EverydayBudapest
Where to Stay
Party hostels- As cities go, Budapest is undoubtedly infamous for its clubs and bars, making it no surprise that party hostels are extremely popular for visitors, especially amongst the younger generation. There are a particular five hostels, all run by ‘Budapest Party Hostels’, which are supposedly the most sociable and fun in the city. An added bonus is that the wacky staff arrange even wackier nights out, so you don’t even have to organise your own partying.
Buda- This ‘half’ of the city (on the west bank of the Danube) is known as the more tranquil and greener half. This is also where you’ll find the magnificent Buda Castle, around which is a nice area to stay if you are looking for a more relaxed or romantic break, perhaps with your family or a partner.
Pest- On the contrary, Pest is the trendier and busier part of the city (on the east bank of the Danube), made up of the cities’ more dynamic and energetic districts. The fifth district can be found along the east bank of the Danube, where the monumental Hungarian Parliament and Great Market Hall are found. This area is known for its beauty and grandeur, making it a perfect place to stay for all types of visitors. Further east of this lies the seventh district, also known as the Jewish Quarter. This is the honeypot site for Budapests’ nightlife, home to its ruin bars, quirky restaurants and groovy shops (as well as a lot of Jewish culture). Therefore, this is the best place for those travellers yearning to experience the youthful spirit of the city. However, beware of the noise.
Where to eat
Karavan- Street Food Karavan, situated right next to Szimpla bar, is essentially a foodie’s paradise. Think around-the-world in 10 or so food trucks, from authentic Hungarian cuisine to burgers to nitrogen oxide ice-cream.
Al dente- A casual Italian restaurant tucked away in Budapest’s eighth district, where most of the city’s more familial and up-and-coming restaurants and cafes are found. The menu ranges from classic thin-crust pizzas to seasonal meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes, all of which are cooked by real Italians. Affordable prices, laidback atmosphere and wizard Italian food.
For Sale Pub- Leave your mark, quite literally, at the For Sale Pub, where notes, business cards, drawings and a lot more have been pinned to the pub’s interiors for years and years, creating a woolly wall effect. Pop in for a quick drink or stay a little longer and feast on one of the pub’s many hearty Hungarian dishes.
Vicky Barcelona- Despite its location in the touristy old Jewish quarter of the city, Vicky Barcelona is a staple tapas bar whose prices don’t take the mickey and whose honest tapas dishes won’t disappoint. At the weekends, after dinner, a live DJ transforms the restaurant into a vibrant dancefloor, but bookings are recommended to avoid disappointment.
Where to drink
Szimpla Kert- As one of the funkiest ruin bars in the city, this is definitely a must when visiting Budapest. The chilled-out atmosphere is complimented by the eccentric décor, from mirrors, fairy lights and street signs to floating chairs and rocking horses. Drinks are cheap too.
Anker’t- Another huge ruin bar, slightly pricier than Szimpla Kert, but worth the extra pennies as you’re paying for a more upmarket and suave feel. The bar is also known for its artisan food and monthly farmers’ market, particularly adored by vegans for its tasty vegan food.
Kuplung- Yet another ruin bar located in the city centre, Kuplung is ideal for a drink both indoors and outdoors, with a similarly quirky vibe as Szimpla Kert. Most nights you’ll find live music events as well as a great range of street food.
Where to party
Instant- Budapest’s biggest ruin bar-turned nightclub offers guests the best variety of bars, dancefloors and music in the whole of Budapest. I can safely say this is one of the most fun and most unique clubs I’ve ever visited, and you’re guaranteed more than a good time. Just go and feast with your eyes!
Sparty- Every Saturday, Budapest’s thermal baths are turned into a huge party venue with absolutely no boundaries. Enjoy live dancers, booming electronic music and spectacular visuals whilst swimming in the heated baths. Highly recommended.
Budapest boat party- The Danube river offers a perfect location for a cheeky booze cruise during your city break. Enjoy breath-taking views of the lit-up Hungarian Parliament as you dive in to an open bar. Different nights of the week take on different themes, which can all be viewed and booked on budapestboatparty.com.
Other things to do
Buda Castle- When in Budapest, it would be criminal not to visit and at least attempt to climb the humble abode of the Hungarian kings. The stunning views of the city from the top are well worth the trek, but there’s always the fenicular if you really can’t hack it.
New York Café- Infused with a rich culture, elegantly displayed in its incredible décor (even in the toilets), the New York Café has to be one of the most beautiful cafes I have ever had the joy of visiting. Although I only got the chance to sip on a smoothie, rumour has it the food is also delightful.
Tips
From the moment you open their door, taxi drivers can smell the foreign tourist vapour seeping from your body, but don’t let them fool you. Taxis should be no more than 3000 Hungarian forints when travelling anywhere in the city.
