Discover romkocsmák, or ruin pubs—dilapidated buildings alive with parties until dawn. In Budapest's Jewish Quarter, Szimpla Kert is a must-visit institution. Inside and in the courtyard, expect delightful chaos: a bathtub sofa, vintage foosball table, and a wall-mounted bike relic. After a pálinka or two (Hungarian fruit brandy), wander to Fogasház, a maze of cafés, bars, and clubs. Cap the night dancing in a cinema lobby at Toldi, where electro and live music take over post-screenings.
Sundays at Szimpla Kert feature a lively market for local producers—think fresh carrots, cheeses, and salamis. For fashion, hit Paloma, packed with designer boutiques in a charmingly decrepit building, and Telep, a gallery-boutique-bar hub for creatives, with excellent eats next door at Konyha restaurant.
Parked outside Kőleves Vendéglő (Kazinczy Utca 41), an antique blue van offers romantic candlelit dinners. Savor soups like traditional Hungarian-Jewish macesz. Nearby in the Jewish Quarter's Gozsdu Udvar, try Bistropub Spiler for its buzzing vibe and honest, affordable plates.
With nearly 150 thermal springs, Budapest's baths—a legacy of Romans and Turks—are essential. Paddle, swim, and unwind here. Locals skip the party scene (hygiene concerns), so we opted for a serene evening soak on Rudas Baths' rooftop terrace, gazing at illuminated Budapest.
Budapest nurtures photography talent. The Hungarian House of Photography occupies photographer Manó Mai's former studio, showcasing the building and vintage collections. Nearby, Robert Capa Contemporary Photography Center highlights modern works (no Capa photos, despite the name). Brody Artyard gallery features emerging local and international artists, extending to Brody House hotel-B&B (doubles from €70 with breakfast) and exclusive Brody Studio bar-restaurant.
Go There
Flight Paris-Budapest with EasyJet.
Stay at MGallery Nemzeti—prime location, ultra-comfortable rooms.
More info: www.hungarytourism.com and welovebudapest.com.
