Besides its well-known thermal baths, stunning architecture and river views, Budapest which is Hungary’s capital, is renowned for being one of Europe’s best cities for nightlife. The pub crawl is one of the main reasons to come to Budapest, since it offers a lively way to visit the exciting ruin bars, active pubs and hidden clubs that fill the city at night.

What if you’re looking for ways to spend less and still enjoy all the excitement? And that’s how the idea of a “Pub Crawl Budapest Free” started. If you’re looking for a cheap or even free way to experience Budapest’s nightlife, this guide will tell you how to have a great pub crawl.

What Does a Pub Crawl Mean?

Given its name, a pub crawl serves as a guided tour of nightlife. A collection of strangers organizes at a specific place and hops from bar to bar over the night. Pub crawls often have games, tests, giveaways, drink discounts and some even let groups jump ahead at the most popular clubs.

The benefits? You get to make friends with other travelers, check out places you might not have seen and organize your way through the city’s nightlife—especially if you’re not familiar with it yet.

Do Pub Crawls Ever Really Happen for Free?

You can actually join free pub crawls in Budapest. Still, we have to know what “free” covers in relation to online games. Typically, these pub crawls ask guests to pay with tips after the tour, as there’s no entry fee right away.

Since you set the budget, the model is great for budget travelers and often guides make an effort to make the night special so you can leave a good tip for them. If you don’t want any stress while enjoying the nightlife, this is a great place to visit.

Where Can I Find Free Pub Crawls in Budapest

There’s no need for complicated steps to attend a free pub crawl in Budapest; just search for them online. It is common for leading hostels in the city to hold pub crawls that welcom anyone, including tourists who aren’t staying there. You may also use these websites for your search:

• Free Pub Crawl events on Facebook (enter “Free Pub Crawl Budapest” in the search)
• Go to TripAdvisor or GetYourGuide for reviews and options.
• Couchsurfing hangouts
• Firms that lead walking tours and also add nightlife activities
• A lot of people start their nights in the Jewish Quarter, as this is where you’ll find most of the ruin bars — and especially Deák Ferenc Square and Gozsdu Courtyard.

Things to Know When Joining a Pub Crawl

Each time is different, but this is often what to expect on a free Budapest pub crawl:

• You should meet up at a nearby bar or at a square around 8-9.
• The host starts by introducing the group through games or fun pieces of information.
• Consider visiting 3–5 bars or pubs, with at least one world famous and historic ruin bar—like Szimpla Kert or Instant-Fogas.
• Sometimes, places will offer specials just for the crawl members.
• You typically finish your pub crawl at a club for free or cheaper than entry price.
• Creative games: Try doing a treasure hunt, putting together dance battles or organizing tournaments.
• You can expect to enjoy fun chats, meet new friends and sample the real nightlife atmosphere that Googling “area bars” won’t provide.

Suggestions for Reducing Costs on Your Bar Trip

• Even when you don’t pay for tickets, you can make your night fun and affordable.
• Have dinner first, so you don’t end up paying a lot for pub snacks.
• Pre-drink (responsibly!): Get a drink at the local supermarket right before you start the crawl.
• Cash will come in handy, just in case the small ruin pub you visit doesn’t take cards.
• Remember to tip your guide: Your guide works hard and even a small amount of money will go far.

Can I Trust It?

The 7th District which is well-lit and crowded, provides good safety for partying hard in Budapest. Still, just like anywhere else, it’s wise to:

Keep following your group.

• Always make sure your drink is in view, even when you are in the bathroom.
• Take either a taxi or a ride-sharing car when leaving.
• Refuse drinks you’re offered by people who do not belong to the crawl group.
• Make sure someone knows your travel plans, whether you’re heading out by yourself or not.

Why You Should Participate in a Free Pub Crawl in Budapest

If you’re looking for something different, a free pub crawl gives you a fun evening at a low cost and with a friendly group.

It’s also a great way to:

• Interact with other people you meet along your way.
• Explore places that are easily overlooked when you travel by yourself
• Make sure to visit the ruin bars and clubs that make Budapest so special.
• You don’t have to spend much to have a special night out.

Conclusion

If you want a night you won’t forget, a no-cost Pub Crawl Budapest Free tour may be the answer. Enjoy yourself with a capable group, y come and an open heart and you’ll enjoy some memorable nights in the capital.

Put on your dancing shoes, get your ID ready and come enjoy one of the best free nights in Europe — just outside your door in Budapest.