If you want to know which European city has the greatest party scene, the answer is Budapest. Over time, Budapest let go of its earlier, quiet image and turned into one of the liveliest places for nightlife in Europe. The greatest way to see the city’s lively nightlife is to go bar-hopping in Budapest.

If you just come for the drinks, you’re missing the point, as pub crawling in Budapest is also about the experience. Imagine old buildings being turned into busy nightspots, tunes blasting in open areas adorned with graffiti and shady alleys opening to dance clubs below. Here, people see the city at night for fun, but also for new experiences.

Ruin Bars Begin in Budapest

The most unique aspect of Budapest’s bar scene is its army of ruin bars, where art and innovation mix into old, ruined sites. When communism ended, much of the shopping streets and buildings in the Jewish Quarter were abandoned. Innovative locals saw that these buildings could be more than just space to knock down and decided to turn them into diverse bars.

The best known of the group is Szimpla Kert which introduced ruins bars to Budapest. Not only do drinks come at Szimpla, but you also find unusual vintage furniture, old bathtubs made into chairs, bicycle decorations and walls covered in ever-changing murals.

Further musts are Instant-Fogas, with its Alice in Wonderland and rave-like atmosphere across big rooms and Ellátó Kert which features a relaxed yard, drinks and easy-to-make Mexican snacks.

Why is a Pub Crawl such a fun idea?

You may decide to discover these bars yourself, but a group pub crawl gives you certain benefits:

• Local knowledge: With a guide from the area, you’ll find places that most travelers might overlook.
• What are skip-the-line bars? Popular bars on weekends can have lines forming outside, but with these passes you don’t need to wait in them. The wait to get in is usually bypassed for crawls.
• For those traveling by themselves or with others wanting to meet others, it’s a good place to be.
• Most crawls provide welcome shots, cut-price beer or fun drinking games along the way.
• Different companies in Budapest regularly organize pub crawls each night. Usually, the route starts near Deák Ferenc Square and lasts about 4–5 short walking stops, with the final end point at a late dance club. Typically, the prices are between €10 and €20 for what you’ll be served.
• Girls should think about what is allowed and what you want your evening to feel like.
• You’ll find that within the scene, everyone is looking to meet and connect with others. You’re not required to wear fancy shoes or a button-down; jeans and soft shoes are acceptable too. You’ll find most people being relaxed, creative and looking really cool. Although, some nightclubs at the end of the night might be stricter about how you’re dressed, so you shouldn’t wear sports or flip-flop look.
• Although you can use your card in many places, stash some HUF in your wallet for the times you stop at a food truck or smaller café.

Staying Safe and Drinking Wisely

Budapest is a city you can visit without much concern, but it helps to keep an eye on things as usual. Try not to drink too much, stay with your friends and make sure you know where your drinks are — since the local pálinka can sneak up on you.

You should find out the route back to where you’re staying before the crawl starts. The companies in charge of buses and trains operate late into the evening and you can turn to taxis or Bolt if you’re farther out.

Thinking About the Crawl: Thoughts the Morning After

After having fun all night at the pubs, there’s something in Budapest that will recharge you. Try soaking in the famous hot water of Széchenyi or Gellért Baths to receive the benefits of healing therapy. If you’re looking to relax, clear your system and laugh about your night, historic spas are the ideal spot.

Should you have more energy, treat yourself to a strong coffee and then enjoy the Danube Promenade or the view from Fisherman’s Bastion. The cool refreshing air and beautiful Mrkiweki City are a nice contrast to the loud bass last night.

Extra Advice for Enjoying Pub Crawling in Budapest

Before you go out for drinks, eat something filling to help you stay up late, since there’s great street food and tasty goulash in Budapest.

Have your ID handy – Even though you may look over 18, bars might ask you for ID.

Go slow – Most ruin bars have mesmerizing ambience you’ll need to remember.

Conclusion

When you pub crawl Budapest, you’re taking part in more than just going from one bar to another — you’re getting to know the heart of this creative, strong and joyful city. In any setting, whether you’re in a romantic courtyard or on a dance floor from a former factory, each bar has its own story.

Wear your runners, get your phone fully charged and don’t forget your adventurous side. It’s when night falls in Budapest that everything really comes to life — one place at a time.