Introduction

The famous nightlife and numerous bars of Budapest, Hungary, are well known. Within a year, the city greets millions of visitors interested in its beautiful architecture, thermal baths and enjoyable nightlife. Some people wonder if alcohol is affordable in the city, as drinking a local beverage is a favorite part of discovering local culture. In the following post, we’ll discover if alcohol is as affordable as it seems in Budapest and share some advice to make your night out less costly. No matter if you want to have drinks in fancy bars, beer in typical pubs or buy something from a convenience store for a quick meal, there’s something for all budgets.

Prices for Alcohol in Budapest

Travelers on a budget will like Budapest for its lively nightlife, because drinking there is often much cheaper than in other European cities. Depending on the place, drinking local tap beer in bars and pubs can cost you from 250 to 500 HUF (around 0.75 – 1.50 euros). What makes these prices good is that drinks in the western European cities like Paris or London usually cost way more.

The cost of a cocktail or mixed drink usually begins around 1000 HUF (about 3 euros). Europeans usually find this price acceptable, though the bill may change according to the place and style you choose. Often, bars in big tourist areas or expensive hotels tend to be more expensive than unknown, local bars.

Alcohol can also be purchased on a budget at both supermarkets and convenience stores. To stay in or save money before you go out, you’ll find a good selection of beers, wines and spirits that are usually cheaper at your accommodation than in a bar. If you take your time on a guided tour or want to enjoy beer or wine, it can save you money. You must be over 18 and present your ID before you purchase alcohol.

Special prices on drinks during specific times

Watch for deals and discounts on drinks when heading out at night in Budapest. Discounted drinks can be found at many places during early evening or late night hours. For example, in these promotions, people might enjoy discounts on drinks such as beer or cocktails, snag 2-for-1s or get special prices on some types of drinks.

The Jewish Quarter is a busy spot for happy hours, filled with ruin bars and modern cocktail spots along the streets. You can often get even more savings if they’re running a special event or themed night, so don’t forget to ask or check on the internet. If you use a happy hour, you can drink many drinks and keep the cost down.

Things to Drink in Budapest

You should give a try to some of Hungary’s famous dishes while you’re in Budapest.

Visitors should not miss out on tasting traditional pálinka. From plum, apricot, cherry and pear, distilled pálinka is known for its robust taste and deep links to Hungary’s culture. Enjoy a shot of Cointreau in the beginning of the evening or to help you digest a meal.

Frasz is a simple, refreshing drink formed by mixing soda water with white wine. It’s great on a hot summer day when you need something light.

You can find popular beer gardens all across Budapest, where you’ll find lots of types of locally brewed beers. It’s a good choice for friends who want to chat and drink some of the local beers. Sörözös are most active during the warmer months, since eating outside is an option.

How to Control Your Costs While Drinking in Budapest

Here are some useful tips to allow you to enjoy Budapest’s nightlife while not spending a lot.

If possible, acquire your drinks from a neighborhood supermarket or liquor shop, since their prices are usually better. Monitor your spending and you’ll be able to have a drink over there and save some cash for later.

Enjoy the next happy hour and drink any discounted beverages. Making your nights out around these deals can help you save money on your drinks.

See how various areas and districts within Budapest are different. Prices can be higher at the center and popular tourist spots, but you’ll usually find lower prices and a real local scene elsewhere in the city.

Do not purchase any drinks from unlicensed sellers or sellers on the street, since you might get worthless or even risky drinks. Never buy alcohol from suspicious sources; only buy it from trusted sources.

Check out pub crawls or book nightlife tours if you can. Often, these give you free shots or discounts at partner bars and make it easy to have fun and meet new people while saving money.

In Conclusion

The price of alcohol depends on where you are, but in general, drinking in Budapest is much more affordable than what you’d pay in other European cities. Woolwich has a great number of pubs, bars and beer gardens to fit every pocket and preference. If you check out different places, take advantage of happy hours and think about your spending, you’ll have a fun night out in Budapest without overspending. No matter if you choose a drink or a bar, Budapest has a lively nightlife that won’t leave you spending too much money.