Visiting Budapest? Enjoy its famous nightlife with one of the many pub crawls you’ll find there. Thanks to its vigorous atmosphere, unique ruin bars and low drink prices, Budapest is now a common choice for anyone wanting to party, explore or have a special night in Europe.
What exactly is a pub crawl?
During a pub crawl, travelers or locals visit many bars and pubs with a guide, all in one night. In Budapest, you’ll usually discover pub crawls in the Jewish Quarter, famous for having the city’s best bars in former factories and buildings. Anyone interested in checking out the bars around town, traveling alone or with friends, will appreciate these events.
Why Is a Pub Crawl Popular in Budapest?
- A pub crawl in Budapest is remembered by most as an exceptionally fun time.
- A wide range of places to drink such as ruin pubs, clubs underground and places with views, sets this city apart.
- You’ll find that having a night out in Budapest is more affordable because drinks are much cheaper than most other big cities in Western Europe.
- All over the world: You’ll encounter people from different nations and learn from the local party experts.
- You don’t have to decide where to go or research bars, since the guide will look after that. Just let the students lead and have a good time!
What’s in Store During a Regular Pub Crawl
The majority of Budapest pub crawls start around 8:00 or 9:00 PM and participants get to:
- Someone or a group of leaders, who directs the group from one bar to another
- Welcome drinks are included in the entry at each party
- Special deals and drinks at a discount which are exclusive to pub crawls
- At the end of the night, you’ll get free VIP entry to some clubs.
- Games and activities to help new people become familiar with one another
- A few special pub crawls give guests access to open bars for a while, beer pong competitions or even include boat parties on the Danube River that head into a pub crawl.
Budapest’s famous Ruin Bars
Ruin bars are so iconic in Budapest that every pub crawl should include at least one. The spaces in these bars were once empty buildings and their style includes plenty of old furniture, unique artwork, spray paintings and unusual lighting.
You’ll often find a few famous ruin bars featured on pub crawls.
1. Szimpla Kert
Covered by a large mural, Szimpla on Kazinczy Street became the home of ruin bars in the city and is one of the best-known places in Budapest. Many pub crawls begin or end here and you’ll find lots of rooms, a courtyard and art everywhere at this pub.
2. Instant-Fogas
The club at Instant-Fogas features seven different music venues and many themed rooms, making it a great choice for closing any night out. You’ll find different dance floors for fans of electronic, hip hop and retro music.
3. Ellátó Kert
Many pub crawls start at this relaxed place. With its big porch, bright murals and casual mood, it makes a great place for your first drink and getting together with friends.
The Best Pub Crawl Companies in Budapest
- It’s easy to find many companies in Budapest that offer amazing pub crawl experiences. Among the top rated clinics are:
- Budapest Pub Crawl has local guides and hands out free T-shirts to those joining the tour.
- AllNightCrash Pub Crawl gives you an hour of bottomless drinks before exploring many iconic bars.
- Ultimate Budapest Pub Crawl – Created for international backpackers and features games and entry to nightclubs.
- You can book a crawl ahead of time on the internet or get tickets from many hostels when you stay.
Suggestions for Having a Good Time on a Pub Crawl in Budapest
- Keep these tips in mind when you want to have a great night out in Budapest, Ungarn.
- Remember, taking many shots over several stops makes this a marathon, so do not try to do it all quickly.
- Make sure to have cash on hand, because tipping (usually 10%) is a good gesture especially if they do not take cards at some venues.
- Hydrate yourself during your night out by switching drinks with glasses of water.
- Smart-casual is the way to go: Rugby bars aren’t formal, but some clubs might require a dress code, so avoid being too casual.
- Be willing to meet new people while you crawl from bar to bar. Say hello and have fun among people from various backgrounds.
How safe is it?
Visitors to Budapest usually feel safe and in general, pub crawls in the city are easily organized by skilled guides. Even so, as with most nightlife, remain aware of your environment, keep an eye on what you have and try not to walk alone.
Conclusion
Having fun on a pub crawl in Budapest, Ungarn makes a great activity for any time you’re in town, be it just for a quick visit or on a Eurotrip. Because of its famous ruin bars, nice crowds and well-planned routes, you’ll understand why Budapest is known as a top party city.
So go ahead, find your drink, follow the rhythm and don’t miss this amazing night. Prost! (If you speak Hungarian, you say Egészségedre!)