Budapest is a city that looks completely different in the evening. When the sun starts to go down, the buildings become warmer in colour, the lights slowly turn on and the Danube begins to reflect the whole city. For this reason, having a drink with a view is one of the experiences we would definitely recommend while staying here.
You can choose between a rooftop in the city centre or a more relaxed bar directly next to the Danube. They are two quite different experiences, but both are worth trying.
A rooftop above the centre of Budapest
One of our favourite choices is St. Andrea Wine & Skybar. It is located on the rooftop of the Váci 1 building, in Deák Ferenc utca, just a few steps from Vörösmarty Square and very close to the main streets of the centre. It is therefore really easy to include it after an afternoon spent walking around Pest.
The first thing you notice when you arrive is obviously the view. From the terrace you can see the rooftops of Budapest, the Basilica area, the Budapest Eye and, in the distance, the hills of Buda.
Drinking next to the Danube
If you prefer something more informal, another great option is to go directly to the river.
Around the Chain Bridge there are several places where you can sit outside, have a beer, wine or cocktail and watch Buda on the other side of the Danube.
Probably the most fun option is PONTOON, an open-air bar located directly at the Pest side of the Chain Bridge. It has a very relaxed atmosphere, with music, DJ sets and live events during the season. The view towards Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge is one of the main reasons to come here.
A drink actually above the Danube
There is also a third type of experience: instead of sitting next to the river, you can sit on it.
Spoon The Boat is a large boat permanently located near Vigadó Square. It is more restaurant and lounge than simple bar, so the atmosphere is more elegant than Pontoon or Raqpart. You can still go for drinks, cocktails or wine, especially around sunset and in the evening. It is currently open every day from 12:00 to 23:00.
The interesting part is that the panorama is directly in front of you: the Danube, Buda Castle, the bridges and the lights reflected on the water.
Which one should you choose?
For us, the best idea is actually to try both types of aperitivo during your stay.
Choose St. Andrea on an evening when you want something quieter and a little more special. Arrive before sunset, order a cocktail or a Hungarian wine and stay long enough to see the city change from day to night.
On another evening, go to the Danube. Pontoon is probably the best choice if you want music and a young atmosphere, Raqpart if you simply want an informal riverside drink, while Spoon The Boat is better for a more elegant evening.
And there is an even better option: start with a drink at St. Andrea and then walk down towards the Danube. It only takes a few minutes to reach the river from the city centre. By that time Budapest will be completely illuminated, and walking along the Danube with the Chain Bridge and Buda Castle in front of you is a perfect way to finish the evening.
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