Many travelers to Budapest, the lively Hungarian capital, usually want to know: “How much does a beer in Budapest cost?” The average cost of a beer is useful when planning your spending and can also tell you something about the area’s ways of life. Here, we’ll provide you with a clear overview of beer prices, the best spots to buy one and helpful hints to save money.

Prices for Beer in Budapest

Prices for beers in Budapest depend on where you go which brand you pick and what kind of establishment it is. Average prices for draft beer in a bar or pub usually fall within 350 and 800 Hungarian Forint (HUF). That works out to between $1.20 and $2.80 USD or €1.00 and €2.40 EUR.

There are often lower prices for drinks in residential and student communities, where you’ll find little neighborhood pubs or bars. If you’re staying in a prime neighborhood or close to popular attractions, count on paying above $120 per night.

If you’re on a budget, check out convenience stores or smaller pubs outside of where the tourists often go. Strongly promoted, these drinks can be found for as little as 250 HUF which is about $0.87 USD or €0.75 EUR. Just remember that the beer selection isn’t as wide or high quality as it is elsewhere.

A lot of budget travelers and backpackers buy beer at supermarkets or local shops. In these venues, Dreher, Borsodi, Soproni and Arany Ászok are simple to find and usually sell for between 200 and 400 HUF. It’s possible to eat these picnic-style or back at your room.

Happy Hour Locals

If you’re looking for a drink in Budapest, you’ll find everything from local ruin bars to modern craft beer taverns. Because every craft brewery is unique in its style and beer selection, you can always arrange your visit to your needs and budget. A few top spots to check out are included below.

1. Ruin Bars

Ruin bars are an original element of nightlife in Budapest. These bars are found in run-down areas or courtyards, giving people an artistic and fresh atmosphere. Because they have many beers for reasonable prices, they are enjoyed by both locals and travelers.

Many consider Szimpla Kert, found in the District VII’s Jewish Quarter, to be Budapest’s top ruin bar. Beer may be affordable for anybody, since the price for a draft beer ranges from 600 to 800 HUF in most bars and pubs. Any traveler should add ruin bars to their list because of their unique and relaxed environment.

2. Craft beer bars

If you like beer or want to drink some local varieties, Budapest now has a large craft beer scene. You can find a big variety of handmade beers on the menus at craft beer bars in Hungary, as well as from other places. Some bars are more expensive than others, but if you love great craft beers, it’s worth the price.

If you’re after special beers, Élesztő, Kandalló Pub and Csak a Jó Sör are the places to go. A brewery’s craft beer pint may cost between 700 and 1200 HUF which varies depending on what style it is. Because they swap out the taps, you can always find a new style at these places.

Looking for the Best Price

Try these suggestions to get the best beer deals in Budapest and save money.

1. Happy Hours

A lot of places in Budapest run happy hour specials at particular hours of the day. Enjoy saving money by buying your favorite beers during these offers. Check the signs or ask what offers are available today.

In most places, happy hours fall between 5 and 7 in the evening, but occasionally they change. A number of bars give drink and snack discounts during happy hour, so you save more than just on beer.

2. Go on Pub Crawls

Stay away from the main tourist sights and head into neighborhoods to find places off the beaten path. Smaller pubs tend to be more affordable than the pubs that tourists usually go to.

If you go to Újbuda (District XI), Angyalföld (District XIII) or parts of Kispest, you could find pubs and gardens with very cheap beer, usually for as little as 300-400 HUF. You might find Hungarian-only menus here, but it gives you a look at real Hungarian living.

3. Try the Taste of Local Beers

Budapest offers many international brands, but you shouldn’t skip trying some local beer while you’re there. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot local brews at bars and see how the country likes its beer.

Dreher Bak, Soproni IPA and Borsodi Hoppy are simple to find, cool to drink and make it easy to taste local favorites. Ask what the bartender would recommend—since they usually enjoy highlighting beers from your nation.

4. Thinking about Drinking as a Group

There are some bars that discount their drinks when a big group comes together. Should you be with friends traveling or running into fellow travelers, get some group beers so you can benefit from the offers.

A good example is that many pubs give reduced prices on pitchers or beer towers, perfect for when you’re with friends. You can test out many different whiskies by sharing a sampling flight with your friends.

Conclusion

Knowing roughly how much a beer will cost helps you decide how much food or drinks to buy during your trip. Expect to pay 350-800 HUF ($1.20-$2.80 USD or €1.00-€2.40 EUR) for a beer in many bars or pubs. Still, don’t hesitate to check out bars and restaurants around you and make use of the discounts offered during happy hour. You should sample Hungarian beer and enjoy the exciting nightlife Budapest is famous for.