The Original Budapest Pub Crawl – One Hour Open Bar + Free Shots

If you’re considering joining the Original Budapest Pub Crawl, you’re likely after a fun, social way to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife. Based on numerous reviews, this tour promises a lively four-hour adventure filled with drinks, new friends, and access to some of Budapest’s best bars and clubs. We haven’t personally done this crawl, but we’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have, and here’s a detailed look to help you decide if it’s right for you.

One thing many appreciate is the opportunity to start the night with an open bar—a great way to kick off your evening without breaking the bank. Plus, the skip-the-line access to a popular club at the end ensures your night ends on a high note, avoiding long waits. On the flip side, some reviews highlight concerns about company organization and additional costs, which are worth considering. This tour tends to suit those looking for a social, relaxed night out and who enjoy meeting fellow travelers.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Good value for money with drinks and club entry included.
• Guides are often praised for their friendliness and helpfulness.
• Multiple stops offer a variety of bar styles, from ruin bars to cocktail lounges.
• Some reviews mention issues with organization, extra charges, or inconsistent experiences.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a social, energetic night in Budapest.
• Not for those who prefer a more structured, punctual, or upscale experience.

What Is the Budapest Pub Crawl All About?

The Original Budapest Pub Crawl is designed as an introduction to the city’s nightlife, especially suited for those who love socializing with both locals and travelers. Starting in the evening around 9:30 to 10:00 pm, the tour lasts roughly four hours, taking you through a selection of Budapest’s coolest bars and ending at a popular club with skip-the-line privileges.

The experience is centered around making friends, enjoying drinks, and discovering Budapest’s distinctive ruin bar scene, along with other vibrant venues. The tour makes a point of including an open bar at the first stop—lasting an hour—and free shots at each bar, which many reviews mention as a highlight. All in all, it’s a straightforward, fun way to get a taste of Budapest’s nightlife without worrying about where to go or how to get in.

How Does the Itinerary Unfold?

Meeting point is at Manytime Bar, located at Király u. 60 in Budapest, where your guide will be easily spotted holding an umbrella. This spot is central and convenient, making it easy for most visitors to find. The tour then kicks off with introductions and socializing, setting a relaxed tone for the night.

Once everyone’s gathered, the group heads to the first bar, where the one-hour open bar begins. This is often a crowd favorite, as it allows you to start the night with a drink or two without immediate cost. After the open bar, the crawl visits several bars—including ruin bars, cocktail bars, and lively pubs—each offering something unique. Travelers mention that the stops can vary nightly, which keeps the experience fresh.

The crawl concludes at one of Budapest’s most popular clubs, where you enjoy skip-the-line access. Many reviewers highlight this as a major perk, especially on busy nights when waiting in line can be frustrating elsewhere. The tour typically wraps up around 1 am, with plenty of opportunities for continued partying if you wish.

What Will You Actually Experience at Each Stop?

• First stop: This is where you’ll get the open bar, which, for many, is the best part. The drinks include long drinks, wine, and beer, though some reviews note that the quality of the shots can vary, and a few mention watered-down drinks. You’ll also meet your guides and fellow travelers, setting a friendly, informal tone.

• Middle stops: These vary but often include Budapest’s iconic ruin bars—dark, atmospheric spaces with quirky decor—and modern cocktail venues. Some reviews note that the bar quality can be hit or miss, with a few empty places or average setups. Still, they’re excellent for socializing and soaking in the local scene.

• Final destination: The night ends at a well-known club, where you’ll have VIP entry. Reviewers praise the club’s atmosphere, with some mentioning that it gets packed, which is ideal for dancing and continuing the night.

The Pros: Why People Love It

Guides make a difference. Several reviews mention guides like Mark, Lucas, and Burak as friendly, fun, and supportive. They help keep the group lively and provide tips along the way. The free shots at each bar are always appreciated, and the skip-the-line access at the club is a big bonus—no wasting time waiting around.

Many travelers also value the value for money. For about $23—a reasonable price considering drinks and club entry are included—the experience offers a lot of entertainment and social opportunities. The tour’s flexible schedule and the chance to meet people from around the world are also big draws.

The social aspect is often highlighted as the best part. Whether traveling solo or with friends, the group dynamic can lead to memorable nights and new friendships. Several reviews mention that guides are friendly and approachable, fostering an environment that’s both relaxed and lively.

The Cons and Caveats

Of course, no experience is perfect. Some reviews point out organizational issues. For instance, there are reports of delays at the meeting point, or guides not arriving exactly on time. These frustrations can be compounded by additional costs—some mention having to pay extra money upon arrival, only accepting certain payment methods like PayPal or cash, which can feel a bit shady.

The quality of drinks at some bars seems inconsistent. A few reviewers mention that the shots are watered down or that staff at the final club tried to upsell expensive alcohol—sometimes misleadingly—making the experience less enjoyable for some. Plus, not all bars are equally lively; some are quite empty, which may diminish the ambiance.

Timing can also be a concern. The start time is listed as 9:30 pm, but some say it actually begins closer to 10 pm, possibly a tactic to encourage more drink purchases at the initial bar. Also, the tour runs weekdays, but some reviewers suggest that it might be more fun on weekends when more people are out.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This pub crawl is ideal for travelers who enjoy a social, relaxed atmosphere and aren’t overly concerned about the finer details of organization. If you’re looking to meet new people, explore different types of bars, and finish the night dancing in a club, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

It’s also great for first-time visitors wanting a guided, easy way to dip into Budapest’s nightlife. However, if you’re picky about drink quality, or prefer a more upscale, curated experience, this may not be your best bet. For budget-conscious travelers, the overall value makes it appealing, especially with drinks and VIP club access included.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Original Budapest Pub Crawl offers a lively, accessible way to see some of Budapest’s best nightlife spots while socializing with fellow travelers. The guides generally receive praise, and the included open bar plus skip-the-line club access deliver real value. That said, organize your expectations—some bars may be quiet or underwhelming, and organizational hiccups can occur.

This tour is perfect for those who love to party, meet new friends, and enjoy Budapest’s quirky bar scene without fussing over every detail. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a polished, upscale experience or those who prioritize punctuality and impeccable organization.

FAQ

Is there an age limit for this pub crawl?
Yes, the minimum age is 18 years, so this experience is strictly for adults.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 4 hours, starting around 9:30 pm and ending back at the meeting point around 1 am.

Do I need to bring my own drinks?
No, the tour includes an open bar at the first stop and free shots at each bar visited.

Can I pay the extra open bar fee on the day?
Yes, there’s an additional fee (3800 HUF) for the open bar, payable in cash, PayPal, or Revolut.

Is food included?
No, food is not included. It’s mainly a nightlife experience focused on drinks and socializing.

Will I get skip-the-line access to the club?
Yes, the tour provides VIP entry to the club, saving you from long waits.

What are the meeting points and start times?
Meet at Manytime Bar, Király u. 60, between 21:00 and 22:00, but the official start time is around 9:30 pm.

Are there any reviews I should be aware of?
While many reviews praise the guides and the fun atmosphere, some mention organizational issues and additional costs, so keep your expectations balanced.

Is this suitable for a quiet night out?
No, this is a lively, energetic pub crawl designed for those ready to socialize and dance late into the night.

If you’re after a social, budget-friendly way to experience Budapest’s nightlife and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability, this pub crawl offers a genuinely fun night out. Just keep in mind the potential for extra costs and variable bar quality. Enjoy your trip and cheers to a memorable night!