Budapest, Hungary’s lively capital, is known for its great architecture, hot spring baths and guided tours as well as its busy nightlife. Joining a pub crawl is a favorite way to experience how lively Budapest gets after dark. If you come to Budapest alone, in a group or are just looking to visit pubs and make new friends, a pub crawl here is a great opportunity for drinks, culture and a memorable night out.

The Reason You Should Enjoy a Pub Crawl in Budapest

Budapest is well-known for its nonstop nightlife, mixing the old with the new, from ruin pubs to places for cocktails and clubs too. With so many unique choices in the city, navigating the city by yourself can be exhausting. During a pub crawl, you visit well-known places, often with free libations, lower ticket costs and an opportunity to meet up with other visitors. You get to see Budapest’s best nightlife in a good-time atmosphere, without having to plan where to go.

The Experience You’ll Have on a Budapest Pub Crawl

Almost every pub crawl in Budapest begins in the early evening and often goes on for five to six hours. On average, the route covers four to six pubs and bars, each giving something special — places for energetic dancing, pleasant relaxing, unusual ruin pubs or fancy cocktail bars. Many pub crawls have themes, including tours centered on craft beer, explorations at ruin pubs or nights full of music with games.

During this stage, you’ll get free shots, welcome cocktails and special offers on drinks. The people who lead the tours are usually people from the city who can give you valuable and personal information about the spots you go to. Not only that, but they’ll lift everyone’s spirits with various games, challenges and ways to meet other crawlers.

Areas in Budapest You Should Try for a Pub Crawl

1. District VII is referred to as the Jewish Quarter.

It is here in the Jewish Quarter that you’ll find Budapest’s best nightlife and the famous ruin pubs — once abandoned spaces turned into lively bars full of interesting art and a casual atmosphere. You can’t miss this area on any pub crawl; the renowned Szimpla Kert is famous for its unique art and busy atmosphere.

You can find both craft drinks and beer from local brands in other bars in the Jewish Quarter. Lots of street vendors work here late into the night which is just what you need if you’re out bar hopping.

2. Gozsdu Courtyard

At the heart of the Jewish Quarter, Gozsdu Courtyard is full of bars, pubs and restaurants. It attracts residents and travelers, especially people arriving on the weekend. Most pub crawls in this area make the most of the outdoor courtyard, moving between the rooftop bars, the wine bars and the louder clubs. Gozsdu’s street art and many cultural happenings give your time in the area an extra spark.

3. District V which is central Budapest

If you’d prefer a more exclusive night out, downtown pub crawls lead to fashionable cocktail lounges, sleek wine bars and trendy speakeasies. The area is great if you wish to drink fine alcohol and also watch the river and the Parliament building.

How to Make Your Hungarian Pub Crawl More Fun

Most of the bars and pubs in Budapest are laid-back, yet a few of the fancier venues request smart casual attire. Always remember to check the rules or put on your Sunday best, just in case you are refused entrance.

• Don’t forget to have a drink of water when you start feeling tired from drinking.
• Get the Schedules: You can use trams and buses during the night throughout the city. Know the route to your hotel or use apps like Uber or Lyft to book taxis when you’re out.
• Ensure you pace yourself to have fun, because a pub crawl isn’t meant to be done at lightning speed. Don’t rush, sip your drinks and enjoy the setting everywhere you go.
• When going to smaller places, it’s often better to have cash ready. It’s helpful to have a little cash in Hungarian forints before you go.

Experiences you won’t find anywhere else on a Budapest Pub Crawl

A real highlight of a pub crawl in the city is checking out the famous ruin pubs. Unlike other places, these bars have mismatched furniture, show vintage memorabilia and have original and creative art installations. At first, Szimpla Kert was the only ruin pub and it’s full of strange and exciting rooms and corners for meeting people.

Many of these multibar events stop at craft breweries or distilleries so you can sample both Hungarian beers and pálinka wine brandy.

Many crawls finish the night at clubs featuring DJs who play everything from local to international hits, giving you a chance to try the city’s electronic and dance music.

Security and Having Responsibility

While Budapest is typically safe, keep an eye on what’s happening around you, especially when you’re out at night. Remain with your friends, watch what you drink and never take a drink from someone you don’t know. The majority of pub crawl operators care about your safety, but making sure you are responsible matters the most.

Reserving a place on a Pub Crawl in Budapest

Many companies arrange pub crawls, giving people the choice between group tours on a budget or enjoying a VIP experience. Make your reservation for hiking well in advance, since many hikers visit in vacation or weekend periods. Checking reviews and selecting a valuable company can make your night enjoyable and smooth.

Because many tours give away shots, offer sales on drinks and provide quick, no-wait access, they are very cost-effective. Others add themed events or transport options for people moving between different areas.

Final Thoughts

Participating in a pub crawl helps you sample different places in Budapest, meet other tourists and enjoy a variety of nighttime drinks. If you’re wandering through the Jewish Quarter, stopping by Gozsdu Courtyard or trying out the downtown bars, you are bound to have a night to remember. The city’s pub crawls are exciting for visitors thanks to the amazing music, lively crowds and individual venues.