While Budapest is famous for its history, impressive buildings and lively culture, the nightlife scene becomes equally excellent when the sun goes down. If you’re into electronic music, indie music or cocktails in unique bars, you’ll find plenty of nightlife to keep you entertained and always be surprised while in Budapest.

Below, we check out six of the top nightclubs in Budapest, each stand-out because of their different ambiance and experiences. Whether you prefer the stage of a floating venue or an artsy underground place, you can find what you’re looking for night after night. On top of that, we’ve included some practical advice to help you blend in with the locals.

1. At Szimpla Kert, you’ll find a unique kind of ruin bar.

If you visit one ruin bar in Budapest, visit Szimpla Kert—it’s the most famous among them. In the heart of the Jewish Quarter, this unique place has an unusual atmosphere and decor. There are many rooms with various themes, including one that has a garden and another that’s on the roof. Szimpla Kert is famous for its parties but also hosts cultural shows, films and art showcases. If you want something different and enjoy the atmosphere of an old building converted into a club, reach out here.

At the start of the 2000s, people in Budapest repurposed deserted buildings as casual places for people to meet at night. This style first became popular thanks to Szimpla Kert and it is still ahead of the competition. You can learn part of a story from vintage chairs to bicycles or odd bathtub seats, as they all have a purpose. Even if you’re more of a homebody, Szimpla Kert is one of Budapest’s most interesting places to visit.

2. If you’re into electronic music, Instant should be on your radar.

If you love electronic music, you’ll find everything you need at Instant. In the heart of Budapest, the multi-level space is a favorite for those who enjoy techno, house and dance music. Because every room has its own genre, you’ll have lots of exciting choices. Partygoers love Instant for its happening vibe, amazing sound and top-notch DJs. You should visit their event calendar to find out if they have planned themes or unique events.

Its parent complex, Instant-Fogas, melds two of the most popular local clubs into an impressive mega venue. There are over a dozen separate areas where you can dance, drink or enjoy music, each with a different feel. You might try going from trance to trap, house to hip-hop and in any case, you’re sure to discover a beat that suits you.

3. A38: A place for Floating Concerts and a Nightclub

Unlike any other place in the city, A38 changed from a Ukrainian cargo ship into a concert hall and popular nightclub. Watching the city skyline and live performances comes easy at Büttenbahnhalle, situated beside the Danube River. People from different backgrounds come to A38 because the music includes rock, jazz and electronic sounds. If you’re into live shows and a place that stands out, you should check out this unusual nightclub.

The ship includes a restaurant, a rooftop venue and a concert hall, so everyone can have a full multisensory experience. A38 isn’t one of many clubs; it’s valued as a cultural institution in town. Not only has The Animal Trainer been named Lonely Planet’s best bar in the world, but it draws in both music lovers and travelers the whole year.

4. Lärm: The Buzz from Below and the Pop-Up Indie Trend

Lots of people visit Lärm to find something different from traditional nightclubs. Within Gozsdu Udvar, Nightades is located, giving guests the chance to enjoy multiple genres from indie and alternative all the way to punk and rock. Because Lärm regularly has both local and international musicians, it attracts fans of live music. Thanks to its small venue and high-energy artists, it’s a perfect place for a memorable night.

The venue Lärm is different from most mainstream clubs because it focuses on superb sound, very little light and does not allow guest to take photos. Here, music is at the forefront and what’s trending is not so important. For those after real live music and unique performances, you should visit this club.

5. In Ibiza, Morrison’s played a two-day event that was called, 2: The Biggest Club in Budapest

If you want to spend a night in a big club, come to Morrison’s 2. Thanks to its four different dance floors and ability to contain up to 2,500, it is the city’s leading nightclub. You can catch any genre of music at one of the rooms, no matter if it’s hip-hop, R&B, EDM or pop. Morrison’s 2 is recognized for keeping the drinks cheap and the night positive for dancing and fun.

Morrison’s offers a range of themed nights, great karaoke areas and special deals for students. Because the location is so large and lively, it’s the perfect place for big groups hoping for a wild night.

6. Some Extra Ways to Make Your Night Out Special

If you want your night out in Budapest to go well, remember these useful tips.

Most places in Budapest require nightclub attendees to dress up to match the venue’s dress code. Going with smart casual dress is your best option. Don’t wear overly informal casual clothes or flip-flops in places that are quite nice.

Each night and special event can have different prices for entry. Looking at a club’s website or social media channels can help you find discounts. At lots of clubs, you can get inside for no charge or less before a certain point in the night.

Benefit from the low costs of drinks, but don’t forget to drink responsibly. Whatever Hungarian spirits you consume, remember that they are potent.

Buses and trams are easy to use at any time in Budapest, but I suggest getting used to the night bus routes or organizing a taxi before you go out at night