Best Cafés in Budapest: Cozy Spots for Coffee and Brunch

Budapest, famous for its beautiful architecture, rich history and culture also has an amazing coffee scene. From centuries old landmarks to modern hotspots the city’s cafés offer a perfect mix of tradition and innovation. Whether you stroll along the grand boulevards on a walking tour or explore the hidden corners of the city, Budapest’s cafés are a treat for coffee lovers. Let’s see some of the best cafés that define Budapest’s coffee culture.

Historic Cafes in Budapest

1. New York Café

• Address: 1073 Budapest, Erzsébet krt. 9-11
• Hours: Monday - Wednesday, 7 AM – 12 PM; Thursday - Sunday, 7 AM - 2:30 AM
• Prices: Coffee from 2,500 HUF, pastries from 3,500 HUF

New York Café is often called the “most beautiful café in the world” and is a stunning mix of history and luxury. Its lavish décor, with gilded walls, grand chandeliers and marble floors is like stepping into the past. Founded in 1894, it was once a meeting place for writers, intellectuals and artists, including famous Hungarian poet Endre Ady. Despite being very touristy its charm never fades. Visiting this café is like stepping into the past, you get to see Budapest’s intellectual and artistic heritage. The music, often provided by live pianists adds to the elegance of the experience. It’s not just about the coffee – it’s a historical journey.

2. Café Gerbeaud

• Address: 1051 Budapest, Vörösmarty tér 7-8
• Hours: Sunday - Thursday, 9 AM – 8 PM; Friday - Saturday, 9 AM – 9 PM
• Prices: Coffee from 1,800 HUF, pastries from 2,500 HUF

Founded in 1858, Café Gerbeaud is one of the oldest and most famous cafés in Budapest. Its elegant interior with crystal chandeliers and old-world charm is like stepping into the golden age of Budapest’s café culture. Located in the heart of Vörösmarty Square it has been a landmark for decades. Gerbeaud’s famous cakes like Esterházy Torte and Gerbeaud slice are a must try for anyone visiting. The café’s historical significance is reinforced by the fact that it was a favorite of aristocrats and dignitaries throughout the years. Its famous terrace is the perfect spot for people-watching making it one of the most photographed cafés in the city.

3. Centrál Café

• Address: 1053 Budapest, Károlyi utca 9
• Hours: Sunday - Tuesday, 9 AM – 10 PM, Thursday - Saturday, 9 AM - 12 AM
• Prices: Coffee from 1,500 HUF, cakes from 2,000 HUF

Centrál Café has been a cultural hotspot especially for Hungary’s literary greats. Founded in 1887 it was once the home of Budapest’s literary gatherings hosting famous writers like Sándor Márai and Zsigmond Móricz. Today it still offers a nostalgic atmosphere with its vintage interior and classic Hungarian menu. Centrál Café’s coffee and pastries are a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. A visit here is a must for anyone interested in Budapest’s literary past, you get to see the café’s deep connection with Hungarian culture.

4. Ruszwurm Cukrászda

• Address: 1014 Budapest, Szentháromság utca 7
• Hours: Monday - Sunday, 10 AM – 6 PM
• Prices: Coffee from 1,200 HUF, pastries from 1,500 HUF

Located in the historic Buda Castle District, Ruszwurm Cukrászda has been serving traditional Hungarian pastries since 1827. With its old-world charm and cozy interior it’s a peaceful escape from the city. Ruszwurm is famous for its Esterházy Torte and other Hungarian delicacies. The café’s intimate atmosphere with its wooden furniture and vintage wallpaper is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet coffee. The café is not only a place for a delicious pastry but also a spot where you can feel the city’s history come alive with every sip.

Modern Coffee Shops for Coffee Lovers

5. Espresso Embassy

• Address: 1051 Budapest, Arany János utca 15, across the street from Liberty Square
• Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM – 5 PM; Saturday - Sunday, 8:30 AM - 5 PM
• Prices: Coffee from 1,800 HUF, pastries from 2,000 HUF

Espresso Embassy is a haven for coffee connoisseurs who seek the finest coffee in Budapest. It sources high-quality beans from around the world and brews them to perfection. The minimalist design of the café is a serene environment where coffee is the star. Whether you like espressos, pour-overs or flat whites Espresso Embassy delivers precision and quality in every cup. The baristas are always happy to talk about the coffee-making process making it a great spot for anyone interested in learning more about the art of brewing.

6. Flow Specialty Coffee Bar

• Address: 1062 Budapest, Andrássy út 66
• Hours: Monday-Sunday, 9 AM – 6 PM
• Prices: Coffee from 1,500 HUF, pastries from 1,800 HUF

Flow Specialty Coffee Bar is famous for its exceptional coffee and cozy laid-back atmosphere. Known for its nitro cold brews which are a favorite among coffee aficionados it also offers a range of lattes, cappuccinos and other specialty drinks. The café’s modern interior with industrial-style décor is a relaxing environment to enjoy your coffee while listening to chill music. Whether you prefer a simple black coffee or an elaborate latte art creation Flow has something for everyone.

7. Kontakt

• Address: 1052 Budapest, Károly krt. 22
• Hours: Monday - Friday, 8 AM – 4 PM, Saturday, 9 AM – 4 PM; Sunday, Closed
• Prices: Coffee from 1,700 HUF, pastries from 2,200 HUF

With espresso as its focus Kontakt is for coffee lovers who like rich, expertly brewed coffee. The café’s minimalist design means the coffee is the star. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet coffee away from the city noise. Located within walking distance of the Street Synagogue, the spot can be easily found. Whether you’re working on a project or just relaxing with a cup Kontakt is a peaceful environment where coffee is the main event.

Cafes for Work and Study

8. Madal Café

• Address: 1053 Budapest, Ferenciek tere, 3, near the Elizabeth Bridge
• Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM; Saturday - Sunday, 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM;
• Prices: Coffee from 1,500 HUF, pastries from 1,800 HUF

Madal Café is a favorite among remote workers and digital nomads. Its serene atmosphere and great coffee makes it the perfect space for productivity. The café has large windows so plenty of natural light and the staff are friendly and the open space encourages a relaxed vibe. It’s the perfect spot to work or meet with friends. Whether you’re brainstorming or enjoying a quiet moment Madal Café is a creative backdrop for any task.

9. Arch & Beans

• Address: 1088 Budapest, Rákóczi út 5
• Hours: Daily, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Prices: Coffee from 1,800 HUF, pastries from 2,200 HUF

Arch & Beans combines great coffee and a peaceful environment for work or study. With a quiet and minimalist design it’s the perfect place to focus on work or enjoy a conversation. Arch & Beans prides itself on serving high-quality coffee to keep you energized and productive all day. Unpretentious atmosphere and great service makes it a hidden gem for coffee lovers.

10. Sixletter Coffee Co.

• Address: 1054 Budapest, Alkotmány u. 21, not far from the Parliament Building
• Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM – 6 PM; Saturday - Sunday, 9 AM – 6 PM
• Prices: Coffee from 1,500 HUF, pastries from 1,800 HUF

Sixletter Coffee Co. is a cozy spot to relax or work while enjoying great coffee. Whether you’re getting work done or unwinding with a cup of your favorite brew Sixletter is a great place to spend time. Known for its skilled baristas and friendly service time slows down and you can enjoy your coffee at your own pace.

Hidden Gems and Less Known Cafes

11. Zsivágó Café

• Address: 1061 Budapest, Paulay Ede u. 55
• Hours: Monday - Friday, 10 AM – 12 AM, Saturday - Sunday, 12 AM – 12 AM
• Prices: Coffee from 1,200 HUF, pastries from 1,500 HUF

Just a 10-minutes walk from the House of Terror, in a quieter part of the city, you can discover a cosy Zsivágó Café. This charming café may not be as famous as some of Budapest’s bigger names but it’s a truly authentic experience. With great coffee and pastries it’s a perfect place to unwind, read a book or enjoy a conversation in a peaceful environment.

12. Szimpla Kert

• Address: 1075 Budapest, Kazinczy utca 14
• Hours: Monday - Friday, 3 PM – 4 AM; Saturday, 12 PM - 4 AM; Sunday, 9 AM – 4 AM
• Prices: Coffee from 1,500 HUF

Szimpla Kert is a ruin bar by day and café by night. Its eclectic, artsy décor with mismatched furniture and vintage items is unique. While it’s famous for its lively atmosphere and evening activities during the day it transforms into a café where you can enjoy a quiet coffee in a one-of-a-kind setting. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet cup of coffee or people-watching in the vibrant neighborhood Szimpla is a special café experience.

Best Café Bakeries

13. Gerlóczy Café

• Address: 1052 Budapest, Gerlóczy utca 1
• Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM – 11 PM
• Prices: Coffee from 1,500 HUF, pastries from 2,000 HUF

Gerlóczy Café’s Parisian-style décor and ambiance makes you feel like you’re in a French café. This charming bistro-style café serves great coffee, delicious pastries and light meals. It’s perfect for breakfast or a leisurely lunch with a menu that combines Hungarian and French influences. Whether you’re stopping by for a croissant and a cappuccino or a full meal Gerlóczy Café is an experience to remember.

14. California Coffee Company

• Address: Multiple locations
• Hours: Daily, exact time depends on the address
• Prices: Coffee from 1,500 HUF, pastries from 1,800 HUF

California Coffee Company is a local favorite known for its good coffee and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re in a rush or looking to relax it’s a great spot for a quick coffee break. With multiple locations around the city it’s perfect for anyone exploring Budapest who wants a reliable cup of coffee. The café’s simple modern design makes it an easy choice for coffee lovers who prefer a low-key environment.

Budapest's Best Cafes

Whether you like historic coffeehouses or modern cafes with specialty brews Budapest has something for everyone. Start with the big names and then discover the hidden gems for the ultimate experience.

Cafe Hopping Itinerary

For a true Budapest coffee adventure try visiting multiple cafes in one day. Begin at the iconic New York Café, continue to Café Gerbeaud for a taste of history and end your day at a modern favorite like Espresso Embassy or Flow Specialty Coffee Bar. Finish the day with a hidden gem like Zsivágó Café for a special coffee experience.

Budapest’s café culture reflects the city’s diversity offering everything from grand historic cafes to cozy modern spots. Whether you’re a history buff, a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a quiet spot to work Budapest’s cafes have something for every occasion. Grab a cup and relax and enjoy the best of Budapest’s coffee culture.