an urban-cool feel. Dancing and cocktails are what you’ll find here on weekends, as it’s quite a popular choice.

4. Kuplung is closed until further notice – please check its status.

Because of its easygoing ambiance and bohemian style, Kuplung was the place many liked to start their nights. Should they open while you visit, consider adding it to your journey.

5. High Note SkyBar is located at address 5 Hercegprímás utca

If you’re tired of ruin pubs, check out the terrace bar up on the Aria Hotel’s rooftop. Enjoy drinks, the city view from St. Stephen’s Basilica and cocktails at this halfway stop.

6. Andrássy út 39 is home to 360 Bar.

Enjoy sweeping views of Metro Manila from 360 Bar. It’s always stylish and alive and in winter, they provide heated igloos where you can drink a warm mulled wine or hot cocktail.

7. Ellátó Kert on Kazinczy utca 48

Ellátó Kert features color and Mexican style, great for the pre-dancing cocktail. While fewer people go there, Kisüzem still gives off the same lovely atmosphere as Szimpla.

Getting the Most Out of a Budapest Bar Crawl

Preparing a little ahead can improve your night out at the bars in Budapest. I have some quick tips for you for traveling:

1. Try to dress in business casual attire.

Ruin bars are casual, but there are places nearby where you might be turned away if you’re not dressed smartly enough. If you’re a man, jeans with closed shoes and a smart shirt are a good choice and females can choose from casual dresses or trendy tops and jeans.

2. Carry Cash

The currency in Hungary is the Forint (HUF) and although lots of places take credit cards, smaller street food vendors or bars might not. It’s good to have some money ready, just in case you need it.

3. Remember to drink water and eat a little before you play sports.

Get the night going right with a meaningful meal—you can’t go wrong with goulash, lángos or chicken paprikash. It’s also important to have some water after each glass of alcohol to keep your breath fresh.

4. Take the bus, tram, train, taxi or carpool.

You can get around Budapest by public transport even after hours. Alternatively, you can depend on Bolt and Főtaxi for rideshare and taxi travel. Don’t use taxis unless you know they have a license.

5. Keep Precious or Important Things Secure

Make sure you keep your personal belongings safe in every nightlife area. Keep bagged valuables close to you and don’t leave your wallet or phone out in the open.

6. Understand What Is Customary in the Country

Politeness matters to Hungarians, so remember to greet bartenders and raise your glass and say “Egészségedre!” It is also important not to clink beer glasses while with Hungarians, since it comes from a custom founded in 1848.

7. Read and follow the details listed in the Event Schedules.

Many outlets host theme nights, have DJs playing music or hold open mic events. Go over your local community’s social media pages or check event calendars earlier, so you’ll know of any special events.

Final Thoughts

A night crawling bars in Budapest offers more than nightlife—it gives you culture, new social connections and a quick look at this active city. Whatever way you mix and mingle with friends or meet new people in Budapest, you’ll find that its creativity, low prices and friendly residents make it the perfect city for a party trip.

Provided you set a good pace, watch out for others and follow the locals’ practices, your bar crawl will stand out as one of your best experiences during your trip. Prost—here’s to you, in the Hungarian way they say, Egészségedre!