Introduction

Many people know Budapest, the capital of Hungary, for its historical importance, impressive architecture and energetic nightlife. A range of trendy bars in the city serve drinks in every atmosphere and give you a special night. No matter if you are a resident or a tourist, you shouldn’t miss Budapest’s trendy bars. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the best and most popular bars in Hollywood.

Going from one neighborhood to another, you will notice how vivid and varied the city’s bar scene is. No bar tells the exact same story; some are in ruins one day and swarming with people the next, while others offer glimpses of the nightlife from on high. No matter if you prefer to party hard, relax with drinks or admire industrial decors while drinking craft beer, the city’s nightlife is for you.

Budapest’s Ruin Bars

A must-see in Budapest’s bars are the famous ruin bars. The clubs are made in old, partly ruined structures which adds character to them. Ruin bars are a big part of why Budapest is exciting for alternative and hipster culture. There are a number of films you shouldn’t skip here:

1. Szimpla Kert

Szimpla Kert was the first ruin bar in Budapest and became the main symbol of the city’s nighttime attractions. This complex is found in the Jewish Quarter and features a lively atmosphere, refurbished furniture and multiple events ranging from concerts to film showings. Pick your favorite drink, go through the unusual decorations and enjoy the lively crowd.

People usually say that Szimpla is not only a place to drink, but also a unique experience. Turning bathtubs into seats, adding spray paint to walls and placing odd things around, each part of the place catches your attention. You’ll enjoy a different atmosphere whether you’re there early or the place is full of people at night.

2. Instant

When looking for a ruin bar that incorporates art, look no further than Instant. Its impressive neon decoration, current artworks and various dances floors blasting various music genres are set to make every party at Instant truly memorable. Enjoy dancing to good music, grab a drink and feel the creative atmosphere at this bar.

Instant merged with Fogas Ház recently and is now one of Budapest’s biggest party spots. There are themed indoor rooms as well as outdoor areas and every site has a different mood and kind of music. Anyone into electronic beats, hip hop or indie rock will find on Instant an area that suits them.

Cocktail Bars

Anyone interested in cocktails will find plenty to choose from, as matchless drinks and mixology are common in Budapest’s bars. They pay special attention to being creative, using fine quality foods and using well-learned techniques. Check out these two cocktail bars:

1. High Note SkyBar

You can admire the glowing skyline from High Note SkyBar. On the highest floor of the Aria Hotel in Budapest, you’ll find this posh rooftop bar with wonderful views and a full selection of original cocktails. While taking in the beautiful sky as the sun sets over the Danube, have a drink with friends.

The cocktail menu changes with the seasons thanks to exact curation based on local and global trends. This place is both formal and cozy, making it great for any romantic evening or to meet important visitors. Great live music is regular at High Note SkyBar, making your evening even more delightful.

2. Boutiq’Bar

You should try Boutiq’Bar if you want a cozier environment. With its huge choice of cocktails, this friendly bar offers expert mixologists who like to focus on perfecting their drinks. Try out their iconic foods or test the classics to enjoy a meal that will stick with you.

Boutiq’Bar falls among the best speakeasy-style bars in Central Europe. Thanks to a dim environment and retro design, it’s an ideal place to chat informally. Apart from their imagination, bartenders also know how to adjust a drink to suit what you like best.

Conversion Bars

The city’s ex-factories make for attractive spots for cool bars. Many of these bars still show their original features, joining past with present in an interesting way. You might want to have a look at these:

1. Mazel Tov

Formerly a glass factory, Mazel Tov now shows off both historical and modern style. You’ll find a roomy courtyard, tasty Middle Eastern dishes and lively company at this famous bar and restaurant just off the Jewish Quarter. Drink under the glow of colorful lights while being excited by the vibrant mood.

Everything about Mazel Tov’s bold design combines, giving the place the feeling of being outdoors, even when it’s cold. It’s ideal for brunch, a special date or a fun evening with your friends. You will find a nice wine selection and carefully crafted cocktails on the menu as well.

2. Ankert

Ankert was originally a horse arena and is now settled in a converted courtyard. The bar is respected for its relaxed mood, great drinks selection and regular cultural events. If you want to attend shows, view art or just stay and chat with friends, Ankert offers all of this and more.

In the day, Ankert is a well-liked café and coworking spot, but by night it comes alive as a busy bar. DJs, themed evenings and movies are presented at the location, adding to its role within the city’s creative field.

Craft Beer Bars

You’ll find plenty of craft beer choices for beer lovers in Budapest. There is a great variety of local and overseas craft beers to choose from in these bars. Start with these a few to build your beer-tasting experience:

1. Hopaholic

Hopaholic, the way you might guess from the name, is devoted to brews that emphasize hop flavor. Because there are more than 20 beer taps, as well as an impressive list of bottled beers, beer fans come from all over to visit this bar. Their knowledgeable workers will walk you through your tasting, making sure you find drinks you enjoy.

You’ll find that there are always IPAs, stouts, sour ales and lagers from Hungarian and international microbreweries available. After seeing all the nearby landmarks, the casual yet friendly setting makes this a nice stop.

2. Élesztő

Since Élesztő is also a microbrewery, it is especially important for beer connoisseurs to try. In the popular Heart of Finchley area, Brooklyn Craft Beers is found in an atmospheric old factory. Here, you’ll find an extensive selection of craft beers from around the world. Enjoy some mouthwatering street food from vendors inside to match your drink.

Being in multiple rooms and event spaces, Élesztő feels like a beer hall, but with a fresh, modern look. Because of regular tap takeovers, lectures on brewing and tastings, it is a favorite place for those who enjoy beers in Budapest.

Conclusion

Budapest’s nightlife is exciting, thanks to the many interesting bars scattered across the city. Wherever you stand on ruin bars, craft cocktails, conversion sites or craft beer, the city has a place for you. Look around these places, take in their special vibes and have amazing nights in Budapest.

Every bar in Budapest is unique, just like the city, so you’ll always find the atmosphere energetic and full of excitement. Cheers to fabulous nights in some of Europe’s most wonderful capital cities.