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Budapest’s nightlife is eclectic, varied and never dull. Increasingly popular with visitors looking to enjoy its unpretentious, relaxed and quirky night time atmosphere, Hungary’s capital offers a range of ways to spend a night in the city which you’re unlikely to find anywhere else.

Szimpla Kert

Pub

Szimpla Kert Budapest
© Jodie C / Flickr cc.
Budapest is increasingly known for its ruin pubs and there’s no better place to experience this unique trend than where it all began. Szimpla Kert is seen as the birthplace of the ruin pub and while it can get busy, especially on weekends, this is the place to check out the heart of Budapest’s nightlife.

Dürer Kert

Pub, Beer

BUDAPEST-JULY 20: The Chase Long Beach band performs on stage at Durer Kert July 20, 2009 in Budapest, Hungary.
© Ferenc Szelepcsenyi / Alamy Stock Photo
Located in City Park, in what used to be a University building, this ruin pub offers a relaxed atmosphere with a varied program of live music. Out in the garden, patrons can lounge in hammocks, play table football or enjoy a game of petanque. Inside, the multiple rooms house live music acts throughout the year.

A38 Ship

Bar

A38 ship Budapest
© Gergely Csatari / Flickr cc.
This is a venue with a difference. Moored up on the Buda side of the city, just beneath Petőfi Bridge, it’s located on a reconstructed ship and features five bar areas and an outdoor terrace. The A38 Ship shines as a live music venue, with a program of Hungarian and international artists.

Sparty at Szechenyi Thermal Baths

Spa, Swimming Pool, Health Spa

On Saturday nights throughout summer, Budapest’s iconic Szechenyi Thermal Baths welcome revelers from around the world to the now infamous Spa Parties – or “Sparty“. A totally unique opportunity to let your hair down in stunning surroundings, live DJs provide the music while light shows transform these historic thermal baths into one of the best, most unique parties in the city.

Rudas Night Bath

Rudas Thermal Bath Budapest
© Wei-Te Wong / Flickr cc.
For a more chilled out night time bath session, head to Rudas Thermal Bath at the foot of Gellért Hill. Built in 1550, during the Ottoman empire, the baths underwent extensive renovation in 2006 and today feature a more modern interior while still maintaining elements of its Turkish origins. On Fridays and Saturdays, the baths are open from 10pm – 4am making for a uniquely relaxing way to spend a night out in Budapest.

Challenge Yourself to an Escape Room

If you like a challenge, this could be the perfect way to start a night out. The Escape Room craze has been gaining popularity in recent years and Budapest has plenty of options. Participants are locked in a themed room, and given one hour to solve a number of clues in order to escape. There are a range of difficulty levels and room themes, from the fun and fabulous to the downright creepy (recreation of the Saw movies, anyone?). For one of the best in the city, head to E-Exit – there are three rooms to choose from. Good luck!

Enjoy a Drink at a Kert

Bar

Colourful decorations, hammocks, and a chilled out atmosphere can all be found in Budapest’s outdoor gardens. Drinks are usually reasonably priced, there’s an international crowd and thanks to the open air setting it’s the perfect place to start a summer night out. Koleves, in District VII, is popular with locals and visitors thanks to its casual beachy vibe.
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