Besides architectural wonders, a rich heritage and plenty of thermal baths, Budapest is known for its colorful nightlife. No matter if you love partying, drink a little or enjoy cultural evening leisure, Budapest has activities for you in the evening. There is something for everyone, from the underground ruin pubs in Jewish Quarter to luxurious rooftop bars overlooking the Danube, once evening falls. Find out here everything you need to know about enjoying nightlife in Budapest.
The Best Places to Go at Night in Budapest
- The bars in the Jewish Quarter are called Ruin Bars.
Taking in the nightlife in Budapest involves checking out the popular ruin bars. Situated in District VII which is the historic Jewish Quarter, the bars occupy former buildings, factories and yards and are decorated with colorful furniture, street graffiti and unusual installations.
Szimpla Kert is the well-known ruin bar and is often seen as where the special ruin bar style originated. Because of its trendy vibe, cheap drinks and mix of different people, it should be on your list for your first trip. Instan-Fogas and Mazel Tov are outstanding ruin bars with Instant-Fogas including multiple dance floors and Mazel Tov boasting great Middle Eastern dishes.
- Rooftop Bars Offering Amazing Scenery
For people who want a classy night surrounded by lovely scenery, you can find Budapest’s best rooftop bars which give a clear view of the river and popular landmarks from the top.
Many people choose 360 Bar for its impressive rooftop view and exceptional drinks. Another nice place to visit is High Note SkyBar at the top of the Aria Hotel, where you can try cocktails and see Buda Castle and St. Stephen’s Basilica glow.
- A Danube River Cruise during Night
Taking a night cruise on the Danube River is a distinctive method of enjoying what Budapest has to offer after dark, away from parties. Beautiful details of the city such as its bridges, Parliament and Fisherman’s Bastion, are visible from the boat and look very special. Many cruises give passengers an option for both dinner and live music, providing a nice and soothing way to relax.
- Clubs and places for live music
Anyone who wishes to dance all night can find electronic, house, techno and mainstream music at Budapest’s nightclubs. Even a club like A38 Ship which used to be a Ukrainian stone-hauler and is now moored on the Danube, offers guests unique live music and DJ events.
Both Budapest Jazz Club and Opus Jazz Club have regular live performances by jazz or blues musicians from across the globe.
- The Hungarian wine bar culture and craft beer breweries
If you wish to be a part of local culture by drinking, go to a wine bar or beer house. At Tasting Table Budapest and DiVino Wine Bar, tourists have the joy of sampling many top Hungarian wines, mainly coming from Tokaj and Villány areas. This place serves a wide variety of Hungarian craft beers and is popular with beer lovers who enjoy the alive and loud industrial setting.
Important Guidelines to Have a Good Time in Budapest at Night
Figuring out your travel options should be your beginning.
You should plan your public transport trips in Budapest, since services do not operate all through the night. It’s possible to use night buses, but taxis or Bolt and Főtaxi are easy and inexpensive for traveling back late at night. It is better to ride in official taxis or book through applications to guarantee safety from scams.
The rules of the club include its dress code and who is allowed to enter.
While ruin bars and pubs are usually informal, upscale places like rooftop bars might request you to dress up. A number of nightclubs require a fee or have lists of names for entry, so it’s wise to check before going online.
Currency and methods of payment
The currency used in Hungary is called the Hungarian Forint which people refer to as HUF. While credit cards are common, it is useful to keep a bit of cash on you, especially when going to small bars or for tipping the waiter. It is usual to leave about 10% tip when eating or drinking at restaurants and bars.
Stay Safe
Budapest is a safe city, but it’s important to watch out for some usual dangers. Always be aware of your possessions when the area is crowded. Do not drink in excess and avoid getting drinks from people you do not know. Carry the address of your accommodation again for your trip back home.
Language
Although Hungarian is the official language, nightlifers visiting tourist places can expect that most bartenders and workers will speak English.
Timing
As a rule, nights on Fridays and Saturdays are the most crowded for bars and clubs. If you are looking for a calm evening, heading out on a weekday evening, for rooftop bars or for wine, is ideal.
Here’s an example of a night out in Budapest.
At 7:00 PM, have dinner and drinks at Mazel Tov which serves tasty Middle Eastern dishes and excellent cocktails in a cute garden setting.
9:00 PM — Visit Szimpla Kert and admire how the ruin pub blends fun aspects with art. Meet people from your country or from other places with a drink.
At 11:00 PM, head to 360 Bar for some great views of the city and a classy cocktail as you relax on the rooftop.
After enjoying your food, you can continue your night dancing or listening to live music at A38 Ship.
The Factors that Set Budapes’ Nightlife Apart
The city’s night scene brings together history, creativity and modern trends. Ruin bars are a perfect reflection of how the city uses older spaces to build something new. As many places are on the water, guests have fantastic views and the combination of traditions and modern outings guarantees a lively night.
Anyone visiting, whether as a solo, a couple or as a group, will find memories worth remembering during Budapest’s exciting nightlife.
Summary
In short, to enjoy Budapest’s nightlife the most, steer away from the usual tourist attractions. Experience ruins bars for something different, enjoy drinks with amazing views, sample wines and craft beers and you mustn’t miss a night tour on the Danube River. The city has both relaxed and lively sides, so its nightlife is as colorful as its days are.
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