Introduction

The capital of Hungary, Budapest, is admired for its thermal baths, history and always-changing nightlife. When the sun disappears beyond the Danube, Budapest becomes a lively hub with places to drink, dance in the open air and hear all types of music. Budapest has a wide range of things for jazz fans, hip electronic music lovers and anyone who wishes to appreciate great Hungarian wine.

Should you already be in the city and feel like discovering it after hours, this guide will steer you to the finest nightlife downtown and spots worth exploring. Make yourself ready to party the night away in one of Europe’s liveliest places.

1. This district is the beating center of Budapest’s nightlife.

District VII or Erzsébetváros, is the main center of lively nightlife in Budapest. In the Jewish Quarter, this part of the city is a maze of streets filled with lots of character, street art and creativity. People visit the area primarily for its ruin bars which are places serving drinks in former buildings with colorful hodgepodge furniture.

Szimpla Kert

Every night out in Budapest’s nightlife area should include a visit to Szimpla Kert. Because it was the first ruin bar, Szimpla has become a cultural landmark for the city. Inside the club, you’ll see a variety of bars, rooms with different themes, tubs for seating and new art shows often. It’s as much a trendy chill-out place as an important cultural site.

You should come to the concert space around dinner time to explore the unique spots without the crowd.

b) Instant-Fogas

Before, Instant and Fogas were stand-alone bars, but now they are side by side at a huge nightlife complex with many bar and dance options. You’ll find different space, each with different beats such as EDM, techno, hip-hop and indie.

Did You Know?: You could find yourself swaying beneath hanging animal statues or could stop for peace in the quiet garden away from the crowds.

c) Fogasház

Even though its name is often all that’s mentioned, Fogasház remains a popular spot for culture in the area. Here you’ll see live music, enjoy great views on rooftops and maybe even stumble upon an art show. The atmosphere here makes the difference between a party and performance art hard to tell.

It’s best to visit the rooftop early in the morning to see a stunning neighborhood skyline.

2. Gozsdu Udvar – The Place That’s Always Alive

Just beside Király Street, Gozsdu Udvar is an area made up of narrow passageways between busy restaurants and cafes. Anytime, you’ll feel drawn here—this is the place to get started for a night of great restaurants and bars before entering the party epicenters.

The first place we recommend is DiVino Wine Bar.

You’ll find great Hungarian wines at this attractive wine bar in Budapest. At DiVino, you’ll find more than 150 different wines, mainly from young Hungarian winemakers. Go to the terrace and sip on a glass of Tokaji or Bull’s Blood, while watching people go by.

b) Spíler BistroPub

You’ll get comforting pub dishes, but with a more refined touch from Budapest added. The combinations of burgers, special beers, cocktails and sometimes performances by live bands make it an excellent place to get ready for the night.

Order something to eat here such as their special cocktails or burgers, before you go to the clubs nearby.

Hidden Ruin Bars as an alternative

There are a number of private ruin bars tucked away in the side alleys of Gozsdu, usually missed by tourists. These small places give guests a homely atmosphere, away from the loud crowds of big arenas.

3. A street that combines a sense of style and solid values

Király Street starts near the heart of District VII and ends at Deák Ferenc Square, crossing above Gozsdu Udvar. You’ll find many trendy bars and clubs on various levels throughout New York City. It feels somewhat classier than the ruin bars, but you’ll still find lots of character here.

a) Központ

Központ, short for “center,” is an old-fashioned bar that many students, artists and digital nomads like. You’ll find cheap drinks, nice staff and regular DJs at this place, making it perfect for starting or finishing your evening.

Bonus point: Sometimes their upstairs gallery includes temporary exhibitions and live spoken word events.

b) Doboz

Doboz which means “box,” is found in an old industrial building and is among the most unusual clubs in Budapest. Inside, you’ll find big artwork, including a red gorilla statue in the center courtyard. Once you go inside, various rooms are playing music styles from R&B to techno.

If you get there before midnight, you may skip the line and prevent paying any extra fee.

c) Pótkulcs

Since its name means “spare key,” Pótkulcs is a lovely and relaxed bar famous for its live jazz entertainment. If you’re in search of something simple and a bit artsy, its courtyard and unique cocktails make this a great option.

Conclusion

Budapest shows its diversity and energy during its nightlife. Regardless if you visit ruins-turned-bars in District VII, sip Hungarian wines in the gleaming Gozsdu Udvar courtyards or dance in downtown’s many clubs, the city never disappoints.

After the sun goes down, you can find imaginative bohemian ideas, the soul of Eastern Europe and energy from around the world. If you want to shake your boots until dawn or sip on wine in a beautiful spot, you won’t be disappointed in Budapest.