The capital of Hungary is made up of much more than thermal baths, ruin bars and attractive architecture—it’s also a great city for sports fans. If you’re hoping to watch a Premier League, Formula 1 or Champions League game with a pint, London’s sports pubs ensure you do just that with great company. The guide overviews a selection of Sports Pubs in Budapest, outlines what you should know before your visit and shares a few important tips for your experience.

Being a Sports Fan, Why You’ll Love Budapest

Sports play a big role in how Budapest’s culture is formed. Lots of locals are enthusiastic about football (soccer), water polo and motorsport. Cheering for Ferencvárosi TC, attending the Formula 1 Hungarian Grand Prix or joining in on international events, the city is very sport-oriented. Add together good local beer and filling food and you find the perfect setting for sports pubs in Hungary.

The Top Places to Go for Sports in Budapest

1. Pointer Pub, Found in Multiple Locations

Because of its many branches in the city, Pointer Pub attracts foreigners and locals alike. Because there are big screens, commentaries are done in English and the beer flow smoothly, it’s great for following different sports, including Premier League and rugby. Pub food in the kitchen includes burgers, chicken wings and the classic Hungarian goulash.

Tip: The Oktogon-area church is the place to be if you want a fun environment.

2. Jack Doyle’s is an Irish Pub.

Located just a few steps away from Deák Ferenc tér, Jack Doyle’s gives a warm Irish welcome and broadcasts sports day by day. You’ll get to watch an interesting mix of sports, like Gaelic football, boxing, football and rugby. One can sit around longer, since their Sunday roast and easy access to Guinness make it hard to leave.

If possible, book a table in advance forwhen major rugby games happen, including Six Nations weekends.

3. Establishment moved to Becketts Irish Pub & Restaurant

For over 20 years, Becketts has been well-known for offering locals and tourists cold beverages and good meals. Sports events are shown in many rooms and their coverage is wide. Large crowds at big games are sure to be friendly and made up of people from many countries.

For best results, try their shepherd’s pie with a Kilkenny.

4. Pub Fiction Sports Bar

Situated in District VII, this themed sports bar is loved by the younger set. Thanks to several HD screens, low entry prices and a trendy Tarantino feel, Pub Fiction is perfect for tourists who want to find something different but still lots of fun.

Did You Know? Sports and themed evenings are held at the bar on many nights, so check their updates online.

5. Champions at the Marriott

If you’d prefer a refined setting, Champions Sports Bar in the Marriott Hotel features luxury seats, excellent drinks and all the sporting events you can watch in English. This hotel will suit business travelers as well as tourists hoping for luxury and action during the game.

Did You Know: You can enjoy the Danube view in the lobby, so it’s perfect for a drink before or after a game.

Enjoying a Time at Sports Bars in Budapest

 It’s all about timing.

There are often too many people wanting to play major games in pubs with few seats. Regardless of whether you’ve made a reservation, you should get to the venue an hour early if you want to watch a UEFA Champions League or World Cup match.

 Understand the Current Time Zones

Be sure to plan your journey as Hungary follows Central European Time (CET). Starting at 8 p.m. in London, the game will begin in Budapest at 9 p.m. Always look over the pub schedules and verify the dates on local guides.

 At this place, you can pay by cash or by card.

The majority of sports pubs let you pay with your credit or debit card, but a few smaller places are cash only. Having a little bit of Hungarian Forint (HUF) handy is a good idea.

 Get Familiar with a few Common Expressions

Most Budapest bar staff understand English, however, adding some Hungarian can help a lot. Try:

I’d like one beer, please.

I’m saying thank you – “I appreciate your support.”

 Sources for Unique and Local Beer

Hungary’s breweries are seeing a lot of growth. Even though famous foreign brands are common, you should sample local brews, for example, Dreher, Soproni or a craft IPA by Mad Scientist.

Sports Culture Aside from Football: A Look at Budapest

For two or more days in town, watching a match is definitely worth it. At its Groupama Aréna, Ferencvárosi TC commonly plays in Hungarian league and European tournaments. You can buy cheap tickets and the crowd shows great passion. Hungarians and F1 fans flock to Budapest each summer for the always unmissable Hungarian Grand Prix at the Hungaroring race track.

It is also possible to take a guided walk of this sports arena, named after renowned Hungarian footballer, Puskás. If you can’t make it to a game, the arena itself is still a memorable place for sports fans.

Final Thoughts

Fans, followers or newcomers to sports will find Sports Pub Budapest celebrates games and the spirit of Budapest all at once. Because there are many places to watch games, Budapest is known for offering some of the best sports viewing experiences in Europe’s heartland. Have your jersey ready, set up your game nights and prepare to cheer, since Budapest is ready for you.