The heart of Budapest’s party district is in the Jewish Quarter and surrounding areas, such as Kazinczy utca and Akácfa utca. Whether you’re drawn to the energetic beats of top-tier clubs, the live music of concert venues, the exclusive atmosphere of high-end spots, or the underground vibes of techno clubs, Budapest’s nightlife landscape has something for everyone.
We collected the 21 best clubs in Budapest that will not disappoint Erasmus students wanting to party. This list ranges from Instant-Fogas Komplexum through Doboz and Morrison’s 2 up to concert venues, luxurious places, and underground techno parties.
Budapest’s nightlife begins around 11 pm, with clubs closing around 4-5 am. Despite the late hours, students can find affordable clubbing options, with many clubs offering free entry and reasonably priced drinks. However, it’s important to note that smoking in clubs is prohibited, and ID checks, while infrequent, do occur.
After a night of dancing and socialising, a variety of late-night food options are available, ensuring that you can satisfy your hunger before heading home safely via night buses, trams, or trusted taxi services. Above all, Budapest’s nightlife is not just known for its exhilarating clubs and bars but also for its safety, making it a perfect destination for students looking to explore the city’s nocturnal delights.
What is the Budapest nightlife vibe like?
The Budapest nightlife vibe is like stepping into a world where the past and present merge to create a unique party atmosphere. The city comes alive at night with a vibrant energy that pulsates through its historic streets. Budapest’s nightlife is characterised by its diversity, offering everything from traditional Hungarian taverns to ruin pubs and underground techno basements.
The ambiance of Budapest at night is electric, with the hum of conversations, laughter, and music filling the air. Each venue, whether a ruin pub in the Jewish Quarter or a sleek, modern club along the Danube, offers a distinct experience.
Here, you can find parties set in architecturally stunning locations that blend history with contemporary party culture. The city’s nightlife is not just about dancing and music; it’s an experience that brings together locals and travellers.
The city’s reputation for vibrant nightlife is well-deserved, offering a range of experiences that make it a must-visit destination for Erasmus students in Budapest.
Where is the Budapest Party District?
The Budapest party district is mainly in the Jewish Quarter and in the central parts of Budapest nearby. For example Kazinczy utca and Akácfa utca. Depending on your preferences you might want to visit clubs further from the city centre, especially if you are interested in concert venues or underground techno clubs.
However, for those looking to delve deeper into Budapest’s music scene or experience underground techno, venturing a bit further from the city centre is recommended. Venues outside the immediate central area often host concerts and special events, providing a platform for a more diverse range of musical tastes and party experiences.
What are the 21 best clubs for students in Budapest?
The best clubs for students in Budapest are the following 21 venues we collected. As it would be difficult to browse through them, we grouped them into three categories.
- Most popular clubs: These clubs are top-tier and top-recommend, you’ll definitely have a good time there!
- Clubs with concert venues: These clubs also offer concerts. If you’re interested in a specific performer or a specific student party, these are the places to go!
- More luxurious clubs: These clubs are more high-end. If you have a bigger budget and/or want an experience few can afford, then these places are for you!
- Underground techno clubs: If you are interested in dedicated underground techno venues for a niche target group, then we highly recommend these places. The only catch is that you have to travel a bit further from the city centre to get to these places.
The most popular clubs in Budapest are the following.
- Instant-Fogas Komplexum
- Doboz
- Szimpla Kert
- Morrison’s 2
- Pontoon
- Stifler Ház
- BoB
- Peaches & Cream
- Széchenyi Bath SPARTY
The best clubs with concert venues in Budapest are the following.
- A38 Hajó
- Budapest Park
- Dürer Kert
- Akvárium Klub
The best luxurious clubs in Budapest are the following.
- Romkert
- Ötkert
- Ellátó
- Club Heaven Budapest
- Club Badhanna Budapest
- DOJO Boutique Club
The best underground techno clubs in Budapest are the following.
- Aether Club
- CAT Budapest
- Arzenál
- D9 Dark Nine
- Edith
- Fabrika
- Turbina Kulturális Központ
Instant-Fogas Komplexum
- Address: Akácfa utca 51, 1073 Budapest
- What is this place? Instant-Fogas Komplexum is a vast entertainment complex, combining multiple bars and dance floors under one roof.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? It’s the epitome of Budapest’s ruin pub culture, offering an eclectic mix of music genres and atmospheres. A must-visit for those seeking a diverse night out.
Doboz
- Address: Klauzál utca 10, 1072 Budapest
- What is this place? Doboz, meaning “Box” in Hungarian, is a nightclub known for its unique design, featuring a giant wooden King Kong sculpture.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? Its quirky interior and vibrant atmosphere make it a standout venue for an unforgettable party experience.
Szimpla Kert
- Address: Kazinczy utca 14, 1075 Budapest
- What is this place? The first ruin pub of Budapest, Szimpla Kert is a pioneer in the city’s nightlife scene. Its labyrinthine layout, filled with quirky decor and plants, makes it a must-visit.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? For its historical significance and the unique, laid-back vibe, perfect for casual drinks and conversations.
Morrison’s 2
- Address: Szent István körút 11, 1055 Budapest
- What is this place? A popular club among students, known for its karaoke nights and affordable drinks.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? Great for those looking to have fun on a budget and sing their hearts out.
Pontoon
- Address: Budapest Vigadó 1/A kikötő, 1051 Budapest
- What is this place? An open-air beach-style bar located on the bank of the Danube.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? For its relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the Chain Bridge and the Parliament, ideal for a summer evening.
Stifler Ház
- Address: Dob utca 19, 1074 Budapest
- What is this place? A lively club that attracts a young crowd with its themed parties and affordable drink prices.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? If you’re after a night of fun and mingling with locals, this is the place to be.
BoB
- Address: Széchenyi István tér 7, 1051 Budapest
- What is this place? BoB is a popular nightclub with a spacious dance floor and frequent DJ performances.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? Known for its energetic vibe and top-quality sound system, it’s perfect for dance enthusiasts.
Széchenyi Bath SPARTY
- Address: Állatkerti körút 9-11, 1146 Budapest
- What is this place? A unique party experience held at the famous Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? For a one-of-a-kind experience of partying in thermal waters, accompanied by lights shows and music.
Peaches & Cream
- Address: Nagymező utca 46-48, 1065 Budapest
- What is this place? A chic club known for its R&B and hip-hop nights.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? If you’re a fan of these music genres, Peaches & Cream offers a sophisticated atmosphere and quality soundtracks.
A38 Hajó
- Address: Petőfi híd, Budai hídfő, 1117 Budapest
- What is this place? A cultural venue and nightclub located on a former Ukrainian stone-carrying ship called Artemovsk 38.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? Its unique location and the range of concerts and events make it a must-visit for music lovers.
Budapest Park
- Address: Fábián Juli tér 1, 1095 Budapest
- What is this place? Budapest Park is one of the largest open-air entertainment venues in the city, hosting concerts and various events.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? It’s the perfect spot for live music enthusiasts, offering a festival-like atmosphere and performances by well-known Hungarian and international artists.
Dürer Kert
- Address: Öböl utca 1, 1117 Budapest
- What is this place? A versatile space combining a concert venue, bar, and garden, set in a former university building.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? With its eclectic mix of events, from indie bands to electronic music nights, Dürer Kert appeals to a broad audience.
Akvárium Klub
- Address: Erzsébet tér 12, 1051 Budapest
- What is this place? Centrally located beneath a large glass structure at Deák tér, Akvárium is known for its concerts and vibrant club nights.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? Its excellent location and versatile programming make it a key player in Budapest’s nightlife, perfect for those looking to catch live performances in a modern setting.
Romkert
- Address: Döbrentei tér 9, 1013 Budapest
- What is this place? An outdoor club located at the foot of the Buda Castle, offering breathtaking views and a great selection of drinks.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? For its scenic location and open-air dance floor, Romkert is ideal for warm summer nights.
Ötkert
- Address: Zrínyi utca 4, 1051 Budapest
- What is this place? A stylish nightclub in the heart of the city, known for its lively parties and upscale crowd.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? Ötkert stands out for its blend of modern elegance and vibrant nightlife, attracting a sophisticated clientele.
Ellátó
- Address: Kazinczy utca 52B, 1075 Budapest
- What is this place? A trendy spot in the Jewish Quarter that combines a bar, club, and garden, offering a wide range of musical genres.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? Its eclectic atmosphere and diverse programming make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike, perfect for those looking to experience the quintessential Budapest night out.
Club Heaven Budapest
- Address: Deák Ferenc u. 5, 1052 Budapest
- What is this place? An exclusive nightclub offering a luxurious party experience with top-notch DJs and premium service.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? For those looking to splurge on a high-end night out, Club Heaven provides an unmatched atmosphere of elegance and excitement.
Club Badhanna Budapest
- Address: Budapest, Hercegprímás u. 18, 1051 Magyarország
- What is this place? A vibrant club known for its lively dance floor and thematic party nights.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? Club Badhanna stands out for its energetic atmosphere and diverse music selection, catering to party-goers of all tastes.
DOJO Boutique Club
- Address: Zrínyi u. 4/a, 1051 Budapest
- What is this place? A newer addition to Budapest’s nightlife scene, offering an intimate setting for electronic music lovers.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? Dojo is the go-to for those seeking a more underground experience mixed with luxury, with its carefully curated line-up of DJs and unique vibe.
Aether Club
- Address: Budapest, Gozsdu udvar, Király u. 13, 1075 Magyarország
- What is this place? An underground club dedicated to techno and electronic music, known for its intense sound system and immersive light shows.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? For a true techno experience in a space that prioritises sound quality and atmosphere, Aether Club is unrivalled in Budapest.
CAT Budapest
- Address: Madách Imre tér 13, 1075 Budapest
- What is this place? A club that stands out for its commitment to quality electronic music and a top-notch audiovisual experience.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? CAT Budapest is ideal for those who appreciate the finer details in music and production, offering an intimate yet energetic setting.
Arzenál
- Address: Soroksári út 158/C, 1095 Budapest
- What is this place? A lesser-known gem among Budapest’s nightlife venues, Arzenál offers an underground vibe with a focus on alternative and indie music scenes. Taken place in a worn-out office building
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? Perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Arzenál’s intimate setting and eclectic music selection make it a must-visit for music aficionados looking for something different.
D9 Dark Nine
- Address: Zombori utca 16, 1097 Budapest
- What is this place? D9 Dark Nine is an exclusive underground club known for its secretive, immersive parties and electronic music events.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? If you’re after a unique nightlife experience that feels like an adventure, D9 Dark Nine’s mysterious atmosphere and top-quality electronic beats are not to be missed.
Edith
- Address: Nagymező utca 25, 1065 Budapest
- What is this place? Edith is a chic, stylish bar and club that has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors for its sophisticated ambiance and quality drinks.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? For an elegant night out with friends, Edith offers a perfect blend of comfort, class, underground, and fun, making it an ideal choice for those looking to unwind in style.
Fabrika
- Address: Bogdáni út 1, 1033 Budapest
- What is this place? Inspired by industrial aesthetics, Fabrika (Фабрика) is a club that stands out for its unique decor, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse music lineup with the best techno DJs.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? Fabrika is renowned for its energetic parties and creative space, making it a top pick for anyone looking to experience Budapest’s modern, artsy side.
Turbina Kulturális Központ
- Address: Budapest, Vajdahunyad u. 4, 1082 Magyarország
- What is this place? Turbina, positioned a bit further from the city centre, is a hub for underground techno culture, known for its raw, industrial setting and deep electronic beats.
- Why should you visit it? / Why do we recommend? For techno enthusiasts seeking an authentic underground experience, Turbina’s dedication to quality sound and immersive environment makes it an unparalleled choice.
What should students know about Budapest nightlife?
Nightlife in Budapest starts around 11 pm, so it’s recommended to start a pub crawl around 8 pm for a proper warming up. Nightlife in Budapest ends around 4-5 am.
Overall it costs around 20,000-30,000 HUF (50-76 EUR / 54-82 USD) to go clubbing in Budapest. Most of the clubs are free to enter, but sometimes they ask for a 1500 HUF (3.7 EUR / 4 USD) entrance fee, especially if there’s a special guest performer or a specific event.
Alcohol prices in clubs in Budapest range from 300 to 2,500 depending on the alcohol type, alcohol brand, and the club you go to.
Smoking and vaping inside public spaces like clubs are strictly forbidden.
Clubs tend to check IDs at the entrance and counters when you want to buy alcohol. But they do it rarely and randomly. Still, always carry a valid ID!
After clubbing you can get food at some midnight fast food joints in Budapest, for example Pizza Me, McDonalds, various gyros/kebab joints, and Csirke Csibész, a Hungarian fast food joint offering meals with fried chicken.
Nightlife in Budapest is generally safe, but keep an eye on your belongings, and don’t buy drugs from random strangers in front of clubs! This also applies to night buses in Budapest. These public transport vehicles, including Tram Line 6 are also safe, but always mind your surroundings while travelling home from a good night’s party! Taxis are also a great way to travel home, but beware of unbranded freelance taxi drivers!
What time does nightlife start in Budapest?
Nightlife in Budapest usually starts around 11 pm, so the best time to start a pub crawl is around 8 pm. People in Budapest usually start to go clubbing before 12 am. If you don’t want to wait in line at the entrance, we recommend you to enter your chosen venue between 11 pm and 12 am.
What time does nightlife end in Budapest?
Nightlife in Budapest ends usually around 4-5 am, as most of the clubs close at that time. But bear in mind that staff members start to ask participants to leave the venue approximately 15-20 minutes before closing.
How much does it cost to go clubbing in Budapest?
Usually, it costs around 20,000-30,000 HUF (50-76 EUR / 54-82 USD) to go clubbing in Budapest. The actual cost depends entirely on your drinking habits, the type of places you go to, whether you use a taxi service or not etc.
Clubs are mostly free to enter, but some places ask for a 1500 HUF (3.7 EUR / 4 USD) entrance fee, especially if there’s a guest DJ or an event.
Local beer costs around 300-700 HUF (0.8-1.8 EUR / 0.9-2 USD), and international beers cost around 800-1,500 HUF (2-3.8 EUR / 2.16-3.2 USD).
Wines cost around 500-700 HUF (1.3-1.8 EUR/1.4-2 USD) per dl.
A cocktail costs around 1,500-2,500 HUF (4-7 EUR / 4.3-7.5 USD), and shots cost around 500-1,000 HUF (1.3-2.7 EUR / 1.4-2.9 USD). It depends on the alcohol brand you choose.
Are clubs free in Budapest?
Yes, most of the clubs are free to enter, but some specific places ask for a 1500 HUF (3.7 EUR / 4 USD) entrance fee. Especially if there’s a special guest DJ or an event.
How much does a beer cost in a club in Budapest?
Local beer costs around 300-700 HUF (0.8-1.8 EUR / 0.9-2 USD), and international beer costs around 800-1,500 HUF (2-3.8 EUR/2.16-3.2 USD) in a club in Budapest. Prices vary depending on the actual club and on the beer brand.
How much does wine cost in a club in Budapest?
Wines cost around 500-700 HUF (1.3-1.8 EUR / 1.4-2 USD) per dl in a club in Budapest. Prices vary depending on quality and origin.
How much does a cocktail cost in a club in Budapest?
A cocktail costs around 1,500-2,500 HUF (4-7 EUR / 4.3-7.5 USD) in Budapest. Price varies depending on the actual club, and the actual alcohol types plus supplementary drinks of your choice.
How much do shots cost in a club in Budapest?
Shots cost around 500-1,000 HUF (1.3-2.7 EUR / 1.4-2.9 USD) in a club in Budapest. Prices vary depending on the actual club, the alcohol type, and the alcohol brand.
Can you smoke in clubs in Budapest?
No, you can’t smoke or vape in clubs in Budapest. Smoking inside public places is strictly forbidden in Hungary.
Do clubs in Budapest check ID?
Although it doesn’t happen often that clubs check your ID, clubs sometimes do check IDs at the entrance or the counters when you buy alcohol. Always carry a valid ID!
Where can I buy food at night after a party in Budapest?
You can buy food at night after a party at the following places in Budapest.
- Pizza Me joints: Amazing Italian pizzas.
- McDonald’s: The one at Blaha Lujza tér closes at 4 am!
- KFC: The one at Deák tér closes at 3 am, and the one at Király utca closes at 4 am!
- Gyros/Kebab joints: you can find many gyros joints all around the city. Practically, all of them provide quality gyros/kebab, but check the shop’s Google reviews before eating there!
- Csirke Csibész: Located in Nagymező utca 35, open until 5 am, a Hungarian fast food joint offering every type of food with fried chicken. An excellent meal after clubbing is fried chicken with French fries!
These food chains, well at least lots of their branches, tend to be open until late night (around 4 am).
Is Budapest nightlife safe?
Budapest nightlife is generally safe, including clubs. However, as these clubs are known for their popularity among foreigners, shady figures tend to hang out in their proximity. They usually try to sell you drugs or sham drugs. Pickpockets also tend to hang out in the proximity of these places, so always keep an eye on your belongings!
The public safety in Budapest is generally okay and you can walk around without any serious risks even at night. But like many big cities, Budapest also has its parts that should be avoided. Especially for a foreigner.
Just don’t get into a fight with the security guards at the club!
How can I get home after clubbing at night in Budapest?
Budapest night buses and trams are basically the best options to get home after clubbing at night in Budapest. There are lots of night bus lines at the busiest central parts of Budapest. You might have to wait longer for these night lines, but they are punctual and quite safe even at night.
Also, Tram Line 6 operates even after dark. This is a great public transport vehicle that operates in the central parts of Budapest, thus getting you either directly home or to a stop where you can change to a night bus.
If you feel quite drunk and/or too tired, taxi services are also a very good option for getting home after a good night’s party. Just make sure to always pick a trusted taxi service instead of freelance taxi scam drivers!
