7 Best Nightlife in Budapest, Hungary

Originally a Ukrainian stone-freighter, A38 is now a fantastic addition to the nightlife of Buda, permanently moored on this side of the Danube. It has a restaurant upstairs, an exhibition space, a bar, and a large dance floor downstairs. There's a different band on hand every night, from jazz to Latin, retro to electronic.

The oldest and best-known of Budapest's uniquely Hungarian romkerts, Szimpla Kert has won various international awards for its wild, exuberant, grungy style. Built inside a former stove factory, this maze of dark rooms, random furniture, and crazy light installations attracts a raucous crowd of locals and tourists working their way through the night with wild abandon. Expect a noisy, lively night here with the occasional patron's dog darting here and there between the tables while its owner sips on a hookah (available to rent). Szimpla hosts a weekly farmers' market featuring all-natural products on Sunday from 9 am to 2 pm.

One of the most mixed of the gay clubs draws from the gay, lesbian, and heterosexual communities equally. No doubt the laid-back, friendly atmosphere contributes to its appeal. Friday and Saturday are the party nights, featuring a transvestite show after midnight.

This men-only bar is in a huge cellar with an industrial-looking brick-and-metal motif. There's a small dance floor with a nightly DJ. Formerly called Chaos, CoXx also hosts several themed parties a month. No admission fee, but 1,000 Ft minimum consumption policy.

While Budapest was a little slow to embrace the craft beer movement, it's finally and enthusiastically exploring the world of independent beermakers. One example of this new trend is Élesztő, which combines the grungy exposed-brick-wall-and-metal-barrel aesthetics of romkerts with a fine selection of high-quality beers and beer-based cocktails.

Next to Clark Ádám tér, a large square in Buda at the end of the Lánchíd (Chain Bridge), this tiny pub attracts tourists and locals alike. The walls are covered in black-and-white photos from Budapest and Paris. Ask for owner Róbert Nagy, who speaks excellent English and loves to meet visitors from abroad.

The name of this pub means "spare key," and this one attracts a hip, bohemian crowd. There is no sign outside, just a metal door bearing the name and address. Walk through the door and down the small pathway to find outdoor seating in warm months, or stay inside for regular live music acts. Various hot meals are also available.