How to experience Budapest's nightlife safely?

Published: September 08 2023

Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is renowned for its vibrant and unique nightlife, charmingly painted by the extravagance of 'ruin pubs', rooftop bars, and thriving international demand. That said, safety, especially for tourists exploring Budapest's nightlife, is crucial. Here are some of the best tips on ensuring a safe and fun night out in Budapest.

Budapest is a city carved by the Danube river into Buda and Pest, each side with its distinct charm and experience. Pest is where most of the action happens, with an array of pubs, bars, and clubs. However, it is always advisable to familiarize yourself with the area you will be exploring. Be aware of the environment, keep maps at hand, use GPS, note down important locations, and avoid straying into unfamiliar areas, especially late at night.

Frequenting known party zones is safer and more enjoyable due to the abundant crowd. Budapest is famous for its 'Ruin Pubs' located mostly in the Jewish Quarter. Safe and popular choices for a fun night are Szimpla Kert, Instant, or Fogasház. There are also classier options like High Note Skybar or 360 bar, that offer stunning views of the city and are deemed considerably safe.

Hungarians are quite liberal concerning drinking laws; the legal age being 18. Yet, it is important to know the local laws. Public drinking is strictly in designated areas. Drunken behaviour, causing ruckus or harm, can lead to legal consequences. Also, it's illegal to consume alcohol while driving. So, be mindful of local customs and laws.

When experiencing nightlife in any foreign city, it's generally safer to travel in a group, or at least with one other person. If you're traveling alone, be extra cautious, stick to crowded areas and don't wander off or accept drinks from strangers.

Keeping an eye on your drink is an indispensable piece of advice. Never leave your drink unattended, and avoid accepting drinks from someone you don't trust. Budapest's nightlife is generally safe, but cases of drugging are not unheard of worldwide.

Ensure you have a safe means of getting back to your accommodation, especially if you are relying on public transportation. Budapest's night buses are reliable or you can use trusted taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Bolt. Avoid unlicensed taxis and agree on fares before the ride to prevent unsuspected tariffs.

Pickpocketing is a common menace in crowded areas worldwide, and Budapest is no exception. Carry minimum valuables, leave important documents like passport at your accommodation (carry photocopies instead), keep your belongings close, and be mindful of your surroundings.

By following these simple tips, your experience of Budapest's nightlife can be exciting, fun, and most importantly - safe. Enjoy the Hungarian city magic under the stars responsibly!