People know Budapest, the capital of Hungary, for its impressive culture, fantastic architecture and fun nightlife. If you love mixed drinks or local beer and simply enjoy a fun bar, bar hopping in Budapest is truly memorable. Since there are ruin bars, terraces by the river, rooftop lounges and hidden speakeasies all over the city, every evening is exciting.

We’ll be giving you information on the top neighborhoods, bars, drinks and tips to help you enjoy your Budapest bar tour.

Why Should You Bar Hop in Budapest?

Going from bar to bar in Budapest means discovering what makes the city’s nightlife special. A lot of bars can be found in old buildings, renovated courtyards or in places that look like nothing more than hidden doors. Every bar is different, so jumping from one to another highlights all the different kinds of parties the city has to offer

One reason to visit Budapest is that it is much less expensive than many other capital cities. No matter how you travel, you’ll be able to discover drinks and drinks that fit your spending style.

The Best Bar Neighborhoods in Budapest

1. Another part of town you won’t want to miss is the Jewish Quarter (District VII).

Most of the city’s late-night activities happen in the Jewish Quarter. Lots of ruin bars, pubs and clubs make this district known for being both lively and full of individuality. There are many famous hangouts near Kazinczy Street.

2. Gozsdu Courtyard

Gozsdu Udvar is full of activity, with bars, lounges and restaurants all along the alley. People both from the neighborhood and around the world enjoy it because you can bar-hop all night without covering much distance.

3. The Danube Promenade, together with District V

If you want a fancy night out, try the lovely bars that line the Danube or are found in the city. Quirky rooftop bars and modern cocktail lounges with amazing views of the Parliament and Buda Castle are all here.

Bars You Shouldn’t Miss on a Budapest Bar Crawl

1. Szimpla Kert

A bar-hopping tour should always include Szimpla Kert, the first and most famous ruin bar in Budapest. It can be found in an abandoned building, with old, varied furniture, odd decorations and plenty of customers. It makes a great spot to start your night.

2. Instant-Fogas Complex

This mega club places themed rooms, dance areas and cocktail spots together in one huge space. If you’re after a dance floor after your drinks, this bar caters to that crowd. You’ll always find a room where your favorite music genre feels at home—in electronic dance, hip-hop or throwback.

3. Contains 360 Bar

The panoramic views of Budapest from its spot on Andrássy Avenue have made 360 Bar a popular spot. It doesn’t matter if you visit when it’s warm or cold, as they have heated igloos and tremendous cocktail views.

4. Tuk Tuk Bar

If you’re looking for a stylish and private place, head to Tuk Tuk Bar in the Mystery Hotel. Controversial Cocktail Club brings authentic Asian speakeasy vibes and serves excellent cocktails in a beautiful, softly lit area.

5. Élesztőház

Those who love craft beer should make Élesztőház their destination, as it offers lots of local and international craft beer. You’ll find it in a former boiler house, so it’s perfect for relaxing when other places are louder.

What You Should Drink in Budapest

As you hop around the bars, make sure to taste Hungary’s special tastes.

Pálinka: Made from fruit and it is considered strong and hot. You could use plum, cherry or apricot for your pie.

Unicum is a commonly drunk herbal liqueur that is usually enjoyed after a meal.

Fröccs is made by mixing soda water with white or rosé wine from Hungary.

On many menus, you can find local breweries’ creations by Mad Scientist and Horizont.

What You Need to Know for a Fun Bar Hopping Night

Time Your Visit: Even though clubs in Budapest start late, you’ll find many bars are full by 9 p.m. which allows you to hop from one to another before things get loud after midnight.

You can use the city’s excellent public transport or simply walk, because Singapore’s nightlife districts are compact. You can return to your hotel safely by night bus, tram or metro if you get lost.

There’s always a chance that a small outdoor bar or pub will only accept cash.

Look After Yourself: People are safe in Budapest, but watch your drinks and belongings when out for the night.

Check the Dress Code: High-end cocktail bars or clubs may want you to meet a specific dress standard. Dressing casually is okay for ruin bars, but if you go to a refined place, you might need something tidier.

Conclusion

Going from bar to bar in Budapest lets you experience its creativity, how it regained its strength after communism and its amazing European culture. If you’re enjoying a drink in a ruin bar or up on a terrace, every visit shows you new views of the city.

Plan some destinations, invite your friends and get excited to visit one of Europe’s biggest and best nightlife areas. You’ll find some memorable drinking spots in Budapest and you might not leave until the sun rises.