Real talk here – the one thing that is essential whilst travelling is coffee. Travel often consists of late nights and early mornings and a few daily caffeine kicks always help to lubricate proceedings.
When I studied in Budapest, I knew I was surrounded by historic or iconic cafés, and soon began to discover all sorts of unique establishments that served world class coffee.
Here are Budapest’s best café spots to help you curb that caffeine craving:
New York Café
Often described as the most beautiful café in the world, once you step through its doors you can immediately tell it’s unlike anything you’ve experienced before. The café itself is over 120 years old but to this day it hasn’t lost any of its charm. From marble columns to golden ceilings, swinging chandeliers, crimson colours and Italian renaissance twist, it literally feels like you have travelled back in time – oh and they make a mean cup of coffee too!
Eco Café
This spot has be my favourite on the list. Located near the Budapest’s busy junction of Oktogon, it is easily accessible and is perfect for those (like me) who are passionate about leading a healthy lifestyle. The Café’s main aim is to promote a green concept which can be seen in the bio-coffee, pastries (which are prepared with 100% natural ingredients), salads and juices available on site. My go to drink here was their iced matcha latte’s which taste like heaven in a cup.
WarmCup
WarmCup has been quoted as one of the spots which started the popularity of cafés within Budapest. With a friendly atmosphere and excellent coffee, it make sense that this spot is frequented by the locals.
My Little Melbourne
‘Life’s too short for bad coffee’ is the motto this little café lives by and it’s not hard to see why. Each member of staff and coffee bean is specially selected for your enjoyment. The café is a product of a memorable trip to Melbourne, where the owners fell in love with the city and coffee culture and wanted to have this experience in their home city of Budapest, too.
London Coffee Society
This was my home away from home during my studies in Budapest. With London inspired coffee and an all-day breakfast whenever I was feeling a little homesick a visit here certainly brightened my mood.
Budapest Baristas
With amazing latte art alongside serving up speciality coffee such as matcha (always a win for me), the citrus flavoured cascara and an array homemade cakes, it’s clear to see how Budapest Baristas made a spot on this list.
Café Smuz
This café is the ultimate fusion of a flower shop, wine bar, design shop and café. Sounds strange, right? But this blend works perfectly. Offering the most beautifully coloured lattes such as red velvet and turmeric this a unique experience – and with the café being situated next to Hungary’s parliament building, you can get your caffeine fix with the most incredible view.
Magveto Café
Opened by Hungarian writer Magvető Kiadó, this café is the perfect place to just put your feet up and relax due to the unique interior and laid-back vibe. Whilst you are here it is possible to browse Kiadó’s selection of works with a coffee (or wine) in hand! Also expect plenty of unique, cultural events such as theatre performances, poetry slams and literature lessons when you pay a visit.
Espresso Embassy
Espresso Embassy is a must for all my fellow coffee lovers out there. This place is passionate about their coffee with the staff on hand ready to tell you all about coffee bean preparations – they’ll even help you select a drink if you are struggling. No wonder I’ve heard whispers that this is the home to Budapest’s best cup of coffee.
Madal café
“Good coffee, Good Karma” this motto the baristas at Madal live by. Operating at three different locations across Budapest it is one of the cities best known coffee chains. With a bubbly atmosphere, wood surfaced tables and exquisite coffee selection, I often frequented this spot when the dreaded exam season came around.
Fancy kicking back and enjoying some world class coffee in Budapest? Check out our Europe travel guide.