Understanding Beer Pricing in Budapest

The price of beer in Budapest depends on several different things, just like in any other city. These factors are the location, the sort of business and whether the beer is brewed locally or imported.

Most bars and restaurants in Hungary post beer costs in Hungarian Forints (HUF). We will share prices in Hungarian Forints (HUF) as well as Euros (EUR) for your reference.

The Prices of Beer in Budapest

Beer in Budapest usually costs between 400 HUF (1.30 EUR) and 1500 HUF (4.90 EUR). There are many different reasons how the price can be set.

Bars and Pubs

Prices will often be higher in downtown Budapest and the popular ruin bars than in other parts of the city. Specialty beer bars offering rare beers tend to charge more than typical bars.

A regular local beer is typically about 600 HUF (1.95 EUR) and a popular imported beer is around 800 HUF (2.60 EUR).

Some of the best nightlife in the city centers on ruin bars which are popular thanks to their unusual looks and fun-filled atmosphere. A lot of tourists and locals go to these attractions which can increase the prices you pay. But because of its distinct atmosphere, some people are willing to pay more.

Places that serve craft beer now have a lot of fans in the city. These places give people a chance to sample Hungary’s growing selection of craft beers, including uncommon flavors and small-scale brews. Most specialty craft beers are not cheap—they tend to cost more compared to standard brews.

Restaurants

Bars and pubs usually charge less for a beer than restaurants do. A local beer typically costs around 900 HUF (2.95 EUR), but an imported beer costs 1000 HUF (3.25 EUR). The prices at a restaurant may change because of its location, how it feels inside and its full menu prices.

Restaurants close to top tourism hotspots and fine restaurants usually increase the cost of their menus and drinks. Yet, having a meal at these places can be special, as you enjoy great scenery and attentive service.

If price matters, try to find a restaurant away from the main tourist areas. In areas near the city center, there are plenty of cozy eateries and it’s still possible to have authentic Hungarian food along with your drink at reasonable prices.

The idea of supermarkets and convenience stores was built upon in the United States.

Going to a supermarket or convenience store to get beer is the best decision if you want to book a budget-friendly hotel or drink at home.

A local beer sold here is usually priced at 300 to 500 HUF (0.95 to 1.65 EUR) and an imported beer costs around 400 to 700 HUF (1.30 to 2.30 EUR).

Many Tesco, Spar and Lidl supermarkets in Budapest stock a variety of beers from Hungary as well as abroad. You can easily and inexpensively buy beer for picnics or evening drinking at supermarkets.

Some neighborhood hole-in-the-wall and convenience stores have competitive pricing and are open for longer hours, so you can get a cold beer any time easily.

How to Spend Less on Beer in Budapest

The following suggestions will help you save as you indulge in beer in Budapest:

Happy Hours

A lot of bars and pubs in Budapest hold happy hour, when you can buy drinks at a discounted rate such as beer. You can usually find happy hours before the main nightlife crowds arrive or during the week and it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy the city’s nightlife.

It’s a good idea to check social media or go by bars with chalkboards listing their happy hour offers. Special deals on food and drinks are common at ruin bars and craft beer pubs when they are not very busy.

Check out local craft breweries.

The city of Budapest is known for growing craft beer, with local breweries making tasty and low-priced beers. When you go to breweries and their taprooms, you get to try special beers and support the local beer scene while perhaps spending less.

Most breweries include tasting sessions or flights, so you have the chance to drink many different types of beer for a good price. You get to find new bands to love and learn new things at the same time.

Buy Local Beer

Selecting a local beer can allow you to save a bit of cash. No trip to Budapest is complete without sampling the best Hungarian beers which are known for their flavour.

Both Dreher, Soproni and Borsodi beers from Hungary are easy to find and give good value. In most Hungarian bars, supermarkets and restaurants, these beers are usually found and work well with the local cuisine.

Additional Considerations

Note, these are estimated prices; both the restaurant and the economy can influence their real amount. Always find out the prices before deciding what to eat.

Also, keep this in mind: If there are a lot of tourists, prices go higher, so try looking in less crowded neighborhoods for cheaper places.

Final Thoughts

When you have a sense of the beer prices here in 2023, planning your budget becomes easy and you can have a great time tasting the local beers with no shocks.

There are plenty of places for beer lovers in Budapest: lively ruin pubs, craft beer bars, snug restaurants and inexpensive supermarkets too. If you do what this article suggests, you can taste the local beer, get to know the surroundings and not spend a fortune during your stay.