There’s no need to worry if you are planning a trip to Budapest and wish to try the best bars. The city is famous for its lively nightlife and terrific bars. It has a strong relationship with its past, along with a lively atmosphere that is clear in its pubs, bars and nightclubs. If you’re into craft beer, cocktails or you just want to taste local drinks, the city offers plenty for any visitor.

In this article, you will discover the best places around Budapest to drink and have fun, mixing culture, trendy places and history.

1. Ruin Bars in the area known as the Jewish Quarter

It is a popular choice for those who like to visit bars in Budapest. An interesting type of place here are themed bars which are set up in old, decrepit buildings. They are famous for their unusual décor, different furniture and relaxing atmosphere. A plan to bring life back to Budapest’s aging prewar sites turned into one of the big attractions of the city’s night scene.

Szimpla Kert is a very well-known ruin bar. It is a well-known club with various levels, rooms and a huge outdoor courtyard. Szimpla Kert really gets at the main idea of ruin bars. You have the option to order drinks, listen to music and eat at the food stalls that are there. Ocean City using graffiti, turning old bathtubs into sofas and putting antique pieces all over the space gives the atmosphere a unique feeling. You should try the Hungarian fruit brandy, Palinka which is very popular here. Drinking palinka is a favorite way for locals to celebrate the night.

There are more ruin bars around if you look, each with a different character and you might find a few mysterious places while exploring.

2. Gozsdu Udvar

For some buzz and excitement, go to Gozsdu Udvar. The passage is lively because it has a lot of bars, restaurants and shops. The place is popular among both residents and tourists wanting to go out at night. After dark, the entrance of Gozsdu Udvar becomes exciting, with music, lots of laughter and people drinking filling the entire street.

There are plenty of bars that will appeal to all kinds of preferences. There are craft beer pubs and cocktail lounges in Gozsdu Udvar. A pub crawl is a great idea when you’re with friends who all like different kinds of bars. Wander along the passageway and find the bar that you like best. If you’d like a quiet drink while talking or want to party and dance, there is something on the menu for you. Having craft beer from Hungary is a must during your visit. There is a big variety of flavors at local breweries, including some that people only experience in this country.

3. Király Street

Király Street is fast becoming well known for its bars in Budapest. There are many trendy spots in the area, letting you enjoy the changing bar culture in the city. Because it is close to Gozsdu Udvar and the Jewish Quarter, Király Street now gets a lot of attention due to the many bars and restaurants it offers.

360 Bar, located on the top of a building, is one of the most loved bars on Király Street. As the name explains, you can taste good cocktails and also admire Budapest from above. Enjoying a sunset by taking in the city from here is a great idea. When the golden hour falls on the rooftops, the gentle atmosphere has that magic touch. It’s laid-back yet still looks great and people love spending time up there during sunny times of the year.

4. Belváros

If you’re searching for a more advanced bar scene, head to Belváros (downtown). There are many stylish cocktail bars and plush lounges in this part of the city. Perfect for anyone who wants to sip a drink in a high-class place after exploring the city or dining at a nearby restaurant, Belváros is right in the city center.

For delicious and well-made cocktails, “Tuk Tuk Bar” is a great choice. This little place has a selection of interesting drinks with a Southeast Asian flavor. Since the bartenders are very skilled and passionate, this place is sure to impress anyone who loves cocktails. Every drink is beautiful and delicious, usually inspired by ingredients and spices found in Asia. Their nice, vintage-style interior and exotic trimmings offer a unique kind of fusion right at the heart of Budapest.

On the list is Óbuda Island.

Anyone coming to Budapest in the summer should make sure to explore the nightlife on Óbuda Island. During the Sziget Festival which is held on the island alongside the Danube River, it becomes a party haven. Every August, thousands of music fans from all over come here for a huge music festival and many bars, food trucks and lounges pop up as a result.

Though the highlights come during the festival, Óbuda Island is still a nice place for peace and drinks at any time. If you prefer a quiet spot, many bars and beer gardens let you enjoy the sun and the peaceful river. It is great for hanging out during the day, picnicking and relaxing after a day of exploring the city. By being laid-back and close to nature, it stands out as a relieving alternative to the buzzing city bar scenes.

Conclusion

Budapest has a wide variety of bars for people with different interests. The city is home to special ruin bars, crowded bar passages, trendy urban places, chic cocktail lounges and lively riverside spots. As well as fantastic drinks, every area reflects another side to Budapest—ranging from its historical background to its culture.