Best Places To Get a Pint in May 2025 in Budapest

Discover Hungary’s Craft Beer Scene on Open Brewery Day

Budapest is a beer lover’s playground every month of the year, but May 2025 is shaping up to be a true hop-fueled highlight. Whether you’re into craft brews, historic lagers, quirky science nights, or just want to sip something cold in the spring sunshine, the city’s got you covered. Here’s your essential, pint-sized guide to the best beer events and experiences for thirsty tourists this May.

Budapest Beer Week 2025: The Main Event for Beer Lovers

If you only make it to one beer event this May, make it Budapest Beer Week (BPBW), running from May 26 to June 1, 2025. This city-wide celebration brings together over 45 breweries and more than 360 beers from Hungary and around the world.

  • Unlimited tasting sessions at Dürer Kert on May 30 and 31 (2 p.m. to 8 p.m.)-your ticket gets you six hours of unlimited sampling, so pace yourself!
  • Meet the brewers, swap stories, and maybe even get a few beard-grooming tips.
  • After parties with live bands and DJs keep the fun going long after the taps close.
  • Family and pet friendly atmosphere-bring everyone but your goldfish.
  • Encore Day on June 1 for a more relaxed vibe and free entry.

Tickets go fast, so check the official BPBW website and book early for the ultimate Budapest craft beer experience.

Dreher Brewery Tour: Walk Through Brewing History

Step back in time and sip in the present with the Dreher Brewery Tour in Kőbánya on May 9, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. (English-language tour). This is your chance to:

  • Wander through a living museum of malt silos and fermentation tanks.
  • Watch a short documentary about Antal Dreher, the “Beer King.”
  • Explore the original 20th-century brewhouse and the modern ANTL microbrewery.
  • Enjoy a guided tasting with two glasses of freshly brewed Dreher beer.
  • Snap a selfie with the statue of Antal Dreher (he’s always smiling).

Tours last 1.5–2 hours, are for 18+ only, and require advance registration. Long trousers and closed shoes are mandatory-this is a working brewery, not a catwalk. Book your spot and toast to tradition in one of Budapest’s most historic beer spots.

Open Brewery Day: Hungary’s Craft Beer Playground

On May 17, 2025, breweries across Hungary-including Budapest’s MONYO Brewery & Taproom-open their doors for Open Brewery Day. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Behind-the-scenes tours in English and Hungarian.
  • Meet passionate brewers and taste exclusive, experimental beers (think curry-apricot-lime gose and cucumber-lime-basil lager).
  • Special events like darts championships, live music, and food pairings.
  • Free entry at many locations, with guided tours available.

MONYO Brewery (Gyömrői út 148) is a top pick for visitors-don’t miss their debut beers and lively atmosphere. It’s the ultimate “backstage pass” to Hungary’s craft beer scene.

Pint of Science Hungary 2025: Where Science Meets Suds

Ever wanted to learn about DNA, artificial intelligence, or the meaning of life while sipping a pint? Pint of Science Hungary brings top researchers into Budapest’s favorite pubs and taprooms for three nights of mind-expanding talks and casual drinks, May 19–21, 2025.

  • English Day: May 21, at Stifler32 and FIRST Craft Beer Taproom.
  • Entry is free, but registration is required.
  • Topics range from cancer research to climate change, all explained in plain English (with a side of beer).

Come for the science, stay for the beer, and leave with a brain as full as your glass.

Season Opening Beer Festival

From May 14–18, 2025, the Season Opening Beer Festival takes over the Whale Building at Fővám Square. Sample a huge range of Hungarian and international brews, including microbrews, in a lively riverside setting. Admission is free, and the food and street festival vibes are unbeatable.

Best Craft Beer Bars in Budapest

When you’re not festival-hopping, check out these top craft beer bars for a true taste of the city:

  • MADHOUSE: Anker köz 1, 1061 Budapest-central, hip, and always buzzing with new brews.
  • ÉLESZTŐ: Tűzoltó u. 22, 1094 Budapest-the OG craft beer bar, with a rotating selection and chill vibes.
  • HOPS BEER BAR: Wesselényi u. 13, 1077 Budapest-party district favorite with a serious tap list.
  • KANDALLÓ KÉZMŰVES PUB: Kertész u. 33, 1073 Budapest-legendary burgers, NFL games, and a tap list to make any beer geek swoon.

Pro Tips for Pint-Seekers

  • Book ahead: Tours and tasting sessions fill up quickly.
  • Bring cash: Some smaller spots are old-school.
  • Pace yourself: Budapest’s beer scene is a marathon, not a sprint.
  • Travel smart: Use public transport, or admit defeat and get a taxi, and don’t forget to bring a friend who owes you a favor.

Cheers to May in Budapest!

Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur, a history buff, or just in it for the good times, Budapest in May is a pint-lover’s paradise. From epic festivals and brewery tours to quirky science nights and legendary pubs, you’ll find the perfect spot to raise your glass. Egészségedre, and see you at the bar!

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Discover Hungary’s Craft Beer Scene on Open Brewery Day