Perhaps because of its famous baths (and the cruising at many of them), Budapest has always been a quiet gay hotspot. It just may be the gayest destination in Eastern Europe, and despite clashes with radical right-wing demonstrators in 2007 and 2008, there's been a Gay Pride march in the city since 1997.
Hungary remains a conservative country but there are several gay bars and gay-friendly restaurants in the capital, mostly found on the Pest side. The crowds tend to be a good mix of all ages and styles, and the places very laid-back and welcoming. But what the city does best for its gay visitors than most other European cities are its saunas, which are huge and beautiful.
Gay Bars & Cafés
Habroló Bisztró
This small bar is a favorite of gay locals, who come to relax over drinks, karaoke, drag queen acts, and other events.
Website: www.habrolo.hu
Why Not Café
Serving light meals throughout the day, this gay-friendly café also hosts nights of karaoke, live music and special cocktails.
Website: www.whynotcafe.hu
Gay-Friendly Restaurants
Ruben
Centrally located on a quiet street, this very gay-friendly restaurant serves Hungarian specialties and international dishes, including homemade pastas and soups.
Website: www.rubenrestaurant.hu
Gay Clubs
Alterego
There are different parties on different nights at this club -- from Diva Night to Retro parties. See the website for what's coming up. This is the best gay club in town for a night on the dancefloor or drinking at the bar to the sound of the dance beats.
Website: www.alteregoclub.hu
Garçons
Budapest’s biggest gay dance party has taken place every month at different venues since 2012. It also attracts the city’s open-minded straight crowds.
Website: www.garconsbudapest.com
Cruising Clubs
Coxx
Said to be Hungary’s largest men-only club, this is a sizzling place with three bars, dark rooms and cabins, a prison, and sling room.
Website: www.coxx.hu
Saunas
Traditional Baths
The gayest baths are said to be 15th-century Király, with some open cruising. Rudas has a discreet gay vibe, but discretion is advised. Gellért remains popular, but mostly caters to tourists.
Magnum Sauna
The biggest gay sauna in town attracts guys of all ages and is busy throughout the week. It offers massages by professional masseurs, a steam room, a maze, a jacuzzi, and a lounge.
Website: gaysaunabudapest.com
Szauna 69
If you’re looking for the exclusively gay sauna, choose this one which attracts young men. Services include Finnish sauna, jacuzzi, sunbeds, massages, private rooms and a café.
Website: gaysauna.hu
Gay Hotels
Connection Guesthouse
This gay-owned guesthouse is in a central location, close to many of the gay spots. It’s an excellent value, especially if you stay in the “premier double room” or the spacious studio.
Lanchid 19
A favorite of gay travelers, this design hotel stands on the Danube riverbank. It has rooms and suites with terraces, and offers some of the best views of the city.
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