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

The Original Budapest Pub Crawl offers an energetic way to dive into Budapest’s nightlife. Priced at $23.22 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours, this tour provides a combination of lively bars, free drinks, and exclusive club access. Starting at Manytime Bar in the city center, the tour kicks off between 9:30 pm and 10:00 pm with a welcoming group and a friendly guide, making it ideal for travelers eager to socialize and experience Budapest’s party scene.

What makes this pub crawl stand out is the 1-hour open bar at the first stop, which includes long drinks, wine, and beer. This, coupled with free shots at every bar, creates a fun-filled atmosphere. The tour visits 4 bars and clubs, ending at a popular club with skip-the-line privileges, ensuring you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying Budapest’s nightlife. While reviews vary, many rave about the guides’ friendliness and the lively vibe, although some express concerns about additional costs and inconsistent experiences.

Key Points

• Affordable and lively: Priced at $23.22, with a 4-hour duration perfect for an evening out.
• Includes a 1-hour open bar with long drinks, wine, and beer, plus free shots at each stop.
• Starts at Manytime Bar in central Budapest, with the guide holding an umbrella for easy identification.
• End at a popular club with skip-the-line access, ensuring smooth entry to Budapest’s top nightlife spot.
• Guides like Mark and Lucas are praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, enhancing the experience.
• Some reviews mention extra costs and inconsistent experiences, so be prepared for potential additional payments and varying bar atmospheres.

Meeting Point and Starting Details in Budapest

The tour begins at Manytime Bar & Restaurant on Király u. 60 in central Budapest. Travelers typically meet between 9:30 pm and 10:00 pm, with the guide identifiable by an umbrella. The group then heads to the first bar, where the 1-hour open bar starts shortly after 10:00 pm. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Although the start time is listed as 9:30 pm, some reviews note that the actual start can be closer to 10:00 pm, likely to optimize time at the first bar. This slight delay doesn’t detract from the overall experience but is worth noting for those eager to get the most out of their night.

The First Stop: Manytime Bar and the Open Bar Experience

The Manytime Bar doubles as the meeting point and the first stop, where the 1-hour open bar kicks off the evening. This is a highlight for many, offering long drinks, wine, and beer. The drinks are priced at additional 3800 HUF if you choose to extend the open bar beyond the initial hour, which is an extra expense to consider.

Guests appreciate the friendly guidance of the hosts, especially Mark, who is often praised for his humor and making everyone feel comfortable. The open bar is a great way to start the night, but some reviews indicate that the watered-down shots and extra charges can be a downside, so keeping an eye on additional costs is smart.

Exploring Budapest’s Diverse Bar Scene

The pub crawl takes you through a variety of Budapest’s bars and ruin pubs, known locally as ruin bars, which are distinctive for their eclectic decor and lively atmosphere. Each stop provides a chance to socialize with fellow travelers and locals alike.

While some stops may be quieter or less crowded, the third bar is often described as average, whereas the final club is packed and lively, with a skip-the-line privilege that allows quick entry. This final destination is a major draw, especially for those wanting access to Budapest’s nightclubs without waiting.

Certain reviews mention that some bars are less appealing or nearly empty, which can affect the overall vibe. It’s worth being adaptable and open-minded to enjoy the variety of experiences these venues offer.

The Guide’s Role and Personalities

Guides like Mark, Lucas, Burak, and Tom play a vital part in making the night enjoyable. Many reviews praise Mark for his humor, storytelling, and attentiveness, making the tour lively and engaging. Lucas is noted for doing his best with limited resources and keeping the group organized.

The guides are generally described as friendly and supportive, helping with questions and ensuring everyone has a good time. Some reviews mention that guides go out of their way to make the night memorable, including taking fun photos and sharing stories.

However, a few reviews express frustration over guides not showing up or poor organization, emphasizing that experiences can vary. It’s important to keep expectations flexible, especially during weekdays when some guides or stops may be less lively.

Additional Costs and Potential Disappointments

While the $23.22 price includes the initial open bar and access to 4 venues, some reviews reveal additional charges on arrival. For example, the extra 3800 HUF for an extended open bar is an optional cost.

Other potential pitfalls include watered-down shots and the possibility of being charged more than expected for drinks at the final club, with reports of staff trying to sell expensive bottles or drinks at inflated prices. Several reviewers warn about extra costs and poor communication, especially if paying via Revolut, PayPal, or cash.

Some reviews describe the experience as scam-like, with guides not appearing or no pub crawl happening, highlighting the importance of booking with reputable providers and being cautious with additional payments.

Timing, Crowd Level, and Group Size

The tour typically hosts up to 208 participants, making it suitable for a lively, energetic crowd. The group size allows for social interactions, but during weekdays, the crowd may be smaller, possibly affecting the overall atmosphere.

The start time at 9:30 pm is designed to maximize night-time fun, with the tour ending at the early hours, around 1 am. This pacing allows ample time to enjoy each venue without feeling rushed, though some venues may be less crowded depending on the night.

The End of the Night at a Top Club

The tour culminates at a popular Budapest club where guests gain skip-the-line entry, avoiding long waits typical at Budapest’s nightlife hotspots. The club is described as lively and busy, offering a fitting finale to the night.

While some reviews mention feeling rushed or pressured into buying expensive drinks, the overall consensus is that the club provides an energetic environment, making it an excellent spot to continue the party.

Final Thoughts on the Budapest Pub Crawl

The Original Budapest Pub Crawl offers a cost-effective way to experience Budapest’s nightlife, especially for those eager to meet people and explore local bars and clubs. The 1-hour open bar and skip-the-line club access are key highlights, providing good value for the price.

However, potential participants should be aware of extra charges, variable experiences, and the possibility of inconsistent venue quality. The tour is best suited for social, lively groups who are flexible and open-minded about their bar-hopping experience.

With friendly guides like Mark and Lucas, and a central meeting point, this pub crawl captures the essence of Budapest’s vibrant nightlife scene. Just stay alert for additional costs and ensure your expectations align with the mixed reviews reported.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the Budapest pub crawl?
The price covers 4 bars and clubs, a 1-hour open bar at the first stop, free shots at each bar, and skip-the-line access at the final club.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Manytime Bar & Restaurant at Király u. 60 in Budapest and ends back at the same location.

What time does the tour usually start?
Officially, the meeting time is listed as 9:30 pm, but the actual start often shifts to around 10:00 pm.

Are there any extra costs to be aware of?
Yes, an additional 3800 HUF may be charged if you extend the open bar beyond the initial hour. Also, drinks at the final club might be more expensive than expected.

Is this tour suitable for late-night party lovers?
Absolutely. The tour ends at a busy club with skip-the-line access, making it ideal for those wanting to dance and enjoy Budapest’s party scene.

Are guides friendly and helpful?
Most reviews confirm guides like Mark and Lucas are friendly, humorous, and engaging, significantly enriching the experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour appropriate for all ages?
The minimum age is 18, making it suitable for adult travelers looking for a fun night out.

How large are the groups?
The tour can accommodate up to 208 people, ensuring a lively and social atmosphere.

Can I book this tour on short notice?
Yes, it’s typically booked around 10 days in advance, but availability can vary by date.

What should I bring?
Bring ID to prove age, some extra cash for additional drinks or tips, and comfortable shoes for walking between venues.