Budapest will captivate you with its sparkling atmosphere. The city is bursting with fairy tale architecture, baths to relax in and vibe filled ruins. You can step further into the storybook by visiting one of their themed cafés, bars or pubs. 

The Magic

Budapest will enchant you with all the magic, potions and wizardry you could desire. Magic pub gives you an immersive dining experience. Expect smoking drinks, Purple waffles and table side magic tricks. You do not need a reservation, but may have to wait 20 minutes to be seated. The service was efficient and prices were really reasonable for a themed café. Even if you order an ordinary drink you table will still be brought a misty cauldron for show. The stormy cotton filled ceiling makes for great photos. 

For Sale

This is easily the most well-known on the list and located near The Liberty Bridge. The For Sale pub is heavily decorated in paper and post-its with messages, signatures and secrets of all those who have visited. They sell beer, classic pub meals and serve up free nuts for each table.

 

Cat Café

Due to the unmeasurable love for cats my partner has, I have visited 7+ furry establishments, but Cat Café Budapest has to be the largest so far. With seating in 3 sections and an upper level, there is plenty of space to get comfy with a kitty. They have majestic Maine Coons and gentle house cats. The cats can go upstairs although often choose not to, so try to bag a seat on the lower floor. You do not need a booking or an entry fee, however you will be expected to order once seated. 

Ruin Bars

Built after the war when buildings had become shells of what they once were, locals got creative and used canopies and other materials to make roofs and began to serve drinks. In the heart of Budapest there are countless ruin bars with a variety of vibes such as Karaoke, Sports and electronic music. 

Szimpla

The first of its kind and one of the biggest. You can get lost in the neon lights and unusual décor as you wander around the two floors. There are many separate rooms and compartments to give you a more private feel or socialise downstairs in the main hall. Almost like a tiny village inside one building, there are different bars and food outlets to choose from. Outside there is more seating with colourful canopies overhead. We even saw a man playing the guitar with backing vocals from his dog. We went around 4.30pm so it had a calm and chill vibe, but at night it fills up and turns closer to a nightclub. 

 

Shanni’s Top Tips

1. Public transport is really affordable and they offer hour and day passes. However, the city is super walkable, you will only need transport to get to the baths and the castle district.
2. Some ruin bars can be tourist traps and lack the authenticity of the ruin bar experience. Ask locals and do your research 
3. Try the local delicacy- Langos. They have many versions from their traditional flavours to Greek gyros toppings (one of the foods I miss the most) 

4. For Sale pub is packed all year round. Prepare for the bustle or pop in, contribute to the post-it walls and gracefully sneak out 

5. The library is great for pictures, using the toilet and to rest your feet for free

Each time I have been to Budapest it has been a unique experience with me viewing my surroundings in different ways depending on the activities I chose. Design your itinerary around your interests and Budapest will mold into the perfect personalised city trip.