The Pre-Drink: Budapest

Budapest, Hungary. Known to be one of the most unique large cities in Europe, Budapest is renowned for its thermal bathhouses, underground caves, and eclectic ruin pubs. What you probably have never heard of is a “sparty” - a full-on “spa party” hosted on the weekend at the city’s famous heated pools. In addition to sparties, Budapest offers a fun range of nightlife opportunities, from its famous boat parties on the Danube river to its revived ruin bars. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the student hotspots you’ll find in this fun and exciting city. From where to kick off your night with a casual beer to the best late-night grilled cheese you’ll find abroad, check out these places for a memorable night out in the Heart of Europe.

 

Trofea Grill

 

For 6599 HUF ($24 USD), Trofea Grill offers an all-you-can-eat, all-you-can-drink Hungarian buffet offering everything from Hungarian starters and salad to delicious meat dishes and local desserts. What makes Trofea worth it, however, is that the $24 price tag also includes unlimited champagne, wine, beer, and cocktails. The food is known to be very good for the price, making this centrally-located restaurant the perfect spot to kick off your pre-drink routine.

 

Szimpla Kert 

 

Named by The Lonely Planet as the 3rd best bar in the world, Szimpla Kert is by far Budapest’s most famous ruin pub. While it is dominated by tourists and is in no way a “local” find, this bar kicked off the rapid spread of ruin pubs across Budapest and is a must-see during your time here. The place is huge, and while you could definitely spend hours at Szimpla Kert, it also makes for a great pre-drink spot on your way to the city’s massive dance clubs.

 

Instant 

 

Anyone recommending a visit to Szimpla Kert has likely also mentioned Instant in the same breath. A sprawling compound, Instant is the city’s largest ruin pub, boasting 8 different bars and 4 different dance floors for visitors to enjoy. Instant is every bit as fun as Szimpla, and is another must-see stop during your night out.

 

Eleszto Haz 

 

Craft beer lovers, rejoice. If you’re looking to experience a variety of Hungarian brews first-hand, this is your place. With over 20 craft beers on tap, Eleszto Haz offers true exposure to quality local beers at a decent price. Like most of Budapest’s pubs, Eleszto Haz has an awesome ambience to it and is a really fun spot for pre-drinks.

 

Doblo

 

Wine, cheese, and live jazz define this social but relaxed pre-drink spot. Doblo is Budapest’s most popular wine bar and perfectly suits anyone interested in a more refined start to the night. With high, lofted ceilings and beautiful brickwork, Doblo’s atmosphere is ideal for their vibrant wine tastings.

 

Kuplung 

 

One of the more underground watering holes in Budapest, Kuplung is an auto-repair shop turned ruin pub popular among the city’s locals. With a fun and lively vibe, Kuplung is perfect for grabbing a quick beer or two and a game of ping-pong before moving onto some of Budapest’s more happening venues. On a Monday, Kuplung is a must as drinks are 50% off.

 

Vittula

 

Tired of the mainstream touristy spots? Vittula, with its local crowd and underground feel, is Budapest’s best kept secret. A small venue that is usually pretty packed, this ruin pub has dirt cheap drinks and a fun, grungy feel to it.

 

Anker’t

 

Anker’t is one of Budapest’s largest downtown beergardens, and is one of the city’s more relaxing places to pregame. On a summer night, this ruin pub has a really fun vibe and is a nice place to go early on in your evening.

 

Kisuzem

 

Another pre-drink spot popular among locals is Kisuzem, which is a minimalist style bar with plenty of artwork decor. A more relaxed bar, Kisuzem is a great place to meet some locals and enjoy the extensive selection of whiskey and rum.