Budapest Park

Celebrating its 15th season this summer, Europe’s largest open-air music venue is a multifaceted entertainment and events space that pulls in Hungary’s finest and international superstars year after year, delivering a full festival experience each night. And when the headliners wrap up, a whole new chapter begins with afterparties covering everything from electronic to hip-hop, Latin to rock, there’s always a reason to stay just a little longer.

1095 Budapest, Fábián Juli tér 1. | Website

Instant-Fogas

Seven dancefloors, 18 bars, and a different world behind every door: Instant-Fogas has been one of Budapest’s most beloved ruin bar complexes for over nine years, and the energy inside shows no signs of slowing down. Lose yourself to RnB at Unterwelt, go wild at the electro parties of Level, get cozy at intimate Liebling, sway to Latin rhythms at Frame, or dive headfirst into rock at Robot. Pick a floor, find your beat, and let the night take you where it wants.

1073 Budapest, Akácfa utca 51. | Website

Akvárium Klub

Tucked beneath a massive reflecting pool just a stone’s throw away from Deák Square, Akvárium Klub is downtown’s favourite after-dark playground. More than a concert venue, it’s a full-blown cultural epicenter, with a musical lineup that swings from Hungarian folk and electronic acts to British trip-hop and world-class guitar music, a packed calendar of exhibitions and performances, and yoga and pilates sessions to boot.

1051 Budapest, Erzsébet tér 12. | Website

A38 Ship

Moored by Petőfi Bridge year-round, the A38 Ship is not just one of the world’s best bars, as ranked by Lonely Planet readers, it is also the beating heart of Budapest’s live music scene. Built in 1968 as a Ukrainian stone-carrier, this floating venue boasts five areas, killer acoustics, sweeping Danube views, and a programme that swings from jazz to alternative rock and world music. Check the line-up, grab your tickets, and get on board!

1117 Budapest, Petőfi Bridge, Buda side | Website

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Even more music in the city:

The Sound of Summertime: 5 Brilliant Events for Music Lovers in Budapest

This summer brings a vibrant mix of events to Budapest, from folk music and immersive sonic experiences to lively carnivals.

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Budapest Music Center

The Budapest Music Center is a must-visit destination for every music lover coming to Budapest. This unique venue is dedicated to preserving Hungarian music culture while hosting a wide variety of colorful musical programs. In the 4,000-square-meter center, visitors can enjoy live concerts, discover works by renowned artists like Kodály as well as contemporary trios and quartets, and experience stunning performances by both Hungarian and international talents. The BMC is also home to the Opus Jazz Club, where musical dinner evenings are regularly held. Check out the current program schedule!

1093 Budapest, Mátyás utca 8. | Website

SOUNDDOME – 360 CINEMA

Nestled in City Park, the House of Music is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about music, offering a space where sound and experience intertwine in captivating ways. One of its standout experiences is the SoundDome, an immersive cinema featuring a 360-degree panoramic projection on a hemispherical dome screen and an advanced Ambisonic sound system that distributes audio across 40 independent channels, allowing you to fully sink into the world of sound. Screenings range from music-focused works and art history pieces to animation, nature films and abstract contemporary experiments, including a spectacular visual interpretation of The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd, an animated journey through the history of City Park using original archival photographs, a wide selection of fine arts-related content, and many other immersive experiences.

1146 Budapest, Olof Palme sétány 3. | Website

Budai Fonó

In the heart of Buda lies Budai Fonó, a vibrant cultural hub where Hungarian folk traditions are brought vividly to life through folk music, dance and community gatherings. This lively arts centre offers a rich programme focused on “joy music,” concerts and folk dance house evenings, where you can learn not only Hungarian dances but also steps from traditions such as Bulgarian dance. Here, heritage meets the present in an engaging, contemporary way, while beyond the music and dance, Fonó also welcomes visitors with culinary experiences that round out the evening – all in an open atmosphere.

1116 Budapest, Sztregova utca 3. | Website

Danube Carnival

For three decades, a unique international cultural festival has enchanted visitors in the Hungarian capital year after year: the Danube Carnival will take place in the heart of Budapest from June 12 to 19. The event showcases not only Hungary’s rich traditions of folk music and dance, but also folk dance heritage preserved in cultures across the world. Audiences can enjoy performances by professional and amateur dancers, as well as international guest artists, at six venues including Margaret Island. Get ready for a vibrant carnival atmosphere in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities!

Website

Authentic Roma music

Roma music is passionate, virtuosic and deeply emotional, known for its expressive violin melodies – and in Hungary, it is closely tied to café culture and folk traditions, performed by live ensembles featuring cimbalom. If you’d like to experience it for yourself, Budapest still has several historic cafés where these captivating melodies fill the air. Among them is Centrál Grand Cafe & Bar, one of Pest’s oldest coffee houses, where live Roma music accompanies breakfast, lunch and dinner. Live performances can also be enjoyed at New York Café and Gundel Restaurant – don’t miss out on them!

Amazing concerts in the city:

Concert Buzz: 6 Shows You Can’t Miss in Budapest This Summer

Summer in Budapest means long nights, buzzing crowds, and unforgettable live music featuring our favorite global stars.

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Metallica (USA)

Few bands have left a mark on music history quite like Metallica. The band’s M72 World Tour rolls into Budapest for two nights of pure heavy metal at Puskás Aréna, and they’re not making it easy to pick just one. June 11 brings Pantera and Avatar as support, while June 13 sees Gojira and Knocked Loose take the stage. Two different setlists, two very different evenings.

More information and tickets >>

David Byrne (USA)

Seventeen years is a long time to wait – but for David Byrne, it’s worth it. The Talking Heads founder returns to Budapest Aréna on June 18 for what promises to be one of the most special concerts of the summer. His latest album, Who Is The Sky?, is full of joyful, cinematic moments that sit perfectly alongside a back catalogue that helped define an era.

More information and tickets >>

Scorpions (DE)

Having celebrated their 60th anniversary with a massive hometown concert in Hannover, Scorpions are taking the party on the road, and Budapest is on the list. On June 20, the MVM Dome gets a healthy dose of timeless classics from one of rock history’s most enduring acts. Wind of Change, Rock You Like a Hurricane – you know the words. Now sing them live.

More information and tickets >>

OneRepublic (USA)

Few bands pack a setlist quite like OneRepublic. Apologize, Counting Stars, Secrets, Good Life – the kind of songs that turn an arena into a singalong within seconds. The Grammy-nominated American pop-rock outfit will hit Budapest Aréna on June 25 as part of their From Europe With Love tour, marking their fourth visit to the city.

More information and tickets >>

Palaye Royale (USA)

When Palaye Royale walked off stage last year as Avenged Sevenfold’s support act, they made a promise: next time, they’d be back as headliners. On June 30, they deliver on that promise. The Las Vegas-based band returns to Budapest Park with a full headline show, and if last year’s performance was anything to go by, this is one night you won’t want to miss.

More information and tickets >>

Of Mice & Men (USA)

Of Mice & Men make their Dürer Kert debut on July 29, bringing their ninth album (a record that somehow manages to be both monumental and intimate) to Budapest for the very first time. Support comes from Vended, the band formed by the children of Slipknot members, making this one of the more intriguing support act pairings of the summer.

More information and tickets >>

Illustration: George Charry/Pexels

Unforgettable memories in the city:

Fun in the City: 6 Amazing Things to Do in Budapest This May & June

From open-air wine picnics to world-class jazz and a tribute to Freddie Mercury, here’s our pick of the events worth marking in your calendar.

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Óbuda Bay 

On the southern tip of Óbuda Island, Óbuda Bay is Hungary’s first venue dedicated solely to daytime parties. Since opening in late September, its 1,500 m² space has been hosting world‑class acts in true festival style, with a striking LED wall and cutting‑edge L’Acoustics sound. Beyond DJ sets, it welcomes fashion shows, conferences, and concerts.

1033 Budapest, Óbudai-sziget | Instagram

Instant-Fogas 

With 7 distinct dancefloors, 18 bars, diverse music styles, and one-of-a-kind atmosphere, this renowned ruin bar complex has been captivating visitors for over eight years now. From Instant’s high‑energy floor to RnB at Unterwelt, intimate vibes at Liebling, electro at Top Dance Floor, electronic beats at Fogas, Latin grooves at Frame, and rock at Robot, it’s a one‑stop night out destination smack dab in the middle of the city’s Party District.  

1073 Budapest, Akácfa utca 51. | Website 

Ötkert 

In the heart of downtown Budapest, Ötkert has been a nightlife icon for 15 years, hosting nearly 3,000 concerts, parties, talks, and dance battles. Known for its retractable “cabrio” roof, the club welcomes thousands weekly and has drawn stars from Jude Law and Barbara Palvin to the Black Eyed Peas and Machine Gun Kelly. Featured in the New York Times and once ranked among the world’s top 5 clubs, Ötkert remains a must‑visit for unforgettable nights. 

1051 Budapest, Zrínyi utca 4. | Website 

Dürer Kert 

Nestled in south Buda’s Lágymányos Bay, Dürer Kert combines riverside romance with a buzzing beer‑garden atmosphere, while two indoor halls host a year‑round programme of live music. Its spacious garden and casual seating make it a favourite hangout before or after shows, with a rich mix of electric, rock, hiphop, metal, and indie acts filling the stages.

1117 Budapest, Öböl utca 1. | Facebook

For great food and live music, try these spots:

Budapest’s Best Spots for Dinner and Live Music

Warm up your winter nights in Budapest with live music and delicious dining. These spots offer the perfect soundtrack to your dinner.

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Katy Perry

Katy Perry is coming back to Budapest after 15 years! On October 27, she will light up the MVM Dome with her spectacular The Lifetimes Tour. Fans can look forward to a dazzling show featuring her biggest hits, including Roar, Firework and many more. One night with one of the world’s greatest pop stars!

Tickets >>

The Offspring

After 7 years, The Offspring return to Budapest! On October 31, the California punk-rock icons will take over the MVM Dome with a setlist that blends timeless anthems with fresh tracks from their latest album Supercharged. Get ready for an explosive night of raw energy and unforgettable riffs!

Tickets >>

Roxette

Roxette is back — and this November they’re bringing the party to Budapest! On November 4, the iconic band kicks off their Roxette In Concert European tour at the Budapest Arena. With Per Gessle joined by Swedish superstar Lena Philipsson, fans can once again dance to timeless hits live on stage!

Tickets >>

Tommy Cash

Estonian hip-hop sensation TOMM¥ €A$H is finally coming to Budapest!  After making waves with his controversial Untz Untz video and scoring 3rd place for Estonia in Eurovision with Espresso Macchiato, he’s dropping by for a high-energy show on November 20 at buzzing Dürer Kert.

Tickets >>

Nena

German pop icon Nena is coming back! On October 21, she’ll perform at Barba Negra as part of her Wir Gehören Zusammen tour, celebrating more than four decades of music. Fans can look forward to an electrifying show filled with her greatest hits and unforgettable stage presence.

Tickets >>

Lil Tracy

Lil Tracy, a defining figure of SoundCloud rap and known for his hit Awful Things, is bringing his first world tour to Budapest. With over 4 million albums sold, he blends rap, trap, emo, punk, and alternative sounds. Catch him live on November 5, at Dürer Kert, performing tracks from his latest release.

Tickets >>

For more information, visit the website of Live Nation.

Don’t forget to check out the newest gastrospot of Budapest as well:

Budapest Bites Back: Time Out Market Unites the City's Top Chefs

On September 20, Budapest welcomes its very own Time Out Market at Blaha Lujza Square, inside the historic Corvin Department Store.

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All this awaits you at the grand finale of the Budapest International Cello Competition organized by Philharmonia Hungary, from September 8 to 14 at the Liszt Academy.

This prestigious competition attracted 135 applicants from across the globe, but only the very best have made it here. The talented contestants face three rounds: in the preliminaries they perform solo and with piano, the semifinals feature renowned cello concertos, while the finalists must master some of the most challenging pieces in the cello repertoire.

Bright-eyed talents, musical excitement, and the latest trends in classical performance – this is a competition you truly won’t want to miss!

More information >>

Looking for more?

September in the City: A Funzine Guide

As summer fades, Budapest comes alive with crisp air, golden light, and a calendar full of unmissable events.

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Budapest Music Center 

As the chilly months roll in, there’s no better way to beat the cold than by cozying up at the Budapest Music Center on Mátyás Street. This vibrant venue is the ultimate spot to warm your soul with an exciting mix of performances. Whether you’re in the mood for a heartwarming classical concert or something jazzy at the Opus Jazz Club, you’ll find plenty to keep you toasty and entertained. With a lineup that’s always fresh and fun, it’s the perfect place to escape the cold and enjoy a magical night of music. Grab a seat, relax, and let the music heat things up! 

1093 Budapest, Mátyás utca 8. | Website

Naruhiko Kawaguchi // Liszt Academy of Music (November 29, 2024)

If you are in the city at the end of November, head to the Liszt Academy of Music on November 29, where Naruhiko Kawaguchi will take the stage to perform on the fortepiano! At just 35, the Japanese pianist has made a name for himself internationally as a virtuoso in the realm of Romantic music over the past decade. In the Solti Hall of the Liszt Academy of Music, he will breathe new life into 19th-century compositions with his fortepiano playing, featuring works by the Schumann couple, Mendelssohn, Schubert, and the lesser-known Spanish composer Santiago de Masarnau. 

1061 Budapest, Liszt Ferenc tér 8. | Website

Budapest Jazz Club 

Set inside a former movie theater, Budapest Jazz Club is known for its relaxed atmosphere, delicious food, and an outstanding lineup of both Hungarian and international jazz artists, along with musicians from various other genres. As the beating heart of Hungary’s jazz scene, this cozy jazz café is a go-to spot when you’re in the mood for light yet top-tier entertainment paired with great eats. The menu features a tempting selection of Hungarian and international specialties, making it the perfect place to enjoy both live music and a memorable meal. 

1136 Budapest, Hollán Ernő utca 7. | Website

MÜPA 

Müpa, short for the Palace of Arts in Hungarian, isn’t just one of Budapest’s top cultural hotspots—it’s also one of the most famous venues in Hungary. As it gears up to celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2025, Müpa continues to offer something for everyone, no matter your taste in music or art. Whether you’re into classical, jazz, contemporary, or something in between, there’s always a show or event to enjoy. From kids to adults, everyone can find something to love at Müpa, where both local talent and world-class artists take the stage for unforgettable performances. 

1095 Budapest, Komor Marcell u. 1. | Website

Opera House of Budapest 

The Opera House in Budapest offers an incredible array of live performances for music lovers, from captivating ballets to world-class operas. Recently renovated, the building stands as a stunning blend of historical grandeur and modern elegance. This iconic venue offers an incredible variety of live performances, including ballets, operas, and symphonic concerts, each one brought to life by world-class artists. Music lovers can immerse themselves in this unique cultural experience while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Opera House itself. And during the holiday season, the magic of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” enchants audiences, making it the perfect place to celebrate the festive spirit in one of Budapest’s most beautiful landmarks. 

1061 Budapest, Andrássy út 22. | Website

Don’t Miss Budapest’s Secret Museum:

A Secret Museum Has Opened in the Depths of a Downtown Budapest Hotel

Walking along Kazinczy Street, you wouldn’t think that a secret museum takes you time travelling.

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Organ Concerts at the Basilica

Experience the magic of live music at the magnificent St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest with their special organ concerts, featuring talented soloists to add a touch of colour and excitement. Every Friday at 8 PM, you can enjoy exclusive performances on the Basilica’s historic organ, manufactured in 1905. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online at the website below.

1051 Budapest, Szent István tér 1. | Website

World Press Photo Exhibition

This year, from September 20 to October 27, visitors can view the past year’s most outstanding press photos at the World Press Photo exhibition, open from Monday to Sunday. The exhibition showcases the world’s best and most important press and documentary photographs, selected by an independent jury. This time, the exhibition will be hosted at a new location, in the atrium of the Biodome, located next to the Budapest Zoo.

1146 Budapest, Állatkerti krt. 16. | Website

Van Gogh – The Immersive Experience

A spectacular 360° video, light, and musical experience awaits you at the immersive Van Gogh exhibition at Lumiere Hall, which has come to Budapest straight from the Netherlands. Visitors can explore the unique details and painting techniques of his most famous works, presented in incredible detail and from surprising angles. Just a few meters from Váci Street, a giant moon installation in front of the exhibition entrance draws the attention of passersby.

1052 Budapest, Piarista köz 1. | Website

Zsidó Kulturális Fesztivál

From September 8 to 18, Jewish traditions that have enriched Hungarian culture for centuries will once again take center stage. Visitors of the Jewish Cultural Festival can enjoy various cultural programs in the intimate atmospheres of Budapest’s most beautiful synagogues, including those on Dohány Street, Hegedűs Gyula Street, Frankel Leó Road, and Rumbach Street. One of the most anticipated events is a performance by the living legend Rhoda Scott, who will be joined by Roby Lakatos, the creator of a unique Gypsy fusion music style, cimbalom virtuoso Jenő Lisztes, and singer Gigi Radics.

Multiple locations | Website

Ars Sacra

From September 14 to 22, the Ars Sacra Festival returns! Across the country, visitors can enjoy free, soul-nourishing programs. The nine-day festival features a vibrant mix of classical and jazz concerts, exhibitions, theater and literary evenings, children’s programs, walks, and lectures. Be sure to catch a few events at Budapest’s enchanting venues, which are sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart.

Multiple locations | Website

Verbunk Day

The Verbunk Day event series preserves the traditions of the verbunk dance and the closely related csárdás dance. This year, on September 28, the Verbunk Day will be celebrated for the fourth time, with hundreds of dancers from across the Carpathian Basin performing the most beautiful verbunk dances. The day will conclude with a grand gala at the House of Traditions, where dancers of all ages, from 8 to 88, will take the stage, ranging from amateur dancers to professional performers.

1011 Budapest, Corvin tér 8. | Website

Divas & Icons

You could easily spend an entire day at the House of Music Hungary, with so many fascinating exhibits and concerts to explore. If you only have 1-2 hours, don’t miss the exciting new temporary exhibition! This May, the House of Music welcomed the traveling exhibit from London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, “Divas & Icons.”

Featuring global superstars like Rihanna, Whitney Houston, Edith Piaf, and Billie Eilish, alongside famous Hungarian women like Lujza Blaha and Zsuzsa Cserháti, this exhibition is a must-see. You’ll get to check out original costumes and stage outfits and discover how women have made their mark in the male-dominated worlds of music and film. The exhibition runs until September, so make sure to catch it!

The World of Daytime Adventures

House of Music’s permanent exhibition “Dimensions of Sound – Musical Journey Through Space and Time” opened with the building two years ago and has been a hit ever since! Its interactive features and creative storytelling make it a favourite for all ages. This vibrant and engaging exhibit takes you through the key milestones in music history, from ancient rhythms to today’s hottest tracks. Don’t miss out!

Pay a visit to the house’s interactive exhibit: the Creative Sound Space is all about exploring sounds in a fun way. There are eight unique installations to try out, perfect for both kids and adults, and you don’t need any musical background to enjoy them. You’ll get to see how sounds are made and how they turn into music.

If you’re up for a bit of an adventure exploring every corner of this uniquely designed building, then hop on one of the House of Music’s building tours. You’ll get to uncover the genius concept behind the architecture, dreamed up by Sou Fujimoto, blending seamlessly with nature!

After soaking in all the sights, you’re sure to work up an appetite. Lucky for you, the House of Music’s café, buffet, and bistro is ready to satisfy your hunger with some delicious bites. And for some extra chill vibes, kick back on the Zenekert’s cozy terrace with a refreshing lemonade or iced coffee, right beside the building.

Nighttime Fun

When night falls, the House of Music comes alive with magical melodies. The concert halls, renowned for their incredible acoustics, feature a diverse lineup of domestic and international performers, ensuring there’s a concert to suit every taste. In the summer, don’t miss the outdoor concerts, offering an unforgettable experience of enjoying fantastic tunes surrounded by the trees of Városliget!

If you’re looking for a unique and fun evening in Budapest beyond the usual party scene, check out one of the extraordinary musical events in the semi-spherical underground dome of the House of Music! Known as the Sound Dome, this venue features a dome that doubles as a projection screen surrounded by a top-notch sound system. You’ll enjoy a truly special experience as you relax on bean bags, watching 3D projections set to a diverse musical backdrop.

For more info, visit zenehaza.hu/en.

Experience more of the Pest side fun:

Pest Bucket List: The Best Things to Do on the Left Bank of the Danube

Here, historical landmarks abound, and one could sing praises about the vibrant nightlife.

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Danube Carnival

Both international and local performers will come together to celebrate the Danube Carnival in Budapest between 7-14 June. This vibrant event is a highlight of Budapest’s cultural scene, showcasing Hungary’s rich folk music and dance heritage while also bringing folk dance traditions from around the world. The prestigious festival will feature a spectacular parade, an international dance house, and a grand gala on 14 June at the Margaret Island Open-Air Stage.

More info >>

Budatower

The oldest building in Buda Castle’s Kapisztrán Square is the stunning late Gothic Mary Magdalene Tower, the only original medieval monument in Buda. The tower’s upper level features a panoramic lookout offering breathtaking views of Budapest’s most iconic buildings and the nearby Buda Hills. Additionally, the side chapel hosts a new contemporary art exhibition each month. The Budatower – Mary Magdalene Tower welcomes visitors daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.

More info >>

Budapest Music Center

The Budapest Music Center on Mátyás Street invites you to enjoy a lively mix of musical programs. This exceptional venue is home to the Opus Jazz Club, where both Hungarian and international jazz legends perform. With a diverse lineup that includes classical, contemporary, and jazz concerts, as well as meet-and-greets and educational talks, there’s always something exciting happening here. Whether you’re a seasoned music lover or just looking for a fun night out, this is the place to be.

Visit their website >>

Várkert Bazaar

Located on the Buda side of the city, stunning Várkert Bazaar is a must-see thanks to its proximity to the castle. During the summer, the garden hosts various open-air concerts in different music styles, ranging from jazz and electropop to classical and Hungarian folk music. Yoga sessions, dance shows, outdoor film screenings, and children’s programs spice up the summer days in this beautiful neo-Renaissance garden with gorgeous panorama to the city.

Check out their website >>

Organ Concerts at the Basilica

Experience the magic of live music at the magnificent St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest with their special organ concerts, featuring talented soloists to add a touch of colour and excitement. Every Friday at 8 PM, you can enjoy exclusive performances on the Basilica’s historic organ, manufactured in 1905. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online at the website below.

Go to the website >>

Ludwig Museum

This summer, the Ludwig Museum in Budapest is hosting two exciting exhibitions with guided tours in English – a must-see for contemporary art enthusiasts! Discover the unique architectural charm of the Hungarian countryside through its characteristic “cube houses” (also known as “Kádár cubes”), and explore the captivating photo exhibition by the versatile European artist Till Brönner. Don’t miss out on these enriching experiences!

More info >>

Enjoy the beautiful parks of Budapest:

6 Fabulous Parks to Explore This Summer

Let's head outside and enjoy the beautiful parks, sights and gastro spots the city has to offer!

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