Best nightlife spots in Budapest

Budapest is known all around the world as one of the top destinations for tourists looking for an active nightlife and various partying options. It’s so popular that they even made a movie on the topic – Budapest available on Netflix – and that tells you everything you need to know about how generous the capital of Hungary is when it comes to partying and nightlife. But what are the best spots for getting the experience of a lifetime in a time when everyone advertises their business as “the best”? That’s exactly the questions we are answering with the suggestions below.

Mazel tov

Starting the list slowly with a stylish and spacious courtyard-cultural space that perfectly combines nature, the ruins and modern architecture. You can head over for evening drinks – make sure to check their palinka and cocktail options – but the place also doesn’t disappoint if you’re after a garden-party experience. You can taste some of the best Mediterranean-Hungarian fusion plates and have a full evening in one place.

Rácskert

Budapest is the place where every location can be turned into a party destination with enough imagination and a good team of designers. That’s the case for Rácskert as well, a former car park that was unbelievably converted into an awesome ruin bar with walls covered in graffiti and a festival-feel. You can get cheap beer and live music in a very relaxed atmosphere that will simply make you want to live there.

Szimpla Kert

Many claim that the trend of quicky ruin bars reinvented from factories and other abandoned buildings started with Szimpla Kert back in 2002. This perfect mix of having fun in a landscape dominated by ruined buildings and that ever-present communist-era vibe is something you just can’t miss.

Located in the Jewish quarter since 2004, Szimpla Kert is the epicenter of the nightlife scene in Budapest.

You shouldn’t miss this one or the opportunity to have a drink in an open-top East German Trabant or converted bathtub.

Instant

The biggest ruin bar in Budapest, Instant offers 8 bars and two big courtyards that are open until 6AM, no matter the day of the week. It goes without saying that you will get a dreamlike experience here by combining live music and awesome rave parties. It’s like stepping in another city altogether, where the fun never stops.