Top 6 wine bars in Budapest
Visit one of the top 6 wine bars in Budapest for a true cultural experience.
Looking for a glass of rich red? In the mood for a refreshing white wine spritzer? Or are you interested in tasting a variety of Hungarian wines? Budapest has something for every sommelier and oenophile. As the wine capital of Central Europe, Hungary boasts more than 22 wine regions, with vineyards reaching across the rolling hills along the Danube to the expanse of the great Hungarian plains. Hungarians are proud of their history as the wine makers of Europe, beloved by the royal families of old, and their wine has always been intricately connected to their culture.
Spending an evening tasting Hungarian wine in Budapest is one of the best ways to meet the locals and immerse yourself in Hungarian culture. And, with so many great wine bars to choose from in Budapest, your evening with wine will inevitably take you to the iconic sights and vistas in the city. Explore top 6 wine bars to visit to get to know Budapest.
1. Learn a bit of history in Drop Shop
For a romantic night in the heart of the city, take a lazy stroll around Parliament just after dark. When the city lights turn on along the Danube riverbanks, it’s absolute magic. And, just steps away from this dreamy scene is Drop Shop, the perfect little wine bar. With more than 60 wines on the ever-changing menu, you’ll experience true Hungarian wine culture, all in a cozy little bar.
Find the Drop Shop on your way from Parliament to Margit Híd (Margaret Bridge). Located on a quiet, tree-lined street, it makes for a relaxing evening with a loved one, especially after a ride on Tram 2 along the picturesque Pest riverbank.
The Drop Shop owners are passionate about Hungary, its history — and good wine. They believe that every bottle of wine has a story to tell about this country and its beautiful capital city. As you taste their range of different wines, from red to white, and even sweet Tokaji Aszu, you’ll learn all Hungary’s past wars, rulers, and the culture of the countryside you don’t see in Budapest — ‘the poor and the rich, the stone, sun, spring and autumn.’
Start your wine experience today.
2. Enjoy the view at DiVino Basilica
Not far from Parliament is another Budapest icon — the stunning St. Stephen’s Basilica. As Budapest’s largest church (and for centuries, it’s tallest building), its massive dome towers over the city skyline, with statues that silently watch over its citizens. In the shadow of this monolith stands the lively DiVino Basilika, a happening wine bar facing the basilica steps.
With some of the best views in the city, it’s one of the top bars to get a drink on a hot summer evening. Grab table outside on the marbled basilica terrace and choose a bottle from one of the 150 selections on their vast menu. While the bar itself can feel a bit tourist and often crowded due to its location, it is frequented by locals who want to admire the view. So, act like a Budapest local and sip on a refreshing Fröccs (white wine spritzer) while admiring the magnificent dome and elegant statues of the Basilica.
Be sure to book ahead to get the best tables!
3. See Budapest from above at St. Andrea’s
Walking back from the Basilica onto Vörösmarty square, be sure to look up — you just might spot the balcony of St. Andrea Wine & Skybar. As one of the top rooftop bars in Budapest, St. Andrea’s offers a fanastic views of the city centre. If you visit in the evening, you’ll have a perfect view of the Basilica at night as well as Parliament all aglow, and the vibrant shopping square down below.
As a World Heritage Unesco site, the building itself is a sight to behold. No matter the season, it’s ready for visitors with your choice of an outdoor rooftop terrace or glamorous indoor seating. With a vast selection of wine from Hungary and the rest of Europe, you’ll love taking long sips as you enjoy the sunset. If you get hungry, this is also the best bar on the list for top-notch bar food.
Book your sunset-watching spot on the rooftop today.
4. Take in the culture at Dobló
Walking from the Basilica through Liberty Square or along the riverfront, you’re bound to enter the 7th district — the true beating heart of Budapest. The streets of the city’s old Jewish Quarter, Wesselenyi, Kirarly, Dob and Dohany, are famous for their many bars and ruin pubs. But, there are wine bars here too, that are celebrated for their romantic, candlelit vibe. A staple in the neighborhood with locals and tourists alike is Dobló, a gorgeous wine cellar-esque bar that offers the full experience for wine lovers.
Small and dimly lit, having a bottle of wine here is a dreamy, romantic experience. And, with live music on the weekends, you’ll get a cultural experience as well, getting to know local blues, jazz and folk artists.
Dobló is also the place to be to try Hungarian wines. Their menu features Hungarian-only wine makers, and it comes packed with Hungarian favorites. From Bikaver reds to at good prices, you’ll enjoy trying a few different glasses with your choice of snacks.
Be sure to book ahead, especially one nights with live music!
5. Cintányéros
If your exploration of Budapest takes you a bit farther out to the 8th district on Pest, make your way to Cintányéros. With a war-torn exterior and simple interior, this is a true local’s tavern. You won’t find uppity prices here — but the house wines are quality. Order a few bottles of Hungarian wines and take a seat in the upstairs balcony for a view of the crowds below.
Unlike some of the other wine bars on this list, this one isn’t your traditional, quiet or dimly-lit cellar. This is a neighborhood hub for the locals, and it’s filled with people on the weekends, all squeezing inside to grab a drink. But, it’s this lively atmosphere that makes Cintányeros so charming, especially if you’re looking for a casual night out on a budget.
Reserve your lively seat to feel the beat of Budapest.
6. Be Austrian for a day at KisBécs
Taking a step away from Hungarian wine, enter KisBécs, one of the few places in Hungary that sells Austrian wine, and only Austrian wine. From Vienna to Weinviertel, KisBécs covers the top wine regions of Austria, essentially giving you the grand tour of Hungary’s neighbour.
Nestled in a leafy-green corner on Buda, KisBécs offers a uniquely personal experience for a night of wine tasting. Quaint and secluded with only a few tables inside, you’ll have the whole place to yourself — and your choice of Austrian wines to try. Choose a table beside the wall of wine inside or grab a seat in the sun-drenched garden terrace. With friendly staff, a cozy atmosphere and delicious cold cuts to snack on you can’t go wrong at KisBécs.
Book your garden view today.
Curious about Hungarian wine? Check out our list of top wine tasting experiences in Budapest.
