Gozsdu Udvar, the largest street in bars, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Part of the reason why this street is such a must-see for locals, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is because its history is not as happy as it is today. During the Second World War, Gozsdu Udvar (or Gozsdu Courtyard) was part of Budapest's ghetto, which is why the street is now a world heritage site. History buffs can learn more about the city at the Terror Museum on Andràssy Avenue. You'll have to hold on tight, though, as it retraces the horrors experienced during the totalitarian movements up to the 20th century.

However, the story of Gozsdu Udvar begins a few years earlier, at the beginning of the 20th century, in 1900. Gozsdu Manó, a Romanian lawyer and patron of the arts, considered the education and support of young people to be one of the most important things in his life, and it was with this in mind that he founded the Gozsdu Foundation. It was this same foundation that, in 1900, began construction of Gozsdu Courtyard following the design of Czigler Győző. Czigler Győző was the designer of almost 40 buildings in the city, including churches, palaces and apartment blocks. The work was completed in 1915.

Even then, Gozsdu Udvar was the nerve centre of a bustling business and lively neighbourhood. In fact, since its construction, the street has always been a real meeting place. What's more, it was Gozsdu Manó's good intentions that started it all. Perhaps that's why it's still going strong today, and why it has recovered from the tragic events of the Second World War. Between 2002 and 2008, the facades were completely rebuilt and the place became what it is today.

There's no shortage of bars and restaurants in Gozsdu Udvar, and today it's thanks to them that the street is so lively and bustling. It's when you go there for a drink or a bite to eat that you get a feel for the street's aura. Here is a selection of some of the best establishments in the area.

Once you enter the street covered in illuminated garlands, it's hard to miss this bistro whose signs are surrounded by light bulbs. Suitable for all tastes, you'll find the most classic bistro dishes from around the world, including ribs, burgers, nachos and more. However, you can also try some typically Hungarian dishes such as the famous goulash, a soup made with meat, potatoes and paprika, and shakshouka, a vegetarian dish au gratin made with vegetables and poached eggs.

This atypical restaurant revisits a number of dishes from around the world, including typical Hungarian fare, adding a touch of multicoloured madness. Dyes, mainly in shades of pink, are added to turn the burgers into unicorns. This touch of originality in no way detracts from the deliciousness of the menu.

The bar is perfectly situated in the street, far enough away from the hustle and bustle to be able to talk and hear each other, and close enough to the festive atmosphere of the place. The cocktails are highly original and the bartenders never miss an opportunity to make a splash. It's hard to go without a cocktail to drink in a mini bath or a creation based on Oreo.

⏰ Opening times: many bars close at 1am on weekdays and a little later at weekends.

🚌 Getting there: night buses are plentiful and run until the early hours! In general, waiting times range from 15 to 60 minutes. The "Deák Ferenc tér" stop is the one with the most different transport in the vicinity. It is located just to the south of the district.