6 Best Bars in Gellerthegy (Gellert Hill), Budapest

Originally a Ukrainian stone-freighter, A38 is now a fantastic addition to the nightlife of Buda, permanently moored a 15-minute walk south of Liberty Bridge (just beyond Petőfi Bridge). It has a restaurant upstairs, an exhibition space, a bar, and a large dance floor downstairs. There's a different band on hand every night, from jazz to Latin, retro to electronic.

The name translates roughly to "morning, dusk, evening," and this comfortable, slightly upscale gastropub is a welcoming spot at any of those times of day. The breakfasts and brunch, with live music, are lovely and worth booking in advance. And for evening imbibing, there's a convivial atmosphere and a wide range of beers and other drinks.

"Bár, étterem, lakás, arborétum" ("Bar, eatery, loft, arboretum") is how Béla describes itself. This pleasingly eclectic bar serves great cocktails and good food, and has the feel of someone's roomy loft apartment: check, check, check. However, a handful of plants hanging from the ceiling and one (admittedly cool) bird wall mural does not an arboretum make. Look out for secret swing concerts in the cellar.

Just a classic craft brewpub, run by friends, done right: a vast range of fresh beers, a cozy cellar location, and a relaxed atmosphere that entices people of all ages. There's traditional food on offer too, along with sports and cultural events.

If you want to try Hungarian wines in relaxed but knowledgeable company, this is your spot. There are also tastings, snacks, a snatched view of the Liberty Bridge, and a sign that rather encapsulates the ethos: Wine not?

Located next to lovely coffeehouse Hadik, Szatyor has a similarly airy, contemporary central European feel, but with a bit more edge than its stately neighbor. There's art everywhere—even painted on the ceiling—and a cultural ethos pervades, even extending to literary quotes about soup on the menu. An arty and delightful place for a drink or two.