Budapest is Hungary’s important cultural center and the city’s unique setting on both sides of the Danube River means its nightlife is always lively. There are strongholds of students and young professionals, fine cocktail lounges and even gastro bars for those looking for something more upscale. No matter if you’re a single traveler, a loved-up couple or part of a group of friends, there’s a great bar waiting for you in Budapest.

The guide presents the top bar options in Budapest and gives you important tips for enjoying your evenings in the city.

Bars in Budapest You Shouldn’t Miss

1. The first Ruin Bar is called Szimpla Kert.

Nothing completes a bar list in Budapest quite like Szimpla Kert which started the city’s ruin bar movement. In the Jewish Quarter, Szimpla uses a place that was once forgotten and turns it into a lively bar with curious art, fun installations and dimmed lights. You’re there for more than drinks—you’re there for the whole experience.

The reason to go: The place’s hip ambiance, homegrown music and cheap bar prices attract lots of first-time guests.

If possible, arrive ahead of other visitors, especially when it’s the weekend. You won’t want to miss the farmers’ market which happens each Sunday morning.

2. 360 Bar – Gives You the Best View

As you might imagine from the title, 360 Bar provides scenes of the city in every direction. You’ll find 360 Bar above a local landmark on Andrássy Avenue, where people crowd to enjoy sundowners and views of Budapest.

Why visit: Baptist Grill is the place to be with friends or that special someone.

It’s a good idea to dress smart-casual and arrange a reservation, mainly in the summer months.

3. High Note SkyBar is located in an elegant spot above the Opera House.

One of Budapest’s most beautiful rooftop bars, the High Note SkyBar is found at the Aria Hotel. You can have a luxurious close to your day by enjoying their smart cocktails and clever snacks.

There’s no better reason than the chic setting and being close to attractions like St. Stephen’s Basilica.

An evening drink is a good time to see the basilica illuminated at night.

4. Kiosk Budapest Offers Charm and Plenty of Room

Kiosk is just a little walk from the Erzsébet Bridge and has both style and a relaxed atmosphere. The decor is stylish and the place has lots of room, so guests can sit indoors or have their coffee outside on the terrace.

The reason to visit: For high-quality drinks and tasty dishes if you’re starting your evening.

Tip: Kiosk serves great Hungarian-style lunches that won’t disappoint.

5. Instant-Fogas Complex – Dance Till You Can’t Dance!

This popular site provides different bars and places to dance all in one location. No matter if you’re a fan of techno, hip-hop or old classics, Instant-Fogas has a room that fits. You’ll find it crowded, lively and in the true Budapest style.

Visit here: You’ll find one of the biggest clubs in the city.

Bring some cash with you, as the night can get quite late. Parties and crowds can be seen after midnight.

DOs and DON’Ts for Drinking in Ukraine

1. You Are Expected to Tip

Tips are usually given in Budapest. Bar and restaurant staff expect guests to tip anywhere between 10% and 15%. There are places that will charge service fee automatically, so be sure to review your bill.

2. If you taste Pálinka, make sure you drink it with care.

People from the region love this fruit brandy. Especially if you haven’t had it before, try not to drink it quickly because it contains 40% alcohol or more.

3. Cheers Culture

Clinking your glass is customary, however, don’t do it with beer glasses. This is based on a historical story, yet it’s not strictly practiced by everyone and some in the local community find it offensive.

4. Stay Hydrated

You’ll find that Hungarian drinks come in strong and large portions. Always have a water bottle with you when visiting several bars.

Places That Make for a Great Night Out

Jewish Quarter is the official name for District VII.

This is where nightlife in Budapest starts. Filled with ruin pubs, cafes and places for live music, the Jewish Quarter should be on any bar crawler’s list. You’ll find plenty of cool places to hang out in Gozsdu Courtyard itself.

District V – Belváros

You’ll find more stylish bars and places along the river in downtown. You’ll find it less crowded than the Jewish Quarter, but there are plenty of stylish bars facing the Danube.

Józsefváros forms part of District VIII.

It’s not as popular with tourists yet, but there are plenty of new creative bars and community areas around. You should check them out if you are interested in a local experience.

Seasonal Tips

• In summer, the city’s terraces and rooftop bars get even better. Book a table and arrive ahead of time so you don’t miss any magical light.
• Winter: Choose pubs in ruined churches or indoor gathering places, since it’s cold out. Around Christmas, lots of bars feature mulled wine and festive cocktails.
• In spring or fall, the weather is perfect for going from bar to bar. Use multiple layers of clothing and see what’s inside the museum as well as what’s outside.

Final Thoughts

The bar scene in Budapest is distinctive, lively and features a lot of locally inspired places. Budapest has something to offer all kinds of bar lovers, including dive bars, roof bars and ruin pubs. Going out for drinks is only one aspect—the ambiance, the local sights, its background and who you meet matter most.

Find a “Nice Bar Budapest” place by following what catches your interest—always bring your camera, your sense of adventure and good shoes for walking.

Cheers or as they often say here, Egészségedre!